(Image Left) One wall of my studio has no windows, so for the first shot I pulled her in close to that wall and used a black v-flat. A v-flat is a black or white from board linked together to make a v. I used the black v-flat out of the frame to soak up some light. Additionally, I used it to give me some soft rembrandt lighting to contour her face, shoulders, and give some depth to the dress. To get her shoulders back, I had her fluff her dress from underneath. I told her I wanted her to look serious with her lip barley open. I really wanted her gaze to pull you in.
(Image Right) The shot on the right is actually a composite of three shots. I wanted a ton of movement in the dress. So, I had her lift her dress and drop each side. Then, I posed her without movement for the third shot. I pulled her closer to the light source (window) and I diffused the light less. I also added some constant light to the left of the shot. The backdrops (image right) are just paper drops. I used textures in PS later to achieve the look I wanted.
What I love most about this shot is how comfortable they look. Most of my posing for this session was asking them to hug in close, and close their eyes. I had two windows to my right for light. It was a dim day, but I shoot sessions like this at a higher ISO, so it was perfect.
(Image Left) Getting her baby to sleep was surprisingly easy. Mom used her Jedi newborn photographer sound machine and in a short 5-10 minutes she was ready for the shot.
(Image Right) Have you noticed yet that I actually lean toward posing my clients away from the light source just a bit? It gives me a bit more control on how the light contours a face and body. Additionally, it gives me just enough light to see the catchlights in their eyes.
One other thing you may notice about my studio work is that I’m not big on overly expressed smiles. I like the calming feel of a neutral expression. I loved capturing these fleeting moments.
Alycia Goddard is the owner and photographer of Charles Street Photography. Alycia opened CSP after much soul searching. Deciding to close the doors on her floral event business, giving up 16 years of experience in the industry, as she dove into a new venture. ” I found my passion for photography far out weighed my need for security, it was like I finally knew what I wanted to do with my life.” Charles Street Photography specializes in senior, beauty, and maternity portraits. CSP is located in Charlotte Hall MD and serves Southern Maryland, DC and VA clients.
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