Senior Pictures

So, today was senior picture day for my gorgeous sister-in-law Kesley. I was so honored, and totally nervous when she asked me to take her senior pictures--I have a background in photography, but people photography was never my strong point, let along portrait photography. Anyway, Kelsey and I talked about all sorts of potential pictures we could do. She wanted to start with pictures in the park, and then move on to some more "industrial" settings--like the railroad tracks and a brick wall. I know the shot she REALLY wanted was a picture of her with some colorful leaves in the background, and honestly, I'm not sure that I delivered. I also didn't get one that I loved with her and her guitar. I had a lot of trouble with shooting in the park. Overall, I probably shot 5 rolls of film and maybe ended up with 30 shots that I really, really like. Here's what I learned:

1. Weird lighting abounds in the park! I can't tell you how many of her pictures have splotchy-leaf lighting and shadows all over her face! I tried to avoid it whenever possible, but there was STILL a ton of it. Next time, I need to remember to bring our silver car sunshade with us and use it as a light reflector.

2. Additionally, the park is all very dark due to the lush foilage. We probably should have started with the bricks and such and ended at the park when the light was at its best.

3. I cannot WAIT to go digital SLR. You can instantly see what's working and what's not. Plus, the resolution is better than in the scanned-in film version, which in turn allows me a lot more flexibility in doing fun things in Photoshop.

4. Black shirt = Yummy pictures. Originally, I told Kels to stay away from black and to go for color. At the last minute, I had her throw on a black sweater because I thought it would look nice against the brick wall. I'm glad she did 'cause the ones where she's in black are all my favorites!

5. Don't be afraid to use the environment. No one told us that we weren't allowed to be on the railroad tracks. The owners of the brick building and blue house didn't shoo us away. Granted, the blue "house" was actually a business and it didn't look like anyone was there. My point is not to be afraid to use your surroundings! The worst that can happen is that someone might ask you to leave. And if you're quick, you'll already have a great shot by then :)