shawnoneil
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Staff Winter Selection 2015
Same photographer See allBehind The Lens
Behind The Lens
Location
This photo was taken at a resort in Jamaica; Ann-Marie (a close family friend) was having her destination wedding there. They hadn't hired a photographer, so I volunteered to fill in. I actually thought this shot wouldn't work out, but my sister convinced me to try it anyway--I'm glad she did.Time
This was in the late afternoon, probably around 4pm. Ann-Marie was walking around before the ceremony, just hanging out with family.Lighting
If one is looking for flattering lighting, it's hard to beat Jamaica in the late afternoon/evening!Equipment
Took this with my old Canon 10D and my regular walk-around lens, Tamron 28-75 F2.8, no other equipment.Inspiration
Actually I wasn't initially inspired for this one, my sister recommended that she climb to the the upper-level of the gazebo and look out the window. I had thought the colors of the wood were too bland, but in the end it highlights her skin tone, eyes, etc.Editing
The shadows needed bringing up a bit to add some detail to her hair, and this one needed cropping (it was initially too wide to draw the eye). I've since learned to crop more in camera and use longer focal lengths for portraiture.In my camera bag
I still have my trusty Tamron 28-75, but I've upgraded to a Canon 7D (I'm actually wishing I had switched to something more portable!) I also shoot a lot now with a 12-24mm Tokina as I enjoy landscape photography.Feedback
Framing the subject not only directs the eye, but also provides some context (in this case perhaps just that she was in a gazebo of some kind). Try to find opportunities to practice on friends, because they don't sit still and you'll have to work fast--but unlike wildlife, you may get a second chance at a shot if you ask nicely.