My questions for you are this:
Do you enjoy your job, what's some pros/cons?
Yes. I love my job.
Pros:
1) I'm always learning and being creative
2) I get to spend lots of time with people and I meet new people ALL THE TIME!
3) I have a flexible schedule - there is no 9-5 (I don't like to have the same thing every day, I love that life changes...but I've gotten REALLY GOOD at using my calendar)
4) my photography "seasons" come and go (so I get some "down time" as well as a busy season)...lots of others, too.
Cons:
1) Being self-employed means everyone is your boss...you serve your clients and if you don't do it right, you loose business.
2) Your schedule really depends on what other people need - my summers are super busy and I'm booked almost every weekend.
3) When you have "seasonal work" you also have seasonal pay.
4) You are not only a photographer, but you are an accountant, graphic designer, costume picker-outer (for almost 80% of your portrait clients!), and office staff and you are CONSTANTLY working. There is no 9-5
How does one become a professional photographer as far as education/degree stuff?
I have a degree in Art Education. For me, this was a well-rounded degree. I train several photographers each year and my education degree has really helped me. If I were to do it over again, or go back, I'd get a double-major in Graphic Design and Business...but that would take a lot of work. I have really had to make up things and learn from talking with other photographers for the most part.
Would you recommend this career?
I would recommend photography as a career. My best advice though is to work for another photographer, someone you really admire and want to "be like when you grow up". Learn about the Art, the people-skills, and the business as much as you can. I worked for Kelly Brown Weddings for four years and I still entertain the idea of working for her again...it was an amazing and growing experience. I am really glad that I did it for so long because we worked through all kinds of things and I learned more than I would have any other way.
Where did you go to college? Did you take specific courses for Photography or did you simply fall into the job?
I went to Northwestern in Rsvl. I only have had 2 photography classes EVER! I took several graphic design classes while I was in college, but things change so quickly!
My first wedding was in 1999 and it was a friend's wedding in Rochester, NY. They asked me to do a slideshow for their MN reception and take candids that day. I LOVED it and they used my photos instead of their professional photographer's photos! I thought, "I can do this!" and I did. Then, I worked for Kelly for four years as I went to school and taught. The fourth year, my business was so busy and I was teaching full-time. I had 34 weddings that year. So, I quit teaching and quit working for Kelly. I shot 24 the next year on my own! Then, I was pregnant and shot 15 (by choice) and this year, I'm at 19 for myself and one for my associate photographer. I'm already booking for next year. God has truly blessed me.
What kind of camera do you use? Digital or Film?
Canon 5D
Canon 5D Mark II
Canon 30D (back up)
I shoot all digital. That's another LOOOOOOONG story.
I hope that is helpful.
Please, keep sending your questions. I love to chat with you all.
If anyone has other comments on this, please leave them! I'd love to hear from you.
ali
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Friday, June 12, 2009
Hope Chest for Breast Cancer
I am honored to be a part of a new project!
A friend of mine, Korie Regan, is leading this project for the Hope Chest for Breast Cancer (www.hopechest.us). We are putting together a calendar to raise funds for the Hope Chest while honoring women, sharing stories of HOPE and helpful information on breast cancer. They have gathered 12 monthly stories on women that have experienced breast cancer and what gave them HOPE during that time. It’s going to be a really neat project that the Hope Chest will do every year.
Also…as a side note, you can honor someone by “purchasing a day” for $25 to celebrate them. Their name will be listed on that day either in “honor of”, “memory of” or in “thanks to”. Please let me know if you'd like the contact info to purchase a date!
And PLEASE feel free forward this on to all of your friends and contacts!
A friend of mine, Korie Regan, is leading this project for the Hope Chest for Breast Cancer (www.hopechest.us). We are putting together a calendar to raise funds for the Hope Chest while honoring women, sharing stories of HOPE and helpful information on breast cancer. They have gathered 12 monthly stories on women that have experienced breast cancer and what gave them HOPE during that time. It’s going to be a really neat project that the Hope Chest will do every year.
Also…as a side note, you can honor someone by “purchasing a day” for $25 to celebrate them. Their name will be listed on that day either in “honor of”, “memory of” or in “thanks to”. Please let me know if you'd like the contact info to purchase a date!
