The Contributors of LVP

Where We Began...
 

 Cindy Larkin: Founder/Contributor

I have been interested in photography since I was a little girl sifting through the pages of my own personal photo album.  But let's face it, just because I loved pictures and photography, did not mean that I started out as a good photographer.  Actually, my photography was quite dreadful when I first began and I specifically remember my husband sitting me down and telling me kindly, that I needed to read my manual on the camera that he'd just given me for Christmas, or I was never going to figure it out.  "Owning a camera does not make you a photographer ", so they say.  Although I agree with this statement, I really dislike the negative connotation behind it.  I had a camera and I wanted to be a photographer, but I was having such difficulty mastering it. 

I was angry and frustrated with myself because I had this natural longing to be a portrait photographer, and I also wanted to be able to take beautiful pictures of my children, but I had no idea how to use this brand new camera of mine.  In fact, I'd started reading the manual several times, but had thrown it down in dismay, when I couldn't figure out what it was trying to tell me.  I didn't learn well from simply reading about it.  I needed practical application and hands-on experience.  I learn kinesthetically, and the only way I could get a grasp of this new skill was when I really began to practice, practice, and practice some more.

At the time, I could not afford a photography class, but I was determined to learn so I set out to teach myself.  I tried in door lighting with cloth backdrops, clamp lamps and windows.  Then I tried outdoor lighting in full sunlight, overcast light, and shade.  I tried changing every knob on the camera and getting familiar with how each button worked, and which one was best for each light setting.  I tried reading the manual word by word, and then using my camera in practical situations to grasp what it was saying.  My children, our dog, and my sisters were my subjects.  I tried googling Nikon and Canon's websites, and browsing YouTube for videos and tutorials on everything, including how-to's on using photoshop, and tutorials on my specific camera.  It took hours, that turned into days, that turned into years [Yep, I learned the hard way]. 

Eventually, after I'd gone through several mediocre cameras and learned more about photography, my husband upgraded me to a nicer camera, and bought me some lighting equipment.  Then I started taking pictures for my extended family and friends.  On occasion, I’d even get a referral!  At first I could hardly believe that I was getting paid for playing, but soon I got repeat customers and more referrals! 

Around year three of my photography career, my sister got me a job with a small local magazine that thought enough of my work to hire me to take pictures for their customer ads. Up until that point, my title had always been “amateur photographer”, and I didn’t really see myself as a professional until the first day I saw my photographs and my logo on a prominent page in the magazine. This was such a boost to my “photographer's image” because now someone other than myself and my small clientele, was seeing my value as a photographer. Soon my logo and name got out, and I began taking pictures on a regular basis as a professional.

Even after being in business for myself for more than 8 years now [Cindergirl Photography], I still get excited every time I pull out my camera. I especially love to collaborate with other photographers and shoot just for fun. Shooting with other photographers, and doing it "for fun", is what has inspired me to start Las Vegas Photographer.

I am blown away with the talents of the photographers that I have had the opportunity to associate with on a regular basis. It has been such an education for me to put my fears aside and shoot and learn with them.  Letting them teach me, as I share some of my knowledge with them, has been a key component in my photography and I know it has made me a better photographer.  I believe that no-one is good at everything, but we are all good at something! We can learn so much more from each other, than we could possibly learn on our own.  I LOVE meeting, networking, and learning with you!  I personally invite you to come and share your talents with us! 

P.S.  I just opened up a facebook page specifically for my photography!  [It's about time, right?]  I'd love to connect with you. Come find me [here]!  :)

Photo by Yasmin Tajik

Amy Leavitt: Contributor

I started in photography in 2007 when I took a course at our leisure center on how to use my new Canon Digital Rebel xTi. I fell in love with it, as many do, and my kids soon developed photographers-child-syndrome. They ran and hid when I pulled out my camera...

And I sucked. But I thought I was awesome.

I took another course, from the New York Institute of Photography and began to really develop my skills. I started to understand how bad my photography was. I read everything I could online. I even tested the focus system on my new Canon 5d because I was sure it was unable to focus. It passed the test (shock!) and I understood on a deeper level that if I really wanted to be a photographer, I had to put in the time and effort to really learn it. I studied masters like Diann Arbus, Jacques Henri Lartigue, and Leon Levinstein, and most recently, Vivian Maier. I paid too much for an over-hyped workshop. I imitated other photographers I admired.  I practiced on friends and my own kids. I signed up with Kelby training to learn Photoshop better. Some of it worked, and a few things didn't, but I took giant steps forward to becoming a better photographer. I am now studying to become a PPA Certified Professional Photographer.

I run my own portrait business, Amy Leavitt Photography. When Cindy asked me to help with LVP, I was more than happy. It's fun! I get to discover new talent by handpicking my favorite photographers for the cover. I get to talk and interview with successful bloggers and photographers. Although LVP is for all photographers, I particularly love that it connects local Las Vegas Photographers.

