march 2013

Child Edition

Contents2 Ten Things

Shannon Sewell

16 EyesMandy Blake

22 Q and AAudrey Woulard

36 Avoid the Bait and SwitchAlicia Caine

38 Posing ChildrenSkye Hardwick Edmonds

52 Action ReviewMichelle KaneMelody White

60 The LowdownBehind the Scenes with Ten Child Photographers

74 Bits of WisdomAmy Wenzel

90 Where to Get the GoodsSome of our Favorite Vendors

Contributors

Contact

Editor in Chief, FounderBrittni Jo Schroeder

Creative DirectorTravis Smith

Social Media and Marketing DirectorJean Smith

Cover PhotographerSkye Hardwick Edmonds

Websitewww.mozi-mag.com

Emailinquiries@mozi-mag.com

Facebookfacebook.com/MoziMag

Twitter@mozimag

Guest ContributorsMichelle KaneAudrey WoulardMelody WhiteAlicia CaineShannon SewellAmy WenzelGinger UnzuetaKristin WilkersonMeg BittonSkye Hardwick EdmondsMelody WithersValeria SpringAmy GraceDebbie WilbowoJackie Jean PhotographyAbby MillerStephanie Marie Photography

Image © Skye Hardwick Edmonds

thingstenfor a styled shoot

by Shannon Sewell

3 | March 2013

Photographer: Shannon SewellProp Stylist: Kim AdamsWardrobe: Aven ClothingTalent: Ryan Artists and Option Model & Media

Written by Shannon Sewell and Kim Adams

1. Theme/Concept—Sell the BrandI try to tell a story with each brand I shoot for: What does the line represent? What feelings do they want to convey? I use the “style” I’m given to choose the theme or concept I will shoot. Are the clothes bright, colorful, and full of whimsy? Then a fun shoot is in order! Are the clothes edgier with darker tones? Then let’s bring out the attitude!

2. Tell the StoryOnce you have decided your theme or concept, you need to decide how you will convey your message to the audience. An editorial should take you through the designers’ and artists’ minds, so you are left feeling the brand. Your story involves the models you use, [OL�WYVWZ�`V\�\ZL��HUK�L]LU�[OL�^H`�`V\�JOVVZL�[V�LKP[�[OL�ÄUHS�PTHNLZ���

3. Models >OLU�JOVVZPUN�`V\Y�TVKLSZ��HS^H`Z�THRL�Z\YL�[OL`�Ä[�[OL�SVVR�HUK�MLLS�VM�[OL�IYHUK��Kids range from quirky and smiley to shy and serious. Selecting the right child for the right set can make or break the feel of your session.

March 2013 | 4 5 | March 2013

March 2013 | 6 7 | March 2013

4. Team How do you make all your ideas come to fruition? Unless you are Superwoman, it usually means having additional assistance. I regularly use hair and make-up stylists as well as prop stylists on the more involved sets. It is just as important to build upon your strengths as it is to recognize your weaknesses. Allow other people to help you bring your ideas to fruition.

5. Atmosphere What kind of mood are you creating during your session? You need to make sure you create a mood on set that allows the feeling to come through the images. Do you want happy and fun images? Playing some music and allowing some fun dance breaks will certainly create that!

6. Props--Are they relevant?Every shoot is different. Props are very important in some shoots and in others, the clothes are the props. When choosing your props, make sure they do not over power the child or the clothing. A great way to start planning the shoot is to know the clothing that will be on your young models, then create around that. Remember, sometimes less is more.

March 2013 | 8 9 | March 2013

March 2013 | 10 11 | March 2013

7. Create DimensionWhen creating the area for your shoot, always create different layers such as background and foreground or just different levels of focus in your image. Creating dimension gives your images movement and the visual effect of third dimension.

8.Unexpected Add-OnsThis alone makes your job so worth it -- the joy of the unexpected is so fun! So what is an unexpected add-on? It can be anything: dogs, chickens, rabbits, suckers, fog machines -- the possibilities are endless. The element of surprise creates a wonderful mood and laughter for your models. The end result includes amazing images full of laughter and emotion.

9.TexturesI love to mix different tones of wood, metal, paper, colors, and locations. Each image needs texture to be different and unique.

10.CollaborationCollaboration can make the shoot so amazing. When you come together with other amazing minds and ideas, the sky is the limit. Collaborating with a clothing line, hair and makeup artist, creative director, videographer, or just a friend, can bring your ideas to the next level of awesomeness. Be willing to listen and talk through all the ideas…the joy of collaboration!

March 2013 | 12 13 | March 2013

March 2013 | 14 15 | March 2013

EYESA guide to making eyes stand out by Mandy Blake

March 2013 | 16 17 | March 2013

THE EYES, MORE OFTEN THAN NOT, ARE THE FOCUS OF A PHOTOGRAPH. HERE ARE A COUPLE OF SIMPLE STEPS TO HELP MAKE THE EYES STAND OUT WITH THE HELP OF PHOTOSHOP.