And PLEASE feel free forward this on to all of your friends and contacts!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Shutter Speed - in low light
Okay, and one more question...if I'm using like a 50mm and I'm f2.8 inside what would you set the shutter speed at if you're shooting in manual. I mean I know it depends on the light and stuff...but give me a ballpark.
I would never go under 1/100 when I am hand-holding and trying NOT to use flash or get motion. This is a general rule, but it's a pretty good one.
As I used to say to my Art students, you have to know the rules to break the rules. This means if you know how things work, you can then go outside the box. That way your "outside the box" is INTENTIONAL!
If you are trying to photograph motion, you'd want to go under 1/100. Like at a wedding dance, or when someone is running and you want to show their "trail".
I would never go under 1/100 when I am hand-holding and trying NOT to use flash or get motion. This is a general rule, but it's a pretty good one.
As I used to say to my Art students, you have to know the rules to break the rules. This means if you know how things work, you can then go outside the box. That way your "outside the box" is INTENTIONAL!
If you are trying to photograph motion, you'd want to go under 1/100. Like at a wedding dance, or when someone is running and you want to show their "trail".
Newborn Photos
Hey you! Okay... so I'm doing my FIRST newborn photo shoot, and I'm SUPER nervous!!! I was wondering if you could give me a few tips???
I'd love to give some tips. Honestly, I used to find newborns to be THE HARDEST to photograph. They are so tiny and they surely don't say where you put them. (Unless you are lucky enough to have them sleep soundly for part of the shoot!)
For example...what lens you use... I was thinking my 50mm because it goes to F1.8...
Any special poses that work well...what to do if you're in a low light situation inside a house, because I'm assuming you don't usually do newborn shoots outside...
I'll answer these two together...I like my lowest f-stop, but it can be hard to keep a baby in focus. Their little bursts of moment are somewhat random. So, no matter what settings you are on, make sure to refocus almost every frame. It stinks to come home and see your "favorite" shot is blurry.
My favorite portrait lens is my Canon f/2.8 24-70.
Key things about posing newborns (all the way until they can hold their head up on their tummy):
1) Put babies in their NORMAL environment and position. Don't try to make a newborn do tummy time and think you'll get a great shot. You might - once in a blue moon - but your best bet is putting her in a place she normally lays. This is often Mom's arms or in the boppy...
2) Don't shoot up a baby's nose. I think this is the #1 "issue" I have with people's pictures of their own children. Look at your shots often - that is the benefit of digital. Make sure you're framing the baby well.
3) Don't tilt the camera so that the baby looks like she is laying on a slant. If you angle your camera, make sure the baby's eyes are above her shoulder...does that make sense? (I wish I could draw you a picture!) I'll try to take a photo of my daughter and show you tomorrow...if I don't, someone please email me and remind me.
4) Put the baby in a place she doesn't belong - a fireplace mantel, basket, bookshelf, kitchen table...add a few props
5) Simplify. Find a minimalist space in the house.
6) Look for texture. It's beautiful to have texture behind the smooth baby skin.
7) Open shades and find natural light. Shoot during the day when light is bright...if you are shooting inside.
I am realizing these tips fit for most portraits.
Also, HOW do you get it so all you see is the baby and the parents hands and the rest is all black in the background.
I take the picture with the parent wearing black long sleeves, and put them in front of the darkest background they have at home. Then, I alter the saturation and contrast to make it more dramatic.
Thanks so much Ali, I know you are such a pro, I feel like such doofus asking for your advice!! = ) = ), but you are SO good!! (I just looked through your newborn pics to get some inspiration!! = ))
Thank you for your complement. I am honored to be someone people look to for inspiration. That is beyond what I ever imagined!
I'd love to give some tips. Honestly, I used to find newborns to be THE HARDEST to photograph. They are so tiny and they surely don't say where you put them. (Unless you are lucky enough to have them sleep soundly for part of the shoot!)
For example...what lens you use... I was thinking my 50mm because it goes to F1.8...
Any special poses that work well...what to do if you're in a low light situation inside a house, because I'm assuming you don't usually do newborn shoots outside...
I'll answer these two together...I like my lowest f-stop, but it can be hard to keep a baby in focus. Their little bursts of moment are somewhat random. So, no matter what settings you are on, make sure to refocus almost every frame. It stinks to come home and see your "favorite" shot is blurry.
My favorite portrait lens is my Canon f/2.8 24-70.
