Working with a large family for a photo-shoot can be tough sometimes because every member of the family seems to have their own agenda. I’ve found that as the photographer, it’s important for me to establish a rhythm with everyone in the group so I can coordinate the composition of the picture exactly right. Sometimes tapping into that rhythm means catching the family off guard with a few candid shots that are unplanned, but full of harmony.
As many know, photographers love to shoot during the Golden hours of the day. Sometimes known as the magic hour, the first and last hours of sunlight often provides spectacular lighting and some equally spectacular photographs. The light lends a softer light, deeper shadows, and warmer hues. Unfortunately, schedules and…
Digitally manipulating an image really gives me total control, and of course, with that comes a big responsibility to get things right. For this video, I wanted to show the process that happens between the transformation of one intentionally unflattering photo into a professional appearing shot.
A great friend of mine called me with a relatively big request. She had gotten married during the summer and was devastated that the location where they had held their wedding was under renovation. Much to her dismay, this meant that scaffolding alongside the building appeared in many of her wedding photos. I told her to send them over to see what I could do.
What would you do with a million dollars? This was a question I asked myself to use in an experiment with kinetic typography.
Kinetic typography is an animation technique that combines text with movement. The manner in which the text is animated helps convey a greater sense of emotion that couldn’t be possible with simple, non-moving text.
I had seen kinetic typography videos done before using anything from movie quotes to song lyrics and decided to try my hand at it. Instead of finding material that already existed, I chose to create my own text by creatively answering a simple question.
Big open spaces outside can be pretty intimidating, but when the lighting’s just right, and the main subject’s positioned in the best spot, a really beautiful picture can come out of it. Some of these shots were taken in the middle of an open field with the plains spreading out into the background. I made sure to position the family in such a way that they would be cushioned—not overwhelmed—by the impressive background. I always want to keep in mind the importance of considering scenery, even as if it were an extra member of the family I shoot.
Client: Shaui Ties
Request: Design marketing ad campaign for men’s apparel company.
A side-by-side comparison of a photo before and after Photoshop touch-ups.
When I’m asked to shoot a family, I make sure to choose a backdrop that will be comfortable for the family, and also make for a great picture. Luckily, Southern Colorado is full of interesting landscapes and landmarks that can act as incredible frames for portraits.
My ideal shooting location is an environment that can hold its own level of unique artistry, but also compliment the main subject perfectly.
A ten second demo with Adobe After Effects.
