“The way I see photography . . . [is] it’s snatching magic out of the air that wasn’t there before,” says world-renowned photographer Anne Geddes. Geddes’ phenomenal 40-year photography career began in Hong Kong when she photographed families with her husband’s Pentax K 1000. Geddes was unsatisfied with the result, so after they returned to their homeland of Australia, she called up a photographer whose image of a five-year-old girl she saw in the newspaper, volunteering herself as an assistant. She was accepted and began to learn everything she could about the portrait business and photographing children of all ages in a studio environment. 

Geddes says, “Ever since then, whenever I go into a studio . . . I always have this sense of an empty space, where I’m going to create something from that day.” For Geddes, the most indispensable tool for a photographer is imagination and an alertness to capturing magic. 

Geddes’ pursuit of creative ambition in her studio work paid off big. After ten years as a portrait photographer, Geddes was approached by a card maker who asked her to put out a series of seasonal cards. They were a hit. Calendars and posters followed and then her debut photo book, “Down in the Garden.” When Celine Dion told Oprah on TV that the book was at the top of her holiday-gift-giving list, the book took off, and the rest is history. Geddes became a global sensation with her infant portraits, and she has continued to build on that success through the rest of her 30-year career – as an artist, a philanthropist, and above all, a seeker of the magic in children, who she believes must be “protected, nurtured, and loved.” 

Three Tiny Mermaids 

The images Geddes shares with Rangefinder today come from her series “Under the Sea.” Her favorite image from the series (above) is of three tiny mermaids. Geddes did a year of research and planning and worked with a very talented team to bring this shoot together.

As safety is the primary concern when working with infants, a special seat that was bolted into the floor was carefully constructed for each mermaid to individually be photographed in. The seat had a supportive back and a wide, soft seatbelt concealed with the costume fabric. Geddes photographed the babies first and then separately shot their tails in various positions suggesting the flow of water under the sea. She constructed the final image in post. 

One Day a Month to Be Creative 

Geddes has always had a strong creative drive. She encourages photographers to “go into every portrait session thinking, ‘What can I do that’s unique — that’s not going to make me feel bored, that they’re going to love?’ and so on. . .‘ And a little bit scared is good. Nervous is good. If you’re not nervous in any way going into a shoot, then you’re not trying hard enough to scare yourself.” Keeping this in mind, Geddes, over the years, consistently produced beautiful work that resonated with her clients.  

But after ten years, even with this ethos, as she became more successful and the pressure to produce increased, Geddes began to feel tired. Her solution was to take one day a month to do a purely creative shoot – just for herself. The first image she did was a baby hanging on a meat hook, which conceptually sounds strange, and yet Geddes loved it. The next month, she produced her iconic shot of twins in cabbage. These shoots, removed from all client pressures, sky-rocketed her creativity and rekindled her inspiration. Geddes encourages all photographers to also do creative shoots just for themselves – one a month! 

Strive for Magic 

Additionally, Geddes gives the advice for photographers to “strive for the magic.” She adds, “but you’ve got to be quick, and you can’t also photograph with blinders on.” She discourages photographers from holding too set of a view on what they will produce, saying “something can come out of left field so fast. That’s the magic. And you can’t miss it. . . especially if you’re dealing with children. They can give you the magic. You’ve just got to be on the lookout. ” 

Furthermore, Geddes says, “you’ve got to keep growing and going forward . . . And mistakes are great. Never be afraid to admit that you’re green about something because green is where the energy is.” 

Follow Anne Geddes on Instagram and on her website.  And don’t miss her appearance on The Portrait System Podcast, where she shares some of her seminal stories about the beginning of her career and offers advice and inspiration to other photographers.  

As a thank you to our readers, we’re pleased to offer you a Rangefinder exclusive discount code to get 25% off The Portrait Masters courses below. Use the code RF25 at checkout to redeem. This code cannot be used in combination with other sales.