I remind myself every day:
Nutella is not a food group.
Millions of women are doing laundry all day too, and are complaining far less.
I may not be beautiful, but my husband thinks I am, and that should be all that matters.
I have a house, a husband, and three kids who still like to kiss and hug me at bedtime. What's better than that?
Some people may not like me, but my dog thinks I'm awesome.
And from Oscar Wilde: "Be yourself. Everyone else is already taken."

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March 2011 Cover

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Letter To The Editor

I received this letter today from a Boy Scout here in Las Vegas.  I thought it was pretty funny and thought you'd enjoy it too! 

Dear Cindy Larkin,
I am writing to you so I can finish my Communications Merit Badge before getting my Eagle.  I understand that you are the founder, and one of the editors of Las Vegas Photographer magazine and blog.  It would be cool if you could answer my questions.


Sincerely,
BJL


How is it?  It's awesome!  I love collaborating with other photographers from around the world on special writing and photography projects.  I get to learn from many talented photographers, and in return I also get to share some of my own knowledge and ideas.       

What do you do as Editor?  As one of the editors here at LVP I get to read the articles submitted by other photographers before they are published.  I help gather the information and images, make sure our deadlines are met,  then proofread it for spelling and grammatical errors.  One of my favorite assignments that I share with Amy Leavitt, (my co-editor, contributor, and partner in crime), is creating the cover of the magazine.  I really enjoy the process and absolutely love seeing the finished product!  Getting to use the best images from a photographers portfolio to create a beautiful masterpiece, makes our job so much fun! 
 
Do you have to sit there for hours looking at pictures?  -I think that would be really boring.   Yes, we sometimes sit for hours at a time looking at pictures and deciding which ones to use for the cover, but I'd have to say that we really like doing it!  It inspires us to see other photographers best work and to read about the story behind the photographs.   

Do you get to have your own pictures in the magazine?  Yes, as the founder and contributor, I get to be as creative as I want to be.  I love sharing my work and my ideas, but mostly we try to feature and highlight other photographers masterpieces.  Learning from others is what makes the world of photography go 'round, and we really enjoy having photographers submit articles, tutorials, and photo sessions, that they've done just for our blog.   

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Interview with The Maternal Lens

We, here at Las Vegas Photographer Magazine, love to hear how other people work. I'm fascinated by photographer bloggers and how they got to where they are. So, when I came across The Maternal Lens, and saw how successful they are, the first thing I thought was, "how did they do it?". So I thought I'd ask them...of course I never thought they'd be interested in contributing to our little baby, LVP, but they were thrilled to participate! The Maternal Lens is a group of five women who met online, became fast friends, and decided to collaborate and start a blog about motherhood, photography and friendship. Sit back and enjoy the tips and advise from these successful women!

What type/make/model camera do you all use?

Shannon-I'm a canon girl. I use a 5d (classic). I do have a mark II, but I use that as my back up. That's a whole other blog post. Haha.
Sarah-Canon 50d at the moment
Megan-Nikon d700 with the d300 as back-up
Meg- Nikon D300
Jen- Nikon D80…time to upgrade!

Which two lenses do you find yourselves using all the time? in other words which lenses are your "go to" lenses. 

 

Shannon- I LOVE my 50mm. I mean love. I also love my 85mm. Other lenses I use often are the 70-200, fisheye and 100 macro.
Sarah-50 1.4, 85 1.8
Megan-50 1.4 ; 17-35 2.8
Meg-1.8 and the 24-70mm 2.8
Jen-I use my 50mm 1.8 100% of the time…time to upgrade that too!

What kind of equipment do you take on a "normal" shoot?

Shannon- I'm a two camera girl. I always have 2 camera on every shoot. Two 5ds and then the 50 and 85 is pretty typical, but I usually take them all because you just never know what you might need!

 
Sarah- My camera bag and its contents, me, sometimes a reflector if I will be inside...

 

Megan-Camera, 50 1.4, 85 1.4, 70-200 2.8, 17-35 2.8

Meg-50mm 24-70mm and 85mm tucked into my shootsac – I may also bring along some props for inspiration always a bottle of water and a positive attitude!

Jen- I travel light when shooting since I don’t change lenses or use a flash often, so it’s usually just my camera and a reflector and I keep a vintage wooden folding chair in the car.

How long have each of you been doing photography professionally?

Shannon- this year will be my 3rd year.
Sarah- about 5 years
Megan-about 5 years
Meg- 3 years (but a lifetime of dreams!)
Jen- I consider myself the least “professional” of our group, but I have been shooting for other folks since I was 18, so 15 years.
 

Where do you get your expertise? online classes? self taught? college courses?

Shannon- I am completely self taught. I learned my looking, reading, doing. Practice, practice, practice. Even still I try and take pictures every single day. The more you do and the more you try new/different things, the more you’ll learn.

 
Sarah- self taught--shooting, reading, shooting, reading, shooting... 

 
Megan-High school photography class, self taught, research online, trial and error 

 
Meg- My passion was handed down to me from my father (his from his father) I learned in the darkroom in high school and later on refreshed my skills at The New England School of Photography in Boston. But mostly I am self taught – there’s nothing like being hands on especially with photography you must keep on shooting. 

 
Jen-I don’t have any formal training in photography. I have learned most of what I know from my fellow photographer moms in online groups and forums.