Step 1: Create a new Curves layer adjustment. Pin the midtones and raise the curve slightly. Next, invert the layer mask to black using Control/Command + I, hiding the adjustment you made. Select the Brush tool, and with a soft-edge white brush at 30-40% opacity, brush over the eye, remembering that each time you unclick the mouse button and make a new pass, you are adding to the adjustment. This works best to brighten the whites and iris of the eye.

Step 2: Create a duplicate of the Background layer. You can rename it “Burn Lashes” to help keep your layers panel organized. Choose the Burn Tool, with the Range set to Shadows and the Exposure at 10% and then brush over the lashes to darken them. You can also darken HYV\UK�[OL�LKNL�VM�[OL�PYPZ�HUK�[OL�W\WPS�PM�[OL�L`LZ�HYL�H�SPNO[LY�JVSVY�HUK�ULLK�ZVTL�KLÄUP[PVU��

:[LW��!�(M[LY� [HRPUN�H�/PZ[VY`�:UHWZOV[��ÅH[[LU�`V\Y� SH`LYZ��*YLH[L�H�K\WSPJH[L� SH`LY�VM� [OL�Background and rename it “Sharpen”. Choose the Unsharp Mask from the Filters panel. You can choose whatever settings you like, but a good starting point is: Amount 114, Radius 4 7P_LSZ��;OYLZOVSK����6UJL�`V\�OH]L�[OL�ÄS[LY�HWWSPLK��HKK�H�THZR�[V�[OL�SH`LY�\ZPUN�3H`LY�%�3H`LY�4HZR�%�/PKL�(SS��(NHPU��ZLSLJ[�[OL�)Y\ZO�;VVS�HUK�^P[O�H�ZVM[�LKNL�^OP[L�IY\ZO�H[��������VWHJP[`�HUK�IY\ZO�V]LY�[OL�L`LZ��[V�HKK�KLÄUP[PVU�HUK�ZOHYWULZZ��)L�JHYLM\S�UV[�[V�V]LYKV�it, or you will end up with lashes that look pixelated and eyes that look too crisp.

March 2013 | 18 19 | March 2013

BEFORE

AFTER

March 2013 | 20 21 | March 2013

AUDREYWOULARD

Questions and Answers from one of the country’s FAVORITE child photographers

March 2013 | 22 23 | March 2013

eyes

workshopsgear

clothingYour subjects have the most beautiful eyes. What is your best tip for beautiful eyes?

Thank you! My best tip is to make sure that the eyes are facing the light source. Eyes sparkle a bit differently when light is shining in versus when SPNO[�PZ�YLÅLJ[PUN�

What equipment do you use?

I am a Nikon girl! In my bag, I have a D700 & D800. I use a 28mm 1.4, a 50mm 1.4, and an 85mm 1.4.

How do you get your clients to dress so amazingly?

Do you still offer workshops?

@LZ�� KLÄUP[LS`�� 0� OH]L� KH[LZ� VU� T`� ^LIZP[L�which is dedicated to photographers: www.alwproducts.com.

Ha! I wish I could take credit for it, but I market myself to a very trendy and loyal clientele, so they refer me to a lot of great dressers! I have also been known to go through closets to help pick out clothing as well. I personally don’t like when JSPLU[Z� I\`� JSV[OLZ� ZWLJPÄJHSS`� MVY� H� WOV[V� ZLZZPVU�� ILJH\ZL�they typically try to venture too far off from their personal style, and that tends to affect my sales. So if they pick out something that doesn’t work, I will usually go through their closets and help them out.

lens

lightclient

meetings

commercial work

Do you use ONLY natural lighting?

@LW�� 0� KV� UV[� V^U� HU`� ÅHZOLZ� VY�YLÅLJ[VYZ�

Do you show your images online, or do you meet with your clients in person?

I show online. It works best with my family life and allows me to balance everything according to my lifestyle.

Is your business mostly commercial work or regular portrait sessions?

It’s mostly regular portrait sessions. I do very little commercial work, because the jobs are so elaborate. A commercial job for me can last about 1-2 weeks for [OL� HJ[\HS� ZOVV[�� :VTL[PTLZ�� 0� OH]L� [V� Å`� V\[� [V�5@*�for a meeting with the ad agency and the client. This can become too much for my family, so I rarely take commercial jobs.

Favorite lens ever?

The 85mm 1.4, for sure.

March 2013 | 24 25 | March 2013

balanceHow do you balance your photography life with all of those beautiful boys of yours?

Well, I learned early on how to say no. It wasn’t easy to do so in the beginning, and often times it can make people perceive you to be something that you are not. However, my boys are only little once. I told myself from the beginning that I could never, ever, ever get those years back if I let my business take over my life. So I started slowly, and I grew my business as my children grew.

I have limits and rarely step outside of them. For example, I recently spoke at Imaging VU�H�:\UKH �̀�HUK�0�ÅL^�IHJR�[V�*OPJHNV�PTTLKPH[LS`�HM[LY�0�ZWVRL�ZV�[OH[�0�JV\SK�[HRL�my children to school the next day. Many wanted me to stay, so I could meet with vendors, etc, but I chose not to. I have plenty of time to give everything to photography, but not until my boys are grown men!