The post Magic from Air: Anne Geddes’ Phenomenal Photography Career appeared first on Rangefinder.

Funeral photography is a genre that went from being commonplace in the Victorian era to taboo in the modern era, and yet photographer Duane Knight of Your Legacy Photography says that it is a vital way for people today to process their grief through art. Knight has only been able to discover 50 funeral photographers currently in the world, and he is on a mission to change that by educating other photographers on how to add this genre to their offerings.

Remembrances of Those We Love

Many photographers have had the experience of a former client’s family member telling them just how precious their portrait of a now-deceased loved one is, even expressing that it was the only good photograph they had to display at the funeral. But most photographers have not considered how capturing images at a funeral can provide an avenue of healing for families who are grieving the loss of a loved one.

Knight, who has delivered 150 Legacy Funeral Albums to families over around a decade of being a funeral photographer, notes that family members come from all over the country and sometimes from around the world to be together to celebrate the life of a departed loved one. However, after a funeral, it’s not uncommon for those closest to the deceased to not even remember who was there. A funeral can be so emotional that it can be difficult to hang onto the details of the day. But funerals are similar to weddings, birthdays, and christenings in that they bring extended family and friends together for a fleeting time. An album can be valuable keepsake and a memento of both the departed loved one and everyone who was there. For those who were unable to attend, receiving a Legacy Funeral Album can be the link that helps them feel included.

Taboo or Treasured Memories

Knight says, “Funerals being photographed is definitely a cultural thing. Some cultures don’t want any photos, and to them, it’s taboo. In a group of ten people you might get two or three who want funeral photography.” However, Knight, through his business Your Legacy Photography, has a mission to be available for those who wish for a loved one’s funeral to be photographed. For him, it’s all about preserving memories, and he strongly feels that “all families who want funeral photography should have the opportunity to get it.”

Funeral Photography Education

In pursuit of this mission, Knight desires to help other photographers discover the genre and learn how to skillfully become funeral photographers. He has traveled to many photography conferences, including WPPI in Las Vegas, to help spread the word about funeral photography and his desire to share his expertise in teaching it.

If you are curious about funeral photography, be sure to keep an eye out for him at WPPI in Vegas next year. He’ll be the man in the hat that reads “I Love Funeral Photography” and the vest with “Ask Me about the Art of Funeral Photography” emblazoned on the back.

In the meantime, be sure to check out Duane Knight’s website YourLegacyPhotography.com, his Instagram, and feel free to contact him with feedback or any questions.

The post Funeral Photography: Healing Grief Through Art appeared first on Rangefinder.

Golden hour earned its name both from the colors of sunset and the golden opportunity it offers for capturing portraits with soft, stunning light. But, golden hour’s short-lived time frame means photographers often have to plan out shots in advance and use a number of time-learned tricks. This week, we asked four photographers for advice on making the most of golden hour portraits. Find inspiration in these stunning images by Rebecca Lueck, Emma Marchione, Christie Abascal, and Sammie and Micah Chaffin.

Rebecca Lueck, Becca Jean Photography

When Rebecca Lueck of Becca Jean Photography arrived on location for these maternity golden hour portraits, she was disappointed to find that the usual wildflowers were small and sparse. To bring more of the wildflowers into the frame, she positioned herself low to the ground, an angle that not only highlighted the wildflowers but allowed her to place a golden hour sun in the triangle of her subject’s arm. She used a Canon EOS R5 and Canon EF 35mm f1.4 L II lens for the shot.

“I shoot almost exclusively at golden hour with natural light, and the best advice I can give you is to look for wide open spaces,” she says. “If you want to shoot backlit, you want the sun behind your subject and wide-open sky in front of them to reflect light back onto them. This creates an ideal situation for beautiful skin tones without the need for flash.”

Emma Marchione, Star Crossed Weddings

While many photographers shoot golden hour backlit, defaulting to only one lighting pattern can mean missed opportunities for a range of beautiful shots, like in this one by Emma Marchione of Star Crossed Weddings. Marchione was inspired by the sun, the autumn colors and the wind adding dramatic movement to the mother-to-be’s hair and dress. She captured the shot with the Canon 6D Mark II and a 35mm lens.