What's the biggest mistake you see pro photographers making when it comes to running their business?

Shannon-oh, gosh! Didn’t we all make mistakes when we started our business? I think that’s all a part of the process. I would just suggest that you go into it knowing who you truly are and know what you want your outcome to be. There is always going to be someone better or not as good. cheaper or more expensive, uses the latest actions or none at all…just do you!!

 
Sarah- Going into business too early (not enough portfolio building, not putting enough thought into branding or taking proper care of the 'business' side of things...) 

 
Megan-Not evolving, changing with the times, or continuing to improve with each shot. 

 
Meg- I honestly feel that how another photog runs his/her business is his/her own business. Who am I to judge. I only know what works and doesn’t work for me. Remaining true to my own style and not following the trend is something I hold very close to my heart. 

 
Jen-I think it’s a huge mistake to become overly concerned with what other people are doing with their businesses. I often see photogs getting very wrapped up in what their competition and peers are doing, and that never leads to anything good. Focus on your own work and business and what makes you and your clients happy and let everyone else do the same.

What's a little thing that make a big difference in your photography?

Shannon-Passion! I think if you feel what you are doing instead of just going through the motions, your photography and all that you do will show it.
Sarah- Think more, 'click' less.

Megan-Having patience.

Meg- White balance, White balance, White balance.

Jen-Learning to shoot in manual created the most noticeable changes for me overall. Most recently, learning to work with backlighting and a reflector has changed my work considerably.

What's your philosophy regarding workflow?

Shannon-simple, simple, simple. I don’t spend a lot of time on the ‘after’ part of photography. I want to be taking beautiful photos, not spending hours/days fixing them or creating them. I’m a keep it simple kind of gal. 

 
Sarah- If the image has spirit, work it. If not, Don't! Keep it simple.

 
Megan-Have fun with it!

 
Meg- I like many other photogs spend far too many hours in front of our computers culling, editing, tweaking, resizing, downloading, uploading, the list goes on. For this reason I have been thinking of film. I miss the organic aspect of shooting film – the beautiful colors of film that I spend hours trying to mimic in photoshop. However, I’m not sure if I am ready to let go of digital yet. But as far as my workflow goes, I try to remain consistent and I try to narrow down the very best images and learn to let go of the so-so ones. I am drawn towards the vintage feel and want all my images to to look similar across the board. I tend to get lost in my editing and if I stick with my own formula I can get my blog posts done sooner and my client galleries up faster. 

 
Jen-I try to keep things simple, but I treat each image as its own unique work of art, so I am certainly not a speedy processor. I don’t have a large amount of photography work on a regular basis, so I am able and more willing than others to take my time and tweak things.

What's one piece of equipment they'd have to pry from your cold, dead fingers?

Shannon-My camera! Oh how I love my camera  and my 50!
Sarah- my 50 1.4 :)
Megan-Besides my camera body, of course, probably the 85 1.4
Meg-(besides my camera!) I would have to say my laptop!!
Jen-Honestly, my laptop. I do everything on it, even editing. I spend more time on it than I spend with my husband. Secondly, my camera.

How did you all meet and what sparked your desire to start the Maternal Lens blog?

The 5 of us met about 5 years ago on a website called cafemom. At that time a couple of us had just started their business and a few of us were just beginning to test the photography business waters. The friendship, knowledge and support we gained from those days is something that will live in the hearts of all of us. We laughed together, cried together, loved together and an incredible friendship was born.

Somewhere along the way we thought ‘hey, the 5 of us should start a blog!’ haha. What, when or why we didn’t know, but we did it and we are all so happy we did. This march will be the 3 year birthday for the maternal lens. How awesome!!!

What is your favorite thing about collaborating on your Maternal Lens blog? And, what are some of the challenges?

Shannon- seriously, what’s not to love?! I get to work with 4 other amazing ladies, we have the greatest readers, vendors, contributors…you name it! The maternal lens has so much support backing it up, it’s completely overwhelming (is a great way!).

I love the people that it has put in my life and I love the strength that it has added to the bond of the 5 of us. Challenges? I would say time. There is a lot ‘behind the scenes’ work that goes into the blog. Between my family, my business and the maternal lens, the time to put 100% into sometimes is lacking.

Sarah- I love these ladies; their friendship and inspiration as mothers and photographers. One BIG challenge is all of our busy, hectic schedules and finding the time to give the blog what it deserves.

Megan-I love these gals! A challenge of my own is finding time to give it the attention it needs, while trying to run a business of my own, and be a mom to three little ones.

Meg- There are so many favorite things about TML but honestly, 5 women, 5 friends, 5 mothers, 5 points of view it’s all so wonderful! We are all on different schedules, so it is always a challenge to make sure the “load” is shared by all and not carried by one.

Jen-My favorite thing about TML is how it keeps us close. It’s like our baby and we love it and we’ll always be connected because of it. I think our biggest challenge is keeping the workload balanced. We are all mothers of young children, balancing work and everything else in our lives, and each of us struggles with finding time and content to contribute. I feel we are still trying find our individual strengths when it comes to the blog. We all know there’s so much more we could be doing with it.

