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FAQ : Tips for Portrait Photography
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M y mom insists she doesn't have a favorite child. Pfffft. LIKE I BELIEVE HER. It's clear I would be any parent's favorite given my record of bribery and blackmail. You're welcome, mother. Since I don't have children I don't know what it'd feel like to choose favorites, but the closest I get to this type of decision making is deciding what photos will be posted on the blog after an engagement session.
And right about...now...every mother reading this post is rolling her eyes. No, children and photos are nothing alike, but I can feel a sense of creative ownership and it's hard to select which to showcase to represent the shoot as a whole. |
I rarely display portraits. I shoot standard portraits at every engagement session, but I don't showcase them on the blog because it's not a specialty and I don't think they're the best representation of my work. I, however, ensure to capture a signature portrait because I believe it's nice to have and rounds out the engagement session portfolio.
Okay, so now that I've established I include portraits during my sessions, I want to talk a little more about How to Make Portraits Look and Feel Natural {with an editorial flair}. I added that last part because, well, I like long sentences. I make a mental note to capture a portrait of the couple together (this would be a traditional photo for mom or grandma to hang above their mantel), and individual portraits of the guy and girl. |
Portrait Tips for a Female Subject:
1. View the subject with a stylist's eye. Take a look at her outfit and hair to ensure everything is neat and in place...what you're trying to do is avoid fixing things in Photoshop (fly away hair, bulging pants, etc) later.
2. Talk to your subject from behind the camera while you're shooting. By making the shoot conversational, the subject naturally loosens up and smiles organically. These photos work best at showcasing the subject in her truest form.
3. Give your subject something to do with her hands...not just one option, but four. Before photographing your subject, show her how you'd like her to position her hands, then give her three more options. These options allow for the subject to flow through her hand positions effortlessly while you're shooting. Once she knows what to do, you'll hardly struggle with the appearance of dangling arms. Amen. |
Portrait Tips for a Male Subject:
1. Study poses from magazines like Esquire, GQ, and J. Crew. Truly understand how a male form works alone, leaning against something, and walking. Being confident in how to rearrange a male body is the first step in achieving natural poses.
2. Give your subject action. When working with men, I've discovered that when I give them something to do (look at your watch...adjust your tie...run your hands through your hair), they follow with a pointed purposes that results in a clean shot.
3. Act like a mirror. Being a female photographer, I try my best to stay hands off of my male subjects, simply for the sake of professionalism. If I'm struggling to get a guy into a pose, I position us face-to-face and ask him to mirror my movements. Chin down, chin down...look right, look right. Once we walk through a flow of the movements, I step back and then begin to photograph him in a way that allows him to mirror the movements from the beginning to the end yielding a natural look. |
Portrait Tips for a Couple:
1. Be aware of their fingers. A couple might be looking fantastic together, but a revealing component to a photo is whether the fingers look cramped or limp. If the hands look dead, the picture is unrealistic. Remind the couple to keep their fingers light and happy...yes, this sounds ambiguous, but it works. Trust me. |
2. Be aware of prom poses. It's easy to fall into a traditional prom pose, elbows angled out and all. If you see a portrait that looks too stiff or awkward, don't hesitate to ask your couple to shake it out. Literally. There are times when I ask subjects to shake out their shoulders and relax their backs...sure, it seems silly but it results in two people falling into each others' arms with no strain or fakeness at all. And, no, fakeness isn't really a word.
3. Encourage the couple to relax their smiles. It's nice to have a big cheesy smile now and then, but it's our job as photographers to instruct a couple on how to relax their smiles and, instead, rely on their eyes to convey emotion. Because, really, a fake smile doesn't look good on anyone. Take a few seconds to demonstrate how to achieve the look you want and by doing so, you're giving them the permission to blossom in front of your lens and become confident in the process. |
    
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FAQ : Second Shooter Value + Copyright
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Dear Jasmine
I've started second shooting/assisting for a wedding photographer and I've only helped her at one wedding but she is going to take my photos and give them to the bride and groom and I'm not being paid anything. I understand sometimes to learn you have to make sacrifices but it's really a confusing topic and I vacillate on what I believe. I want to learn but at the same time, my photos aren't really being valued. She said she would give me credit if she decided to blog any of them but since the pictures are going to the bride and groom, if they get any of my photos printed, they'll never know they were taken by me because the main photographer gets copyright in the contract. Wow. I'd love your opinion because no one else seems to be of any help.
Thanks,
Under Valued
Dear Under Valued
Of course second shooting is a confusing topic...you've likely never been a situation like this before getting into the photography world! Vacillation is totally normal, so don't worry about the ebb and flow of your emotions. I am, however, going to have an opinion on your idea of being valued. Oh...yes...you knew this was coming.