Key things about posing newborns (all the way until they can hold their head up on their tummy):
1) Put babies in their NORMAL environment and position. Don't try to make a newborn do tummy time and think you'll get a great shot. You might - once in a blue moon - but your best bet is putting her in a place she normally lays. This is often Mom's arms or in the boppy...
2) Don't shoot up a baby's nose. I think this is the #1 "issue" I have with people's pictures of their own children. Look at your shots often - that is the benefit of digital. Make sure you're framing the baby well.
3) Don't tilt the camera so that the baby looks like she is laying on a slant. If you angle your camera, make sure the baby's eyes are above her shoulder...does that make sense? (I wish I could draw you a picture!) I'll try to take a photo of my daughter and show you tomorrow...if I don't, someone please email me and remind me.
4) Put the baby in a place she doesn't belong - a fireplace mantel, basket, bookshelf, kitchen table...add a few props
5) Simplify. Find a minimalist space in the house.
6) Look for texture. It's beautiful to have texture behind the smooth baby skin.
7) Open shades and find natural light. Shoot during the day when light is bright...if you are shooting inside.
I am realizing these tips fit for most portraits.
Also, HOW do you get it so all you see is the baby and the parents hands and the rest is all black in the background.
I take the picture with the parent wearing black long sleeves, and put them in front of the darkest background they have at home. Then, I alter the saturation and contrast to make it more dramatic.
Thanks so much Ali, I know you are such a pro, I feel like such doofus asking for your advice!! = ) = ), but you are SO good!! (I just looked through your newborn pics to get some inspiration!! = ))
Thank you for your complement. I am honored to be someone people look to for inspiration. That is beyond what I ever imagined!
Friday, May 8, 2009
"Picture Style" on Canon 5D Mark II
I just bought (and received) the Canon 5D Mark II. I hope that I love it, because it was a BIG investment.
Kendra, my associate photographer, and I have been talking a lot about color of images right out of the camera. It's interesting how each camera takes images a little differently. We wanted to find a way to make sure they are more similar an ready RIGHT OUT OF THE CAMERA...less editing = less time = less cost.
Here's my experiment tonight.
I went into my camera and changed the "picture style" several times to see how the colors would change. The camera was set at ISO 800, f/1.8 at a 1/40 on HIGH RES jpg (NOT RAW).
Hopefully, this will be helpful to someone other than myself. I learn better by talking through things, so I figured I'd do it on my blog.
PLEASE feel free to continue this conversation by writing comments on here about these settings...anything you observe in my images or things you've done on your own.
The image below was set with the camera setting "standard"
Sharpness - 3
Contrast - 0
Saturation - 0
Color Tone - 0
The image below was set with the camera setting "portrait"
Sharpness - 2
Contrast - 0
Saturation - 0
Color Tone - 0
The image below was set with the camera setting "landscape"
Sharpness - 4
Contrast - 0
Saturation - 0
Color Tone - 0
The image below was set with the camera setting "neutral"
Sharpness - 0
Contrast - 0
Saturation - 0
Color Tone - 0
The image below was set at
Sharpness - 3
Contrast - 0
Saturation - 0
Color Tone - -3
The image below was set at
Sharpness - 3
Contrast - 0
Saturation - 0
Color Tone - 3
The image below was set at
Sharpness - 3
Contrast - 0
Saturation - 3
Color Tone - 0
The image below was set at
Sharpness - 3
Contrast - 1
Saturation - 1
Color Tone - 0
The image below was set at
Sharpness - 3
Contrast - 1
Saturation - 2
Color Tone - 0
The image below was set at
Sharpness - 3
Contrast - 1
Saturation - 1
Color Tone - 0
The image below was set at
Sharpness - 3
Contrast - 1
Saturation - 2
Color Tone - 0
The image below was set at
Sharpness - 3
Contrast - 3
Saturation -1
Color Tone - 0
Kendra, my associate photographer, and I have been talking a lot about color of images right out of the camera. It's interesting how each camera takes images a little differently. We wanted to find a way to make sure they are more similar an ready RIGHT OUT OF THE CAMERA...less editing = less time = less cost.
Here's my experiment tonight.
I went into my camera and changed the "picture style" several times to see how the colors would change. The camera was set at ISO 800, f/1.8 at a 1/40 on HIGH RES jpg (NOT RAW).
