Saturday, November 30, 2013
Friday, November 29, 2013
Mix and Match Travel for the Holidays
Holiday party photo shoot? Packing for an event with evening celebrations?
Depending upon the events' "dress code", here are a few options that rely on the key skirt to bring it together.
1. Casual - Go with the tank.
2. Dinner party - a little bit of a flowing hem on a top helps camouflage an indulgent dinner! Also, avoid strapless tops while dining. You'll appear "nude" from across the table.
3. Event - This inexpensive lace top is gorgeous!
Jewelry by Lois Hill is sterling silver and coordinates with everything. I own many Lois Hill pieces and wear them with everything!
When choosing shoes, I chose the light and airy pump that worked with everything.
Have fun!
Sometimes, you only get one chance...
...one chance at capturing those memories.
Hire a pro.
Sometimes, I cringe...
Regarding a wedding that went like this, "We really want to use you, but, we can save money by hiring Uncle Ed." When asked a few weeks later, when I saw Miss Newlywed at the gym, "How did the photos come out?" It seems uncle Ed shot everything at this outdoor wedding in silhouette. Then he boosted his ISO to the point where everything was "white". The bride's response, "We are hoping that some of the guests took good photos."
Or the Bar Mitzvah where an inexperienced bar mitzvah photographer/videographer was hired, and walked around during the prayers, snapping photos or taking video. And without a zoom, walked up to the bimah to get close-ups. Not only was this a distraction to the rabbi, but to the whole congregation that came to view this special event in a young man's life. I don't know how the photos or video came out...I wasn't there. But, I heard about it.
Or the Bar Mitzvah, where I was invited as a guest, and thought to talk to the photographer hired by an event company. He confided, "I've never been to one of these. In fact, I was called just two hours ago to fill in for someone else." He further confided that he was not an event photographer at all. And, it was obvious, in the two hour lead time, based upon our discussion, that he had not done any research regarding a Bar Mitzvah. (Make sure you get the chair dance! - "Huh?")
Do yourself a favor: LOOK at the photographers portfolio. If you see:
blurry (and not because of bokeh), out of focus, arms and legs cut off in odd places, crooked horizon lines, bad coloring (bluish or green faces) - that photographer has a LOT to learn.
Hire a pro.
Sometimes, I cringe...
Regarding a wedding that went like this, "We really want to use you, but, we can save money by hiring Uncle Ed." When asked a few weeks later, when I saw Miss Newlywed at the gym, "How did the photos come out?" It seems uncle Ed shot everything at this outdoor wedding in silhouette. Then he boosted his ISO to the point where everything was "white". The bride's response, "We are hoping that some of the guests took good photos."
Or the Bar Mitzvah where an inexperienced bar mitzvah photographer/videographer was hired, and walked around during the prayers, snapping photos or taking video. And without a zoom, walked up to the bimah to get close-ups. Not only was this a distraction to the rabbi, but to the whole congregation that came to view this special event in a young man's life. I don't know how the photos or video came out...I wasn't there. But, I heard about it.
Or the Bar Mitzvah, where I was invited as a guest, and thought to talk to the photographer hired by an event company. He confided, "I've never been to one of these. In fact, I was called just two hours ago to fill in for someone else." He further confided that he was not an event photographer at all. And, it was obvious, in the two hour lead time, based upon our discussion, that he had not done any research regarding a Bar Mitzvah. (Make sure you get the chair dance! - "Huh?")
Do yourself a favor: LOOK at the photographers portfolio. If you see:
blurry (and not because of bokeh), out of focus, arms and legs cut off in odd places, crooked horizon lines, bad coloring (bluish or green faces) - that photographer has a LOT to learn.
Monday, November 18, 2013
The words a photographer loves to hear...
"You deserve to be compensated fairly."
Wow. Someone gets it. You see, I've never walked into my dentist or doctor and asked for a break in rates. I know that I'm paying a professional for professional services. For years of education, continued education, for insurance, for upkeep of equipment, new equipment, for advertising, for websites, for cell phone, for space, for...
So, what is "fair" when "fair" has so many variables?
But, I hear rate negotiation games often as a photographer, as do my fellow photogs.
So, how do we set our rates? There are many factors that play a part. This, in no means, is a complete list. But, I hope it gets you thinking...
Experience.
Enough said.
Education.