Before I get into specifics, I want to emphasize every photographer has his own way of doing things. What I'm about to write may only apply to one photographer, but I want to paint the dreariest picture so you can make a decision based on what could be--in your mind--the worst thing: not getting credit for the photos you captured. But before I address that (yes, there's a lot of befores up in my hood), you need to understand there are thousands of photographers who wish they could be in your shoes. Unpaid and all. The main photographer (let's call him X) gave you a cherished opportunity, wrapped in a shiny bow. Seriously. Every wedding you shoot with another photographer is an opportunity to learn, grow, and see what mistakes to avoid...and there's no risk to you because your name isn't on the business card. X's is. If the photos are wonderful/awful, he takes the responsibility.
And with responsibility comes the right to use photos produced under his name, for a wedding he booked, and the risks he assumed. As far as I can see, the second shooter is sitting pretty. A day of shooting, learning, and no legal responsibility? Sounds like a sweet deal...sign me up. |
I've second shot 50+ weddings and never (not once) has a photographer attributed photo credit to me. Not only is that a logistical nightmare, it's confusing for the bride and groom as they don't want to bogged down with the specifics of every photo. I outlined this in great detail in Exposed, but I've mentioned I worked for free when I first started...and continued second shooting for free for anyone who'd allow me to join on the wedding day. As my portfolio grew and my skill set strengthened, I began getting paid for my assistance but never dreamed of requesting photo credit because I understood I was--for the wedding day, at least--an affiliate of the main photographer.
I firmly believe you need to define what it means for your photos to be valued (e.g. getting paid for your second shooting services, photo credit, public acknowledgement from the main photographer, etc) then measure it against what's currently available for you. And here's the best part: there isn't a right or wrong answer. You get to define it. Once you figure what you want--how you feel valued--create an agreement between you and the main photographer to ensure you're on the same page. Before I shoot with another photographer, I understand the terms of our agreement to ensure there's no misunderstanding and feel mutually comfortable with the terms. However, I caution you to research industry protocol before you ask for something most photographers wouldn't permit, not just X.
I wish you the best as you pursue your dreams, but, more so, feeling valued as you define yourself as an artist.
Stay Fabulous,
j* |
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FAQ : What Does a Photographer Wear to a Wedding?
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I 've marinated this blog post for a bit because--well--it makes me slightly uncomfortable. I don't know what, precisely, is so nerve-wracking, but I want to preface it by stating: 1. I don't think I'm a fashionista; 2. I don't think I have it together; and 3. When I look into my closet, I secretly pray Rachel Zoe will magically appear and help me address my fashion woes. Having said that, I've received more than my share of emails from photographers asking what I wear to photograph a wedding.
For years I struggled with what I should wear, as well as balancing the desire to be functional, professional, and represent my brand. To be honest, when I look back to outfits I wore my first year of business, I cringe. Basically, I looked sloppy. I once heard I should dress for the job I want, not the job I have. If this was true, I was dressing to be a vacuum saleswoman or Cupid Shuffle instructor.
A bit ago, I read this note on Facebook... |
| Today I'm blogging photos of outfits I wore as a wedding photographer in the past month for Kori and anyone else who might be interested. If you're disinterested at this point, I heavily suggest you mosey on to a different part of the web because we're gonna get into shoes, clothes, and a whole lotta jsuche. |
| This is one of my favorite outfits because it looks like a skirt and shirt, but it's really a dress. I think the length is appropriate and I like the pop of color, but it's not enough to be too distracting or be noticed (which is why I stay away from wearing prints at a wedding). |
| A lot of my outfits in the past month were sleeveless because it was hot. Unbearably hot, if I was being honest, but when work demands being outdoors, the key is to look professional and not necessary like I'm ready for afternoon tea. I particularly like this dress because it was only $34...at full price. I was tempted to leave the pricetag on so people would know what a great bargain hunter I was. |
| What you'll notice is a pattern of black clothing in my work attire. For whatever reason, I feel like wearing black is understated and allows me to work without drawing attention to myself. I wore this beige dress because it was over 100-degrees, an afternoon ceremony, and hosted on a Monday. These factors allowed me to take a slightly more casual look, because the goal was blend with guests. |
Some might say the photo above is blurry, but I'm okay calling it SOFT FOCUSED. Totes. I not-so-secretly think JD did it on purpose because he doesn't like this dress. He muttered under his breath something about looking like I was about to make homemade tortillas, but I ignored him. I'm just in touch with my roots, okay?!
