You hire a photographer to capture the most important moments of your life. They have the knowledge to take better pictures than you. However, they also have the creativity to make your pictures unique and striking. When you want your pictures to stand out from the rest, you need to help inspire your photographer and let the creative juices flow. Even if you aren’t the most inspired person in the room, just let your photographer know your goals and allow them to run free. Here are some ways a photographer can get creative at a photoshoot.
1. Go Macro
There’s a lot to capture on a big day. Instead of all of the group photos and landscape shots, it might be best to think small for a moment. Macro photography is when you focus on something extremely small, such as a ring or a detail on a dress. It’s a great way to point out the beauty of something that might normally be overshadowed by the larger picture.
2. Black and White
One common way to make things a little different is to go back to a vintage time of black and white. Most cameras allow you to switch to black and white or mono chromatic before you take the picture, or you can make changes in post production. Look for imagery and shading that goes well in black and white. You may also choose to leave a bright splash of color to really make the picture pop. For example, you can take a black and white wedding picture of a couple but leave his blue tie and her blue ribbon around her dress. This works especially well if they both have blue eyes as well.
3. Get Candid
One simple way to make things fun and creative is to just let the photographer capture people when caught off guard. This prevents the pictures from looking too staged. Plus, these pictures can capture something more representative of you and the other people in the shot.
4. Wabi Sabi
Some people assume that the most beautiful things must be perfect. However, there are a lot of things that are beautiful because of their imperfections. The art of taking pictures that emphasize the imperfect beauty in the world is known as wabi sabi. It’s a Japanese style of photography, and it gives you the opportunity to showcase something most people wouldn’t. For example, you can take a picture of a rip in clothing or a book that’s falling a part.
5. Motion Blur
Life is fast at times. You want to be able to capture that quickness and intensity in your action shot with a motion blur. A motions blur is a cool effect that shows some blur lines that help indicate movement. One way to accomplish this is by slowing down your shutter speed and using a tripod to keep your camera as still as possible.
6. Change Up Perspective
Not every picture needs to be taken front on. Get creative with different angles. It’s okay for the photographer to move around. Try getting high up some how and taking pictures from a bird’s eye view.
7. Reflections
You can find some great reflection shots when working with water or mirrors. The visuals can be stunning when done properly. This can also become very symbolic and meaningful when taking pictures of family or a couple on their wedding. Be sure to consider the sun if taking pictures outside. Look at the samples of photographer Nancy Etz for inspiratoin.
8. Diptych/Triptych
Diptych or triptych is the process of taking two or three shots and putting them next to each other. The pictures can all be related or completely different from each other. Naturally, you want to pay close attention to the coloring and shading of the pictures you plan to put together should mesh well together (or the contrast should be interesting to look at).
A photographer doesn’t just take pictures. They take pictures that you wouldn’t be able to come up with. If you want the pictures of your photo shoot to stand out, go to Nancy Etz to learn what she can do for you.