Getting That Studio Look

It’s getting to be about that time! Well actually its pretty much a season… I just got my studio light and am looking to shoot family portraits for those who need a decent shot of their family Christmas pictures. Most of the time people have an idea of what they want their pictures to look like: some great background (maybe a favorite place outdoors, or by the fireplace, someplace rustic, or maybe some props they can have to add a certain mood or portray an idea with their portrait. These things can all be great and can enhance a photo, but if you are just taking a Christmas portrait where your family is in a crowded background followed up by another noisy border and then you want to add in some really LARGE title that say’s something like “season’s greetings” or “Merry Christmas” well there really isn’t a point to do anything but emphasize the most important thing most of us are concerned about in an image; our face. If you can’t get Christmas pictures done professionally then I highly suggest that you focus on what matters the most in your picture and that’s you!

If you are shooting indoors I would suggest not using your camera’s flash. Normally a camera flash set on auto will reduce highlights and wash out your subject, which tends to look really tacky and distracting. Use natural diffused light. This can be achieved a handful of ways by using the light from a large window or door or by going under a lightly shaded area, as well as shooting in daylight when there are many clouds out (SUCH as now!) Find an area that has a solid wall or make your own like I did with my niece Sophia. I had an open door midday and my mom was holding a black blanket behind her (Note: this set the focus on the subject and didn’t distract you with a busy background *see photo for more details.) You can play with the color on basic programs but I suggest if you do edit it on your own don’t over do it (unless you are looking for something over dramatic.) Have fun!