Sunday Spotlight On: Seeking Out Your Style

Admit it, we all like to think that we have style behind the camera and during postproduction. Some of us do, and some of us are still searching. When looking at your favorite photographers work, you would know their pieces from across the room. Photography is almost like high school; we gradually go on to the next level after we have accomplished all that we need to know on a lower level. Being stuck will not benefit us in this medium because we want and need to go to that next level. As students, we are still learning each time we enter class and when we pick up our camera to apply a new technique.

Sacred. 2014. Quiana P Jackson

It is okay to fail

Failing is not always bad. It teaches us what we have to correct. Failing is something that we all will face because not every style is for us. As we pick out clothing that we purchased and match it up with another clothing item that we purchase, sometimes it does not go together. We start over again, the same as in photography.

Shadow a photographer

If you are just starting out, shadowing someone who is more experienced can be beneficial. You will be able to learn the ropes and begin to see how things are done on a professional working level.

Work with a different subject

Working with different people as we build our portfolio is highly recommended. By having different subjects, it makes it easy to practice with different looks.

Write down your ideas

Create a journal of ideas that you find interesting and begin to create a concept. When you have these ideas written down you can imagine the way that you intend to go about bringing these ideas to life.

Ask and ask away

Ask someone who shoots what you are interested in to give you his or her honest opinion. If you ask for their critique, it can only make you better and you can begin to see what others think of your skills.

Have thick skin

Not everyone is going to like your style or probably not even get it. It is important to be able to take criticism once it is given. There are some harsh critics out there and being able to take their words either good or bad can be turned into motivation to either readjust, keep moving on with your style or to go back to the drawing board. 

Research, research, research

I cannot think of anything in this world that has never been photographed. While doing research, see what others have already done and then shoot it in a different way.

Sometimes it’s okay to break the rules

Who says that you have to play it safe ALL the time? Try different perspectives, angles, editing, crops and scale. It is those photographers who have became successful because they had the courage to go after their own style and bend the rules a bit. Some may not understand at first, but there are new styles popping up all the time!

When Pro Bono Becomes a Problem

Hand-in-hand with the pricing puzzle ("what am I worth?") is the pro bono problem ("when should I shoot for free?"). When people find out you are studying photography, they will often volunteer their children, families, or even events to act as your subject matter. Early in your studies this can be a great boon, but eventually it may very well become a burden. As you gain knowledge and experience you need to charge for your work so you can make a living doing what you love. Of course, there will always be opportunities to share your skills with worthy causes and good friends.

Some professional photographers choose to offer big discounts for friends and family, others charge full price, and still others don't charge a thing. It's important to have an idea of where you need to fall in that spectrum in order to feel good about helping your friends while still making a living. In my case, my friends and family members get a much better rate but only a small number get my services for free. Make sure that when you start charging for your services, people are well aware. Someone whom you've photographed for school projects in the past may not realize that you've gotten to the point in your career that you need to start charging, and that can end up in an awkward situation for both of you.

Something I still find difficult is passing on shoots for non-profit organizations. I dedicate time to giving rescue dogs photo shoots to help them find homes and also shoot certain events for organizations I've built a relationship with over the past few years. If I agreed to provide my services for free every time I was asked, though, I would soon go bankrupt. If you face a similar situation and aren't sure how to say no, I find it best to be totally honest and state that you are honored to be asked but provide your services pro bono to select groups already and cannot afford to assist this time. I'll usually point the person asking in the direction of a local photography school where I know students are looking for event experience as well.

If you want to do what you love full-time, you will need to continually reassess your value and how much pro bono work you can commit to in your schedule. It also helps to have your break-even point in the back of your mind so you can charge a "friend rate" accordingly. Keep those Business worksheets handy!

A Tout Le Monde, Farewell

Stanley, Winston. Trapped. 2014

Greetings fellow shooters! Tuesday Ambassador Stanley here introducing you to my last Tuesday as an Ambassador here for the Art Institute of Pittsburgh. The past few weeks have been a mental and emotional roller coaster ride for me which resulted in missing posts, however, this may be a ride I will never forget. Now I am not leaving just yet as I still a have a few more classes to go before graduation, if everything pans out that way, but you should still see my presence on PSPN from time to time. I feel that I need to step down as Ambassador so I can open the door for another passionate, aspiring photographer who loves to write and is able to keep up with each and every week.

