Getting into photography + some random blurb - Page 2

+ Talk to the subject before hand. Get them to relax as much as possible and try and make them laugh even if it means acting like an idiot. (I have done this with too many of the gamers to count and it makes a distinct difference in the photos.) It helps to throw subjects off balance at times by doing something really weird (for example the shoulder cat shoots or hugging Effort.) because then even if it's not positive you'll capture some real emotion.

I often talk to my models when shooting them to provoke smiles, laughter or even confusion. That honest emotion can make a world of difference to a posed photo.

For example - we were both laughing like twats when this was taken;



+ Do not allow outside interference with the shoot. If someone attempts to interrupt your work promptly tell them to go away (politely if you can.)

+ Location is key for these kinds of shoots. Try to choose somewhere as versatile as possible. With a good source of natural light or some form of interesting artificial light to play off of if you're working in low light conditions;

For Example:

I used a light on the outside of the OGN building to provide contrast (and an actual light source so no flash was used.) here;



This is a useful technique for people with strong profiles and facial features because you can use photoshop to highlight the interesting points upon their face in post-production.

Also consider the bokeh you will be creating with different backgrounds. Even if an element of the photo is not in focus it can contribute to the over all contrast or warmth/coldness of a photo;

For Example: I specifically selected this location for the contrast of greens/pinks in the background to highlight the concept of 'flower boys' and bring out a softer side to a player who has been seen as serious and robotic at times;



Same here with this shot of Hwasin - using the lines of the wall to draw focus;



I'm not really a composition junkie, but it is something you need to consider when taking portraits.

+ When using props keep it simple and try to tie in the color/idea of the prop to the concept of your shoot;

For Example:

The concept for this shoot was both to tie in the red of the CJ Entus uniform highlights and also reflect the song/weather;

http://www.teamliquid.net/forum/viewmessage.php?topic_id=94927



I've also used props that tie in with other elements such as a gamer's personality, nicknames or uniforms in the past. If you want to use a prop then give it a meaning or purpose so it doesn't seem as if it's been tacked on impulsively (and you can defend it's use if called for.)

+ Never be satisfied with one angle. Experiment with different arrangements if your object is movable. I've found that creating textures upon which you can focus and reducing most of the rest of the photo to bokeh provides some interesting images.

If the object is not movable then change your position as much as possible. Seek out different light sources and if possible get yourself to different heights for a new perspective. I've even done this during portraits using a chair or climbing a ladder to provide a fresh angle.

If the object is reflective (mirrors/metal.) then use different items and even yourself to create a smear of colors or a separate image within the photo itself.

+ Colors and textures are your friend.

+ Try different artificial lighting sources. I'm yet to experiment with this, but if you're working with a small object such as food or anything else that fits on a table then you can use a standing lamp or even create a simple light tent using white paper, foils and a lamp to make the image more vivid or highlight certain element (playing with light and shadow can dramatically change the mood of a photo.)

I've also been wanting to experiment with fluid and possibly flecking or dunking items in water/paint to see how this affects the image and it's mood. However, that's a challenge for another time.

+ If you want to get super close ups then you'll be needing a macro lens. I don't have one, but I find my little lens (I'll check on the specs for you when I get home.) is perfectly sufficient for shots like this;



See what I mean about textures and colors? This is a really busy photo, but I wanted to reflect the candy colored excesses of Japanese style 'cuteness.'

+ Be aware of your surroundings at all times. It is easy to get lost or distracted by both the camera itself and events outside of it. If you're photographing an event then commit to it entirely.

My basic rules for an event are;

~ No friends. They might distract you by wanting to go for food/somewhere else etc etc.
~ No phone. Calls and texts can ruin your rhythm.
~ No lunch breaks. Food can make you sluggish and unmotivated. Eating before and after is fine though.
~ Don't stop until you're satisfied. (Which I never am.)

This might sound crazy, but it's only by leaving all distractions at the door that I'm able to focus on the event and bringing the best photos possible to other people.

What you need to do is figure out your own pace for shooting and what works for you. I am very particular about everything during events and pressure myself so hard I've been known to get sick for several days after something very important.

However, a more relaxed approach might be your style. So practice, practice, practice and put yourself into as many different situations as possible before finding your own rhythm and how you choose to approach photography in a more candid capacity.

+ Keep it on the down low - when shooting I've found that the best approach to getting candid shots is to take yourself out of the equation. Hang back, stay quiet and wait whilst being observant for people to be off guard. The best photos of a person can be when they're not posing so don't grab people for photos - let their expressions and emotions do the work for you.

For example;



Raw emotion like this can't be replicated.

+ Don't worry if it's a bit blurry. With things like sporting events and gatherings being clinical or producing photos that can be turned into graphics (like most of my photo shoots can be.) shouldn't matter. You are there to capture a moment and preserve it, to celebrate emotion and honesty. (Or at least this is my slightly romantic view of event photography.)





Color, texture and feeling are all key components in event photography and you can get away with a larger degree of blurriness or lack of composition because you don't have the added luxury of going back and checking/repeating a pose or moment.

If you check Fomos even my mentor Mr.Kang posts blurred photos when they are of especially significant moments.