52 in 52 Portraits in ‘23.
My goal for this personal creative project is to create 52 dramatic portraits of people in their homes.
I have set a growth goal for myself. I want to create 52 portraits in 52 weeks, all set in the subjects home environment or other space the person is familiar with. The goal is to create a powerful set of 5 images in 60 minutes. Dramatic portraits. And then publish a book or magazine with the 52 portraits.
Following are images akin to what I would like to create. I would like fashion to be an element of this project. It is time to line up January's portraits. Male, or female.
A few details. We will start planning your session via a Zoom conference to plan wardrobe, the type of look/wardrobe you are comfortable with and to help me understand what your environment looks like, how big it is, what kind of light, etc. I do ask that female subjects get their hair and makeup done professionally. I can offer recommendations. I plan on 45-60 minutes shooting time with a few minutes to setup and take down equipment. I will bring lights without electric cords. My goal will be to create 5 great images. If I deem one of the images to be contest worthy I may withhold that image until after judges have seen it. Currently I am offering these sessions on a “TFP'“ basis. A model release is required for this project so that I may use the images.
I will also need you to sign a model release. If the person being photographed is a minor, I will need a parent or guardian to sign the release.
If you are interested in being photographed this way, please fill out the form below and I will contact you. If you would like to see a gallery of images from other artists that inspired this project please let me know. Be sure to indicate in the notes the 52 in 52 project.
A Brief Guide to Professional Photo Restrictions
The photos that a photographer hands over to you are part of their life’s work. It has their name or branding so there are a few important restrictions to note when it comes to the professional digital images that you receive.
1) Copyright.
The digital images that your photographer provides you with have a copyright, which means the photographer has the option to use those photos to market their work and services anytime in the future. We are however also respectful of our clients so if there are any images that you would prefer to keep private, it’s best to let us know about it ahead of time so that we can honor your wishes.
2) Image type.
We aren’t able to provide you with the original files or raw images. All images given to the client have been cropped and have been edited. If you do require further touch ups we would need to provide you with a quote.
3) Image altering.
While we appreciate your business and welcome the sharing of our photos on social media platforms, we ask that the images not be altered in any way as this is against our copyright policies.
What constitutes image altering?
Adding filters or editing photos in Photoshop
Removing our logo or studio name
Color correcting or including transitions from color to black and white
Clipping people or objects out of the original shot
Braydon Berrett: Healthy Living Guide
What constitutes image altering?
Adding filters or editing photos in Photoshop
Removing our logo or studio name
Color correcting or including transitions from color to black and white
Clipping people or objects out of the original shot
Fall
Fall is one of my top 4 favorite seasons! I love fall. I love canning, camping, gathering with family, and getting ready for Christmas. I still have to get the garden tilled under and harvest the last tomatoes before a hard frost tonight. This fall is different…..I am a first time empty nester. I need to fill my time doing family and personal portraits or go stir crazy! There is a limit to how many times I can re-watch Doc Martin!
Cindy Manwill. Roses and Fall Colors in Millcreek Canyon.
Autumn is such a beautiful time of year. Cooler temperatures means I can use the fireplace while I watch a soccer game. I am already thinking about our children’s portraits in the dining room. What theme do I want that they will love also? Hmmm. But changing them out for a fresh look would be fun.
The Jackson Family
The “Jackson Five”?
For planning purposes you should plan your session to start no later than 6. 5 would be better. I do get up early on Saturdays to take portraits, so if you can muster the fortitude for an 8 am session, let’s do it!
I am happy to do a free consultation or send you my free guide to planning a successful family portrait. Click the button below.
Kendall ChristinFischer: Old Meeting House Sessions
I run a Facebook group for dancers and I met Kendall in that group. She runs Myriad Dance Co. and dances all over the valley. I first photographed her group, Myriad, in a fun and challenging group session using a wash of colors in the set, This time I got Kendall and Arielle Miller and we shot in the ballroom of The Old Meeting House (now scheduled for demolition). This post will feature just Kendall, because each dancer deserves their own posts.
Kendall in front of the old organ at The Old Meeting House.
Kendall dances a variety of dance genres, from ballet, to modern, from hoops to silks. I was struck by how conscientious she is in her work ethic and in her preparation for a dance shoot. I love this kind of mental attitude with dancers as it brings out my best and I find myself even more eager to create with them and give them the very best I can in lighting and a working relationship.
This session was taken during Covid and Kendall brought this fancy bejeweled face mask. We had to get a portrait with it. Does she look part Ninja with it on?
There are a number of options for you when planning a dance portrait session. Starting at $100, there are lots of possibilities. You may find more of Kendall on:
Video review of Kendall’s session.
How to Find the Perfect Photo Shoot Location
Choosing a photo shoot location might seem like a big deal but it really doesn't have to be difficult. A location usually drives some of the other decisions you will need to make about your shoot so it’s important to choose the right place. Here are a few questions to ask yourself before you decide on a location:
1) What kind of theme do I want?
A young family using a fall colors theme. They used clothing colors in harmony with the location.
If a particular building or natural backdrop would work well with your theme, look around your area for spots that meet your requirements. If you don't know what kind of backdrop you want, take an afternoon drive around your city for inspiration. It's easy to overlook beautiful spots that are practically in your backyard. Ask family, friends or your photographer for ideas too.
2) Are you allowed to take pictures there?
We used a public are in front of railroad property to stay legal here.
Make sure that you can legally take pictures at the location that you have in mind. If it's not public property or available to the public you will need to get permission first.
3) Is it accessible?
Consider that not all outdoor locations may be available all year round or you might not be able to get to them at all. Your safety is also an important aspect to think about before you decide on a location. Taking pictures on a mountain ledge may look neat but it’s best not to put yourself in harm’s way.
4) How do you get to your location?
Will it be easy to walk to the session location and if not, are you able to change your clothing and touch up your hair and makeup before the shoot? You should also find out whether there is a restroom that’s close enough in case you need it.
Will the photo session be in a public place?
If the location you have chosen has a lot of foot traffic, you need to ask yourself whether you are comfortable being photographed in front of others. If not, you might want to rethink your choice in location
Duncan Phillips album cover for tribute to “Utah Phillips”
Make sure that your location doesn’t become a distraction and that there is shelter nearby if you need it. Your location tells a story so it’s worthwhile to choose a meaningful spot.
Of course, along with location portraits, I am always ready for a studio session. More on that for next post.