Say hello to ViewBug community member Tressiedavis. "I love lists, photography and nature. I dislike public speaking. I am the girl that laughs at things that no one else finds funny, and I contend that I am a (mildly inappropriate) product of my environment. I can't sing, I spend far too much time on the internet and Awkward is my middle name. I would much rather eat Deep Fried Cheesecake than go to the gym. Photography is my passion."
Learn the story and details behind the photo "With You" that won contest finalist in Walk Away Photo Contest.
Location
This photo was taken in the field behind my mother in laws house - a favorite spot for my children and me.
Time & Lighting
Early evening, around 6:30pm or so, all available, natural light, no flash or added light.
Equipment
Nikon D3, 70-200mm @ 200mm f/2.8 1/160
Inspiration
I found the butterfly wings at a local costume shop, and built the shoot around those because I thought they were beautiful. I imagined magic and happiness and friendship as a feeling for the image. The Girls are wearing skirts and tank tops from Target, my son is wearing a Star Wars Jedi Robe.
Editing
Quite a bit of post processing. I did the normal color correct, sharpen, levels - then added a warm overlay to enhance the color of the evening sun, then a texture overlay and vignette for the edges to bring attention to the subjects in the center. I masked out the texture from the children.
Feedback
For themed shoots, try building the images around a prop and a feeling - in this case the butterfly wings and magic. Heavy editing is not always necessary, but in this case when trying to create a fairy tale feel to the location, I think it works. Shooting with the sun lower in the sky does wonders for the tone and mood of an image like this, and be mindful that your location matches the theme (ie: this would not have worked in an urban area or on a perfectly landscaped lawn). When shooting with children, PLAY and have fun.
In My Camera Bag
I normally carry my Nikon D800 for portrait shoots (D3 for sports), and I always have my Nikkor 24-70mm 2.8, and Nikkor 70-200mm 2.8. I do carry an SB600 speedlight, but rarely use it, and my most recent purchase and new favorite lens is the Nikkor 85mm 1.4, so depending on the situation I may take that instead of the 70-200.