March 2013 | 26 27 | March 2013

March 2013 | 28 29 | March 2013

What lenses and equipment would you most recommend to someone starting out?

I think all camera brands are on the same level these days. So I won’t mention a brand. Instead, I will say any DSLR that can dial the shutter to 1/8000 will give a photographer great control when photographing in natural light. I would also recommend one that has the capability to dial the ISO to at least 1600 (which most do these days). As far as lenses, a 50mm 1.4 is a great prime lens. If one prefers to use zoom, a 24-70mm 2.8 is a must.

starting out

favoritesadvice

another tip

sunlight

post

a tip

books

Best advice for someone starting out?

Grow your business according to your lifestyle. That was the single best thing I ever did for myself.

Many of your images are in the bright sun. Any tips for handling that harsh sunlight?

My two major tips for full sun are to make sure your subjects’ backs are facing the sun. Also make sure that there is plenty of ambient light shining on their faces. This means the photographer should ensure that there aren’t any obstructions behind them such as buildings, trees, cars, or people.

What is your favorite outdoor lighting tip?

0� SVVR� MVY�UH[\YHS� YLÅLJ[VYZ�ÄYZ[�� Z\JO�HZ�ZPKL^HSRZ��or pavement.

Once you upload your images from a session, how long KVLZ�P[�[HRL�`V\�[V�ÄUPZO�VUL�ZLZZPVU�MYVT�Z[HY[�[V�ÄUPZO&

When I am ready to edit a session, it usually takes me about an hour to cull and edit.

We hear you have a BOOK out? Tell us about it!

I have two. One is called Natural Enlightenment Photography. It shows my simplistic approach to natural light photography. It breaks down my approach to my work. It has my editing in there, how I captured certain images, how I am able to capture sharpness with very wide apertures, and more.

My other book is an eBook, and it is called Online Sales. It breaks down step by step how I achieve high sales online.

What is your favorite subject to photograph and why?

I just like kids. They are honest. If they don’t like something, they won’t have a problem letting you know! With children, you will always know where you stand!

What is your best indoor lighting tip?

Always keep a window behind me, and wear a light colored ZOPY[�ZV�[OH[�0�JHU�HJ[�HZ�H�UH[\YHS�YLÅLJ[VY�PM�ULLK�IL�

March 2013 | 30 31 | March 2013

March 2013 | 32 33 | March 2013

Among all of the child and family photographers out there, Audrey Woulard Photo can be recognized immediately. What is it about your style or photography that makes you so recognizable?

Ok...now you’re making me blush! I never realized that my images would be easily recognizable. If I could take a guess as to why, I would say it is because I don’t venture too far out from what I love. There are a lot of trends out there, and I tend to stick to what I am good at. Because of that, there is consistency.

style

mentors>OLU�`V\�ÄYZ[�Z[HY[LK�V\[��^LYL�`V\�TLU[VYLK��KPK�`V\�H[[LUK�^VYRZOVWZ��VY�^VYR�for other photographers?

Many of my mentors were those who were at the top of the game that helped me when I had questions, or was very unsure of myself. One of my biggest mentors and supporters is Lori Nordstrom. I will always sing her praises, because she has believed PU�TL�ZPUJL�[OL�ÄYZ[�KH`�0�ZWVRL�[V�OLY��

When I started, workshops weren’t like they are today. They were mostly conducted by photographers who simply didn’t shoot the way I did, and there certainly weren’t any natural light photography workshops, as shooting in natural light was sort of frowned upon.

I didn’t work for other photographers because I didn’t think this would ever become a business when I began. I was really a mom with a camera, and the plan was to keep it that way.

March 2013 | 34 35 | March 2013

I was once approached by a vendor with the email subject line: “We want to feature you!” The email then went on to outline the costs involved for that feature. It made me feel gross all over, knowing that they didn’t really want to feature me as much as they wanted to make themselves money while making their business look good. This is just a part of sleazy marketing 101. I relate that same icky, sleazy feeling to doing free portfolio building sessions when you’re actually looking to make sales. It’s called a bait and switch tactic.

>OLU�0�^HZ�ÄYZ[�Z[HY[PUN�V\[��0�SLHYULK�a method from a photographer called the ”Fresh Faces” marketing campaign. She would hand out hundreds of postcards as she was seeking models for her website. In return, she would give a free photo session and a complimentary 8X10 as a thank you gift. It was her highly recommended TL[OVK�VM�UV[�VUS`�ÄSSPUN�H�WVY[MVSPV��but also making sales after the session.

