UPDATED 4.21.09

I got some feedback asking why no smiles and I realized that in my editing process I completely neglected any of the smiling shots. It didn’t even  cross my mind, so I went through the shots and added a smiling shot and an almost smiling shot.

Recently I had the pleasure of shooting a new model, Lani. She also happens to be one of our girls’ favorite babysitters. She’s a great girl that comes from an outstanding family. She’s an absolute natural in front of the lens which isn’t fair to the rest of us, but hey, that’s life. After a few minutes of warming up, she was posing away like an old pro.

My goal was to capture Lani with the sun setting behind the Spokane River. By the time we got to the location (my fault) we were already starting to lose moer daylight than I would have liked so I didn’t get to experiment with other shots like I’d planned. Oh well, maybe next time. Although I was able to get the main shots I was looking for.

This shoot was an experiment in balancing 2 types of light, the sunset (ambient light) and flash. This is an example of photography that isn’t possible without carrying around umbrellas and flashes. All of the outside shots involved an umbrella and 2 flashes on either side.

I love shooting natural light, but not as much as I like having control over my light. Face it, there are going to be times mother nature doesn’t smile on you when you’re trying to take pictures. Let’s just say I’m glad to have this as an option.

After running out of light completely, we took a few more shots in a more traditional studio style. The main reason for these shots was that I wanted the chance to try out a ring light I made. A ring light gives off a very even light because you actually put your camera’s lens through the center of the light. You can see the unique circular catch lights in Lani’s eyes in 2 of the shots with the white background. I have a few adjustments to make to it, but I’m sure I’ll be using it often.

The sole black & white shot was the result of not taking my normal color post processing to it’s usual conclusion. One of my steps involves using a black & white version of the photo over the color version. When I did this step on this particular photo I thought it was great on its own so I decided to stop and leave it as is. The color version is nice too, but not as striking as it’s gray counterpart.

I’m so happy with how this shoot went. Great model+outstanding scenery+competent (enough) photographer=great photos. And great photos are what I’m all about.

Have a look at the photos and let me know what you think. Leave a comment and tell me what you’re favorites are. Also, if you know Lani, let her know what you think as well. I’m booking appointments for photoshoots so let me know if you could use my services. I’m sure Lani would be open to booking modeling appointments too—though I’ll probably insist on a finder’s fee.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge and thank my assistants for this shoot. Lani’s sister Priscilla (who modeled for 1 photo—which turned out great—but forbade me from showing anyone so you’ll have to bug her if you want to see it) and my daughter Reagan were both indispensable during the shoot. Also credit goes to Lani for the styling and a benevolent Creator for the set design.

Finally, here are the photos…

(click on them for the uncropped full version)

Over the past few months I’ve had the pleasure of shooting some subjects as part of a presentation for displaying the outstanding work of Dimensions Salon in Spokane. While there have been some more experienced models in the bunch, the majority of the models have come at me with the phrase, “I don’t photograph well,” or I haven’t had pictures taken of me in years,” or something depressingly similar.

My answer of course is a joking, “You haven’t had your picture taken by me yet, have you?” Eliciting a response of, “Good luck, you have your work cut out for you.”

A challenge you say. I’m up for that…

Of course I understand that most of these women don’t have a desire to look like a super model, they just want a photograph that looks like their best self and if they look a few years younger too, then that’s a problem we’ll all just have to live with. So that’s my goal.

As I am shooting, I flip my camera around frequently and show them their photos on my camera’s screen. Inevitably their outlook about the session changes as they notice that I am able to take a photo of them that looks better than a grainy cell phone or red eye inducing point and shoot camera (not even including the “magic” of post processing). Who knew that proper lighting, strong composition, and good make-up could make such a difference?

I did. And they do now—judging by the reactions I’ve gotten.

You know, sometimes the reluctant models even end up having fun.

Take a look at some examples…

Sometimes it’s nice to get a break from the perfection of digital photography. There’s something cathartic about relinquishing some control to the tool you’re using. Generally I’m in total control of my shot. I set my lights how I want. I create the composition. I control the capture of the image with my camera that gives me exactly what I want. And if it doesn’t, well that is what Lightroom and Photoshop are for. In a way these “toys” allow me to turn off the desire for perfection and focus (pun not intended. really it wasn’t) on the joy of taking pictures and the anticipation of the sometimes unpredictable results.

These “toys” aren’t really toys but I call them that because I won’t ever use them as a staple of my work, and their image quality is a bit lacking, but they’re a nice way to recharge my creativity.

First up is the Kodak Duaflex II camera. This thing is about the same age as my parents. Because of it’s age it has some imperfections that I find pleasing (wish I could say the same for mom & dad—kidding). I just got this one so I’m really still learning how to best use it.

First this camera’s age has allowed some mold(?) and dust to gather in the camera and on the lenses which can add a nice texture—especially in the corners.

Next, and probably my favorite part, is the frame that the camera places around the image. I can get an effect close to this in Photoshop but the true border is just a bit better. Even though most people probably couldn’t tell the difference, I can. Plus, I know it’s real and not a digital creation. I also like it because it forces me to compose the shot in camera. If I crop the photo later I lose the border. When I was developing and printing my own 35mm film I loved leaving the border of the negative holder around the edge of the print. I guess it was proof to me that the composition was completely thought out in camera.

Last is the soft focus vignette around the edges. Because of the curved nature of the lens the center of the photo is extremely sharp, but the focus falls off sharply toward the edges. I see this being a nice feature in macro and still life shots.

I’m still not sure if I’ll leave the grime on the camera or clean it up. The dirt can really be distracting if it falls on someone’s face. Let me know what you think

Here are a few shots I took with it. Have yourself a look-see…

Here’s a family that I was lucky enough to be able to shoot. Each one was adorable and quite a bit of fun. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen such patient children. Each child waited their turn and when it was their time in front of the camera they were raring to go.

Honestly, when kids are this cute and fun in front of the lens, the best thing I can do is get out of the way and follow their lead. Besides, if I could get away with a mohawk, I’d wear it in a second.

Here are some of the photos from the session…