Hopefully, this will be helpful to someone other than myself. I learn better by talking through things, so I figured I'd do it on my blog.
PLEASE feel free to continue this conversation by writing comments on here about these settings...anything you observe in my images or things you've done on your own.
The image below was set with the camera setting "standard"
Sharpness - 3
Contrast - 0
Saturation - 0
Color Tone - 0
The image below was set with the camera setting "portrait"
Sharpness - 2
Contrast - 0
Saturation - 0
Color Tone - 0
The image below was set with the camera setting "landscape"
Sharpness - 4
Contrast - 0
Saturation - 0
Color Tone - 0
The image below was set with the camera setting "neutral"
Sharpness - 0
Contrast - 0
Saturation - 0
Color Tone - 0
The image below was set at
Sharpness - 3
Contrast - 0
Saturation - 0
Color Tone - -3
The image below was set at
Sharpness - 3
Contrast - 0
Saturation - 0
Color Tone - 3
The image below was set at
Sharpness - 3
Contrast - 0
Saturation - 3
Color Tone - 0
The image below was set at
Sharpness - 3
Contrast - 1
Saturation - 1
Color Tone - 0
The image below was set at
Sharpness - 3
Contrast - 1
Saturation - 2
Color Tone - 0
The image below was set at
Sharpness - 3
Contrast - 1
Saturation - 1
Color Tone - 0
The image below was set at
Sharpness - 3
Contrast - 1
Saturation - 2
Color Tone - 0
The image below was set at
Sharpness - 3
Contrast - 3
Saturation -1
Color Tone - 0
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Sunshine and daytime pictures
Also - I've been having some trouble with sunny day pictures. Any advice - I know earlier mornings and later afternoons are better, but I've also heard some say to use a fill flash, some say no flash, a reflector, find shade ...... What are your best suggestions?
Bright, direct sunshine is one of the hardest "issues", I think. Great question.
A couple things you can do...
1) find shade - this is typically my #1 suggestion. But blotchy shade is almost worse than no shade at all.
2) shoot directly into the sun - utilize it! if you have an f-stop of 5 or higher, you get those beautiful hexagon shaped sunshines. you'll get silhouettes, so plan on it and use it to your benefit. if you don't want silhouettes, you can flash.
3) fill flash - this can work, but often there is less contrast and from my experience, lenses don't seem to focus as well when shooting into bring light.
4) plan on dramatic shadows! sometimes these can be really great in photos...experiment!
I haven't used a reflector, so I am not able to comment about it. Sorry.
Bright, direct sunshine is one of the hardest "issues", I think. Great question.
A couple things you can do...
1) find shade - this is typically my #1 suggestion. But blotchy shade is almost worse than no shade at all.
2) shoot directly into the sun - utilize it! if you have an f-stop of 5 or higher, you get those beautiful hexagon shaped sunshines. you'll get silhouettes, so plan on it and use it to your benefit. if you don't want silhouettes, you can flash.
3) fill flash - this can work, but often there is less contrast and from my experience, lenses don't seem to focus as well when shooting into bring light.
4) plan on dramatic shadows! sometimes these can be really great in photos...experiment!
I haven't used a reflector, so I am not able to comment about it. Sorry.
Post-processing
Do you use Lightroom or Aperture to load and organize your photos? I've been using iphoto, but was able to get a copy of photoshop and am worried that iphoto does something to the color profile. Also... do you do much with "actions" in photoshop. I really am new at the editing process and am not really even sure what that is, but am curious about how much editing you often do with your photos.
Yes. I use Aperture. It's great for organizing...but I don't honestly use it for much else. I have a good friend, Noemi Photography, who uses Lightroom for most of her post-processing! It must just depend on your preference and experience with your programs.
I LOVE actions, but they can be somewhat debilitating. When you don't NEED to learn how to do it yourself, you can fake it pretty well, it doesn't make for great photography. Does that make sense? I started using PS and just used actions. Then, I took a class at MN Center for Photography (no longer exists) and learned SO MUCH! Being educated about PS makes a huge difference, even though I still use the actions (for time sake).
Yes. I use Aperture. It's great for organizing...but I don't honestly use it for much else. I have a good friend, Noemi Photography, who uses Lightroom for most of her post-processing! It must just depend on your preference and experience with your programs.
