Amy S. Davis Photography
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Behind the Scenes

11/28/2012

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Ever wonder how photographers get such awesome photos in ways that seem impossible? The truth is, they really aren't that impossible after all. Many times, a photographer has to be very innovative to get the shot he/she wants. The trick is being creative and picturing the image you want in your head before you snap the camera. I have often times used whatever I had on hand to get the image I want.
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Yes, this includes using an assistant's back pocket to hold up the backdrop. However, you would have never been able to tell by just looking at the image I took of the baby, would you? 
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Taking pictures doesn't have to be a dream out of reach. And it definitely doesn't have to done in a fancy studio with expensive materials. Here, we shot in the client's doorway simply because it offered the best lighting. I used materials I had at home (colorful bead necklaces, a play crown, a simple scarf, and a fluffy blanket) to make this image a true and original composition. 
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To make this shoot even more personal I asked the client if they had any props they would like to add or use. She happened to have this sweet girl's first stuffed bunny, which you see in the image. It helps to make the photographs unique to that particular client. Plus, the clients like the personal touches that go into their photo shoot with you! 

Don't be afraid to get on a personal level with your clients. Chances are they're more nervous than you are! If your client seems stiff, take a moment to simply talk to your client. Discuss things that are personal and specific to them ("I love this jacket you are wearing! Where did you get it?") Anything to help them take their mind off of being in front of the camera for a moment. 
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Now I'm not saying you have to find out their life story and every intimate detail, but many clients just want to know you are more than just a person behind this camera clicking away. With children, this can be very important. Some can be very shy at first. As a teacher, I know that many times children feel awkward around strange adults until you show interest in something they're interested in. Don't be afraid of acting a little silly just to get them to smile. Your smile will probably make them smile! And don't forget an important asset you have at your finger-tips: the parents! Parents are usually more than willing to help you in any way. All you need to do is ask!
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I hope this helps any photographer, novice or otherwise. And just remember, you can become a great photographer with a little creativity and a lot of practice! Good luck and if you have any questions, shoot me an email under the 'contact me' tab at the top. 
                                                              
 -Amy
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Thanksgiving Photographs

11/7/2012

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Thinking of bringing your camera to that giant stuffing fest we call Thanksgiving? Taking pictures of family at events like this is a great idea, but here are some helpful tips that might revamp your pictures while still capturing the essence of that Thanksgiving gathering.
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6 Simple and Effective Thanksgiving Photo Tips
By Allan Peterson
The autumn season brings about trees covered in yellow gold leaves, spooky Halloween tricks and also the special occasion of Thanksgiving. During this time, Americans and Canadians celebrate by having family dinners which usually end up being quite memorable. But memories fade and digital pictures don’t so if you want to record everything that has to do with Thanksgiving, whip out your digital camera and read this fabulous photo tips:

Take pictures of the food – Thanksgiving is well known for its dinners and people go out of their way to make sure the Thanksgiving meal is perfect in every aspect. There are staple dishes such as the roasted turkey, the pies and the mashed potatoes. Brush up on your food photography techniques and take photos of the meal that has been lovingly prepared. You can get close and shoot the textures and details of the golden turkey or step back and include the entire dinner table in your shot. These food shots can then be included in your stock portfolio if you are a member of a stock site. 

Be creative with group shots – families often make it a point to gather together to celebrate during this occasion. This is the perfect opportunity to take some pictures of family members interacting and enjoying each other’s company. Take fun and creative shots aside from the traditional poses where people are staring straight at the camera.

Use a wide-angle lens if you have one – this type of lens can capture a wide area at a shorter focal distance compared to other lens types. This allows you to get everyone in the family included in the shot without you having to step back too far. You can also have more of the table laden with food. Wide-angle lenses are great for indoor shots where there isn't much room to position yourself to take pictures.

Don’t take pictures of people eating – your family and guests most likely won’t want their pictures taken while they are chewing or swallowing their food. They might feel conscious and end up not enjoying the delicious meal and have you to blame for it. Instead, why not take photos of them before they are about to eat. It will be less intrusive plus the feast will still look great while untouched.

Take candid shots – the characters of people come out when they aren't asked to pose and smile at the camera. Thanksgiving provides numerous instances for interactions and special moments with the family. Parents and grown-up children might see each other again after many months of being apart, young children will be exuding excitement and the designated cook will be busy in the kitchen preparing for the evening feast. Go around the house and catch moments between people or people doing an activity such as setting the table while swapping stories, these little things that are a part of what Thanksgiving is all about.

Include yourself in some of the shots – during gatherings, the designated photographer often ends up having no pictures of themselves. Don’t forget to also take pictures of yourself having fun with relatives and friends by using the camera timer and setting the camera on a tripod or a steady surface like a table. Thanksgiving is for the whole family and the pictures should show that you were also in the celebration.

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    So I'm Amy! I am a elementary and jr. high teacher who also happens to LOVE photography! 

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