The more we have, the better we become. Doctors, attorneys, teachers - all have to further their education on an annual basis. Your photographer should, too. Education is not free. I have traveled to WPPI and other seminars. I attend "Live" classes on weekends and weeknights, from my computer. I read publications and websites. All to learn - for you. And, I get out and practice what I've learned - so I get it right - for you - BEFORE you hire me.
Knowledge.
Know how. If you've got the equipment, you should know how to use it. If you call on me for a paid shoot, you expect I can deliver. However, I will tell you, as a pro, if your job is something I cannot do or will not do, I will suggest someone who can. (I will not do nude couple shoots. Nope.) And since I'm referring out, be assured I've scrutinized the work of photographers I'm suggesting you consider in lieu of me.
Camera Equipment.
In order to do my job, I have to have awesome equipment. I buy the BEST lenses Nikon makes. I have not one full frame pro Nikon camera, but two. I work on a BIG MAC - and have external drives. Lots of them.
Lighting equipment.
Portable soft boxes, and batteries. Gary Fong. Portable strobes - SB800, SB900...
Not cheap. But, that's one more reason why my photos stand out a bit more...I like to take my studio on location with me!
Computer software.
You know, that stuff we need to edit with. Picasa won't do. I-Photo? Nope. But, that company called Adobe? I should have taken stock.
Other equipment.
Tripods. Memory cards. Extra batteries. A double camera vest. A pelican case. Several Think Tank bags. Lowe pro bags. Photographer's gloves. (Hey, it gets cold in Utah!)
Time.
Time is money. Time is a valuable commodity. Once it is gone, we cannot get it back. Most people only see the time we spend taking the images of you. Let me break time down into the varied segments:
1.) Talking with you. Planning, discussing wants and needs, rates and packages, emails and phone calls.
2.) On the front end, I must spend at least thirty minutes organizing the shoot, packing for it, double checking my list before I head out the door. Then, I have to drive there...
3.) Shoot time. You got this!
4.) On the back end, I must upload, organize, tag, name, edit, enhance, crop, remove acne, color correct (darn, those lights!), send to gallery...Often, we take time away from our families to do work in post - often after hours. Until midnight. Or two in the morning. Because YOU have a deadline. For every hour in front of the camera, I calculate two in post.
Marketing and websites and a blog site and cell phone.
You've got to find me!
Insurance.
Just in case.
My eye.
Only I possess it. It is, after all, what makes my work and my style. My vision. It is why several people can take the same "picture", but everyone "gets" something different. My "eye" is unique to me. Always make sure you like your photographer's eye. If not, you'll not be satisfied.
Pay thyself.
I almost forgot about this!
I chuckle here, as I've heard, "I'll give you photo credit in our magazine." Um, Utah Power won't take photo credit to keep my lights on and my Mac running. Or, "I'll put a link on our (obscure) website." And Questar Gas will keep my house warm with that?
Bookkeeping and accountant.
Gotta pay them.
Uncle Sam.
Yup, he takes a hunk. I've got to plan for that as well.
Photography is a business like any other. Those of us who are pros, deserve to be treated as such.
Wow. Someone gets it. You see, I've never walked into my dentist or doctor and asked for a break in rates. I know that I'm paying a professional for professional services. For years of education, continued education, for insurance, for upkeep of equipment, new equipment, for advertising, for websites, for cell phone, for space, for...
So, what is "fair" when "fair" has so many variables?
But, I hear rate negotiation games often as a photographer, as do my fellow photogs.
So, how do we set our rates? There are many factors that play a part. This, in no means, is a complete list. But, I hope it gets you thinking...
Experience.
Enough said.
Education.
The more we have, the better we become. Doctors, attorneys, teachers - all have to further their education on an annual basis. Your photographer should, too. Education is not free. I have traveled to WPPI and other seminars. I attend "Live" classes on weekends and weeknights, from my computer. I read publications and websites. All to learn - for you. And, I get out and practice what I've learned - so I get it right - for you - BEFORE you hire me.
Knowledge.
Know how. If you've got the equipment, you should know how to use it. If you call on me for a paid shoot, you expect I can deliver. However, I will tell you, as a pro, if your job is something I cannot do or will not do, I will suggest someone who can. (I will not do nude couple shoots. Nope.) And since I'm referring out, be assured I've scrutinized the work of photographers I'm suggesting you consider in lieu of me.