Do not get me wrong though, I love taking photos of just about anything and everything that presents itself to me because there is nothing like capping a perfectly timed photo. If you do not feel a rush of something going through your body after capturing a photo where you know that it was a once in a lifetime opportunity, then you may be pursuing the wrong profession. If you feel like it is a hassle to go out and shoot for an assignment, even with one camera and nothing else, again, you may be pursuing the wrong profession. Why am I writing this you ask? Because I know there are some individuals out there, judging by their pictures, that indicates to me that they are not putting in the same amount of effort in their assignments with no explanation as to how or why the shoot went the way it did. Case in point, think about what you truly want to pursue in your life whether it is taking pictures, 3D animation, architecture, plumbing or maybe you just want to be a police officer. Whatever it is that “floats your boat” pursue it and do not let it go no matter how difficult the assignment, course or even instructor is.

Some tidbits before I sign off for all of you newcomers and newbies who are enrolled here at the AIPOD and that is to check every little piece of information within your courses at the start of the course; Course Home, “Readings and Assignments,” Academic Expectations, Academic Resource, Syllabus even any questions that are asked of your professor is great to read as well. Reason being is so that you are not in shock and awe when you come to find out that there is an assignment due today that needed a few days of work. Be mindful of the day rate when turning in late work, but in fact you should not be turning stuff in late to begin with. Once you get in the groove of how each first week of class pans out you will come to find that most of the information that I pointed out to you will usually be the same for every class, so you will soon figure out what you should read and what you have already read. And always, thanks for reading.

Stanley, Winston. Set Free. 2014

- Tues. Amb. Stanley

Sunday Spotlight On: What type of photographer are you?

Upon entering school some of us are already settled on what genre of photography that we want to go into. During the first week of class I see a lot of my peers take pride in how much they enjoy being a wedding photographer or a family photographer. Indeed their images are stunning to say the least but as class goes on, when we have to go outside of our comfort shooting genre, a lot of us may struggle. If not you, I will gladly raise my hand and admit to it.

Let’s think of photography this way. If all photographers had to work in a huge building (sort of like a hospital) then every photographer would probably have their own wing of the hospital. One side may be the Travel Photographer, the other side Family Photographer, Street Photographer and so forth. Then people could just go to the different areas and have their needs met. What people who are not photographers fail to understand is that not all photographers specialize in each others chosen field. Would a Pediatrician treat a patient who is in need of a root canal? An Obstetrician treat a patient who is in need of a heart transplant? Just because we dabbled in all styles of photography when we were in school does not mean that it is our specialty.

What you choose to specialize in is the area where you are the subject matter expert. While in school take time to apply what you have learned and give the material your best and then figure out what you are great at and then you can be the subject matter expert in more areas. 

If you hate people, Pet Photography may be the job for you.

If you like to look down on other photographers, then Satellite or Aerial Photography may be the job for you.

If you want to have fun in the sun and still get paid to do it then, Travel Photography may be the job for you.

If you do not like to talk much, then Underwater Photography may be the job for you.

If you like to eat, Food Photography may be the job for you.

If you like to run and stay in shape, Paparazzi may be the job for you.

No matter what your job is, be great at. Love it. Embrace it.

I am for Sunday Funday Ambassador. Happy shooting!

Where do I find them...

Hey Everyone!

One of the biggest challenges I have had as a photography student was the statement given in every class, where the use of models was required. It goes something like this: "You must use a different model for each assignment, no family, no friends." When I first began here, that statement felt like a nuclear bomb going off in my studio. The big question that popped up in my head was, "How do I find models?"

Here is a couple of suggestions to get you started. Whether you live in a big city or small farm village, there is hope. Start with Facebook. Someone knows someone who has always wanted to try modeling. Patiently, and professionally, put it out there. That has been my best source in the beginning. While Model Mayhem and other like sites may be nice, I find them to be far less effective, especially during a short notice need.

Once you are able to get someone to come, make sure they enjoy the process and are happy with the results, and they will come back. They will also be more likely to recommend a friend to you for additional models to pull from. Social media is an excellent place to begin.

So, once you have a model coming, what should you do to be ready? First and foremost here are some steps to take in preparation: Have a concept in mind, know what you want to create, and take steps to make it happen. Have a location, studio, set, prepared, know your lighting scheme. Have all props available and run some test shots. You don't want to drag things out, and waste time. Be ready to go, when your model arrives.