I trusted her. I was new. She made money, and she held workshops, so why shouldn’t I? I printed 500 oversized postcards and littered the community ^P[O�[OLT��>OPSL�0�KPK�ÄSS�T`�WVY[MVSPV�very quickly with a ton of these free sessions, it was an exhausting and expensive learning process. I spent hundreds of hours driving, shooting, and editing as well as a large chunk of money on the marketing materials

Avoiding the Bait and SwitchBy Alicia Caine

and the complimentary 8X10s I was providing. (Only 3 out of over 30 sessions in one month actually placed any sort of order. I made a grand total of less than $150 in that month, which didn’t even cover my expenses.) Guess how many clients hired me again? Not 30…not 15…not even 1. ZERO. All of that work with the main goal being marketing and sales, and all I got was a portfolio.

Getting a portfolio and the experience under my belt was not entirely a bad thing. I learned a lot of valuable lessons during that time. It just would have been easier on me mentally had I known it was all for the sake of learning valuable lessons on how not to run a business, because then it would have been a huge success.

If you are requesting models to use for your portfolio which results in YOU looking better, then do not charge the person for doing this. At all. Not just a free session fee, but no order afterwards. Hand them over the disc, HUK� [OHUR� [OLT� MVY� ILULÄ[[PUN�@6<��Don’t use this as a method to get as much as possible out of someone. It feels icky and gross.

I believe there is a time and place for free sessions, but I do not believe that time is ever when the goal is for growing a client base or attracting potential sales. If you want to build a

client base, and you’re done getting your feet wet, you’ve got to charge! Otherwise, you’re bait-and-switching, which is no good for your business, your reputation, or your psyche.

ALICIA CAINE IS THE AUTHOR BEHIND THE COMMON SENSE BUSINESS CONSULTING THAT IS SERVED UP FRESH – CREATOR OF EASY AS PIE PRICING AND HAPPY PLACE BUSINESS PLAN. YOU CAN VISIT WWW.SERVED-UP-FRESH.COM FOR A BOATLOAD OF HAND HOLDING AND FEAR DISSOLVING BUSINESS ADVICE, OR SNAG HER TOTALLY AWESOME FREE BEGINNER’S BLISS WORKSHOP WWW.SERVED-UP-FRESH.COM/BEGINNER-BLISS.

Image © Audrey Woulard

March 2013 | 36

POSINGC H I L D R E N

Essential Tips for Working with and Posing Children

by Skye Hardwick Edmonds

March 2013 | 38 39 | March 201339 | March 2013

A pose can make or break a portrait. The best poses look relaxed. Even the modelesque headshot images must have a relaxed quality to them to be believable.

You don’t want your subject to look too forced or cramped. No one wishes to purchase a picture of a child looking uncomfortable--you are shooting to sell here. Granted, if you are shooting an editorial or fashion shoot, the posing may be more dramatic. For the every day session, however, keep it fun, fresh, and natural.

VISUALS PLEASE0�ÄUK�[OH[�JVTT\UPJH[PVU�PTWYV]LZ�^OLU�0�KLTVUZ[YH[L�H�pose for a child. The last thing I want a subject to do is to become frustrated, because he does not understand exactly how I’d like him to stand. Why? Because what children feel on the inside, shows on the outside--on their faces. Children are honest creatures and have not learned to mask their emotions. Much can be lost in verbal translation; especially with younger children who may not know exactly what I mean when I say, “tilt your head”.

Therefore, if I want a child to sit in the chair or lean against [OL� ^HSS� PU� H� ZWLJPÄJ� ^H �̀� 0� ZPTWS`� ZOV^� OPT� VY� OLY� I`�getting on the chair myself or leaning on the wall the way I am requesting. Once the subject is doing what I asked, I give compliments, so he or she can relax into the pose, and we can continue connecting.

THE HANDSLet’s talk about hands. A great place to start is the thumbs in the pocket pose, which is essentially when a child sticks just his or her thumbs in the front pocket of the pants. I don’t ever want the subject’s hands just hanging there unsure of what to do. I know that as I am talking and engaging with a JOPSK��OL�VY�ZOL�^PSS�VM[LU�[PTLZ�ÄUK�H�UH[\YHS�WSHJL�MVY�[OL�hands to go.

In photography, the hands cannot keep a secret. If subjects are tense, their hands will show it. Yes, their smile can be fun, their eyes can be inviting, but if there is unnatural tension in the hands, you know they were not relaxed.

If I notice an older child’s hands are too stiff, I ask the child to relax by saying, “Okay, you’re feeling tense, but right now those hands need to relax. So on the count of three, I want you to shake them out and just relax them.” They might do do a nervous laugh, but it always works, especially when I validate that they are feeling unsure. I might even do a demo with my own hands--remember, kids love visuals.

0M�`V\UNLY�JOPSKYLU� �Ä]L�HUK�\UKLY��HYL�ILJVTPUN�HU[Z �̀� 0�have them “shake it out” by shaking their arms and legs in a silly way after each pose. This is usually enough to break [OPUNZ�\W��HUK� [OL`�ÄUK�TVYL�WH[PLUJL� MVY� [OL� YLZ[�VM�V\Y�time together.

