It's In the Eye...

When you look at a picture that someone has created; what is it about that picture that either catches your eye or lets you just pass it by without another thought. Is it something like, "Oh, it's just a picture anyone can do that" or the other end of the spectrum "Wow that is just so breath taking - where is that?"

There are some people out there in both sides and some in the middle on this subject. Unfortunately for the ones that think anyone can do that are also the ones who don't go out there and try it either. Now don't get me wrong there are some pictures out there that I wonder why on earth did they shoot that? But that also brings me to my main point that an acquaintance reminded me of the other day. And that is all art including painting, photographs or even digital design "beauty is in the eye of the beholder". One day something like the above photo will be the most popular style going the next day it could be something totaly abstract or even something like this next photo. It seems at least lately that a lot of people are attracted to the more rustic looking pieces. And if they happen to be framed in some of those old wood looking frames all the better.

I could stop here and just talk about inanimate type subject matter, however this topic spills over into other types of photography as well. A prime example would be portraiture; more specifically I think would be Wedding portraits. There is so many different styles out there it boggles the mind. Suffice to say though that it all boils down to particular taste just as with the nature/rustic types. A good friend of mine is also a photographer but we have too somewhat different styles. She's what's called a Photo Journalist and I lean towards what is called a Portrait Journalist. The basic difference would be the photo journalist style keeps to "the as things happen" mode where as the portrait journalist will have a bit more hands on involvement in the posing especially after the ceremony when the formals are taken.

With Wedding season fast approaching I also thought I would mention some things for some of the Brides to be to keep in mind.

1) Book the photographer as early as possible. Most of the more popular photographers book at least a year in advance. More importantly scrutinize the particular photographer's, that will be working your day (if it is a bigger company), portfolio. Don't just go by what is on the wall's.

2)If the choice is to use a friend or family member be sure to take a good look at there people type photos and not just there holiday photos. Taking wedding portraits are quite different and even though it is definitely cheaper to go this way; there are no guarantees to have the photo's to turn out. Not to mention having to re-do them and not be able to catch the same moments or feelings again.

3) Consider having a prospective photographer take some engagement pictures for you. This can help to make sure a) you feel comfortable working with them and b) both of you like the style of the photos taken.

4)Once the photographer has been booked keep in regular contact with them. Talk with them about your ideas of what you would like in your package as well as in the photos themselves. This will also give you early warning signs if things aren't going to work for you with that photographer's service. Consider making a list of what is important to you to have included (i.e. special members of the family). Once you have gone over it a few times give a copy of the list to the photographer to keep on file for your day.

5) Above all - this is a day that you want fond memories of, so be honest about what you see and if at all possible don't settle for less than you want for the price you can afford.


If you haven't guessed already, I do love to take wedding portraits just as much as the landscape /nature type pieces. In some ways a lot more. So if there is anyone out there still looking for a photographer and you like what you see here, I do encourage you to leave me a note. I would love to help you make your day special.


Another option for those of you on Facebook is to check out my portfolio there as well. The address is:http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=870200116#/album.php?aid=23381&id=870200116