Camera Equipment.
In order to do my job, I have to have awesome equipment. I buy the BEST lenses Nikon makes. I have not one full frame pro Nikon camera, but two. I work on a BIG MAC - and have external drives. Lots of them.
Lighting equipment.
Portable soft boxes, and batteries. Gary Fong. Portable strobes - SB800, SB900...
Not cheap. But, that's one more reason why my photos stand out a bit more...I like to take my studio on location with me!
Computer software.
You know, that stuff we need to edit with. Picasa won't do. I-Photo? Nope. But, that company called Adobe? I should have taken stock.
Other equipment.
Tripods. Memory cards. Extra batteries. A double camera vest. A pelican case. Several Think Tank bags. Lowe pro bags. Photographer's gloves. (Hey, it gets cold in Utah!)
Time.
Time is money. Time is a valuable commodity. Once it is gone, we cannot get it back. Most people only see the time we spend taking the images of you. Let me break time down into the varied segments:
1.) Talking with you. Planning, discussing wants and needs, rates and packages, emails and phone calls.
2.) On the front end, I must spend at least thirty minutes organizing the shoot, packing for it, double checking my list before I head out the door. Then, I have to drive there...
3.) Shoot time. You got this!
4.) On the back end, I must upload, organize, tag, name, edit, enhance, crop, remove acne, color correct (darn, those lights!), send to gallery...Often, we take time away from our families to do work in post - often after hours. Until midnight. Or two in the morning. Because YOU have a deadline. For every hour in front of the camera, I calculate two in post.
Marketing and websites and a blog site and cell phone.
You've got to find me!
Insurance.
Just in case.
My eye.
Only I possess it. It is, after all, what makes my work and my style. My vision. It is why several people can take the same "picture", but everyone "gets" something different. My "eye" is unique to me. Always make sure you like your photographer's eye. If not, you'll not be satisfied.
Pay thyself.
I almost forgot about this!
I chuckle here, as I've heard, "I'll give you photo credit in our magazine." Um, Utah Power won't take photo credit to keep my lights on and my Mac running. Or, "I'll put a link on our (obscure) website." And Questar Gas will keep my house warm with that?
Bookkeeping and accountant.
Gotta pay them.
Uncle Sam.
Yup, he takes a hunk. I've got to plan for that as well.
Photography is a business like any other. Those of us who are pros, deserve to be treated as such.
Sunday, November 17, 2013
Discussion with a future bride...
An ecstatic bride-to-be called me earlier this week, excited, because not only did "he" propose, but, she had narrowed down "THE day". Her first question to me, "How much do you charge for a wedding?". Our conversation went something like this...
She: So, I'm getting married, and I heard you shoot weddings. How much do you charge?
Me: Congrats! It depends upon a lot of things...what are your wants, needs, and desires, photographically?
She: Well, for someone to take pictures.
Me: Let's talk about the images you may want: engagements, bridals, groomals, first look, ceremony, party afterwards...
She: Wow. I didn't think of all of that!
Me: What are you looking for end result wise: A book? Leather bound with your name engraved with copies for your parents? Pocket sized to show off? A print for your wall? Hundreds of images printed and presented in a box? A video montage of the day?
She: I didn't think of that, either. But, I spoke to one guy, he said he'd shoot my wedding for $1000, and another guy said $2500. Are these good prices?
Me: What are you "getting" for those prices?
She: I don't know.
Me: Before you hire any photographer, take a look at their work. If you don't like their style, it won't matter what you've spent, you'll be unhappy in the end. Think of it this way: The ONLY thing you'll have weeks, years, and decades later - will be your photographs of the day. People will forget the amazingly gorgeous dress that you hunted every bridal shop from here to LA for (but, they'll remember it was amazingly gorgeous); they'll forget the food; they'll forget the band (but remember the genre). But, with the right photographer, all of that will be preserved perfectly in photos.
She: Oh...
Me: Create a spread sheet of photographers whose work you like. Call them. If you are shopping based upon a budgeted amount, let the photographer know. Say, "I have a budget of $2500 for my wedding. What can we do?" You need to like the photographer first, then, discuss what you get for a price. Will you have one photographer, or will there also be a second shooter? Is the price for time only, or for prints or a book as well?
She: I don't know my budget yet.