41 | March 2013March 2013 | 40

March 2013 | 42 43 | March 2013

March 2013 | 44 45 | March 2013

FINAL TIPSIn posing, details matter. A slight tilt of the head, a foot turned a bit to the right, a chin raised up just so, a change in my angle--it’s impressive how such a small change can make a difference in posing.

0�SPRL�[V�LUJV\YHNL�JOPSKYLU�^OLU�0�WOV[VNYHWO�[OLT��0�KVU»[�ÅH[[LY�[OLT�^P[O�ÄSSLY��I\[�0�KV�NP]L�NLU\PUL�LUJV\YHNLTLU[��0�^HU[�[OLT�[V�RUV^�[OL`�HYL�KVPUN�H�NYLH[�QVI��0�ÄUK�[OPZ�PZ�LZWLJPHSS`�PTWVY[HU[�[V�[OL�boys I photograph.

I feel it is important to showcase the smallness of a child by getting myself down to their level. In doing so, I can better show the world their pint-sized view.

The pose I initiate is the foundation for the posing a child will do on his or her own. My sessions are not full of me posing. That would be dull. By the end of a shoot, I may put the child in a basic pose, but as I continue talking, the child blossoms in front of the camera. Just give them room and they will pose themselves by the small things they may do--playing with their curls, the hand on their hip as they tell a story.

Last but not least, have fun with it! If it isn’t fun for you, the photographer, it won’t be much fun for anyone else. My work is known for its more serious looks, but I assure you, at my sessions, we have fun! When clients come back for another shoot, I want them to remember it as an enjoyable experience. So have fun, HUK�ZVVU�`V\»SS�ILJVTL�H�JVUÄKLU[�WVZLY�

March 2013 | 46 47 | March 2013

49 | March 2013March 2013 | 48

March 2013 | 50

Action Review

Michelle Kane Photography Actions

�������������� ������ ��������������������ǯ�������������������� ϐ�����������������������������������Ǥ��������������������������������������������� ��������������������ǡ���������������������ϐ���������Ǥ������������������������������ �������� ���� ����������ϐ��������������������������� ���������������������Ǥ��������������ǡ���������������������������������������������ǡ���������������������������������������������Ǥ

��������ǯ��������������������������������������������������������������������Ǥ��� ��� ϐ������� ����� ������������ ������������ ����������ǡ������� ��� ����� ��-�������� �����Ǥ������������������������������������������������� ���� ����������������������������������������ǡ�����������������������ǡ� ����������������������ϐ������������ϐ�������Ǥ

��������������������������ǯ����������������������������������������������������������������������Ȅ�������������������������������������������������������������������������������Ǥ���������������������������Ǥ

�������� ��������� �������������������������ǯ���������� �������������������Ǥ�����������������������������������������������������������������������������ϐ���������������������Ǥ�����������������������������������������������ǡ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������Ǥ

Ǧ������������������������������������

Melody White StudiosBland to Brilliant 70%Rosemary 50%Primrose 25%Light Optimizer 25%Shallow Clarity 15%

March 2013 | 52 53 | March 2013

Michelle Kane PhotographyBland to Brilliant 77%Blue-eyed Beauty 5%Glisten 20% on eyesSumptuous Smolder 70%Posh 100% maskedMatte Haze 40%Matte Overlay 9%No Frills VignetteBamboo 50%

Michelle Kane PhotographyKiwi 31%Daydream 20%Zing! 100% & again at 40% to bring out details on herEuphoria 57%DIY Dark selectively painted on her face for dimensionVelvet Vignette Sparkle 100%

55 | March 2013

Michelle Kane PhotographyCaramel B+WZing! 70%Sparkle 100%DIY Dark maskedIgnite 20%Light Optimizer 20%Starbright 20%

Adam Hommerding PhotographySumptuous Smolder 50%

masked Buttery Blur 100% masked Basic Boost - Color Keeper 35%

Eye-citement 70%

Linda Gentry PhotographyRhubarb 30%

Thyme 15%Caraway 20%

Posh 18%Angelica 54%

Shallow Clarity on eyesLight Optimizer 38%

March 2013 | 56 57 | March 2013

(Top Left)Elena Wilken of EW Couture(edited by Michelle Kane)Timeless B+WDIY Light and DIY Dark Matte HazePosh 100%Glisten (eyes)

(Bottom Left)Nitny S. Photography(edited by Michelle Kane)Glisten (eyes)Flawless Face maskedDull to Dazzling 70%Orris Root 42%Color Jolt 40%Matte Overlay 90%

(Right)Tami G. PhotographySee Things Clearer 50%Sparkle and Glisten on eyesWalnut 70%Sassafras brushed onto skin and light areas of image Cinnamon 35% Opulent Light brushed in selectivelyFlawless Face 40%

March 2013 | 58 59 | March 2013

downBehind the scenes with ten child photographers

The Lowdown is all about our Mozi readers! Through our reader submissions, we have rounded up some incredible talent from around the country! Ten photographers were chosen to share their art as well as answer questions directly from our Mozi readers.

the

Low

Meg Bitton Photographywww.megbitton.com

Lighting Used: NaturalEquipment: Nikon D4, 300mm

Props: NoneCamera Settings: f 2.8, SS

1/500, ISO 2000

March 2013 | 60

Amy Grace, A Beautiful Life Photo www.abeautifullifephoto.com

Reader question: How do you maintain your creative lifestyle photography, when many parents insist or expect traditional, posed portraits?