I LOVE actions, but they can be somewhat debilitating. When you don't NEED to learn how to do it yourself, you can fake it pretty well, it doesn't make for great photography. Does that make sense? I started using PS and just used actions. Then, I took a class at MN Center for Photography (no longer exists) and learned SO MUCH! Being educated about PS makes a huge difference, even though I still use the actions (for time sake).
Monday, April 20, 2009
Cropping heads off
Q: Is it kosher to crop photos so that the child's head is not fully in the photo? (silly question, but my husband asked me that).
I actually do think it is...in many situations. Send me a couple and we can talk through them.
Check out the difference in the first one here (wider and keeping Brenna's head in the picture) and the next two. I much prefer the second and third.
I actually do think it is...in many situations. Send me a couple and we can talk through them.
Check out the difference in the first one here (wider and keeping Brenna's head in the picture) and the next two. I much prefer the second and third.
Photo printing
Q: Where do you print your photos?
I actually don't make many prints on my own. When I did, I used Lindhoff in Edina (44th and France). They are a small, local business and I believe it's important for us to support each other.
I've also recommended National Camera in Roseville a lot. I used them when I shot film. Love the people who work there. We were definitely on a first-name basis.
Now, I use Pictage and they do all my printing. Clients LOVE the prints and the customer service has been great so far!
I actually don't make many prints on my own. When I did, I used Lindhoff in Edina (44th and France). They are a small, local business and I believe it's important for us to support each other.
I've also recommended National Camera in Roseville a lot. I used them when I shot film. Love the people who work there. We were definitely on a first-name basis.
Now, I use Pictage and they do all my printing. Clients LOVE the prints and the customer service has been great so far!
Calibration
Q: Do you calibrate your Mac or how do you know that what you do in editing will look the same on printed paper? I've still been editing in iPhoto and worry that when things get printed out, they will look different.
I actually have NOT calibrated my monitor. My computer is new and I did some "eyeballing" when I made prints. I should probably do it, but don't really know much about it, to be honest. Any recommendations from others?
I have not had any problems with colors...but don't use iPhoto. I do believe it makes things a little "funky" and would maybe be a little worried if people were paying me to edit on there. Sorry, but I'd recommend investing is Photoshop.
I actually have NOT calibrated my monitor. My computer is new and I did some "eyeballing" when I made prints. I should probably do it, but don't really know much about it, to be honest. Any recommendations from others?
I have not had any problems with colors...but don't use iPhoto. I do believe it makes things a little "funky" and would maybe be a little worried if people were paying me to edit on there. Sorry, but I'd recommend investing is Photoshop.
Camera Lenses
Q: If you were to choose between a 24-70 2.8 and an 85 1.2 (aware of the price difference) would you still go for the 24-70? assuming the 70-200 will be my other lens.
My two favorite lenses, the ones that I can shoot anything with and can't live without, are my 1) Canon f/2.8 24-70 and 2) f/2.8 70-200 (without Image Stabilization - but that is a whole nother conversation).
I do like lower apertures, but don't think that a fixed lens has the same capabilities and wouldn't say anyone NEEDS anything lower than an f/2.8.
My two favorite lenses, the ones that I can shoot anything with and can't live without, are my 1) Canon f/2.8 24-70 and 2) f/2.8 70-200 (without Image Stabilization - but that is a whole nother conversation).
I do like lower apertures, but don't think that a fixed lens has the same capabilities and wouldn't say anyone NEEDS anything lower than an f/2.8.
PC or Mac?
When you edit your photos do you work with PC or Apple? Which do you prefer?
Also, have you ever thought about teaching and photography classes?
I'm a Mac girl. Typically, artists use Mac and the business world uses PC. It's hard to honestly tell someone to go one way or the other.
When I was in college, we used Macs and I learned Photoshop on them. But, I know a friend of mine, Noemi (Noemi Photography), who decided to buy a computer more often and get PCs because they aren't as expensive as Macs.
Have I ever thought about teaching again?
Sure. I am actually planning to do a workshop, I just don't know when it will be. I'd love to hear what you all think about that and if you'd come. Also, is there a price limit on what you'd be able to afford? How long would you want it to be (a whole weekend? just one day?) and what you'd like to focus on.
I have my thoughts, but I'd LOVE your feedback!
Also, have you ever thought about teaching and photography classes?
I'm a Mac girl. Typically, artists use Mac and the business world uses PC. It's hard to honestly tell someone to go one way or the other.
