This year has certainly been one full of changes. I got a new job, moved out, and spent most of 2018 adjusting to my new environments. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to keep to the strict “1 post every Sunday” rule I had originally set up, but that taught me that perhaps I shouldn’t have such defined terms when it comes to blogging. I love writing. I love photography. I love writing about photography, but in 2019 I’m going to shift my efforts back onto actually taking photographs. I miss all the avant-garde shoots I used to do back in college and even the chill headshot sessions that allowed me to get to know people in a more meaningful way. I’m going to make it a goal to get out of my comfort zone by networking and asking people (who aren’t friends) if they’d be interested in doing collaborations. I think this will really get me back on track in regards to Shekinah Shazaam Photography. In terms of the Chiaroscuro challenge, I basically limited my focus with surprisingly pleasing results. I originally planned on doing portraits as well as miscellaneous subject matter that fulfilled what I picked from Lindsey Adler’s 52 […]
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We all may have different types of cameras, but chances are we all use some sort of camera strap. There are those that swear by camera grips, but I like being able to sling my cam over my neck if need be so I haven’t tried a grip yet. I’ve had this strap for about 9 months so I’ve had plenty of time to put it through the ringer. Here are my thoughts on it below. Pros -soft & comfortable -easy to remove from camera body Cons -initial install on camera take a bit more time than a typical strap- item is made to order, so there is a bit of a wait after buying I found Action Custom Straps on Esty after looking around for a leather strap to replace my peeling synthetic one. I wanted something that was of high quality and would last me for years and can say I think I’ve found a winner. This strap is so incredibly soft and comfortable on your neck, but also rolls up nicely tucked away in your camera bag. There are easy-to-squeeze clips that allow you to remove the majority of the strap (but still […]
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Though countless creatives focus on the passion they feel for what they do, many still need to pay attention to the business side of things. After you make your contract, but before you send out a packet, set your prices so that any potential clients will know what to expect when hiring you. Research your field If you are completely clueless on what to charge, you’ll need to begin with some research. You can do a generic google search for “what should a _______ charge” or you can look up local businesses that happen to provide the same/similar service as you do. Sometimes, prices aren’t explicitly listed, so you may need to ask around your circle if they know of anyone who has worked with a given business. Compare the prices you find with the services they provide. You shouldn’t copy and paste someone else’s pricing structure, but you can compile many prices and come up with an average. Determine time invested in your craft This may seem like a daunting task, especially if you’re a beginner, but it really is what will help guide your business. Look back on the last few shoots you did. How […]
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This month I chose another shot of interesting art to feature. This was a cube sculpture made completely out of crystal. The way the lights shone through it and how it distorted things behind it looked really intriguing. May the light be with you. Follow
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Everyone knows about the blessed golden hour, but its mysterious sibling, twilight hour, is lesser known. This time should more aptly be called “twilight half hour” because it is so brief. Right before the sun rises fully & sets completely, twilight lies. It can add moodiness and intrigue to portraits. Here’s how I utilize it below. Show up early Just like with golden hour, I recommend you arrive at your location early as to not miss the short time you have. Pack a fast lens Since it is darker, your camera’s sensor will have less info to work with. Be sure to bring a lens with wide aperture capabilities to counteract this. Be prepared to brighten As mentioned above, more light is needed during this time. You’ll probably have to shoot with a higher ISO as well as use a tripod to have a slower shutter speed. Once you edit, you may need to lighten things up a bit more as well. This is assuming you don’t want darker images. If you do though, disregard this tip. Although this light occurs for such a limited time, it is still one of my favorites because […]
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So this month I’ve got to be completely honest and reveal that I didn’t match up an image with a predetermined prompt. I was trying to find something in my archives, but couldn’t. However, I do really enjoy this image and find that it matches with the overall theme I have for this series so that’s why it deserves to be posted. May the light be with you. Follow
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Even if you’ve just picked up a camera, chances are you’ve heard of the infamous “golden hour.” Also referred to as “magic hour,” this time occurs right before sunset/after sunrise and provides a very specific type of light. Many prefer the warmth & glow this light creates for their portraits and will recommend it to others. Not typically my choice because of the limited time window and recognizable warmth, I do on occasion shoot during this time. Here are some tips & examples below. Scout beforehand If you have a location in mind, go there before the shoot during the time you chose. You’ll be able to pick specific areas you want to place your subject, and see how the light will really look. Sometimes this timeframe is too dark for the look you’re going for, or will wind up being too yellow for your preferences. Checking ahead of time can ensure you have a backup plan if this location doesn’t work. Show up early If you’re really an early bird, you’ll have to take your subject to your location at or just before sunrise. Depending on how many shots you plan on doing, an hour may […]
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This month’s challenge had me digging in the archives once again (busy summer, what can I say?) This was from the winter when there were ice sculptures all around and bits of the frozen stuff were stuck on a nearby fence. I love the simplicity of this single nail in all that texture. May the light be with you. Follow
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On occasion whether through work or other projects, you may be asked to shoot certain events. I thought I’d share some tips on what I’ve learned over the years & show a few recent shots for inspiration. Find out as much as you can about the venue beforehand. You want to know if the event will take place indoors, outdoors, or a combination of both. This will allow you to adequately gauge lighting, size of space, schedule, etc. Overpack. You don’t want to be mid-event with a dead battery and no backup. I’d suggest having extra memory cards & batteries to be safe. Make sure everything is charged the night before as well. Wear something comfortable yet appropriate. If this is a black tie event, dress up a bit. If it’s a casual get together, stay simple. You basically want to blend in with the crowd as much as possible. By doing so, guests will notice you less and be more genuine in your photos. Here are a few images that I feel communicate three big ideas in regards to events. The Emotions This is my favorite photo. Even though Barney is beyond blown […]
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So for this month I basically winged it. I have come to find that I no longer want to pursue the dual portrait/abstract subject matter for this challenge (though that may change when I have more access to models.) Moving forward, I’d like to be less strict with “following the prompts” and have more fun photographing what I see. This was an enamel sculpture I saw while traveling in Minneapolis and I couldn’t resist the beautiful curve of that shadow. May the light be with you. Follow
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