I am such a sucker for cowboy boots and this cute couple wear them so well! Aren't they adorable? They go together like milk and cookies. Although they do not live in the area, they decided on photos in downtown Roanoke, since that was where they had their first date. James had his heart set on some brick backgrounds. I love this location because it has so many different textures, colors, a rustic feel and some BRICK! I have been able to use it a few times and render a different look each time.
Before I start photographing a subject I like to analyze the shape of their face so that I can photograph them using the best angles. I determined that Brittany has a round face & James has a heart shaped face. In this case I will slim the faces using angles. You can also use lighting to slim fuller faces as well.
When I meet with my clients to begin a shoot I always see the beauty in them. I think everyone has something really special, unique and awesome them and I can't wait to bring that out and capture it in their images. However, I have found almost every one has something they don't like about their appearance. It's always helpful to find out what that is for each person. The big one is the dreaded double chin, of course. Don't we all want to avoid that like death & taxes! But sometimes it may be something that the photographer wouldn't notice or think is unattractive, because we are our own worst critics! Am I right? That's why it's important to ask, so you can do your best to shoot in a way that they feel flatters them.
Over the many years of sessions, including boudoir, at times I have had people say "this feels really awkward", but I assure them it looks good. Think about it...if your comfortable, you probably have your shoulders a little slumped, your legs are probably stick straight and your tummy is relaxed and maybe pooching out. Not a good look. The photographer can see the subject and can make adjustments to the pose that greatly flatter them and create a more refined image. More about that below.
Clothing. Very important. When deciding on your outfit, look at it in a full length mirror from different angles, including the back. Remember, what feels comfortable may not always be flattering. I will be covering this in the following images.
This sun dress was really cute, but the shape and fullness of it and the fact that it gathered in the middle, added deceptive bulk to her midsection. I had them place their hands on the area of the dress that was full and bulky. I chose this location because I liked the color harmony between the background and the clothing. Less distraction and you can focus on the couple's expression. So cute! The angles really slim the faces. I have created a triangle with their bodies; a very strong composition. They look comfortable and relaxed and I have been able to show off Brittany's GORGEOUS LEGS!!!!! Hey you want to trade?
Remember I said to look at your outfits from all angles? The image on the left makes Brittany look much wider than she is, because of the boxy shape of the sweater and the fullness of the skirt. Although it's a cute pose and expression, in my opinion the clothing doesn't flatter as much as it could. In the second image I asked Brittany to take off the sweater, then I had her pull the bulk of the skirt and hold it with her right hand. MUCH BETTER, wouldn't you agree? Also leg placement is very important. Get those legs apart; the upper and lower body is more balanced and creates movement.
I love these images. Notice how much better the black looks? The more form fitting outfit really shows off her cute figure. I LOVE these two images. They are real, casual and tell a story about their relationship. I love the one on the left, their legs are perfectly matched. I absolutely love the expressions of the one on the right.
So MODEL-Y! James you're looking so manly sexy, and Britt you got some sass!! Look at how well the hands are posed yet look natural. I have balanced the visual weight with the patch of grass on the bottom right.
This is just plain cute, cute, cute! You guys are awesome!
Notice the body angle for Brittany, turning her hips at an angle from the camera is slimming as well. You want to get those arms away from the body to create space and not add thickness to the waist. James pose is casual and masculine, their expressions are matched. On the right, I love using those leading lines and showing off Brittany's legs again! I really had to get her to sit up straight for this pose. I like James in the dominate position.
I always like the couples touching when they kiss or get close. I see photos where the couple is kissing and the arms are straight at their sides; it doesn't give you the impression that they are really into the kiss or each other.
Notice how the angle and hair across her face slims. I am in no way saying there's anything wrong with round faces, but most people would rather have their face (and body) look more slim.
Something different....
I really love their expressions; you can tell they love looking at each other! By pulling her in close and her leaning back, you accentuate her feminine curves. The fence leads you to the subject and helps frame them, along with the train, and the black bridge above. I love that the red train went by at the perfect time. You guys are smokin hot!
Some sunset romance. I love the gritty urban feel softened by the shallow depth of field; the light on the tracks...and this sexy couple.
Forgive any typos, or missing words, etc. I didn't finish this post until after 1:00 am.
I hope you enjoyed this information and found it helpful. I know you enjoyed looking at Brittany & James! I would love to hear your thoughts about the new informational format. Thanks!
Gorgeous shots, Debrah! I really like how the black synchronizes and streamlines the couple; it makes the eye go straight to what's important: their happy faces. The one with Brittany leaning back against the fence with her fiance's hands on her waist is my favorite. It feels loving and playful and spontaneous. Shoot, I really like them all!
Posted by: Linda | May 15, 2011 at 09:23 PM