When I was in college, we used Macs and I learned Photoshop on them. But, I know a friend of mine, Noemi (Noemi Photography), who decided to buy a computer more often and get PCs because they aren't as expensive as Macs.
Have I ever thought about teaching again?
Sure. I am actually planning to do a workshop, I just don't know when it will be. I'd love to hear what you all think about that and if you'd come. Also, is there a price limit on what you'd be able to afford? How long would you want it to be (a whole weekend? just one day?) and what you'd like to focus on.
I have my thoughts, but I'd LOVE your feedback!
Format
What format do you shoot in? Do you set your camera to JPEG or RAW?
I shoot in RAW. The best reason to do this is because if you totally botch something up, you can usually fix it. But, that's not why I recommend it.
Truthfully, you should shoot like you're shooting film. Meaning: try to shoot it right the FIRST time! Editing takes a lot of time and effort, so you don't want to have to make MORE work for yourself.
Not only can you fix mistakes with RAW, you can make your images more dramatic. Use Lightroom, Aperture and/or Camera RAW to edit before you photoshop. It's AMAZING what you can do! Feel free to send an image or two that you'd like corrected or enhanced and I'd be happy to show some for demo.
I shoot in RAW. The best reason to do this is because if you totally botch something up, you can usually fix it. But, that's not why I recommend it.
Truthfully, you should shoot like you're shooting film. Meaning: try to shoot it right the FIRST time! Editing takes a lot of time and effort, so you don't want to have to make MORE work for yourself.
Not only can you fix mistakes with RAW, you can make your images more dramatic. Use Lightroom, Aperture and/or Camera RAW to edit before you photoshop. It's AMAZING what you can do! Feel free to send an image or two that you'd like corrected or enhanced and I'd be happy to show some for demo.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Twins!
We're gonna win, Twins,
We're gonna score!
We're gonna win, Twins,
Watch that baseball soar!
In honor of the Twins Home opener tonight, I will give away a FREE shoot and 5x7 print to three families with multiples. If you know someone with twins, triplets (or more!), have them send me an email - alison@alisonleaphtography.com.
The first 3 families will receive:
- FREE 60 minute shoot before June 1, 2009
- FREE 5x7 print
- on location in the Twin Cities
- online gallery for viewing and ordering
Email your name, phone number and address to alison@alisonleaphtography.com.
The multiples can be any age...even if they are not born yet, we've got until June 1, 2009!
We're gonna score!
We're gonna win, Twins,
Watch that baseball soar!
In honor of the Twins Home opener tonight, I will give away a FREE shoot and 5x7 print to three families with multiples. If you know someone with twins, triplets (or more!), have them send me an email - alison@alisonleaphtography.com.
The first 3 families will receive:
- FREE 60 minute shoot before June 1, 2009
- FREE 5x7 print
- on location in the Twin Cities
- online gallery for viewing and ordering
Email your name, phone number and address to alison@alisonleaphtography.com.
The multiples can be any age...even if they are not born yet, we've got until June 1, 2009!
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Pictures in my head
When I take pictures, I see the kind of quality of your pics in my head, but my camera never produces such quality. Do you have any advise or direction I could follow to learn?
My best advice is...
Take lots of photos.
Critique them with trusted peers.
Print out ideas and try to simulate them - look at lighting, location, cropping
I always told my Art students "Artists Copy! The biggest complement one can receive is to be copied." It's really hard to see an image you shot copied, but I remind myself to take it as a complement. This means that people love what you do.
Feel free to send me images and I'll try to give some constructive criticism.
My best advice is...
Take lots of photos.
Critique them with trusted peers.
Print out ideas and try to simulate them - look at lighting, location, cropping
I always told my Art students "Artists Copy! The biggest complement one can receive is to be copied." It's really hard to see an image you shot copied, but I remind myself to take it as a complement. This means that people love what you do.
Feel free to send me images and I'll try to give some constructive criticism.
How did you get started?
How did you get started?
My first wedding was in 1999. I was a freshman in college and attending a friend's wedding. His mom asked me to take candids - they had hired a pro photographer. The couple (and their families) used my pictures instead of the pro's! I was honored and thought, "I loved that! I could do that more often..."
Then, once I had shot one, I simply told people and got more and more.