“Golden hour moves very quickly. Make sure you give yourself enough time to get your gear ready and scope out the location,” she says. “Be aware that location can also affect golden hour. If you live somewhere where there are mountains, you might have a smaller window to shoot.”

Christie Abascal, Summit and Sur Photography

When this couple wasn’t able to have the adventure elopement they envisioned, they enlisted the help of Christie Abascal of Summit and Sur Photography to recreate an adventure style session. Abascal suggested sunset at Beetle Rock and, inspired by the glowing light, captured this stunning image showing off the vastness of the landscape. She took the shot with the Nikon Z8 and Nikkor 35mm f1.4 lens.

“Golden hour is definitely one of my favorite times to shoot because I just can never get enough of the colors that are cast everywhere during this time of day,” she says. “My best advice to other photographers looking to shoot during this time would be to adjust your white balance in camera accordingly and don’t overexpose those highlights!”

Sammie and Micah Chaffin

After scouting out this iconic Yosemite viewpoint, Sammie and Micah Chaffin of The Chaffins knew they wanted to capture the dramatic drop-off while showing a sense of scale. The sun flare adds further drama to the stunning elopement image, which was shot with the Sony A7 IV and Sony FE 24-70mm f2.8 GM lens.

“Since golden hour is only a short window of time, it’s best to go into it with some of the top photos you want to take in mind,” Micah says. “That will allow you to quickly take photos that you know will be fantastic and still have time to get creative and experiment in the moment with different angles, focal lengths, etc.

“Scout the location in person whenever possible (and if not, then do it virtually – Google Earth Pro and All Trails are two of our favorite resources for this) to determine the best areas and angles. For example, for this elopement, we knew we wanted to photograph the couple on the cliff from this angle at sunset. So then we were able to experiment and get the perfect angle with a beautiful lens flare, and sun rays leading your eye to the golden light on the rock formations overlooking the valley.”

Dig into our Photos of the Day Archives for even more timeless photos, eye-catching portraits and wedding photos. Submit your wedding, editorial, documentary and other interesting imagery (up to five images at a time) to: hillary.grigonis@emeraldx.com.

The post Photos of the Week August 26: Golden Hour Portraits appeared first on Rangefinder.

If you’re like me, your pets are incredibly important members of your family. So, when it comes time to take family photos, I completely understand when clients want to include them, and I highly encourage it! I worked in veterinary medicine for over thirteen years, so being around animals is something that brings me great joy. Today, I want to share my best tips for getting pet and family portraits sessions in the smoothest way possible.

Tip #1: Let pets join in the photo session when they’re ready

When it comes to getting pet and family portraits, sometimes we have to coax pets to get involved, and sometimes they insert themselves whether invited or not. Often pets need time to adjust to your arrival (when doing in-home sessions), so they might not want to be in photos right away. I find that they almost always will come and join in eventually.

For many dogs, their natural curiosity and tendency to follow their humans around the house means that they will be involved from the start, like this precious golden retriever.

Tip #2: Safety is key when including pets in photos

As much as we love our pets, it is important to understand that we still have to be mindful of safety. When working with babies and small children, even the sweetest dog or cat can get stressed and incidents can occur. I urge parents to keep a close eye on their kids and pets to make sure that everyone is staying safe. Don’t do any poses that will make a pet (or child) uncomfortable or nervous, and always keep a close eye on their body language to avoid any incidents.

Some pets take a while to adjust to a new baby (just like human siblings), and it’s totally normal for them to be nervous and not want to be near them, especially if they are crying.

