Snapping Life: How I Balance Family Portraits with Buildings and Everything In-Between
Let me kick things off by saying, capturing perfect photographs isn't just about pressing a button—it's an art form that I've turned into an adventure for me and my quirky crew. From architectural marvels to spontaneous family portraits at our chaotic backyard BBQs, here's my take on keeping all these plates spinning.
Why I Embrace the Chaos of On-Location Photography
Ever tried organizing a photo shoot with three kids, two of whom wouldn't sit still if they were glued down, and one who’s a budding art critic? Add in a couple of dogs who think every moment is playtime, and you've got my typical Saturday afternoon. On-location photography isn’t just a job; it’s a test of patience and agility where anything can happen—and does.
Whether we’re downtown capturing the sleek lines of the latest high-rises, or in some muddy field because my daughter insists the lighting is just ‘magical’ at 5 PM, every location adds its flavor to the shoot, making each photo uniquely challenging and rewarding.
Studio Photography: My Controlled Creative Haven
When I step into my studio, it’s like stepping into another world where I’m in total control—well, as much control as one can have with a lively family and their equally energetic pets. Here, the chaos is curated, and the creativity is concentrated. It's just me, my subjects, and a canvas waiting to be filled.
From crafting thematic family portraits that could rival any Renaissance painting (heavy on the drama, light on the togas) to experimental shots that make use of every random prop we’ve accumulated over the years (don’t ask about the rubber chicken), the studio is where I bring my wildest visual concepts to life.
Architectural Photography: The Art of Angles and Light
Now, I love my family to the moon and back, but there’s something serene about being alone with a building and my camera. It’s just me and the structure, discussing the best angles, whispering sweet nothings about shadow play. If buildings could talk, they’d probably ask me to take a quick snap and move along.
How to Capture Everything Without Losing Your Mind
- Invest in a good planner—or three. One for family, one for business, and one for those ‘oops’ moments.
- Keep your gear packed. You never know when the perfect shot—or a school project on architectural marvels—will present itself.
- Embrace the chaos. Some of my best shots have come from unplanned moments.
- Never say no to help. Yes, even from your eight-year-old. Especially from your eight-year-old.
- Always keep a spare camera. Because kids, dogs, life.
And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. But hey, who needs sleep when you have coffee and passion, right?
The joy of photography for me isn't just about preserving moments; it's about creating them with the ones I love, in places that tell their own stories. In my experience, there’s nothing quite like seeing the world through a lens—it makes you appreciate the little things, and sometimes, those little things make the best pictures. So, what’s your go-to strategy for capturing life's unpredictable moments? Drop your thoughts below!