What do you wish you knew when you were starting TML?

Shannon- I don’t think there is anything that I wish I knew. It’s been an amazing adventure. But what is didn’t know is how it would take off and become such a great blog. I also didn’t realize how much I would come to love our blog. I sometimes feel like it’s my 3 child 

We do this blog simply for fun. Simply to share and to inspire. I think we are doing that!

Sarah-How awesome the ride would be!

Megan-How many people would actually read and love it!

Meg- The entire journey has been so wonderful for me. There really is nothing I wish I knew then that I know now. We are 5 women that came together on the internet – drawn to each other by our personalities, our lives, our photography and our inspirations to each other. It is very special to me and something I will always treasure.

Jen-I wish I had known how it would grow! Its amazing to me that we touch as many people as we do.

What's the single most important thing that photography bloggers should master?

Shannon- listen to your readers. I get hundreds of emails asking for certain things, as well as emails saying that they really aren’t loving something. Our blog is for the readers, so if we don’t listen to their feedback, we may have no readers…..in turn, no blog.

Sarah- To connect with people.

Megan-Making the time to blog frequently.

Meg- Wow – that’s a hard question to answer but again I think it goes back to being true to your own style – to your own thoughts – I really think people would rather have honesty – you can’t please everyone and that’s what is so great about TML – we are 5 viewpoints – it’s very refreshing.

Jen-I think with any type of writing, you should know your target audience. Have a firm idea of who you want to speak to and what they want to hear.

What do you think it is that makes TML successful and have so many followers?

Shannon- I think our blog is something that everyone can relate to. Whether it be photography, parenthood, a place to come get inspired, a place to learn a little something new or enter in a kick butt giveaway, we have something for everyone! And I think the 5 of us are pretty awesome gals. Haha!

Sarah- Well, our fabulousness of course. ;) the giveaways, the eye candy, the tips and tricks...I could go on!

Megan-Our genuine love for all things photography related. And Shannon's dedication.

Meg- For all the reasons I stated before 5 women, 5 friends, 5 photogs, 5 viewpoints – there are a lot of “us” out there and encouraging and supporting each other is really what it’s all about. Motherhood isn’t easy. Photography isn’t easy. Life isn’t easy but the ride sure is fun when you’re not alone and can identify with someone.

Jen-There’s a huge network of photographer moms out there and I think TML is just a great outlet for us and our common interests. We keep things real while keeping a positive outlook. Giveaways don’t hurt either!

To someone just starting their photography blog, what advice would you give?

Shannon- have fun!! Make it your own. Involve those who want to be a part of it.

Sarah- To offer a variety of features, become an expert on drawing people in...and network!

Megan-People love giveaways!

Meg- Just take the plunge – be consistent – have fun – just be you!

Jen-Know your audience. Stay focused on the message and image you want to portray. Don’t be afraid to inject your own personality into your blogging…people can see pretty pictures anywhere, so you want them to come to you because they enjoy what YOU are posting. Be unique – be yourself.

In reading through your blogs, I see that all of you have children/families. How on earth do you do it all??

Shannon-this was something I really struggled with last year and had to make some big changes for this year. I tried to do it all and I was failing. I was overwhelmed and my family, sadly, paid the price.

This year i have cut back my workload…by a lot. Time with my husband and boys is time that I will never get to repeat, so I will be making the most of every minute of it. But don’t get me wrong, you will still find me behind my camera doing what I love!!! I’m in a happy place 

Sarah- Well, I don't! I don't do it all. I do what I can. I try to make that enough. I have to know what my priorities are and set boundaries. Still working on this one!

Megan-That's the question I'm still trying to figure out. When I figure it out I'll let myself know. ha ha.

Meg- I wonder that myself sometimes – my house isn’t in perfect order, and my hair might be a mess and there may be dishes in the sink {I’ll never tell!} but I know that when I found these wonderful women out there in the world I felt a kindred spirit and I knew it all would be okay. Our children are around the same age, we’ve supported each other in selling homes and moving, changing careers, starting our photography businesses, encouraging each other, caring for each other and most of all laughing about it. Daily. I’m not the perfect wife, the perfect mother, the perfect friend or the perfect photographer. But I have 4 perfect friends who I adore and somehow that is enough. Xo

Jen- Any mom will tell you it’s a hard thing to juggle everything! It’s a real struggle sometimes, but you always find time for that which you love.

the maternal lens- www.thematernallens.blogspot.com and http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Maternal-Lens/162616746174

Shannon- www.thousandwordsphotographymt.com

Sarah- http://joyfulphoto.com/

Megan- http://www.treesandbeesphotography.com/

Meg- http://bluelimephoto.com/index2.php

Jen- http://jenpinkertonphotography.blogspot.com/

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Shoot Share :: Cherie Hogan Photography

These images were taken at my most favorite location in Vegas... Calico Basin.  Its definitely not a secret spot, but, it's still my favorite! I always try to start shooting there before the sun has gone behind the giant rock mountain.  I don't like it being too shady because then I start getting the gross skin tones and dark eyes.  I would SO much rather shoot in too much light, than not enough.