Tip #3: Let things happen naturally when including pets in your photo session

When I arrive for an in-home session, I encourage parents to allow the pet(s) to meet me right away. The sooner they say hi and smell me, the sooner they will feel comfortable with my presence. Then, I can be a fly on the wall for some of the session while I document the pet interacting with the family! A lot of the time my favorite images come from moments that were completely unprompted, like when a dog comes to sniff a new baby or give a family member kisses.

This handsome pup was such a sweetheart and he was totally trying to get into pretty much every photo. I’d say he succeeded!

I often have parents who want to include their dog in outdoor family photos as well, such as this beautiful session from the NC Museum of Art Park. Not all parks allow pups, but many do. Be prepared to help your client decide if this is a good idea for their particular session.

Editor’s Note: A version of this article originally appeared on Valerie Worth’s blog.

Valerie Worth lives for capturing authentic moments in her Raleigh, North Carolina hometown. She photographs families, newborns, babies, and maternity. Follow her on Instagram and Facebook.

 As a thank you to our readers, we’re pleased to offer you a Rangefinder exclusive discount code to get 25% off The Portrait Masters course below. Use the code RF25 at checkout to redeem. This code cannot be used in combination with other sales.

The post Tips for Getting Great Pet and Family Portraits appeared first on Rangefinder.

Summer conjures up memories spent on the beach and in the water — but taking photographs on, in, or near the water presents a number of unique challenges. From dealing with the current to balancing on a floating dock, photographers need to be prepared when shooting near the water. This week, we’re featuring five photographers who captured incredible portraits on the water. Find inspiration in these images from Sally Schechner Gonzalez, Izabella Borycka, Lauren Dean, Alecia Asselin, and Jennifer Beckton.

Sally Schechner Gonzalez, Sally SG Photo

One of the challenges of taking photos in the ocean, Sally Schechner Gonzalez of Sally SG Photo explains, is respecting and staying away from the current. For this particular shot, with a couple who made the photo session part of a road trip, the water happened to be perfectly calm right at sunrise. The photographer used the Sony a7 IV and Sony 35mm f1.4 GM lens.

“The ocean represents freedom, beauty, strength, and delicateness all at the same time — just like a relationship, which is something I find beautiful,” she says. “When I take photos of couples at the beach, I love when they interact with each other and the water at the same time. It’s truly magical to me, and I’ve noticed how free and comfortable they feel when surrounded by it — all while focusing on each other. My goal is to capture the connection between two people in love.”

Izabella Borycka, iborycka.photo

Inspired by the contrast between the dark, rugged landscape and the soft curves of the human form, Izabella Borycka of iborycka.photo wanted to capture a mix of mystery and beauty in one image. The contrast between the skin tones and the rock with the model’s face partially obscured by shadows accomplishes that feel. Borycka captured the photograph with a Sony a7 IV and a Sony 35mm f1.8 lens.

“Shooting by the ocean was tough due to the harsh conditions and cold wind,” she says. “The wind made it difficult to keep the camera steady and also made it challenging for the model to pose comfortably.”

Lauren Dean, The Deans Photography

Lauren Dean of The Deans Photography asked this mother-to-be to imagine the moment she meets her daughter for the first time when a flock of seagulls happened to fly by. The result is an image that conveys both a sense of peace and a connection to nature. The photographer explained that she worked to brainstorm ideas and locations with the client for several days ahead of time. She captured the shot with the Canon EOS R6 Mark II and a 50mm lens.

“This specific location is a high traffic boating area,” Dean explains. “It was really important to not only portray the photo to look like we were on a remote island, but I also wanted my client to feel comfortable as she was partially nude. Additionally, I coordinated the timing of the sunset with the calm side of the island to avoid wind. Balancing time, location, and privacy were key elements in bringing this vision to life.”

Alecia Asselin, Alecia Patrick

For this image, Alecia Asselin of Alecia Patrick wanted to create an image that both conveyed a sense of place and a feeling of intimacy among the newlyweds. The couple takes center stage while the mountains and lake convey a sense of location. Asselin took the image with a Canon EOS R6 and the Canon RF 28-70mm f2.0 lens.

