Dec
11
Tip 3. LET THEM KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT.
Shooting a big group can be challenging. Let’s face it, most people don’t like getting their photo taken and when you put them in a big group, a few of them can get impatient with the process. Let them know what to expect; tell them how many shots you’re going to take. If they know that you’re shooting a dozen shots to make sure their eyes are open and they all look fabulous it helps – everyone wants to look good. If it’s a simple shot with one pose – take about 10 shots. If you have an energetic group that wants to have fun or you have a few poses or actions to do, take 20 or more.
If you have an action; like, for instance, everyone jumping or a specific theme in mind, get them on board with it. Sell your idea, get them to visualize the photo. I find that if they know what’s coming and they understand where you’re coming from they will have more fun with it.
Be open to suggestions – you may know exactly how you want to shoot a group but if you stay in the moment, sometimes the energy and suggestions of the group can uncover some really fun photo ideas.
Make sure they all know to look directly into the camera – I know that seems obvious but once I’ve downloaded the photos, you’d be surprised how many people are looking off to the side or distracted by something.
Make the process fun for yourself and for everyone in the group and you’ll end up with some really exciting photos!
Next post: POSES.
Dec
04
It’s the time of year; your family and friends are getting together to celebrate the holidays! Whether you’re a professional amateur or prolific Instagramer on your iPhone; if you are the designated photographer this holiday season I have a few tips that will help you make the best of your photo opportunities. Every Tuesday and Thursday in December I’ll update this blog and give you a new tip. Stay tuned!
TIP #1 . FIND YOUR LIGHT.
You can’t beat beautiful diffused natural light for getting beautiful photos. If you’re lucky enough to have some good weather get your family and friends outside for some shots – later in the afternoon when the sun is low is the best time to shoot.
If you have to shoot mid-day, look for a nice shady spot so the sun isn’t dappling on peoples faces or creating unflattering shadows. If you’re shooting later in the day, put the sun behind your subjects so they have a lovely back light and then adjust your camera to expose for your subjects. For iPhone users: Put you finger on the screen over your subjects and hold it. This will lock in the exposure and focus point. You’ll see a little slider on the right; slide that up until you like the exposure and the take the photo; it’ll make sure they are exposed properly. If you have a flash on your camera don’t be afraid to use it to fill in the darker areas. Again, for iPhone users there is a little ‘lighting bolt’ icon on the top of the screen, press it and you’ll see three options – the default is “auto”. Press the “On” button to insure the flash fires.
Also, if you’re shooting indoors, look for a big window as a great source of natural light. It’s great for shooting one or two people.
UP NEXT: TAKE TIME TO SCOUT A LOCATION….
Aug
25
Never has the photo world been so friendly to amateur photographers than it is now. With the advent of social media platforms, like Instagram where you have access to creative tools and filters, the amateur photographer can even turn the mistakes or mishaps into something interesting. If Black and White photography is your passion, you can create some amazing images with just a few tips.
All of these images were shot with and iPhone 5 and iPhone 6.
- Contrast is a good thing.
There are times during the day where the bright sun makes it next to impossible to capture the image you want. Those days can be productive if you begin to look at your surroundings like a black and white movie. For cityscapes or landscapes; look at shadows, clouds and contrast. You may not have the light for nice family portraits but that sun will give you all kinds of gifts if you look for them.
- Drop your exposure
When you convert photos to black and white, the ‘whites’ can easily get blown out if you exposed your image for color. If you plan on shooting in black and white try dropping your exposure a bit so the whites (like clouds) retain their texture.
To find out how to adjust the exposure in your iPhone camera, check out last month’s series on getting the most out of your iPhone.
- Flat and cloudy days can make for interesting black and white shots.
We’ve all gone out to shoot only to find the light isn’t cooperating. On days like those, begin to imagine what your black and white shots might look like. Play with interesting angles, composures and perspectives.
- Use black and white to create drama.
Sometimes you’ll come across a scenario when you’re shooting that might move you; there is a sense of emotion being conveyed. These images can be the most impactful when they’re shot for black and white. The absence of color can remove the distractions bring the viewer right into the scene.
