Last night during, you guessed it, football practice, I took a few pictures of the kiddos. Nothing too exciting… I just like to pull the ol’ Nikon out every now and then to capture a little of the same old same old.
Here’s my dude. Just hanging out. Asher is always a willing participant when momma wants to snap a few pictures. He really doesn’t like having his picture taken, but he loves his momma more than he dislikes the camera.
And he’s just got that smile. I can’t resist him.
He endures. Photogenically.
Just a little while later, as he was standing in front of me, I could see how beautiful the light was on his face. Even though I’d put my camera up, I had to get it back out again….
And I am so glad I did. Just look at the difference. The same time of day, same person, same conditions. Just a different direction. A different light.
And the difference is, well, see for yourself.
I have a very hard time ‘seeing’ the light. That ability is something you either have naturally, or you have to fight to develop an eye for. I haven’t managed either yet.
I thought maybe a few of you might struggle with the same thing.
So, if you share my struggle and you’re hoping to get a shot you’re really going to love, just keep on shooting. Move around your subject, take pictures from every angle. And eventually you’ll hit on it… when the light is just right.
Early evening is a really good time. And last night the clouds were covering the sun just enough to keep any shadows at bay. Who’d have thought a football stadium would be such a great backdrop?
How cute is he? Doesn’t hurt that his eyes are as blue as the sky. And that he has the tiniest freckles across his nose. And those dimples.
Oh, those dimples.
Got a tip of your own to help with lighting, or composition (oh please), or focus (say you do!)? Please share!
Stefanie…that child is SIMPLY charming!!!! So glad he allowed you to photograph him on this lovely evening!
What a handsome guy. Great shots!
I don't have any good advice. I just keep shooting from lots of directions… and do it at golden light hour.
No tips ~ still learning myself!! But I just HAVE to say … he's a cutie!!! Watch out, Mama! Those girls will be knocking on your door soon (if they aren't already!)!!! 😉
My tip? Hire someone else to take photos for me. Heh.
And I love the freckles most of all… only don't tell him that. He might feel embarrassed.
What a handsome young man. Love the eyes, and the dimples are to die for. He is going to be quite the charmer some day.
Those pics are great and your subject is just gorgeous!!!
As a newbie with a camera (ie: totally annoying to my teenage boys), I love that you posted these photos! I am learning the lighting thing, too. I hardly ever get to be outside during the golden hours because it seems like we are always busy doing things inside that time of day. Your little dude is SO cute–love the blue eyes and freckles. He's a photographers dream! 🙂 My next door neighbor is 10 with those same blue eyes and I am dying to take some photos of her–but um…yeah…I think she would be a bit put off by me sticking a camera in her face. 🙂 I will have to come up with a clever plan to make her think I am doing something else…
Such a Handsome little fellow.
Your little dude Asher is adorable, I bet he has a heart of gold too! My ten year old hides when the camera comes out, I just have to catch him in action or tell him I am taking pictures of his sisters who love to "pose".
And sorry no tips from me, I know nothing about photography but sure enjoy your beautiful pictures.
You have the cutest kiddos! I always love looking at your pics. You do a great job with them…always so crisp and clear.
What a handsome young man. A sweetie too to indulge his mom:-)
Since your post is about lighting…I wanted to ask you this. I got a D90 2 months ago. I have only been able to point and shoot..BUT sometimes inside I can't get the camera to take any pictures. It only occurs in low light conditions.
My question is do you have to have an external flash for indoor shots? And if so which one do you recommend?
you hit on the primary one – you need to photograph in the morning preferably, but if not, in the evening – never in flat light.
Lots of good pictures – you can never have too many of those beautiful kids.
So handsome!
Oh what a gorgeous kiddo, Stefanie…beautiful pictures! It's the way he shines from withing, though.
These are GREAT photos Stefanie! Looks like you "see the light" just wonderfully to me:) He is a CTIE!
I meant CUTIE
Stephanie, might I suggest that you submit one of these to Pioneer Woman's portrait assignment? He is absolutely beautiful.