“The first challenge was stability,” Asselin explains. “Initially, I wanted the reflection to be pristine in the background, but the couple was engaging with each other and shaking the boat back and forth causing ripples in the water. For our style of photography, their connection was far more important than perfectly still water, so I left that expectation to the side and focused on the magic that was happening between them. The second challenge was my footing on the dock, I often get caught up in the moment with our couples, losing myself a bit in composition and engaging with them. In this particular instance, I had to really tune into my own footing as I was shooting from a floating dock that tended to bob with any movement!” 

Jennifer Beckton, Jennifer Georgette Photography

When this couple asked to go on a dory for their engagement session, Jennifer Beckton of Jennifer Georgette Photography knew she had to take the couple where the Newfoundland landscape looked beautiful from the water. The couple’s expression, the fog, and the background mix together to create an emotional engagement image. She captured the shot with the Canon 5D Mark IV and a Sigma 35mm Art lens with a Tiffen Black Pro Mist filter.

“There were a few challenges with working on the water,” Beckton says. “We had to work around the weather for the session and ended up starting at 5 am when the water was the calmest that day. Most of the session, we went pretty slow, but when we went fast, I had to deal with a lot of mist over the lens. But it did make for some dreamy photos.”

Dig into our Photos of the Day Archives for even more timeless photos, eye-catching portraits and wedding photos. Submit your wedding, editorial, documentary and other interesting imagery (up to five images at a time) to: hillary.grigonis@emeraldx.com.

[Read: Make Engagement Photography Magic at Lake Como]

The post Photos of the Week August 5: Portraits on the Water appeared first on Rangefinder.

Birth photography requires being on call and ready to photograph and assist in the highly emotional atmosphere of child birth. It also requires being prepared for anything — including low light situations and emergencies. Lily Johnson of Burgh Babies began her photography journey as a second shooter at weddings when she was still in high school. As an adult, she worked a corporate job before becoming a birth doula, and then decided to offer birth photography as well. From there, she organically began serving other areas of motherhood with her photography, including maternity and motherhood.

She recently joined Nikki Closser on The Portrait System Podcast to talk about her business where she shared these tips for those considering photographing new moms and their babies.

1. Many times, new mothers have not had a chance to talk about their birthing experience. Compassionately listening to these stories is a great aid to mothers in processing that intense experience.
2. It is extremely helpful to new mothers if you keep your studio stocked with things they might need, including newborn diapers and a changing table.
3. If you provide service to new mothers that demonstrates your care for them, you’ll develop a reputation that leads to referrals.

Hear more from Lily Johnson in her Portrait System Podcast appearance, and learn more about her career path in the Q&A below. You can also follow her work on Facebook and Instagram.

Most artists have a point in their life when they knew this was meant for them. Do you have that moment?  

As a doula/birth photographer I worked with women in such an intimate setting first, and the connection was so natural that we built. It made so much sense to capture maternity/newborn and follow their journey into motherhood after we already built this great connection!  

 
How did you push past fear when building your business?  

I would rather bet on myself any day of the week! There is no guarantee with a traditional job role. I can guarantee that I’ll show up for myself, and I find comfort and inspiration in that!  

 
Making a connection with your subject is one of the most important parts of a great portrait. How do you make lasting connections with your clients?  

My clients are so so vulnerable with me, and I share that vulnerability right back. My struggles with postpartum, pregnancy, motherhood are all connection points. I check in along the way, reaching out with encouraging words, but most importantly, I set up the whole experience start to finish to consider them. Their healing body during a newborn shoot can be tended to with a basket of care goodies in the bathroom. We have plenty of places to sit and pillows to nurse with. We let babies guide the sessions with naps and breaks. We have patience and compassion for the season of life they are in.  

 
For someone starting out on their photography journey what advice would you have for them?  