Most of the questions I get are about posing... and since posing is one of the most important aspects to portrait photography - I thought I would focus on that! Here's just a few tips to make posing easier for you...
When we first got to Calico Basin for this shoot, we had my absolute most favorite light to work with.  We had light whispy clouds acting as the most perfect diffuser for sun light.  Her skin still had some warmth and her hair was reflecting the golden sun.  Love it!

I think this first shot is all about the angle and the composition.  Posing is not just about what their body is doing... a really boring pose can become interesting with a different angle, unique lighting etc This picture would not be nearly as interesting if I had taken it eye level with her. Nor would it have been as interesting if she was perfectly vertical in the frame.  I feel like its simple things like that, that can turn a boring picture into something awesome.  When I shoot seniors (and anybody for that matter) I tell them EXACTLY what I'm wanting them to do to achieve what I'm going for.  I let them know what I want them to do with their hands, their head, shoulders, feet, even LIPS.  In this photo, I told her to part her lips slightly.  I even critique their "serious" face... which brings me to this next image dun dun dun...

I can't decide which way I like it better so you get to see both!  In most cases, when you tell someone not to smile, or to give their serious face... they just look mad, or seriously unhappy.  So everytime I'm going for "serious" face, I tell them to think of something happy.... (like maybe that knock-knock joke I just told them to get the candid laughs cause I'm so hilarious) or I SHOW them (by doing it myself) how I slightly turn up the corners of my mouth to look less angry.  For this pose, you'll notice how asymetical she is.  I told her to sit down.  Then I placed her chin resting on her hand, her other arm relaxed and actually pulled one of her legs out so she wasn't stiff with both legs together - SO MUCH more natural! One last thing... I told her to FAKE resting on her hand! If she'd really completely relaxed her head resting on her hand, she would have smooshed her skin, pressed in her face... it just wouldn't have been so flattering.

One thing that is super simple that I always have girls do is play with their hair. Since I always want to have hands doing something... I can always fall back on this little trick. Tell her to play with the ends, tuck it behind her ear.  I probably also told her to flirt with the camera like it's a cute boy!  I know things like that sound silly but not only does it direct them, it also makes them laugh and get comfortable with me.

How about a smiling picture now?  Usually I bust out my knock knock jokes.  Usually they're really juvenile... and usually, I learned them from the other seniors I photograph.  But its the best way to get a genuine smile... when they are genuinely laughing. Makes sense right?? Here's another trick to help you make your poses more interesting.  I pretty much never let their head be straight on to the camera, I SHOW them which way to turn it.  Down and to the side, up and to the side, just down and look kind of up at me, sideways... whatever! Its awesome because by the end of the shoot, they can work their head like a supermodel. Hopefully this post was helpful for you.  If you liked it, stop by my blog and let me know.  Maybe I'll do more posts on posing??

Cherie Hogan Photography
www.photographbycherie.com

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Should I hire a stylist?

by Jennifer Mercier

"The perfect photograph takes not only time, but effort. The photographer knows this, and a stylist knows this as well.  When you put a lot of time and thought into the location, lighting, and creativity to obtain the optimal images, bringing a stylist on board can be the final piece that brings it all together. Here are a few things to consider before the day of the special event, so that you are not left scratching your head wondering why the look isn't as flawless as you envisioned it to be. 



Product, product, product! The cold hard truth is that the lenses used on cameras pick up every little flaw. From the slightly dark circles under the eyes to the newly formed stress pimple, these are things that a common makeup brand will show through to the camera in conjunction with lighting. A true makeup artist will use professional products that are specifically designed to cover problem areas. We have expertise in hiding flaws and accenting your client’s best features, such as making the nose appear smaller, making cheek bones look higher, and getting the eyes to glisten under the flash.  These little tricks are just a few benefits you get from inviting a make-up artist to be a part of your creative team. We can truly transform ordinary into extraordinary. 

Photo by Nick Moody

Initially it may seem to be a great idea to cut costs by having a friend of the clients do their hair and makeup, however it can be a slippery slope.  Generally once a client leaves their salon they're on their own.  If you happen to find a stylist who will do a location shoot, that is an added bonus.  Even with a run through, hair can have a mind of its own. A run-through is always recommended and a lot of stylists will add that into their overall fees. Stylists are professionals that are trained in the art of dealing with moody hair, and having a stylist on location allows for a lot of perks. Should you need a style change on the shoot, or your hair needs to be prepped for a new shot, that’s what we get paid for. Think of us as your creative wing man. 

Photo by Cherie Hogan

Also, here is some food for thought.  Alot of photographers and stylists work very well together in the art of creativity. If it’s out of the box pictures that you seek, have a sit down with the client and stylist together. Creativity gets us all excited! As for cost, a lot of people bargain shop. Do not go with a stylist just because they are the least expensive.  Remember there is a reason for that bargain basement price. It's also not necessary to book the most expensive stylist either. Most of us will work out a package deal, should both parties decide to go that route. I usually recommend a decision based on personality and portfolio. Also, find a stylist who loves to think out of the box. This can help take a simple graduation or engagement picture to a whole new level!  Communication is an absolute must for any photo shoot. It is imperative that you and your stylist get on the same page. At the end of the day we both are in this business to make people look and feel beautiful."