In 2001, I started assisting Kelly Brown. This was one of the best decisions that I have ever made! Working with Kelly was hard and a lot of work, but I learned so much information really quickly and got a lot of experience.
I signed a 3 year contract with Kelly and I think that was vital to the whole process. It would have been easy to go on my own after one or two years, but we had made and deal and both honored that. Actually, I worked with her for 4 years!
Kelly had very high expectations for me and I believe that it has made me a better photographer and mentor for others.
While working for Kelly, I taught Art and did weddings on my own. Finally, three years ago, I quit teaching and have been doing full-time photography. I went from 2-5 weddings in 1999-2001, to assisting 18 weddings in 2002, to lead shooting 23 weddings in 2003, 27 in 2004, 32 in 2006, 25 in 2007...in 2008, I got pregnant and was due in November, so I raised my prices a bit and cut back on the number of weddings.
This year, I've booked 18 and my goal is to be between 15-25...so I'm there. It's so good.
Just remember that it takes time. You'll have to do quite a bit for free or cheap...and really try to accept constructive criticism. When you receive criticism, grow from it. Figure out how to make the changes necessary and if you don't agree with what is said, chalk it up to experience.
We never really get to a point where we have no where to grow...remember to always find inspiration and continue to learn.
My first wedding was in 1999. I was a freshman in college and attending a friend's wedding. His mom asked me to take candids - they had hired a pro photographer. The couple (and their families) used my pictures instead of the pro's! I was honored and thought, "I loved that! I could do that more often..."
Then, once I had shot one, I simply told people and got more and more.
In 2001, I started assisting Kelly Brown. This was one of the best decisions that I have ever made! Working with Kelly was hard and a lot of work, but I learned so much information really quickly and got a lot of experience.
I signed a 3 year contract with Kelly and I think that was vital to the whole process. It would have been easy to go on my own after one or two years, but we had made and deal and both honored that. Actually, I worked with her for 4 years!
Kelly had very high expectations for me and I believe that it has made me a better photographer and mentor for others.
While working for Kelly, I taught Art and did weddings on my own. Finally, three years ago, I quit teaching and have been doing full-time photography. I went from 2-5 weddings in 1999-2001, to assisting 18 weddings in 2002, to lead shooting 23 weddings in 2003, 27 in 2004, 32 in 2006, 25 in 2007...in 2008, I got pregnant and was due in November, so I raised my prices a bit and cut back on the number of weddings.
This year, I've booked 18 and my goal is to be between 15-25...so I'm there. It's so good.
Just remember that it takes time. You'll have to do quite a bit for free or cheap...and really try to accept constructive criticism. When you receive criticism, grow from it. Figure out how to make the changes necessary and if you don't agree with what is said, chalk it up to experience.
We never really get to a point where we have no where to grow...remember to always find inspiration and continue to learn.
F-stop
Hey Alison,
I've been following your website for a while now and I just LOVE your photography. I also really love photography but I'm pretty oblivious to the finer details and terms. I'm still trying to grasp F #'s and SLR and all of that. I don't have the greatest camera in the world, but I sure would like one.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Thanks for the questions...
I am going to start REALLY basic...you may know some of what I have to say and I am aware of that. It is better to start more basic and have it be review than to not understand terms and have it be over someone's head.
SLR is single-lens reflex - check out this Wikipedia link.
F-stops are the same as aperture. To put is very simply, f-stop is how big the whole is in the shutter and therefore it controls how much light enters the camera, along with the shutter speed. Aperture also controls how much of your image is in focus. The smaller the aperture, the less will be in focus. So, if you really love portraits where just the baby's eyes are in focus and the background is super blurry...go f/2.8 or less. If you are wanting a landscape or a family portrait where the foreground, middle ground and background are all in focus, go for a higher number...f/11 or so.
I've been following your website for a while now and I just LOVE your photography. I also really love photography but I'm pretty oblivious to the finer details and terms. I'm still trying to grasp F #'s and SLR and all of that. I don't have the greatest camera in the world, but I sure would like one.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Thanks for the questions...
I am going to start REALLY basic...you may know some of what I have to say and I am aware of that. It is better to start more basic and have it be review than to not understand terms and have it be over someone's head.
SLR is single-lens reflex - check out this Wikipedia link.
