The brilliant writer Kathie Zaccaria of SoCal Kids San Diego interviewed me about my creative practice and approach to photographing kids, as a corollary to my trip to California last month. It’s included here in its entirety, and you can also view it in its original form on the SoCal Kids website.
What kind of camera do you use?
I use all kinds of cameras. I own both Nikon and Canon digital cameras, and actually still prefer to shoot film, when I can. For that I have a Nikon SLR, and a Voigtlander rangefinder that I love — as well as all kinds of other random ones. I love the look of film, and the artistry involved when you can’t “check on” the pictures to see how they’re shaking out. I find it’s an exercise in being present, and the images end up reflecting something ethereal.
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Trying something new… this is a stream-of-consciousness excerpt from my travel journal…
California. February 2012.
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As a photojournalist-style photographer, I am enamored with real moments in time. I love photographing kids because they’re so spontaneous! We adults can learn a lot from their free-spiritedness. I see a lot of moms who want their kids’ hair to be brushed just so, for their clothes to be perfect, and for their smiles to be practiced. However, none of those things speak to me of childhood. So, I encourage the kids to giggle, to run, and to explore. Yes, I have to chase them around a lot. But when they stop and catch their breath, I am ready with my camera. And, they’re usually beaming.
If you want to take better photos of your family (and set your child up to be more photogenic for life), think of yourself as a documentarian. Document what you want, yes. But don’t manipulate. Don’t ask for poses. And, don’t fuss! Let the kids enjoy themselves, and what you hold dear about this time in your life will show through in the moments you capture.
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I am eager to announce that I will be coming to southern California for child, baby, and family photo sessions from February 24-28, 2012. I love the light in California — the original Hollywood filmmakers knew what they were doing when they set up shop there. I previously spent a good amount of time there, during my stint as production coordinator of The People’s Choice Awards. It’s always wonderful to go back and capture people in that glorious California sunlight.
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Lesson 1: The 3 Threes of Composition
This lesson was shot on an iPhone 4S, in order to focus on composition, without getting bogged down by manual camera settings. I recommend you complete this project with a point-and-shoot camera, and focus on getting the best shot you can with a simple tool.
Composing your shot by deliberately using the four sides of the rectangular frame is a key component to creating a great photograph. You will want to pay attention to the way things are arranged in the frame, as well as ensure than anything unwanted is left out of the frame, by moving the camera slightly, or changing your distance to the subject. Let’s get started on this simple exercise that will improve your composition skills instantly!
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Explore the Tremont Art Walk tonight and pick up a complimentary magnet! It features my shot of the Snæfellsjökull Glacier on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in Iceland, shot on 120mm redscale film. You can claim your magnet at one of three of my favorite Tremont shops: Lilly Chocolates, Visible Voice Books, and Banyan Tree.
Supplies are very limited so make sure you stop by early.
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