Photo by Cherie Hogan

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February 2011 Cover

Photography:  Malea Ellet 
Cover Design:  Cindy Larkin

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BABY STEPS TO MANUAL MODE THE WILLETTE WAY

by Kelly Willette

[image by Kelly Willette]

Let’s take some baby steps to REALLY use your digital SLR....and I realize that I’m throwing a ton of info your way with this...so read it several times if you have NEVER attempted to shoot in manual mode.

(this is for digital slr owners/users, but if you have a point and shoot, you should read along as well!)

• First of all, read in your manual how to turn the camera to FULL MANUAL mode (this is NOT the same as full manual focus mode on your lens).  Your camera may have a few different shooting modes: program, Auto, Aperture, Manual, Sports, etc. (totally depends on your camera model as to what they are called/what modes you have).
• Now, look through your view finder.  Hold the shutter down half way, and keep looking through the view finder.
• You will see something similar to this:

+|..|..|..0..|..|..|..-
             ||||||||||||
This is called the in-camera light meter.

• This is what will help you figure out if your combination of settings (shutter speed, aperture and ISO) is working towards perfect exposure.
• If you see tick marks to the left of the center 0, then your image is overexposed (or, too bright)
• If you see tick marks to the right of the center 0, then your image is underexposed (or, too dark)
• If the tick mark is right at the center 0, then you should have perfect exposure.I, personally, shoot just a tick above the 0 to the LEFT to make my photos a bit on the bright side).
• Your goal, is to figure out what the winning combination of aperture, shutter speed and ISO is to get a photo perfectly exposed.
• It is kinda like algebra….once you “get” it, then you’ll always understand it.
• Now, read in your camera manual HOW to adjust your shutter speed, your ISO AND your aperture.
• Practice changing all three items, taking shots in between and seeing how each affects your light meter’s reading.
• I usually keep my aperture between f/2.2 and f/2.8 (unless I’m photographing a ton of people together….in which case I use a larger f/stop number).  So my aperture is usually my constant with my camera.  That is the factor that I usually just keep at my magic f/2.5 number and I worry about the other two factors (ISO and shutter speed)
• How I go about getting my tick mark in the center….

o   If my image is OVER exposed, then I have TOO much light coming in….I first start by decreasing my ISO, then I check my shutter speed and INCREASE my shutter speed.  If I’m still over, THEN I use a larger aperture (f/stop) number (I rarely have to get to this point since I’m primarily an indoor photographer)

o   If my image is UNDER exposed, then I don’t have enough light….I first start by increasing my ISO, then I make sure that my shutter speed is at a low enough number (but not too low…I rarely go below 1/200^th of a second shutter speed if I’m hand holding….just to ensure crispness with the image), and I make sure my aperture is a low number/low f/stop (since this opens up to allow more light in).

       

Soooo….I know this is a lot to swallow, so just keep plugging away.  I will try to post a video of me messing around with my camera this week so you can see how I work.

·       

You may have some limitations with your camera….

o   If you have an entry level dslr, you may not be able to use the high ISOs due to massive grain

o   If you have a kit lens (the lens that came with your camera), you may not be able to get the lower aperture/f-stop numbers due to the lens’ inability to “open up” that wide.  Most kit lenses only allow you to go as low as f/3.5.

·      

I recommend an inexpensive prime lens to start exploring being able to use the lower numbered apertures (such as the 50 mm 1.8 lens, which is only about $100, or my personal favorite, the 35mm 2.0 for tighter spaces).  Both give you the option of using the lower aperture numbers.  Smaller fstop/aperture numbers = creamier backgrounds.  So once you have a lens that has the lower aperture capabilities, your photos will start having those creamy backgrounds.

And, I HIGHLY recommend purchasing and reading Bryan Peterson’s book Understanding Exposure for more info on how shutter speed, aperture, and ISO work together for perfect exposure.

Once you master exposure, your photos will be even more amazing!

Kelly Mcmahon Willette is a life-long resident of Norfolk, Virginia where she lives with her husband, two kids, "wild as hell" dog and senior citizen cat.  She affectionately refers to her home as the Willette “Gong Show.”  She runs Willette Designs, which is a photography business that offers on-line photography classes for parents and photographers.  She also makes a mean beef stew, still knows all the words to the Beastie Boy’s song “Paul Revere,” and has gotten used to being the master of multi-tasking.  You can find her at www.willettedesigns.com or on facebook at www.facebook.com/willettedesigns.  She’s also been known to be found at her local starbucks. 

{Pssst} Kelly is featuring a FREE online course for February!  You can sign up HERE.   Everyone is welcome, and you don't have to be a professional photographer to take advantage of this awesome class!  Did I mention that it's FREE??

