Contemplation

As in nature; when two seemingly opposite entities work together, things generally turn out beautifully.  Had to photograph this butterfly visiting the feathery shrub.  Such a delicate contrast between the two.

Spring Has Sprung

   Spring peeking out of the ground. What will tomorrow look like?

Suffering From Lens Anxiety?

When the annual school “Picture Day” would roll around, Serena (not her real name) would get abdominal pains arguably bad enough to stay home from school.  This began when she was seven years old, the dreaded year that her front teeth were missing and the outfit chosen for the photos consisted of a loud plaid top with a pinstripe pant, which was “a very cool look” at the time, she was told.

The taunts and teasing from family and classmates about her “jack-o-lantern” grin and goofy outfit in the school photos were humiliating to the shy girl, and has made her self-conscious ever since.  Her adult teeth grew in, providing her with a beautiful smile. And despite vast improvements in her wardrobe, she was never able to see the beautiful woman others saw in her pictures. She still struggles to be comfortable in front of the lens.

Many people find excuses not to be photographed.  Here are some strategies you can employ to make the most of your portrait appointment.

1. Communicate with the photographer about what you are trying to achieve in your pictures.  Are you doing a head shot for future employment and need to look intelligent and capable?  Are you a bride who wants to be remembered beautifully? A high school senior wanting to emphasize your best assets?  The photographer needs to know your vision.  Talk about the result you seek.
2. If you feel that you look “goofy” in pictures, practice at home. Stand squarely in front of the mirror and practice your best smile.  Now, angle your body slightly away from the mirror. Try different angles and facial expressions. Tilt your chin up and use your best posture.  Sometimes an awkward-feeling pose results in a flattering shot.
3. Ask your photographer not to utter the dreaded, “Say cheese.”  Nothing (in our opinion) is worse than words guaranteed to make you tense up and create a fake smile faster. Who wants cheesy photos? You and the photographer have established a comfortable rapport.  Instead of “cheese”, think of a time when you were relaxed and happy.  That is the smile you want the lens to capture!
4. Good posture can take ten pounds off your figure in photos.  Ears over shoulders, shoulders over hips, and shoulders not slouching.  Your mom will be proud, and you will be glad you did.
5. Be thoughtful with wardrobe choices. The viewer of your portrait will judge you based on your attire and outward appearance. Bring a few outfits to your photo appointment and see what works best.

In general:

• Solid colors work better than prints.
• Horizontal stripes are not a good fashion choice for ANYONE.
• Many skin tones are shown to their advantage when you wear darker colors near the face.
• Choose garments that are not too tight, that show off your best features.
• Crew necklines shorten your neck visually.
• Collared shirts can frame the face and jaw nicely.
• Pants and long sleeves work better for men.  Short sleeved shirts visually chop you into pieces.  The same for shorts.
• Shiny fabrics or excessive jewelry can detract from the subject—you.  Keep it simple!

These days, Serena has many opportunities to have her portrait made. Now, she asks her photographer (us) questions and, as a result, feels more comfortable posing in front of a camera—and it shows.  We will have questions for you and we urge you to ask your photographer questions and make your portrait shoot one that is positive and fun!