A Photo A Day Project.
Day 18: Today is one of those days where having no plan allows you to take advantage of last minute offers. A friend posted on Facebook that they’d like to ‘shoot’ this afternoon, who’s interested? I know I should be finalising a heap of last minute details in preparation for 3 days of Live in Love workshops, which kick off tomorrow, however I just can’t say no to a fun impromptu shoot 😉
The first person I photographed was Tamaha. I met Tamaha briefly at a previous gathering of photographers and models but did not get the opportunity to shoot with him on that occasion. The image below was the 2nd shot of the afternoon and I was really happy with it for two reasons, it was shot on a lens I rarely shoot on – my 24-105mm; and it was a ‘scenic’ portrait which I also rarely do. I am usually all about the person, the face, the eyes, the expression yet today I chose to try a few different styles. It was clear from the first shot that Tamaha and I were going to work really well together.
A quick change of clothing and we achieved a completely different look. I did process this one as vintage and full colour however the black and white, I feel, is the strongest choice. I’ll include the others below so you can decide for yourself…
I gave Tamaha a break and started photographing Natalie. The weather was closing in on us and it wasn’t long before the skies opened up and my session with Natalie came to an end. Â Elegant and beautiful are words that come to mind when I photograph Natalie.
After the short downpour of rain, the skies cleared and these amazing clouds streaked overhead. I pulled out my fisheye lens (not a lens usually used in portraiture!) and I took this funky ‘Mary Poppins’ inspired shot. Rachel is full of energy and I know that shines through in this image.
Next, we  went for a very harsh look – almost grunge style. I wanted harsh lighting, dramatic shadows and an expression to match. Thank you Rachel, you pulled it off 🙂
I chose the below shot of Tamaha as my photo of the day to emphasise that art often breaks the rules and allows us to capture scenes that will not be to everyone’s taste. It has been suggested to me that I am endorsing smoking – let me assure you I am not. I believe in free choice. This image is purely for artistic purposes. I wanted to create a ‘back alley’ scene and I am happy with the photographic outcome 🙂 Camera settings: ISO 640; f5.6; 1/160th with off camera flash to the right of frame.
Getting out of my ‘office’ and being creative this afternoon is just what the ‘doctor’ ordered! It was such a fabulous afternoon and I must say I am very happy with the results 🙂
Sheryn Ellis, Portrait Photographer.