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10 Tips For Better Portraits

By Yasmin Tajik of Shalimar Studios

Here are some of my favorite tips to share with clients for stunning portraits, whether it be a portrait session, or your wedding.  Read through these ten tips and use them as a guideline and starting point when you contact us for your consultation.  We want to learn as much as possible about you and your style so that we can make this a fabulous experience for you!

 10 Tips for Better Portraits

1.  Cut/color your hair at least 2 weeks before your portrait session or wedding.  This allows for more of a natural look with a little regrowth, rather than a freshly cut look in your images.  Remember, we still want the images to look like you naturally, not as if you just got up from your stylist's chair.

2.  Drink a lot of water the entire week before your session for flawless skin.  This is a Red Carpet secret in Hollywood, as you'll often see starlets downing bottles of water in the week prior to any appearance.  Utilize this tip by keeping your skin hydrated for a beautiful glow for your portrait session.  Trust me, even your MAC makeup will look better and stay on longer.

3.  Get plenty of sleep the night before.  Nine hours is ideal.

4.  Have your hair and makeup professionally done the day of your session or wedding.  This is one way to let the experts play up your best features while making you still look like yourself.  Trust expert hair and makeup stylists such as Your Beauty Call or Hera Beauty who know what will make you look your best and who also know what photographs the best.

5.  Dress head to toe.  Full length images will show everything, and shoes speak volumes of you and your style, so don't forget to bring those fabulous Christian Louboutins or Jimmy Choo heels!

6. Have a theme in mind that represents you through your clothing style.  We work with a few select stylists and they have wonderful ideas on how to create the perfect outfit to showcase your personal style through accessories, props, or anything that may be of importance to you and your fiance or family.  Ask yourself, is your style modern, chic, bohemian, glamorous, sporty or edgy?

7.  After choosing the theme that reflects your personal style, schedule your consultation with us so that we can choose the perfect location for you.  If you're bohemian, we may suggest shooting in a field of tall grass. If you're modern, we may suggest shooting amongst contemporary buildings or offices.  And if your edgy, we might suggest shooting in the Arts District.  Together we'll pick the perfect backdrop for your personalized and unique session.

8.  Look through magazines for inspiration and brings clippings with you to your consultation.  Knowing ahead of time what style, poses and overall feeling you are attracted to, helps us better understand how to capture similar moments for you.

9.  Choose the time of day very carefully.  The time of day is crucial when shooting on location.  The golden hour is 1 hour after sunrise or 1 hour prior to sunset.  That is the best light of the day and will only enhance your portraits with soft, beautiful lighting.  Shooting midday usually is very harsh lighting with high contrast between highlights and shadows, thus producing unpleasant images.  Make a commitment to schedule your session during these key periods of the day.

10.  Have fun!  The most important aspect is to walk way from the session energized and excited to see the end result.  I want you to have a wonderful experience knowing you just had images captured of artwork you will cherish for generations.

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Feature :: High-end Photographer or Low-end Photographer

By Malea Ellet and Serena Martineau ~Of My Affection Photography

The art behind Of My Affection photography is simple. It is just the two of us, and we have an unyielding passion to capture the story of modern day romance. Although our business is still in its infancy, we have already had the chance to encounter and document some of the most splendid love stories. Individually we both ran our own successful photography businesses for years and then one day we began to play with the idea of collaborating our talents to create and offer something unique to these couples who were vowing their lives to one another.

One of our biggest strengths is that we capture two different angles throughout the wedding day. For example, one of us will document the elegant bride ascending the aisle while the other is capturing the lovestruck face of the groom, as he sees his soon to be wife coming towards him. There are so many moments on a wedding day that should be captured from more than one angle, to truly depict the emotion of the moment.

Something we have found to be quite wonderful is that we truly fall in love with all of our couples. The reason we think this is possible is because they have welcomed us into such a special and intimate time in their lives. Each session prior to the wedding enables a comfort level and a bond that we reach with each couple, so when the day of their nuptials finally arrives, we are there not as the hired help, but as two photographers and friends who care dearly for them. At the end of the journey our greatest hope is that our clients walk away feeling that they not only received the best documentation of their wedding experience, but they also walked away with a wonderful experience with us.

One of the most common questions we are asked from other photographers is how we are able to charge enough to cover both of our time and talents. The best answer we have is that we've really evaluated our worth as artists not just as photographers. We, meaning all photographers, are offering our talents. We are offering them one of a kind pieces of art.

The fact is, our consumers cannot go to any store and buy anything identical to what we offer. We are offering our own individual vision and style of whatever we specialize in as an artist. The question is, are you a bargain photographer who includes unlimited shooting coverage, all high resolution files, hours of editing for the price of $100 dollars or less? This may sound great to the client but unfortunately for you, they won't be hiring you for your talent but instead, they will be hiring you for your marked down pricing. Photographers like this can not be considered "high end" photographers, so does that make them "low end" photographers? If so, what category would you as an artist and photographer want to be in? Why disservice yourself and your time? A valued photographer is one who charges what they truly feel is worth their time and talents. Take into consideration the time you spend conversing with your clients prior to their session up until the end of the project. This is your time that you should charge for.