When I take pictures, I want to reach inside and pull out the thing that makes a person who they are. Whether looking at the camera, wildly running around me, or deep within himself, I want to capture what is authentic in a person. Because of this, I do not think a traditional portrait and organic photography need to be mutually exclusive. My voice shows up in the comfort of my subjects and in a conversation that evolves in the images as they take form.

Many people have a notion of what a family portrait should be. Or, they want their children to show up on their best behavior, be still, smile as directed, and look the kind of perfect that really only exists in formal portraits. I encourage people to think of what makes their child who they are, right now. The things they most want to YLTLTILY�H[�[OPZ�TVTLU[�HYL�ÅLL[PUN�HUK�WYLJPV\Z��HUK�H�photograph has the power to make them eternal. Showing a parent different, true glimpses of a child and family, has a way of taking over any heart.

Style aside, the most powerful portraits are about connection. When you hold the camera, you set the tone, so be yourself. Be kind; be earnest, silly, and gentle. Talk your subjects through and encourage them as they show whom they really are. Listen when you ask questions, care about the person, and it will show. I always say, “love WOV[VNYHWOZ�ILH\[PM\SS �̀¹�0�ÄUK�P[�[V�IL�H�NVVK�YLTPUKLY�of the heart behind a picture.

Stephanie Marie Photographywww.Stephanie-Marie-Photography.com

Reader Question: What are some tricks to get kids to laugh naturally, especially older kids that might not be into the session?

Getting a child to smile their real, genuine smile can IL�WYL[[`�KPMÄJ\S[���-PYZ[!�0�HT�56;�ILSV^�IYPILY`���6UL�thing I always do to start off the session is take the young children aside and tell them that I have candy for them if they follow my directions. (Of course you should ALWAYS check with the parents ahead of time to make sure their children have no allergies.) For older kids, I tell them they will be $5 richer after the session if they listen to directions. Of course there was a time when I bribed a 4-year-old boy with $1, and he still refused the money. It worked out well, though--you can see him in the family photos standing behind everyone pouting, holding the dollar, and it made for a really cute photo.

I use one technique to get people (even adults) to laugh. When I have a child in front of my camera that is feeling a bit overwhelmed or camera shy, and I can tell they aren’t smiling their ‘real’ smile, I play my “Smile-No-Smile” game. I tell them I’m going to get a few test shots and to play along with me as I ask them to smile, then don’t smile, then smile. After a few times, I trick them and say “smile” followed by “smile” again and when they do the opposite, it causes them to show me their genuine smile. Works like a charm every time! I always suggest letting your clients know you can be pretty goofy.

Lighting Used: Natural Light, OutdoorsProps Used: Nerd Glasses (H&M), Beanie (Forever21)Equipment: Nikon D700, 50mm 1.4G Camera Settings: Manual, f1.4, ISO 3200, SS 1/2500sec, Custom WB

March 2013 | 62 63 | March 2013

The Red Balloon Photographywww.theredballoonphotography.com

Reader Question: Everything about your images is special and unique...from the framing, to the content, to the post processing. How did you come into your own style in a world full of other photographers? I shoot with my heart and trust my eye. Children and their incredibly fresh, imaginative, magical minds inspire me so much. I try to document those real moments in an honest way. I don’t pose my subjects. I just follow them and document what I ZLL��0�TV]L�HYV\UK�H�SV[��HUK�`V\�JHU�\Z\HSS`�ÄUK�TL�SH`PUN�KV^U�VU�[OL�NYV\UK�HUK�Y\UUPUN�HYV\UK�HSTVZ[�V\[�VM�IYLH[O��0�ÄUK�L]LY`[OPUN�ZV�\UPX\L��HUK�0�MLLS�[OH[�0�ULLK�[V�JH[JO�L]LY`�TVTLU[��ILJH\ZL�[OL`�HYL�HSS�ZV�PTWLYMLJ[S`�WLYMLJ[��0»T�PUZWPYLK�I`�JVSVY�HUK�SPNO[�HUK�JOVJVSH[`�TV\[OZ�VY�KPY[�ÄSSLK�OHUKZ��4`�OLHY[�W\TWZ�X\P[L�X\PJRS`�^OLU�0»T�ZOVV[PUN��because I am in love with what I do. I don’t really have a formula.

