16
Unfortunately, not all of us are professional models/ actors. So, as a photographer, I've seen a lot of tricks to get people to look candid in portrait-type settings. From telling a bride to make a serious face until she cracks up to making an awkward comment to get a response from a couple, I'll admit... I'm guilty of at least trying most of them out at one point. However, when people are comfortable and genuinely having a good time, it shows. That's why when shooting an individual, I usually suggest that they bring along a close friend or two. I say "close friend" because sometimes your best friend may not be the best person to bring with you to your shoot. The key question to ask about your best friend before asking them to come along with you... "Will this friend pick at me to the point of annoyance?" Plain and simple...your photo shoot is not the time to be self-conscious, or stressed out, but then again the friend (or friends) you choose shouldn't shy away from telling you that you're doing that dance recital/ cheerleader competition face again (you know the one... we all do it) either.
Now, when I'm shooting a couple, inviting extra friends to come along may not be the best idea. For example, lets face it, in engagement shoots especially there is normally a certain amount of snogging going down. Your photographer is a professional and is used to it. Your friends aren't. So, unless you want to listen to the awkward and inappropriate comments, you might want to leave the friends out of it.
Groups and families usually take pretty good care of themselves. Having more friends around for support or not, their natural interaction with each other is usually brilliant all on its own.
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry:
Do I Go Solo to My Shoot?
. TrackBack URL for this entry:
http://cymbidiumphotography.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/15
14
I remember vividly the day (back in 2007) that Kita Williams and Monique Jackson walked in the doors of CYMBIDIUM...Their energy and enthusiasm is simply contageous. I remember sitting in awe as I watched the skills that Kita possesses at working her cell phone! Since then, each year we have collaborated with these women to create a memorable event at the Gaylord Texan's Glass Cactus for Terrell Owen's foundation...the Catch a Dream Foundation. I love to witness hard work paying off, and no one works harder than these ladies! Be sure to catch the T.O. Show, tonight at 10:00. Congrats to our dear friends on all of your success!!!
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry:
Watch the T.O. Show... Tonight at 10 on VH1
. TrackBack URL for this entry:
http://cymbidiumphotography.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/13
13
I love answering questions by asking more questions! It sounds weird, but I feel like you get a more adequate answer that way. This of course drives my sister, Robyn, nuts because I do it all the time in every day conversations...
Random Example:
Robyn: What do you want to do for dinner?
Me: What are you in the mood for... Chinese, Mexican, Fast Food, Pizza?
Robyn: Mexican Food.
Robyn: Probably Baja or Anamia's tonight?
Me: Well, are you going to order queso or guacamoli (yes, this is a vital decision making question)?...
This interrogation will continue until we pretty much know our entire order before we even get in the car. My point is this... when preparing what to wear for a photo shoot, there are a few questions you should ask yourself to ensure you will be fully satisfied with the results.
1. What's the occasion?
For some people this provides an obvious answer as to what should be worn. The best example would be bridal portraits... generally the point is to show off the hotness of the dress you are going to wear on your big day. However, you may have another dress you will be wearing to the reception, or a dress you will be leaving in that you want some portraits in as well. You may even have a grandmother's necklace or sentimental hairpiece that you would always know was missing, if you didn't have it in the pictures. Take time and think all of this through so you don't forget the important details, as the "little things" are often what we look back and remember most.
2. Who will you be sharing these pictures with?
If your sweet granny is going to be purchasing these to show you off to all of her ultra-conservative friends, do her a favor and take at least one outfit where the twins aren't busting out of the skin-tight tube-top. This will seriously cut down on the amount of unnecessary family drama.
3. Ask yourself, What "rules" have I always followed for pictures? and why?
Don't be afraid to break them! Love neon or horizontal stripes? Go for it! I'm all about not holding back, and pushing the envelope. Maybe not in all of the outfits you choose for your shoot (just incase your mom was right about those acid washed jeans looking too tight) but don't be afraid to have fun with what you are wearing. Just be sure to share your ideas with your photographer before hand, as they may choose a different location to shoot at based on your coolness factor!
4. Most importantly... Who are you?
Obviously, you know you better than anyone else. Bring clothes that are specifically you! Something you feel comfortable and confident in... you know, wear your "I'm a rock-star, and I look freakin hot" outfit! If you're in a group, family, or couple this still applies. You can coordinate, but the key is to celebrate your differences. Each one of you is still a unique individual. Express that, and the love you have for each other will show up even more in the pictures.
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry:
help! what do I wear for my photo shoot?!
. TrackBack URL for this entry:
http://cymbidiumphotography.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/12
11
Yes, I love the Disney Channel. Everyone at the office thinks I'm a nerd, but the kids know I'm cool because of it! Anyways, talent scouts responsible for discovering kids from shows like Hannah Montana and The Suite Life of Zack and Cody are in town and holding auditions this weekend. Check out a few of the headshots in a hurry that I took of Cole and Olivia... hopefully the next big Disney Channel Stars!
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry:
Headshots in a Hurry
. TrackBack URL for this entry:
http://cymbidiumphotography.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/10
6
Sports fan that I am, I'll admit I was excited. I was meeting Bradie James and future wife, Roniqua "Star" Robinson for their engagement portraits. Intimidated? A little. But all that changed with a huge smile from Star and an instant bond with Bradie over my Chucks. Combine that with being at one of my favorite hotels, the W, and I was totally in my element. Seriously, could my job be any more fun?!
wf:
I wish i was there to see luv u *
(07.15.09)
Corinna:
You guys make a beautiful couple. Stay together:)
(10.19.09)
Listed below are links to blogs that reference this entry:
Bradie and Star
. TrackBack URL for this entry:
http://cymbidiumphotography.com/darkroom/mt/mt-tb.cgi/5