What a Great Image Entails

Imagine your favorite photo. Now explain why. I'm 99.9% positive it is because you feel an emotional connection to it. Something within the image made you feel warm and fuzzy; whether it be colors, a place you have been or want to go, or the smile on a babies face. Which ever it may be, your favorite photo brings out an emotion within you. At the end of the day it's the fuzzy feeling that makes a memorable photograph, without it all you've made is another image.

After developing a theme I begin the process searching for subjects who are highly expressive. Someone who is comfortable enough to smile, laugh, and make faces in front of a camera because I know they are capable of providing the right look for the photoshoot; therefore enhancing the level of connectivity between the photo and the viewer. Do you want the subject to look approachable, fierce, or gloomy? It's best to develop an idea before the photoshoot and fulfill the concept thoroughly. 

A photograph without emotion is lifeless, it's dead. It shall be forgotten a moment later. When photographing people, make them feel comfortable, take the time to make them laugh and capture the moment they give you an honest feeling.

Swimmer Photoshoot

                         Swimmer Photoshoot

Swimmer Photoshoot

Makeup Artist: Katelynn Jean
Model: Rebeccah McCarthy

Behind the Scenes: Rock Climbing Photoshoot

I've always enjoyed outdoor activities so to be able to create images that inspire me is a blessing. This image captures the moment a rock climber reaches his destination; the peak of a mountain. To create an image like this the most important aspect is the expression. The model needs to look exhausted to make the image believable. So, after consecutive jump roping and numerous attempts in the studio we got the shot. We used a fog machine to help blend the image together in post production.  Next came the background which had to be made from paper mache. The miniature model was simply created by paper bags and paper towels. Once dried, it was spray painted and a snow effect was applied. The last step was finding and compositing a rock into the image. So, I ventured next door and photographed my neighbors rocks. After the shooting was complete came hours in Photoshop to blend it all together.

Behind the Scenes: Rock Climbing Photoshoot

Behind the Scenes: Rock Climbing Photoshoot

Behind the Scenes: Rock Climbing Photoshoot

Behind the Scenes: Rock Climbing Photoshoot

Model: Vahe Hakobyan

Why It's Important to Have a Good Team!

You're lying in bed pondering the significance of your work when a magnificent idea pops into your head for an up and coming photo shoot. In the beginning your body is filled with excitement and adrenaline as your ideas form only to be followed with doubt. While fiddling with the idea, you debate whether you could pull it off. Who is going to be the model, do the makeup, where am I going to shoot and if that wasn't enough, will you be able to convey your concept thoroughly? Create a team.

Volleyball Photoshoot

The first team member is a good model. I scrambled though tons and tons of models before I found the perfect one, Ramilya Urmanova. I recommend listening to music that inspires you, get comfortable in front of your computer screen, and look through as many models' portfolios as you can. Take note of those you like most, take numerous breaks and come back to check your selections. Remember; look for a model that not only has a good portfolio but one that will fulfill the concept well.

Volleyball Photoshoot

Volleyball Photoshoot

The next member is a make up artist. The process is similar to finding a model but they should be able to visualize and hopefully improve your concept. Yes, you should view as many portfolios as possible but finding a make up artist can be as simple as reading a biography. Try to gain a feel of their personality and pick someone you are going to enjoy working with. I couldn't stress enough how important it is to build healthy relationships with those you work with. Having a positive energy on set is key; not only will it make for better images, but you want people to have fun.

Volleyball Photoshoot

Having a model, make up artist, and photographer working in sync will position the photo shoot up for success. Forming healthy, lasting relationships with those in your industry will only make for happy and returning clients. Most importantly, you’ll have a team that enjoys working along side of you.

Makeup Artist: Kymberlee Curti
Model: Ramilya Urmanova

Photograph What You Love the Most!

For me, it's definitely my niece.