March 2013 | 64 65 | March 2013

Kristin Wilkerson Photographywww.kristinwilkerson.com

9LHKLY�8\LZ[PVU!�/V^�KV�`V\�\ZL�VMM�JHTLYH�ÅHZO�^P[O�I\Z`�JOPSKYLU&

When I decided to add OCF, I had the same question. Sometimes children are overwhelming enough to photograph without adding a light stand and \TIYLSSH�[V�TV]L�HYV\UK��� 0�\Z\HSS`�\ZL�P[�^P[O�RPKZ�[OH[�HYL�Ä]L�`LHYZ�VY�VSKLY��0�KLJPKLK�[OH[�[OL�VMM�JHTLYH�ÅHZO�^V\SK�IL�H�IVU\Z�MVY�[OL�LUK�VM�[OL�shoot after I had already gotten my “safe shots”.

Find a way to invest the kids in the shoot, so they cooperate. Let them show off their interests or talents. It makes them excited about getting their picture taken.

The mother from the above shoot said, “Not only are these some of my favorite pictures, but my kids absolutely loved the shoot and getting their WPJ[\YLZ� [HRLU� PU� [OLPY� Z\WLYOLYV� Z\P[Z�¹� �<ZPUN� [OL�VMM� JHTLYH�ÅHZO�NP]LZ�you a new and exciting look. It can also help you stand out amongst other everyday shots.

Lighting Used: Off Camera Flash, no diffuserProps Used: Batman Mask and Cape

Equipment: Nikon D700, 24-70mm lens, Nikon SB-800 Speedlight

Camera Settings: ISO 200, f11, SS 1/200

March 2013 | 66 67 | March 2013

Jackie Jean Photographywww.jeanphotography.com

Reader Question: How do you get good shots of busy little kids? I just want a dozen or so looking at the camera, perhaps smiling in some, but some little ones would rather run around and do anything besides sit still.

I always try to keep my shoots with kids pretty upbeat. For little ones who like to move around a lot, I like to set up a couple of "stations" that include a prop or two that not only entertains but also gives me a good shot. I also make sure I stay on their level. I keep them active by asking them to dance, jump, touch the sky, and at times, tackle their parents! Those things almost always guarantee genuine laughs and smiles.

Lighting Used: Natural LightProps : two pirate ships, a plastic sword, paper towel roll (half) for telescope, and newspaper for hats.Equipment: 17-55mm 2.8Camera Settings: 17mm, ISO 400, f 3.2, SS 1/250

Lavish Photographywww.lavish-photography.com

Reader Question: What lenses are to be used for what types of shots? Can I use a 24-70mm for all the shots on one shoot? 0�WYLMLY�T`���TT�MVY�WVY[YHP[Z�I\[�KVU»[�HS^H`Z�^HU[�[V�[HRL�[OL�[PTL�[V�Z^HW�SLUZLZ�^OLU�0»T�VU�[OL�Å �̀

Truthfully, I am a 50mm girl. I would say that 99% of the time, I have my 50mm on my camera. I have tried several different lenses including the 24-70mm, and I always end up going back to what I feel most comfortable with. When I am doing a session, especially with little kids, I would rather catch that snuggle with Mom and Dad or a giggle than concentrating on switching out lenses. Obviously, if there is time and opportunity to get a different perspective, I love to do so, but sometimes it’s just not that easy!

I love the perspective the 24-70mm gives for lifestyle sessions and when a child is a little camera shy or super active. The 85mm or the 50mm is perfect for portraits and more intimate shots. When it comes down to it, use what works best for you and your style!

Lighting Used: Natural LightEquipment: Canon 5D Mark, 50mm

Camera Settings: f1.4, ISO 100Props Used: None

March 2013 | 68 69 | March 2013

Reader Question: How do you think outside the box for children's pictures...more than the normal portrait of them smiling?

Children have this raw creativity that has not been boxed up yet. My “out-of-the-box” creativity comes from the children

themselves. I tend to let them lead the shoot, because chances are, they will do something I never would of thought of.

Melody withers photographywww.facebook.com/MelodyWithersPhotography

Lighting Used: NaturalEquipment: Nikon D4, 300mmProps: NoneCamera Settings: f 2.8, SS 1/500, ISO 2000

March 2013 | 70 71 | March 2013

Delight Fine Art Photographywww.de-lightphotography.blogspot.com

Reader Question: I have a hard time photographing my own children. What is the best way to document my children's lives?

>OLU� 0� ÄYZ[� Z[HY[LK� [HRPUN� WPJ[\YLZ� VM� T`� KH\NO[LY�� 0�experienced something similar. However, as parents, I believe we have many great advantages, because we have a very good understanding of our own children. I started taking pictures of my daughter three years ago and through the course of those years, I’ve learned that engaging her is important in allowing me to capture her.

Spark their imagination. In the picture where my daughter is lying on a tree branch (let me assure you it’s a very, very low tree branch), I asked her to imagine what type of character she was. She came up with an idea that she was a tree fairy, and that the tree fairy would like to take a nap. I let her play with her imagination and was ready with my camera.

Be observant. The picture with a tight crop where she is wearing a white shirt, was taken when we were actually playing Legos. I saw this soft window light coming from above her head and noticed her sweet expression, so I immediately grabbed my camera and composed it so that it focused only on her face.