Me: Location matters, too. For example, if you are getting married in another state, or a distance away, then that will add to the cost.
When I left the conversation with her - I asked that she think about the things she wants and desires photographically - after all, the wedding is ten months away. And, I asked her to promise me that she first look at the photographer's work, because it is not good to hire your photographer based upon dollars alone. That just doesn't make sense.
#parkcityphotographer #utah #wedding #engagements # bride # fineart #portraiture #dekoff #photographer
She: So, I'm getting married, and I heard you shoot weddings. How much do you charge?
Me: Congrats! It depends upon a lot of things...what are your wants, needs, and desires, photographically?
She: Well, for someone to take pictures.
Me: Let's talk about the images you may want: engagements, bridals, groomals, first look, ceremony, party afterwards...
She: Wow. I didn't think of all of that!
Me: What are you looking for end result wise: A book? Leather bound with your name engraved with copies for your parents? Pocket sized to show off? A print for your wall? Hundreds of images printed and presented in a box? A video montage of the day?
She: I didn't think of that, either. But, I spoke to one guy, he said he'd shoot my wedding for $1000, and another guy said $2500. Are these good prices?
Me: What are you "getting" for those prices?
She: I don't know.
Me: Before you hire any photographer, take a look at their work. If you don't like their style, it won't matter what you've spent, you'll be unhappy in the end. Think of it this way: The ONLY thing you'll have weeks, years, and decades later - will be your photographs of the day. People will forget the amazingly gorgeous dress that you hunted every bridal shop from here to LA for (but, they'll remember it was amazingly gorgeous); they'll forget the food; they'll forget the band (but remember the genre). But, with the right photographer, all of that will be preserved perfectly in photos.
She: Oh...
Me: Create a spread sheet of photographers whose work you like. Call them. If you are shopping based upon a budgeted amount, let the photographer know. Say, "I have a budget of $2500 for my wedding. What can we do?" You need to like the photographer first, then, discuss what you get for a price. Will you have one photographer, or will there also be a second shooter? Is the price for time only, or for prints or a book as well?
She: I don't know my budget yet.
Me: Location matters, too. For example, if you are getting married in another state, or a distance away, then that will add to the cost.
When I left the conversation with her - I asked that she think about the things she wants and desires photographically - after all, the wedding is ten months away. And, I asked her to promise me that she first look at the photographer's work, because it is not good to hire your photographer based upon dollars alone. That just doesn't make sense.
#parkcityphotographer #utah #wedding #engagements # bride # fineart #portraiture #dekoff #photographer
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Hanukkah Style - Park City Style
A holiday party often calls for a bit of elegance. For a festive Hanukkah party, this is EXACTLY what I would personally choose to wear: A deep blue dress that would draw oohs and aahs from across the room. Gorgeous earrings to match. Shoes that are exquisite. A manicure in silver, and eyeshadow with a silver and grayish hue - not overdone - but simple and elegant. Finish the Hanukkah Holiday look with the Star of David necklace - hopefully from your Hanukkah Harry. Tonight, you'll be lucky when you spin the dreidel!
Park City Photographers is available to capture holiday celebrations for you. Whether it is a Hanukkah Party or Christmas Celebration, we can be there - capturing all of the special moments in time.
Park City Photographers is available to capture holiday celebrations for you. Whether it is a Hanukkah Party or Christmas Celebration, we can be there - capturing all of the special moments in time.
Monday, November 4, 2013
Family Photos! What to wear? Or what not to wear...that is the question.
One question that is posed often for family photos is..."What should we wear?" Ultimately, the decision is yours, however, here are some suggestions that might help you make choices you'll be pleased with for years to come.
Creating memories that will last a lifetime is a special event and the key to a happy session starts with prepping the group early. Begin by talking about colors in clothing, your look and style, and the "no-no's". By allowing groups members a little bit of choice during an open discussion, you'll have greater buy-in, they'll be happier during the shoot - and happiness comes across in the photos.
Next, talk about special locations. Whether you choose iconic Park City or a great grove of trees that can be "anywhere USA", we'll happily help you select that special place!
The time of day is very important in a group shot as well. Although we pack powerful strobes and shoot strobist style, no strobe can "beat" the harsh shadows cast by a noon day sun. Choose early morning or evening 1.5 hour prior to sunset for best results.
For large groups, we'll begin with the full group portrait, then move to the families with the youngest - and antsiest - children.
