My friend has a pretty good camera - I don’t need a photographer and/or studio.Have you noticed how professional photographs have that something extra that makes photos even more special? The reason...A professional photographer will give you that something different, bold, and creative. Something that you can’t get anywhere else. Even if your friend or neighbour has a fancy camera, and he/she took some photography classes, it’s just not as good as the years of experience and professional gear that a professional photographer has.
Why use a professional photographer and what kind of specialties are out there?
With the arrival of digital camera's we all became hooked on the immediate gratification that came with it. We became instant phorographers with the hunger for more. Today we take pictures all the time, unlike the past where the whole family booked a photo session at the professional photographer and got dressed up for the occasion. Professional photographers, however, still play an important role. They provide top-notch photographs that are sophisticated, designed, and unique. They use professional lighting gear, backgrounds, and professional techniques to get ‘studio-quality’ photographs. These days mobile studios are very popular. Instead of you travelling to the studio, it comes to you or a pre-arranged location. Photo shoots on location are now not only availabe for weddings, but also for portraits of families, pets and kids etc. Locations can include the beach, in the park, or in the comfort of your own home.
Professional photographers specializes in various areas:
• kids and babies
• pets
• maternity photos
• events (weddings, parties, etc.)
• jewelry photos
• the ad industry
• food photos
Effex Photography spesializes in weddings, and portraits of families, kids, pets, maternity and babies.
Common photography studio gear
A photography studio can provide you with an array of props or backdrops. In a baby shoot, for example, you will be able to put your baby on an old fashioned scale, or inside an oak barrel. For family portraits, there are all sorts of background – each with a different effect. You also have the choice between kinds of lighting – soft, delicate, harsh, etc. The photographer will tell you about all the options and will be able to show you some examples of her work. Finally, the photography studio will probably have a wardrobe from which you can choose all sorts of accessories: scarves, costumes, hats, and makeup. You can have lots of fun there if you’re in the mood for playing dress-up.
How do you choose a photography studio?
• First, find a photographer that has experience with the kind of work you require.
• Look for a place that’s near. A 2-hour drive to the location might ruin the whole experience.
• Check out the photographer's website. Look at the sample photos and see if you like their style.
• Price is always important (but not the most important thing…)
What to do on the day ?
Makeup
The camera accentuates everything, so put a little make up on and finish it off with some powder to reduce shine. The makeup will give your face a smoother, more uniform look and will look great on film – and yes, we’re talking about you guys too! Using anything else (blush, eyeliner, etc.) is up to you. You can also hire a makeup artist (the studios always know some), but that will cost you extra.
Kids in the studio
Bring your kids when they are well rested and well fed - you don’t want them to be cranky and restless. Bring their favorite toy, security blanket, or pacifier. Kids, especially little ones, might not enjoy being in a strange place. Don’t force it on them. If they are not in the mood we recommend that you re-book the studio for a different time.
Family portraits
It’s important that everybody arrives happy for the family portrait. Get there after a good night sleep and a good meal. You can bring props from home or use the ones they have at the studio. It’s a good idea to pick the theme, the background, the outfits, and the props (if any) in advance. Then you can be natural and relaxed in the photo shoot. Don’t expect to be able to ‘direct’ everybody (especially not toddlers), so trust the photographer and follow her directions.
And remember, it's all about you having a good time. The more fun you have the better your photos will be, and especially the memory of the experience.
http://www.effexphotography.com/
