Portrait of a Pet

Taking portraits of pets can be difficult at times. with portraits of humans, we can get them to look and do what we want. But with a pet, they have a mind of their own.

Archie was no diffrent. I was using my iPhone to take candid pictures using a huge window, and soft light coming threw. I took a few pictures and came up with what I liked. Next was to cut out Archie in Photoshop and give him a studio look. I don’t know, but I think the owner will be happy. I know I was happy with it. Most of us have a camera all ready; just look at where the light is going and use it with whatever camera you have. For me, this was my iPhone today. Happy shooting.

Mom's day

Happy Mother’s day to all of the moms out there.

Happy Mother's Day to all you great moms out there.

I was honored to take this family picture celebrating their 60's anniversary. Unfortunately, things didn't go as planned with it raining outside, so we did plan B. Shoot indoors during the celebration. Never forget to keep looking for the moments.

As you can see, this was not the best; this was just the family picture. But, no fear, I already knew I would take this in Photoshop and make it into a studio picture.

I don't know about you, but I feel it's something that I would print and hang on my wall. The celebration continues, and just like a wedding, I am always looking for the moments. I could not help myself when I saw this one Grandma and her Grandson. Tell me this will not be a special picture someday.

The customer loved them, and that is how I know I did my job. While a lot of Photoshop was done, I wanted to give them what they hired me to do. Sometimes you need to take that extra time.

Family Photo Time

Here we are and just about the end of November. Senior Fall Photos, Family Fall photo, ’s all ready for the Christmas time.

Family photography is always exciting and challenging. With all the different personalities and you never know what you are going to get. The more people, the more the possible problems. I was asked about doing a family portrait using a pond for the background outside. I arrived scouted out the area and do to this day the wind being extreme and temperatures below freezing, I was uncomfortable about getting a great picture and most importantly, making the family comfortable.

While scouting, I noted the atrium they had, and with that in mind, I talked with my client about the issues I saw and how this area will be so much better for everyone. With everyone in agreement now was how I wanted to take the picture.

The outside was a little gloomy. With that in mind, out came a light outside with an orange gel to create sunlight for backlighting. Next was to help light the front of them because it was a little dark. You got it another light for fill. Lighting is all set up, now time to think about how to pose everyone. With everyone in position, now it was time to take multiple pictures for that magic moment. I did this with my camera on a tripod. I did this for the possibility of making a plate shot. What is a plate shot? With the lights off, no subjects, I took just a picture using ambient light. I am glad I thought of this because I used it, noting reflection in some of the windows. We did numerous pictures this day. The big take away, make people feel comfortable, and you will get a great shot.

Family Picture on a very cold day