shellycain
FollowMaternity session after a large storm had just ended in San Diego.
Maternity session after a large storm had just ended in San Diego.
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Behind The Lens
Location
This image was taken in San Diego, CA at the Scripps Pier.Time
This was taken about a minute before the sun had set completely.Lighting
The sunset was getting better as each minute passed and so I exposed for the sunset with my camera. This was so that I could keep the deep rich colors and variation that was developing before our eyes. I then filled in my client with the flash. I had a wonderful time with my clients and tried my best to do the sunset justice that literally looked like a painting in the background.Equipment
This was shot with Canon 5D Mark III , 50 1.2 & Canon Speedlte FlashInspiration
This couple described themselves as "beach people" and wanted a very romantic and dramatic look for their maternity photos that encompassed the Southern California feel. This location is a very popular location for surfers and I thought accomplished what my client was looking for. Everything came together, especially for the last few sunset images with the pier and surfer coming out of the water, which is shown in this image.Editing
I shoot RAW and complete my post processing in Lightroom. Because I exposed for the sky and it was stunning that evening there wasn't too much to do. I bumped up my exposure slightly, added a little warmth and contrast. I brought my whites up quite a bit and brought the blacks down for a little more dramatic look, especially at the bottom of the image on the sand. The flash already created a spot light in the sand, making those changes defined it more.In my camera bag
5D Mark III, 50 1.2, 16-35 2.8, 24-70 2.8, Speedlite 580EXFeedback
Beach sessions in Southern California can be difficult if you are trying to capture deep rich color in the sky while taking a portrait. Weather is a huge factor if there are no clouds or haze, it is difficult to achieve this same look, if there are too many clouds and a thick marine layer you can sometimes get no sunset at all. I exposed for the sunset on my cameral and then used the flash to fill in my subject. Keeping the flash overhead and off to the side of my camera.