Available light and the environment is not always ideal when trying to shoot a portrait outdoors.
Let me describe a typical scenario here:- Midday autumn sunshine creating strong and contrasty pockets of light, blown highlights and subjects squinting into the light.
Add to that a background that’s filled with all sorts of distracting elements, such as I’ve found when I took my kids to a local park this weekend. Let’s not forget the ‘unwanted’ attention for taking pictures in a public place.
a question of style
Wedding photography wasn’t exactly rock and roll not too long ago. It was traditional, formal and staid where even ‘contemporary’ back then seems cheesy and dated by today’s standards. Soft glow and white vignette comes to mind here…
Today however it carries a boutique-esque appeal, holding its own as a respected genre amongst others.
We recognise exponential technological advancement in recent years as the main catalyst behind this progress. But the real inspiration and magic was conceived or matured by a small group of independent and visionary photographers. They found their own way and departed from conformity.
Many soon followed and capitalised on the new wave. This process is still ongoing and even accelerating. The web continues to fuel its popularity and information and technology is now easier than ever to come by.
For many years now I have been following some of these pioneering photographers as they frequently write about their insights and experience.
Their work, approach and passion excites and inspires me. I briefly want to touch on my take of their respective styles and associated techniques as it has such a profound impact on my work. I have included a few of my own examples.
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