Know your camera, and know your numbers, and build from there starting out. If you aren’t ready to charge what is sustainable, photograph friends and family while you gain experience. It is much harder to undo a reputation you build if it is either negative or cheaply built. Once you gain experience and mentoring/training, start by offering a high-quality experience at the price point that is sustainable, and you will find your ideal clients! 

As a thank you to our readers, we’re pleased to offer you a Rangefinder exclusive discount code to get 25% off The Portrait Masters course below. Use the code RF25 at checkout to redeem. This code cannot be used in combination with other sales.

The post From Birth Photography to Families: Birth Doula Lily Johnson Q&A appeared first on Rangefinder.

Photographers are typically advised to photograph babies before six weeks of age, when the new humans are most likely to allow for sleepy swaddled poses. But infants change quickly, and the gummy grins and rolls of baby fat are worth capturing, too. The problem? Working with older infants can be a challenge. This week, we asked four photographers for advice on how to capture portraits of older babies beyond the newborn stage. Find inspiration from these stunning portraits of older babies by Montserrat Zavala, Ambreia Turner, Audrey Blake Calvani, Casey McMurray, and Julie White.

Montserrat Zavala, OM Wedding Storytelling

Inspired by classic paintings of women holding their babies, Montserrat Zavala of OM Wedding Storytelling wanted to capture a portrait that portrayed motherhood with a minimalistic, editorial feel. The naked infant, sheet covering the mother, and black and white edit help show the pureness of motherhood. She took the shot with the Sony A7 III and Tamron 28-70mm f2.8.

“Getting to take portraits of older babies can sometimes be difficult. What I always recommend is that the photoshoot needs to be after their nap time. Feed them 5 to 10 minutes before the shoot if possible, so they will be satisfied and calm. Also, have a toy or something in hand just in case you need it but not too close to the baby because it can be a distraction. Try to do it in a quiet environment and give the baby a few minutes to familiarize with the space, the camera, and yourself. And be patient, patience is the key!”

Ambreia Turner, Ambreia Artistry Photography

Inspired by her own motherhood journey, Ambreia Turner of Ambreia Artisty Photography captured this image that conveys the reality that babies don’t fit in their mothers arms for long. The neutral colors in the backdrop and gown help give the photo a timeless feel while drawing the eye to the mother and child. Turner captured the shot with Nikon Z7 II, a Sigma 50mm Art lens, and a Godox AD200 with a 47-inch octabox.

“My most prudent advice is to have patience with small children,” she says. “They are precious and curious. It can take time for them to warm up. I would say to consider this a moment to switch into a documentary mode and capture their behavior. The family will appreciate it so much! Go in for those small detail shots.”

Audrey Blake Calvani, Audrey Blake Photography

Capturing genuine emotions is what Audrey Blake Calvani of Audrey Blake Photography loves about her craft. She was inspired by both the mom and infant’s palpable joy, capturing this moment with her Canon camera and a Sigma 24mm prime lens.

“Photographing older babies is one of my favorite types of shoots,” Calvani says. “They are so full of personality, easily excited, and their laughter is contagious. My advice for photographing older babies is to engage with them genuinely and patiently. Speak to them softly and maintain eye contact to build a connection. Focus on capturing authentic moments, like their spontaneous smiles and curious expressions. Additionally, pay attention to the loving interactions between the baby and their parents—those adoring looks and tender touches make for truly heartwarming photos. Remember, the key is to create a relaxed and joyful atmosphere where the baby’s unique personality can shine through.”

Casey McMurray, Casey McMurray Photography

Casey McMurray of Casey McMurray Photography could tell this little one was starting to get antsy during the session. To keep him occupied, she asked the mother to look out the window with the baby, having noticed the beautiful curtains earlier. The baby’s reflection in the window and the mom’s expression were happy surprises, McMurray said. She took the image with the Nikon Z6 II and Nikon 50mm f1.2 lens.