F-stops are the same as aperture. To put is very simply, f-stop is how big the whole is in the shutter and therefore it controls how much light enters the camera, along with the shutter speed. Aperture also controls how much of your image is in focus. The smaller the aperture, the less will be in focus. So, if you really love portraits where just the baby's eyes are in focus and the background is super blurry...go f/2.8 or less. If you are wanting a landscape or a family portrait where the foreground, middle ground and background are all in focus, go for a higher number...f/11 or so.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
the best camera to buy?
I would love to sometime down the line do some photography - can you give me some insight into the best camera to buy?
I always ALWAYS recommend Canon. :) Go for the Digital Rebel. It's great!
From what I have experienced (no offense to anyone who likes other equipment), Canon is best for action and photojournalism. The lenses are really high quality and they focus fast...even in low light.
My two favorite lenses are:
70-200 f/2.8 with IS
24-70 f/2.8
These are super basic and all you NEED. Other lenses are great fun...but, if you could only pick two, these are the ones to get.
My first year, I bought a Tamron. It was GARBAGE! I did not like it. It focused on the wrong places and got me into some trouble. Also, during ceremonies, it was hard to focus in darker places. This is not a problem you want to have.
I always ALWAYS recommend Canon. :) Go for the Digital Rebel. It's great!
From what I have experienced (no offense to anyone who likes other equipment), Canon is best for action and photojournalism. The lenses are really high quality and they focus fast...even in low light.
My two favorite lenses are:
70-200 f/2.8 with IS
24-70 f/2.8
These are super basic and all you NEED. Other lenses are great fun...but, if you could only pick two, these are the ones to get.
My first year, I bought a Tamron. It was GARBAGE! I did not like it. It focused on the wrong places and got me into some trouble. Also, during ceremonies, it was hard to focus in darker places. This is not a problem you want to have.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Indoor portraits with low-light
As a photographer, you get so many questions from people about taking pictures. It's hard to keep up with all of the emails.
A friend of mine, Noemi, blogs whenever she is asked a question...so I am copying her. Thanks!
Today, I was answering an email about indoor shooting.
So - when you shoot a family/kid inside a home, what settings do you use?
Never under 1/100 and as close to f2.8 as possible. It depends on what lens you have.
Do you shoot aperture priority or manual? I have been choosing manual because I sometimes like to let a little bit more light in than it seems to allow with the aperture priority setting, but sometimes I get it too light as well.
Yes. I shoot on M most of the time. Sometimes, I'll shoot aperture priority to check out what the camera tells me...but then I'll generally change to M again.
What do you set your ISO at generally - I'm sure it depends on how light a room is. I have just been playing around with it a little bit. I remember when you were at our house, you didn't use a flash at all.
I don't like to shoot higher than ISO800 if possible. But, sometimes you have to and then you just need to be intentional about making things artsy and grainy.
When you do bounce the flash - do you just point it up at about a 45 degree angle?
No, I do it straight up at the ceiling. Most of the time, I bump it down -1/3. You can do that pressing the "Set" button on the back and then the "-" button once. Tell me if you can't find that. If your subject isn't too close to you and isn't close to a wall, you can flash straight on.
One of the very best things to do, is find a window with as much light as possible and shoot there.
A friend of mine, Noemi, blogs whenever she is asked a question...so I am copying her. Thanks!
Today, I was answering an email about indoor shooting.
So - when you shoot a family/kid inside a home, what settings do you use?
Never under 1/100 and as close to f2.8 as possible. It depends on what lens you have.
Do you shoot aperture priority or manual? I have been choosing manual because I sometimes like to let a little bit more light in than it seems to allow with the aperture priority setting, but sometimes I get it too light as well.
Yes. I shoot on M most of the time. Sometimes, I'll shoot aperture priority to check out what the camera tells me...but then I'll generally change to M again.
What do you set your ISO at generally - I'm sure it depends on how light a room is. I have just been playing around with it a little bit. I remember when you were at our house, you didn't use a flash at all.
I don't like to shoot higher than ISO800 if possible. But, sometimes you have to and then you just need to be intentional about making things artsy and grainy.
When you do bounce the flash - do you just point it up at about a 45 degree angle?
No, I do it straight up at the ceiling. Most of the time, I bump it down -1/3. You can do that pressing the "Set" button on the back and then the "-" button once. Tell me if you can't find that. If your subject isn't too close to you and isn't close to a wall, you can flash straight on.
One of the very best things to do, is find a window with as much light as possible and shoot there.
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