Have a modeling release / contract ready that fully explains the rights concerning the images for both parties. Trust me, a handshake is never enough. The model should know what they can and cannot do with the images, and ultimately who owns them. Discuss with the model, ahead of time, what you intend to do with the images, so that everything is made clear.

Ask your model to show up without makeup and hair done, bring several pieces of wardrobe, and be ready to develop an outfit together. It is important to have the model's input, give them a portion of "ownership" and development in the project and you get better results.

Know what you want to get from them. Research poses, styles, and forms to know what you are looking for from your model. Saying things like, "do something", or "put your hands in the air" are awkward and can make a model uncomfortable. Know what you want, and talk with your model, they will be grateful that you have a vision.

During the shoot encourage your model by saying "excellent work", or "nicely done", or "that looks great". Encouraging a model during the shoot will go a very long way.

Some other things to strongly consider:

First, discuss ahead of time with your model what you are looking for. This includes type of wardrobe or lack there of, content of the images, and intent. Once you and the model are in agreement, DO NOT make changes, or ask him or her to do anything beyond what they have agreed to. They will become uncomfortable and may leave, at the very least, you will not see them again, and your reputation will be damaged.

Second, DO NOT ever touch a model, without asking permission, and then, only for a reason that is important, and they can not adjust themselves. An example could be a wardrobe problem. If the model can fix it, ask them to. If they need your help to do so, ask first.

Third, keep your conversation, posture, and distance professional. Don't say things like, "wow, that's hot" or "you are so sexy". Maintain a respectful distance and professional demeanor. This helps to build trust. No matter how good a model is, if he or she doesn't trust you, it comes through in the images.

Lastly, be courteous, safe, and fun. Make them laugh, care for them by giving them water, and food if they are there during a normal meal time. Treat them as part of the team, never as on object in a picture. Let them have some creative input. It goes a long way.

You will work with models of various abilities and skills, you may even be the first photographer they work with. Practice and develop methods of communication and direction with models. It goes a long way. Be patient, and have fun. Make the experience is one that they will want to brag about on Facebook, and I promise you, more models will soon follow.

So Fresh and So Clean!

Keeping your DSLR clean. Source: MyDigitalCamera.us.

The investments we make in our gear are vast. We spend time researching to choose just the right camera and lenses, money to make the purchases, and more time to learn our gear inside and out. If you're not sure of the best ways to maintain and clean your valuable items, read on for some easy methods you can incorporate into your routine.

Lenses - Glass

A microfiber cloth (or disposable lens cleaning cloths) and optical cleaner are must-haves for your camera bag. I also keep a lens pen in mine, which has two ends: one to brush away dust, and one with a flat surface to buff out smudges. An air blower is a big more bulky, so I just keep one at home for between-shoot cleanings.

Lenses and Camera Bodies - Focus Rings

The focus connection points on your lenses and camera body need attention. You can give them a cosmetic cleaning with a microfiber cloth, but for a deeper clean you can dampen a cotton swab with Purosol and gently clean out any grit.

Camera Sensor

Far and away the most intimidating part of the camera to clean, many people choose to send their cameras out for sensor cleaning. This can be very costly, though, and it's relatively easy to do it yourself. The first step is to use your camera's self-cleaning option, but that doesn't always do the trick. For tougher dust specks, I like to use the sensor gel stick by Photography Life. I find it so much better and less likely to do damage than the cleaning kits that require swabbing across the sensor. Again, though, if the idea of exposing your sensor scares you, take your camera to the shop.

When you're not shooting, make sure your gear is stored sealed in bags or cases to avoid dust getting into crevices. Taking regular measures to maintain your gear will make it last much longer. If you have other tips on maintaining and cleaning your camera and lenses, leave a comment!

-Friday Ambassador

Work Cited:

"How to Clean DSLR Camera Sensor." My Digital Camera. MyDigitalCamera.us, 14 July 2011. Web. 10 Apr. 2014.

"Optical Lens Cleaner." Purosol. Purosol, 2011. Web. 10 Apr. 2014.

It's In Their Nature

Greetings fellow shooters! Tuesday Ambassador Stanley here introducing you to a different Tuesday. I apologize for my absence last week, so to make up for it I have acquired some captures of my favorite subjects. In other words, I had some personal time to build more on my collections outside of school. However, that does not meant I am free and clear from my personal issues that bar me the time to just focus on everything. Quite frankly, I am not sure how long I can keep up with posting every single week, so please bear with me as I am going through some troubling times.