“My advice for taking portraits of older babies is to start the session early in the morning when they are the happiest,” she says. “Take your time, older babies have so much more personality. I love the 6-month stage. Usually by then babies can sit up on their own or with some help. Don’t worry about everyone looking into the camera and smiling for every single picture instead focus on the little moments. Lastly, make sure the parents have lots of snacks AKA puffs!”

Julie White, Julie White Photography

Julie White of Julie White Photography uses a documentary, or lifestyle, approach to her work, which means this nose kiss between mother and infant was a spontaneous moment. White spent over an hour getting to know the mother and waiting for the rain to subside before leading them outside near a pond. The rain clouds created a hazy glow while the breeze ruffled the mother’s hair. White captured the shot with the Canon R6 and EF 50mm f1.2 L USM lens.

“When I photograph older children, I have no rules or preconceived demands and I encourage parents to be as present and natural as possible,” she says. “My work is mostly a ‘curated documentary,’ or lifestyle approach. This means that I find the light in every location, whether it’s in homes or out in nature, and I encourage my mums and dads to interact with their babies around that area. I always move around the scene, shooting constantly and from different angles and am led by the baby’s responses. I usually book shoots for when a baby has just had a nap and allow plenty of time to change locations, which helps to keep them engaged as they bore very easily! Asking the parents to cuddle with and entertain their children helps to keep the interactions connected and stops too much camera fascination from the babies. The mums really are pretty in rhythm with their little ones by the time they are a few months old and they know how to keep them happy and relaxed, so I just let them set the pace and work around it.”

Dig into our Photos of the Day Archives for even more timeless photos, eye-catching wedding photos and portraits. Submit your wedding, editorial, documentary and other interesting imagery (up to 5 images at a time) to: hillary.grigonis@emeraldx.com.

As a thank you to our readers, we’re pleased to offer you a Rangefinder exclusive discount code to get 25% off The Portrait Masters courses below. Use the code RF25 at checkout to redeem. This code cannot be used in combination with other sales.

The post Photos of the Week June 24: Get Great Portraits of Older Babies appeared first on Rangefinder.

Dads make every situation better just by being there, and family photos are no exception! This Father’s Day, let’s get dad in photos to help him see the magic he brings to every moment of our lives, whether it’s a professional photo session or dinnertime around the table. Some of the most special moments captured in my studio have been between fathers and their children. Fathers can show up to your maternity, newborn and family photo sessions knowing that just being there and being themselves is all we need to get the perfect photos!

No fuss or muss!

Dads are Important in Every Moment

You’ve heard this before:

“One second you’re twirling them around in a princess costume and next thing you know you’re walking them down the wedding aisle.” 

Or how about this one:

“It feels like yesterday I taught them how to ride a bike. Now, I’m teaching them how to drive a car.” 

These big moments come and go so quickly. But we don’t need to tell Dads how fast their kids grow up. They’re already seeing it.

As photographers, we can’t stop time and keep children little forever – but we can promise that our clients will have memories of each stage. Every new season brings a whole new level of excitement parents are going to love (even if it comes along with its challenges). When we capture each of these stages in photos, they can learn to see the greatness in it before it ends – whether it’s eating a meal together, or dropping a kid off at college. Having family photography helps families capture the moment and enjoy it to the fullest, knowing that later, it’s safely preserved in their family’s memories. And, it’s important to get dad in those photos, too.

And here’s an inside perspective you need to let your clients know: Their kids will really want to have photos of their parents with them! These photos will become the memories they carry with them throughout their lives. Trust me, as a daughter myself and as a mother of four children, one of the most precious gifts you can give your children is the affirmation of how much you love them. Parents can show this to their children every day, in actions, words, and in the family photos that hang on their walls.

The Father Effect

Kids’ lives are better every moment dads are there with them. It’s called, “The Father Effect,” which describes the benefits children experience when their fathers are actively involved and present in their lives. Just being there and being themselves is all kids need to feel the benefits of having a dad.

And if anyone knows how to make the most of the moment, it’s dad. Dads know how to turn boredom into magic. Dads can turn tears into laughter. Dad jokes are world-renowned. Dads help us all learn how to let go and have fun.