Clothing:
Coordinating clothing and colors always looks the best. That doesn't mean "matchy-matchy" if that's not your style. It means giving your group a color "trio" to work with. Plaid on one person makes that person stand out - especially if the rest of the group is wearing solids. However, if this is "balanced" with one other person wearing a similar toned plaid, that one will not stand out as much. Plaids can work - if color tones complement each other and the setting is right.
Bold patterns will take the eye from the faces in the photo to the clothing instead. For this reason, I discourage big bold patterns.
Also be wary of items deemed very trendy. If the portrait is to have a "life on the wall", you'll be happier without a trend that shouts the year.
Be careful of bright colors! The eye will go directly to the brightest spot in a photo AND those bright yellow, red, or orange pants. And, if you have teenage boys, watch the shoes! We are often asked if we can change the color of clothing items in post production. (See how that red jumped out at you from the top of this page?)
Ladies: watch out for plunging necklines, large button holes, and too much jewelry. Again, bold patterns and wild patterns are attention grabbers - so be wary of this, too. (I LOVE leopard print! But, I don't want to look like I'm on safari! If you must, choose one item with something fun.)
Be sure to check in with your group making sure EVERYONE is wearing SAME SEASON attire. For example - everyone is dressed for winter except for cousin Ali - she's wearing her favorite summer sundress.
RELAX!
Finally, if you, the organizer of the shoot is feeling stressed, the rest of the group will feel stressed as well. Talk up the session a few days before. Tell your group that you are "excited" and that this will be "fun". Get them thinking of a fun final photo of the family. It will only take a minute more and give kids something to look forward to!
Sites with great outfit choices:
Pinterest!
Polyvore (individuals)
#parkcity #photos #family #session #utah #parkcityphotographers #whattowear #choices #portraits
Creating memories that will last a lifetime is a special event and the key to a happy session starts with prepping the group early. Begin by talking about colors in clothing, your look and style, and the "no-no's". By allowing groups members a little bit of choice during an open discussion, you'll have greater buy-in, they'll be happier during the shoot - and happiness comes across in the photos.
Next, talk about special locations. Whether you choose iconic Park City or a great grove of trees that can be "anywhere USA", we'll happily help you select that special place!
The time of day is very important in a group shot as well. Although we pack powerful strobes and shoot strobist style, no strobe can "beat" the harsh shadows cast by a noon day sun. Choose early morning or evening 1.5 hour prior to sunset for best results.
For large groups, we'll begin with the full group portrait, then move to the families with the youngest - and antsiest - children.
Clothing:
Coordinating clothing and colors always looks the best. That doesn't mean "matchy-matchy" if that's not your style. It means giving your group a color "trio" to work with. Plaid on one person makes that person stand out - especially if the rest of the group is wearing solids. However, if this is "balanced" with one other person wearing a similar toned plaid, that one will not stand out as much. Plaids can work - if color tones complement each other and the setting is right.
Bold patterns will take the eye from the faces in the photo to the clothing instead. For this reason, I discourage big bold patterns.
Also be wary of items deemed very trendy. If the portrait is to have a "life on the wall", you'll be happier without a trend that shouts the year.
Be careful of bright colors! The eye will go directly to the brightest spot in a photo AND those bright yellow, red, or orange pants. And, if you have teenage boys, watch the shoes! We are often asked if we can change the color of clothing items in post production. (See how that red jumped out at you from the top of this page?)
Ladies: watch out for plunging necklines, large button holes, and too much jewelry. Again, bold patterns and wild patterns are attention grabbers - so be wary of this, too. (I LOVE leopard print! But, I don't want to look like I'm on safari! If you must, choose one item with something fun.)
Be sure to check in with your group making sure EVERYONE is wearing SAME SEASON attire. For example - everyone is dressed for winter except for cousin Ali - she's wearing her favorite summer sundress.
RELAX!
Finally, if you, the organizer of the shoot is feeling stressed, the rest of the group will feel stressed as well. Talk up the session a few days before. Tell your group that you are "excited" and that this will be "fun". Get them thinking of a fun final photo of the family. It will only take a minute more and give kids something to look forward to!
Sites with great outfit choices:
Pinterest!
Polyvore (individuals)
#parkcity #photos #family #session #utah #parkcityphotographers #whattowear #choices #portraits
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)