The photos below are of subjects I love to shoot, if you were not aware of it before. Now I wish I knew what these wild flowers and the leaf is named, as well as the moth. Yes, the moth is to scale. I am sure some of you have seen them in this size or larger. Now these images of a Starling, or two, is about one of three who constantly land on this power line singing and chirping in my neighbor’s backyard. I occasionally like to chirp some of their songs back to them if I can, so I can tell which one of them they are. As for this chicken, I think he wanted to be a bird for a minute. Enjoy!

 And always, thanks for reading.

- Tues. Amb. Stanley

I just don't like it...

Hello Everyone!

So, I am in Photo Criticism class right now, but as some of you know it is really the fifth class in which we are taught to critic art, just with a particular focus on photography. I have to admit that before I began learning to critique art (paintings, photographs, etc..) if I didn't like something, I would simply say, "I just don't like it". There would be no explanation, no real understanding of why.

I had even sadly, misjudged many artists, who before taking these classes, I felt were little more than the cliche of "suffering artists" wanting to do little more than attempt to impress us all with their "pseudo-intellectualism". While I am sure there are those insufferable "artists", I learned just how wrong I was about many artists I had previous notions about.

I had no idea what cubism was, or German expressionism, dadaism, or other such artistic movements. Taking the art history courses gave me a fresh perspective and a new appreciation for the artist, their time, and their form of expression. Learning to critique the art taught me to look deeper into the image itself. Once I started to do this, I discovered a pleasant side-effect. I enjoyed the images more than before.

I started looking at the colors, shapes, lines, forms, in a different way. I started looking to see symmetry, asymmetry, balance, unity, rhythm, weight, all of the things present or not-present within an image. Then I began to ask myself why was something missing, or why was it there? Suddenly, the painting or photograph came to life. I could no longer look at images as just space fillers hung on a wall.

Now, we will certainly each have our own favorite type of art or photography. However, we can learn to appreciate and possibly discover hidden messages with art, even art we never before appreciated. The two biggest lessons I have learned in these classes is this:

1. Art criticism isn't about tearing someone's work down. It is about seeing the art as it was intended to be shared by the artist.

2. Opinions based in ignorance (lack of knowledge) rob the viewer of the full experience of enjoying the artwork he/she is observing.

Take the time to get to know a piece of art, even if at first you don't necessarily enjoy it. Look for the little details, discover it's hidden treasures, and watch it come alive right in front of your eyes.

Successful Shooting - Family Photography

A while back I wrote about the challenges of photographing children. While some of my favorite images are of big-eyed, smiling babies, it is definitely not easy to get the perfect shot. Something babies and young kids have that adults and teenagers often don’t, though, is a carefree attitude in front of the camera. As we age, many of us (myself included) learn to be camera shy and self-conscious, making it tougher for a photographer to bring out real emotion in family photographs. I have a few tips to share about what works for me during a family shoot, and would love to hear your advice as well! If you notice any great tips missing from the following, leave a comment so we can all learn from one another.

Make Everyone Comfortable

By the time a family gets to your studio or chosen location, they may have been stressed about their appearance or the fact that they have to spend an hour or two taking photographs in the first place. Being personable and assessing the moods of the various family members will help you determine if cracking a joke, asking questions about school, or chatting about current events will best break the ice and get everyone to relax. 

Start Formal
If you're shooting outside, starting with the formal photographs will ensure the parents that the outfits they picked out so carefully will stay nice and clean for the traditional images. By the end of the session, they won't mind if everyone gets a little messy with more fun compositions, because the shots they think are most important have already been taken care of. It's likely, though, that their favorite images will be those messy ones in the end!

Embrace Imperfection

Kids may cry, teenagers may be sassy, and siblings may fight. Sometimes the moments that are more raw and real make for the best, unexpectedly honest images. Those fighting siblings? Get them to act out their frustrations for the camera and they'll end up laughing together instead of coming to blows.

Pose Naturally

Allowing your clients to fall into a pose that feels natural will make for a better-looking image. If they look a bit stiff, ask them to bend their limbs slightly to add more shape to the composition. Get them to laugh, smile at each other, and forget about the camera when possible.

Take a Break

Smiles can feel stiff and forced after a while. I encourage portrait clients to bring a change of clothes, because putting on a new outfit and having a few minutes to refresh physically will also help them refresh mentally.  

Have FUN!
When you enjoy yourself, your clients will enjoy themselves too. Smile, laugh, and be enthusiastic about the images and the experience.