When I saw the photo below, I admitted JD was right. I don't mind the off-the-shoulder look as much as much as I think the ruffles were a bit much for work. Aye aye aye. I mean, need I remind you about the RUFFLE DEBACLE OF 2010?! We all make mistakes, Internet. |
| Yesterday it was chilly enough to wear a suit...or so I thought. The morning started with a cool nip in the air, it rained during family photos, but then cleared to be an 80-degree day. In any case, when I bought this suit, I told JD I felt like Don Draper. Except with long hair and sobriety and the capability of commitment. |
So. That about wraps up this Photography Meets What To Wear To A Wedding post. Like always, it'll hopefully help one person...if it does, then I'm thankful.
Happy Monday!
**Updated To Add**
Wearing a dress is definitely a personal decision. I'm not the type of photographer who is crouching, climbing, or doing somersaults, so as long as the dress/skirt is to my knee, I'm well covered. Literally. ;)
Also, I shoot with one camera only (and don't use a strap), so I don't have to worry about my outfit getting in the way of gear. A couple months ago my doctor and I had a discussion about my health, which resulted in bringing an assistant with me to weddings. Kendra is officially my intern/assistant/right hand and I love her!
For those who asked about the heels...I have officially crossed to the dark side. I wear flats when I work and I make no apologies! ;) |
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NYC Mandarin Oriental Wedding : Elyse+Andrew
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© Jasmine Star. This post cannot be republished without permission. Stealing makes me sad. |
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I f he's known for one thing, it's his impeccable taste. Andrew takes pleasure in life's smallest details and he's widely known for his acute attention to minutia that often makes a meal, event, or an experience truly amazing. He's the type of guy who'll smell, swish, and twirl wine in a glass, knowing what--precisely--makes it delicious. In light of these attributes, Elyse leaves life's finer decisions to him.
The beauty in this situation is Elyse is Andrew's version of perfection, down to the smallest detail. They share a sense of humor, they're patient with each other, and Andrew always finds a snack when Elyse is hungry, even if it means running down a crowded street in New York City for a pretzel. Andrew is known for his impeccable taste and everyone knows no girl in the world fits his detail-oriented life better than Elyse.
Elyse and Andrew, what I want to write is a billion words to express my gratitude, but for the sake of time, I hope a simple thank you will suffice. You are truly two of the kindest people I've had the honor of working with and your wedding was absolutely wonderful. Thank you for inviting us into your lives for such a special day and I hope you're enjoy life on a sunny Hawaiian beach right now! Much Love and Appreciation... j* |
| It was a beautiful fall day in New York City and the weather was perfect for a wedding at the Mandarin Oriental...things were made extra special when I saw a pair of Jimmy Choo's...with a bedazzled bow. Oh com'on... |
| Elyse chose a perfect Vera Wang wedding dress and it was truly stunning... |
Elyse, you're gorgeous. And in case you don't believe me, RAWR.
Hair and makeup by Antonio Prieto Salon... |
| Elyse and Andrew had friends and family gather from around the United States in New York City for the wedding, so they had a few gifts to make them feel welcome... |
| JD hung out with the guys as they prepared and Andrew read a note from his future bride... |
| I've said it before, but I'll say it again...I lovelovelove when a bride and groom opt to see each other before the wedding ceremony. The First Look is a moment just for the couple and Andrew's reaction to seeing Elyse for the first time as his wife says it all... |
| It was supposed to rain in New York on Saturday, but--thankfully--the weather held out, so we ventured out of the Mandarin Oriental and down the street to Central Park for wedding photos... |
| Walking through Columbus Circle in Jimmy Choo's and a wedding gown to capture wedding photos? She's my kinda bride. |
| Central Park served as a perfect backdrop for wedding photos as the leaves were still on the trees and romance in the air... |
| Shortly after wedding photos in Central Park, we ventured back to the Mandarin Oriental for the wedding ceremony...at this moment, the rabbi asked every guest to reach out and touch the person on front of him/her and the power of the moment eventually led to the bride and groom. It was awesome. |
| Many, many, and many more thanks to the Claudia and the talented team of Gourmet Advisory Services who made the wedding beyond amazing. They worked tirelessly to ensure there wasn't a single flaw and it showed. I'm incredibly thankful to have met such a fantastic group of people. |
| The First Dance was so beautiful because guests were invited to surround the couple as they danced...such a lovely touch by Starlight Orchestra... |
| I'll end this post with a special thanks to James with Mandarin Oriental for taking me to the rooftop for this photo of New York at night...a reminder of a perfect evening in the city. |
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FAQ : What Makes Good Wedding Editorial Photos
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A few weeks ago, my lovely friend Rebecca Crumley emailed and asked if I might have photos she might be able to use for a First Look article she was editing. Rebecca has great taste in food, listens to awesome music, and is the photo editor for The Knot Magazine. When she's looking for specific photos, she reaches out to a plethora of photographers and also makes requests via Twitter. If you're itching to get published, follow her...she's good peeps.