Play a game or two, or three. In the picture where my daughter PZ�S`PUN�VU�[OL�ÅVVY�^P[O�WHY[Z�VM�OLY�OHPY�JV]LYPUN�OLY�MHJL��we were playing a game. We call it “Do the Opposite Way.” I tell her to do one thing, and she will do opposite. I told her to stay still and she was wiggling around, and it made her laugh so hard. My daughter also loves to investigate and pretend she is a detective. So one day, I took her to a nearby park, and we played a little detective game where she was investigating grass, tracks, puddle, birds, and everything else. It was way more fun than asking her to pose.

Let go. In the past, I would immediately delete pictures that were blurry or out of focus. I thought having perfect, tack sharp pictures was ideal. But sometimes, those “imperfect” pictures perfectly capture what’s happening at that time and convey a lot of emotion. I personally believe capturing emotion is more important, so I learned to let go of being perfect.

Let their personalities shine. My daughter has a little bit of NVVÄULZZ�PUZPKL�VM�OLY��0M�0�ISL^�I\IISLZ��ZOL�^V\SK�WYL[LUK�[OH[�ZOL�^HZ�NVPUN�[V�LH[�[OLT��0�WPJRLK�[^V�Z[LTZ�VM�ÅV^LYZ�for her. Rather than holding them, she said they were her horns. Maybe it would be nice to have a picture where my NPYS� ^V\SK� WVZL� UPJLS`� HUK� OVSK� H� ÅV^LY�� )\[� ILPUN� HISL�to capture her silliness and her true personality is far more important to me.

Ginger Unzueta Photographywww.gingerunzuetaphotography.com

Reader Question: What do you suggest for lifestyle photography lighting set-ups when you are shooting in the home and need a little more light and want it to look natural?

I love to shoot indoors and experiment with available light. This can be very challenging, but it is something I've grown to love and really embrace. I try not to use HY[PÄJPHS�SPNO[�H[�HSS�^OLU�WVZZPISL���;V�JYLH[L�TVYL�SPNO[�within an area, I open blinds, curtains, and doors. I also move my subjects to a location within the home where there is more light. There are also times I use blinds, curtains, and doors to let less light into the room. This can give a more dramatic feel to your images, which I really appreciate. The time of day can affect your lighting as well, so it is important to study the light throughout the day when possible. I always recommend that you experiment and play with the light around your OVTL�� � @V\� ^PSS� ÄUK� SPNO[� PU� WSHJLZ� `V\� UL]LY� ZH^�before, and you will begin to creatively grow as an artist through this process. This will be a wonderful asset to your photography.

March 2013 | 72 73 | March 2013

bits ofamy wenzelWISDOM

March 2013 | 74 75 | March 2013

Always believe that something wonderful is about to happen.

March 2013 | 76 77 | March 2013

March 2013 | 78 79 | March 2013

!ink left and think right and think low and think high.

Oh, the thinks you can think up if only you try!

-Dr. Seuss

March 2013 | 80 81 | March 2013

do what you love...

...and you’ll never work a day in your life

March 2013 | 82 83 | March 2013

March 2013 | 84 85 | March 2013

lifeis either a daring

or nothingADVENTURE

-Helen Keller

March 2013 | 86 87 | March 2013

You must do the thing you  -Eleanor Roosevelt

think you cannot do.

March 2013 | 88 89 | March 2013

W h e r e t o g e t t h e g o o d sSometimes accessories and props can make all the difference in an image. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite children’s vendors to make your accessory shopping a little easier. Enjoy!

4

1

1

1. Aven Clothing

www.avenclothing.comPhoto credit: Simplicity Photography

2. Koko Blush

www.kokoblushandcompany.comPhoto credit: Katie Moss

3. Pipers Posies

www.pipersposies.etsy.comPhoto credit: Shanna Michelle Photography

4. Persnickety Clothing Company

www.persnicketyclothing.comPhoto credit: Work of Heart Photography

5. TFJ Designs

www.TFJDesigns.comPhoto credit (top): Jennifer Veitch PhotographyPhoto credit (bottom): Kara May Photography

1

2

3

5

5

March 2013 | 90 91 | March 2013

67

9

6. MiaMoo Designs www.miamoodesigns.bigcartel.com

Photo credit: MiaMoo Designs

7. PepperLu

www.pepperlu.comPhoto credit: Peekaboo Photos

8. Snazziedrawers

www.snazziedrawers.comPhoto credit: Skye Johansen

9. Starlit Nest

www.etsy.com/shop/starlitnestgiftsPhoto credit: Tara Swain Photography

10. Lisa’s Mini Mad Hattery

www.lisasminimadhattery.comPhoto credit: Shannon Sewell

11. Taylor Joelle Designs

www.taylorjoelle.comPhoto credit: Heather Telford Photography

8

1011

11

March 2013 | 92 93 | March 2013

find your visionbe authentic

express yourself

Image © Skye Hardwick Edmonds

join the movement at facebook.com/MoziMagbe mozi

March 2013 | 94 95 | March 2013

Image © Audrey Woulard