Monday, December 14, 2015

Photographing Events


Tis the season for getting together at family gatherings, office parties or hanging with friends.  I think the best part of those parties is being able to look at the pictures the next day and years later.

How do you capture all those wonderful memories? Run around the event with a camera or your phone snapping photos.  Well that's one way to get the pictures but I've got a few tips to try to make your event more enjoyable and keep you from running around like I use to.

The approach to take depends on the size of group.

If its a small group, like a family gathering, its a lot easier to spend more time taking pictures because everyone is probably staying in a close space.  So keep the camera or phone out the whole night and just keep snapping.

For large crowds, say a work party, I take some time to socialize which also gives guests a chance to settle in and maybe have a couple of drinks.  Once you've done that spend a couple of hours taking photos. Of course if you're not in the mood to try to capture everyone at the party there's always the option of hiring a photographer (like me).


Here are a few more tips for pictures at events:
  • Keep an eye on the amount of light on the people
  • As always watch light poles (or similar type of things) coming out of peoples heads
  • If you miss a shot ask the people to do it again and be ready the second time
  • Use the zoom for large crowds to get in close without being in their space
  • If you just don't want to worry about it there is always the option of hiring a photographer to take care of your photography needs
The important part of taking pictures for your event is to also have fun yourself.

Do you have tips for how you get the best pictures at your events? Share them with us!

Tuesday, December 1, 2015

I've got grumpy kids and a photo shoot in the same day, what do I do?

Here's the thing, you've been planning a photography session for a month.  You know you've thought of everything and you probably have but the truth is we can't control everything.

Its the day of your photography session and your child is cranky or just not acting like themselves.  You don't want to cancel because the stars may not align like this again.

So you go to the session with high hopes.  In my experience there are two ways it can work out.  The child snaps out of it and has a wonderful time. Or its a bad day no matter what we try.

I'm hoping your situation is the first because that's easier and less stressful for everyone.


But if you've hit the second situation there are a few ways to try to make the best of it:

  • Bring a favorite toy
  • Have the Ipod set to their dancing song
  • Get someone to dance, sometimes a person will make them the happiest
  • If the photographer is available in the afternoon, take the kid for a nap or lunch and start over in the afternoon
If you have a session booked with me and we can't get enough good shots I am always willing to reschedule.  I know that doesn't always work, so if not I'll try my hardest to get the best shots.  Even when we sit down to look at the photos, if you're not happy I'll re-shoot at no cost to you.

Do you have any tips on how to help a grumpy child?  I'm always interested in your ideas and thoughts.