Ewww. Peeps...reminds me of Easter candy. I need to change the subject because marshmallow chickens creep me out.
I sent her a few First Look options and she kindly declined, but not without us having a conversation about what she's looking for in relation to editorial photography. When Rebecca looks for an image to accompany a magazine story, there are a litany of considerations, most of which photographers are unaware (myself included). Below is a transcript of our conversation in case you'd like to learn more about editorial wedding photography. Just kidding. It's not a really a transcript (more like a Cliff Notes version) because recording our conversation would've been creepy. Like Peeps. |
J*: What's the biggest challenges you face as a photo editor?
RC: Photographers take photos that are beautiful, but an editor also needs a photo that can be used as a full bleed photo on a page, reproduce well on a full page if needed, and doesn't have distracting elements in the background (like guests making awkward faces - this happens ALL the time). This sometimes limits my options because while I might find a photo I love, it must also possess extra things a photographer might not be thinking of at the moment - "such as where will there be room for a headline in this photo?". Another thing to take into consideration is that while The Knot Magazine has regional issues where we really pry our hearts on keeping the content to feeling local, some of our editorial features may use images that aren't truly from that region. So geographically generic images work well to sell our editorial stories - features such as picking your bridesmaids, and photography ...and by this I mean I can't always use a beach photo (as pretty as it might be) because it's too specific to a coastal region. Generic locations also work very well for illustrating points in our wedding books. But don't get me wrong, sometimes it is specifically the beach photo I'm seeking to feel truly local to the scene - it's just to point out that there's a market for having "anywhere" type images. |
J*: What's something you wished photographers considered in regard to magazine design?
RC: What I'd love to see are more horizontal photos I'd be able to use for a horizontal full bleed (full bleed means when the photo comprises corner to corner of the page). This usually never happens because wide photos usually have the main subject(s) in the center of the photo, which causes it to fall in the gutter of the magazine. The photo will also have to be, roughly, 13x20 at 300 DPI in size and this combination of factors is usually hard to come by...but when it does happen, it's like a magic moment. |
J*: What's something you wish more wedding photographers did?
RC: Every year there seems to be a trendy shot in the photo world, a photograph photographers seem to reproduce in mass quantity. For example, a few years ago, photographers photographed the bride and groom's shoes as they stood next to each other. While the photo itself can be lovely, if a photographer is going to set up that shot, do it right. Think about what you're doing. Don't be afraid to style the photo in way that shows professionalism. For example, adjust straps, clear the background from mess, unwrinkle the groom's pants, make sure the shoes aren't muddy...things like that.
This really boils down to taking pride in what you do. Taking the extra time to style a photo (like, reassembling escort cards to make the photo appear full) or cleaning up the shot will really enhance the viability of a photo. |
J*: In regard to Real Wedding submissions, what advice do you have?
RC: I think it'd be best to break it down into three tips...
1. Include the "Hero Shot" - This term was coined by Editor in Chief, Carley Roney, as the photo that will capture a reader's attention and makes her want to be at that wedding. It'll likely be showcased in a large format and acts as the theme setter from the start. The hero shot may be of the couple or a simple detail shot that'll anchor the feature - it's the first photo that catches your eye when looking at the layout. In design school we called it "hierarchy," but I think "hero" is much for fun of a word!
2. Tell a Consistent Story - Be sure to capture photos that reflect the day as a whole, not in distinct sections. For instance, photographers should try to tell a story of the church ceremony, couple portraits, and the reception in a way that blends with each other. Including environmental photos work well in tying the loose ends together, but be conscious of this from the start. The photos should convey a sense of space and push the vibe of the overall wedding. Pay attention to the light quality feeling consistent. I know it can be hard to match indoor - to outdoor color balance, but it's such a massive shift in tone sometimes that flipping from one page to the next, images can potentially feel very disconnected to each other. We always want the images to drive cohesive qualities, and the more the images naturally go together, the better success we have visually telling the real wedding story.
3. Capture an Overall Environmental Photo - This is the type of photo that showcases, say, the ceremony venue or the reception ballroom uninterrupted and without distractions. This photo is important because it reflects the style of the wedding, so be sure to stand in the right light and use a wide lens to capture the story in a single photo. These photos are often the hero shot!
Many thanks to Rebecca for allowing me to share our conversation...I hope it helps one other person the way that it helped me. If you'd like to read more about Real Wedding submissions, feel free to check out this previous article with Rebecca. |
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