Here’s a sample from a recent family lifestyle shoot…

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Feb 152012

lifestyle family portraits in Charlotte NC

Family Lifestyle Portrait in Charlotte NC

I made this image in my home studio in Charlotte. I lit with 2 shoot-through umbrellas with my Nikon SB28dx speedlights. This is a good example of the flexibility of a simple, portable speedlight setup. This light kit is easily transported to clients’ locations, and is super helpful for kids, families and baby portraits. When I’m not using big windows for natural light, you can bet I’ve got the SB28s rigged up.

For post-processing on this image, I ran my custom Curvy Cross Process and tweaked it slightly to bring out some magenta and highlight the eyes. I think photos of children are MUCH better with lots of color!

Key Ingredients for Photographic Success

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Sep 022010

Model. Ice Box. Brick Wall.

That’s everything you need for a rad shot just before the sun goes all the way down. I set up an informal photo practice session in Charlotte with some friends who wanted to try out new gear. I figured I could help them make better use of their photographic equipment, and maybe shoot a few pics in the process. Well, here’s one that works so well because it’s just a simple photo of a pensive and elegant model.

If you’re a model (or want to be) in North Carolina, let me know if you’d like to build your portfolio with some fashion and lifestyle photos.

ElisaBeth and an ice box at sunset

Critiques are welcome; use the comment form.

Portrait Gallery Update

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Jul 082010

Family picture day is serious business.

We’ve updated the portrait gallery. This gallery includes recent couples photos, engagements, kids, models, and wedding related photos. Check it out! Feedback is welcome.

Senior Portraits on a Rainy Day in Charlotte

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Jun 032010

This spring in Charlotte turned out to be monsoon season or something, and this shoot was booked, canceled, and re-booked a couple of times. Even on the day of the shoot, we had to work around evening thunder and rain to make these photos. The rain let up eventually and we were able to get out in the open at the parking deck we were shooting in. I like this spot for senior pictures for dudes. It’s got a good industrial/mechanical/steel feel which makes guys look a little more at home. Check these out, and let me know what you think.

: The rain broke, and we made it to the top of the parking deck for a few shots.

: Mikel’s a budding videographer, so I wanted some shots to incorporate that.

: Cloudy skies make images that usually need some warming up.

Location Scouting

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Apr 012010

I’m always looking for good locations and scenes to do portrait sessions in Charlotte. There’s one area that I’ve driven past so much that I practically never even give it a second thought. Something clicked the other day, and I realized it would be perfect for a late afternoon photo shoot. So I took my test models (wife & daughter) out for a quick shoot to see what I could produce. I got several photos that I think are great, and shared a couple below…

I’ll definitely add this to my list of spots for future portrait sessions, and the lesson here is that exotic (or studio) locations are easy to dream about. Sometimes, though, you’ll find a really great backdrop right under your nose.

: KJ is a great test model!

: Models help me test shoot a new location.

Charlotte Newborn Photo Session

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Jan 302010

Mom and Baby in Natural Light

Last week I was asked to photograph this beautiful 2 week old baby at the family’s home in Charlotte. This photo of her mom holding her is one of my favorite images I’ve made. Maybe it’s because her expression reminds me of my own daughter; maybe it’s the natural light; maybe it’s just a sweet portrait of a baby with her mom.

Spring Apple Blossoms

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Apr 172009

The apple tree in our backyard hasn’t enjoyed the last 2 seasons of drought. This spring, however, it seems quenched by early rains. Plentiful blooms smell lightly sweet. The new buds look healthy, and there is plenty of assistance from some honey bees in the pollination department.

I shot this in evening sun with the D1x and a Nikkor 60mm macro lens.

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Vision Photos