I can greatly improve upon this by using a technique that only the pros know how to use. I didn't invent it, but I know how to apply it with excellent results. Here's how I fix it:
The next two photos show the results. One darkens and blurs the background a bit more, and one lets the background show through a little better (slightly less darkened and less blurred). The light on the subject's face is soft and flattering, and positioned to add a bit of shadow on the right side.
Here's the setup that I used to get these results. Notice the diffuser over the subject; the light on a stand with a diffuser ("soft box") attached, just under the diffuser and aimed at the subject; and the camera off to the left. (That's my barbecue grill in the background, and my photo studio at the left.)
Bottom line: I can take in-studio or outdoor portraits any time of the day and get great results. Call 415-309-8660 or e-mail [email protected] to book your session.
]]>I've got wall art of my wedding photo (to remind me of when I was thinner and better looking), and more importantly, of my two girls when they were young. I grin whenever I look at those cherub faces. But wall art is not there just to remember your toddlers. It's wonderful to capture precious memories of your family as it grows and grows up. I recommend getting new family portraits every three years.
Here are catalogs of matted prints, framed prints, and canvas wraps:
Contact me at 415.309.8660 to schedule your family portrait session.
]]>1. Keep tracking the weather. Those white winter days after a lot of snowfall can result in some seriously gorgeous photographs. Booking two months out probably won't work, and you'll instead want to book on a shorter notice.
2. Really play up the winter accessories when planning outfits. Think cozy knit scarves, colorful coats, adorable boots, mittens and more.
3. Plan the day out so that nobody gets fussy or too cold. A bribe of hot chocolate after the session goes a long way. Also make sure that everyone's dressed warmly.
4. Don't be afraid to have fun in that snow. Snowball fights? Snowman building? Angels? The possibilities are endless and this should be all about having fun.
5. Choose colors and prints that pop. An all white background is absolutely beautiful, but having that pop of red or that flash of gingham can really make for a gorgeous photograph.
6. Pack the necessities. Noses tend to run in the cold, and glasses can fog up. Bring tissues, hand-warming packs, clean clothes and hot beverages to keep everyone perky throughout the shoot.
7. Because it can be really cold, note that a shorter session may be in order. Make the most of your photos by using every single second to the max, especially at the beginning of the session when everyone's still warm and spirits are particularly high.
That's it for now.
Steve
]]>Treat yourself and your family to a memorable holiday photo with 20% off one of my portrait packages, plus a $100 gift certificate. A portrait gift certificate is the ultimate gift! Choose the package that is right for you, or create your own custom package.
Digital package - $395 (regularly $495)
Silver package - $395 (regularly $495)
Gold package - $495 (regularly $595)
Platinum package - $650 (regularly $750)
Call 415.309.8660 to schedule your holiday family photo shoot!
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All prints are of professional quality, and include retouching. Regular price for this package is $495. From now until Dec 15th, you can get it for $395, a bargain.
Call 415.309.8660 to schedule your holiday family photo shoot!
Steve
P.S. - Want holiday cards with your family photo printed by a professional lab? Ask me about 'em.
]]>All this for $400. Offer ends Jan 5, 2015.
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