Remember to calculate your cost for not only the worth of your unique talent, but also your expenses that come with running a business. The cost of gas to and from location, the cost for products and marketing, the cost for studio rent, the cost to maintain equipment, business insurance, etc... all of these things need to be part of determining what the value is, for what you offer. In our experience, the clients who are looking only for a bargain are not the clients who appreciate quality art. The clients who sincerely value your work and feel you are validated in your pricing, are the clients who will continue to come back over and over again, as well as refer you to many people they know. If you charge what your worth, you can afford to give each client the time and experience they are paying for, and more! They will respect you for it and they will cherish even more, their heirlooms and the artwork they have invested in.

Never forget that you are an artist first, and not just a photographer.

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"For Posterity's Sake"~ A Family Heirloom Project

By Cindy Larkin

While staying at my parents house before the holidays, I was upstairs editing a photo session on my laptop when I heard my mother's excited squeal from the guestroom/office, downstairs.  "Cindy come quick!  Oh, my goodness!  You have to come see this!", she hollered.  I couldn't  make it down the second flight of stairs quick enough.  I had to see what she was so excited about! 

There on her computer screen flashed a faded, in color, movie reel of my grandparent's "life on the farm" in the 1950's.  The moving clips were vintage and grainy, and fabulous!  There on a wooden swing sat my grandmother, swaying back and forth blowing a bubble with her gum!  She was in the prime of her life, smiling, and happy.  My heart skipped a beat.  As I took in her beauty, I realized that I had never seen her like this before.  Grandma died from cancer when I was eight years old.  All of the memories I had were later in her life, when she was older or sick.  That night I saw her for the first time, as a stylish, vivacious woman, full of life!

My Grandparents: Jack & Anabelle Reber

Mom didn't know what she would find when she put the disk into her computer, but a treasury of memories came flooding in as she realized that most of the family in these home movies had long since passed away.  As we watched for a few minutes I caught a glimpse of my mother as a child, standing on the front porch of my grandparents old farm house waving goodbye, while my aunt and uncle (still kids) clung to my Grandma's apron.  Mom was probably about 7 or 8 years old!  These movie clips were priceless. 

The best part was watching my loved ones interact with each other.  They weren't dressed up like movie stars or wearing fancy clothing.  They were simply being themselves, doing every day things like plowing, gardening, picnicing and spending time together.  These everyday happenings from the 50's seemed rather spectacular to a city girl in 2010.  I felt, for a moment, that I had stepped back in time.  I missed them terribly.  But my mind began to reel, as I thought about what I should do with my childhood memories.

As I've grown older, life as I knew it as a kid has changed in many different ways.  Most of the things in my past are long gone, but there are a few things that are still around.  The next few days of my visit were spent photographing some of the everyday things that haven't changed.  This Family Heirloom Project is a collection of images from my childhood home that bring back many memories for me, including my parents, the objects around their house, and the little things they do that make them unique.

Memories of Dad 

Every night before bed, Dad emptied out his pockets--keys, watch, wallet, chapstick, and change. This is where we'd come if we wanted some quarteres to buy candy.  The only thing missing here is his old green bottle of Campo-Phenique. 

Every morning Dad gets up early to haul in the wood and make a fire that

warms the old house.  Notice his tongue sticking out a little?  He always does

this when he's working hard.  I will get a better picture of his "tongue thing" if it

kills me!  :)

<> 

This is where Dad could be found almost every night, and especially on Saturdays... in his "Radio Room" aka his man cave.  Even though he didn't like us messing around with his things, we used to love playing in here.  He always had some very interesting things to find, such as sodering irons, wire, electrical stuff, and indian artifacts to name a few. 



Dad cannot turn his hands farther than this. Apparently he's missing one of the digits in his writsts. You should see him at any cash register when they give him change. He has to turn his whole arm and body over to collect the coins so they don't slip through.  Just one of the unique things I love about him :)  Two of my sisters have inherited this same feature.

Dad's old Ham Radio call sign. 

Memories of Mom 

This is the phone in my parents bedroom. It is over 30 years old and it still works!  Notice the wall-paper?  It has a velvety texture, and has been in their room since they built this home in 1974.   

This is Mom's pantry. The grandkids sometimes call it "Grandma's Store". She's always got at least 3 of everything in here.  This is also where she grinds wheat for homemade bread (she makes the best).  The day I took this picture she was grinding wheat to make waffles for the grandkids. 

This is my grandmother's cookie jar that Mom inherited after grandma passed away. I LOVE it! Mom truly believes in this saying, and I really think that's one of the reasons my Dad loves her so much...she's always cookin' up something yummy to eat.



Mom, searching for her recipe.

These couches have been in their living room for lots of years.  Instead of getting new ones Mom had them reupholstered.  She said they were too comfortable to get rid of.  This is where she takes her afternoon nap every day.

The old lamp was a wedding gift from Mom's high school girl friends, and this too

has been re-done several times. 

This project will probably take me a few months to complete, but when I am done, I hope these images will have the same effect on my grandchildren, as the old movies had on me.  I also hope this will inspire you to capture the unique things of some of the important people in your life, while they are still here.

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