I love capturing natural dad skills in photos. When families have photographs of dad with his children, they grow up experiencing and seeing evidence of the unique bond they have with each other. Not only is this good for kids, it’s also good for dads.

My client Daryl McHugh shared this testimonial after our shoot together, “Our session was so much fun, and Karen captured every candid moment perfectly. We are beyond happy with our family photos, and we can’t wait to receive our amazing album and wall portrait that Karen created for us! Thank you, Karen from the bottom of our hearts for creating these beautiful memories we will cherish forever!”

I love making my clients happy — the whole family!

Dad’s Superpower: Why Dads are Natural Memory-Makers

This is actual science! There’s a lot of research around the benefits of playfulness in fathers — especially more active, energetic play like:

• Chasing (“Here comes the tickle monster!”)
• Racing (“First one to kiss mom wins!”)
• Piggybacks
• Pillow fights
• Foot wrestling
• Tossing kids in the air and catching them
• Letting kids climb on them

These studies show that when men become fathers, they experience an increase in energy that can sustain this boisterous kind of play that kids need! Kids adore being hung upside down and thrown into the air, and it actually helps them form strong attachments with their fathers.

This more “wild and free” form of play is really important for children to learn basic lessons around fun, trust, risk-taking, expression, self-regulation, self-control and boundaries.

I think it’s this ability to play so enthusiastically with their kids that give dad a superpower (especially at my studio, Reflections). Dads have a superpower for play, and I have a knack for turning regular old moments into hilarious, beautiful memories that families can can cherish forever.

If you want to encourage dads to come off the sidelines into family photographs, consider adding these elements of dad’s natural playfulness into your family shoots. And share this article with dads, so they understand just how important they are and how much we want dad in photos, too!

Editor’s Note: A version of this article first appeared on Karen Byker’s blog.

Karen Byker is a Niagara Newborn & Family Photographer at Reflections. She has helped busy moms capture and preserve beautiful, authentic family memories with a stress-free, full-service photography experience in Niagara, Ontario, Canada since 2005. Follow her on Instagram.

The post Why Dads Make Every Photo Session More Awesome appeared first on Rangefinder.

Father’s Day can be a day of beautiful appreciation, and although it doesn’t get as much excitement as Mother’s Day, it’s absolutely worth celebrating. In this article, I’ll share how to plan a Father’s Day photoshoot, so you can make the most of this occasion to celebrate dads, step-dads, and other father figures.

I know that it can seem like men aren’t as into beautiful photo sessions, but a Father’s Day photoshoot surrounded by festivities is sure to catch their attention! Trust me, they’ll be just as grateful as the rest of the family to be part of capturing their family’s most beautiful moments. 

When it comes to a Father’s Day photoshoot, the lifestyle photography lens is ideal. Lifestyle photography, as I’ve talked about before, is more relaxed and natural. There’s no stuffy posing and matching outfits that a lot of people, especially dads, tend to think of when they imagine family photography. In addition to finding the right style, location is key. I recommend in-home sessions or outdoor sessions. Both allow a family to feel at ease and interact organically, the bread and butter of lifestyle imagery!

Indoor vs. Outdoor Sessions

I think opting for at-home indoor sessions or a beautiful landscape for an outdoor session are the best choices for Father’s Day. At home, dads get to feel comfortable in their space. They are able to do the things they would ordinarily — run around with the kids, read books, or whatever it may be — without any added pressure. Outdoor spaces are a wonderful option as well. In Idaho where I’m based, we are so lucky to have incredible greenery and mountains, and they make for stunning backdrops. Plus, in those wide open spaces, dads are encouraged to play and almost forget the camera is there. Every place has beautiful spaces where families can relax and play. Scout out your area for such locations, or find out where your families already love to go.

Lifestyle photography is all about being playful, and being yourselves. This is wonderful for goofy dads who want to let loose and be silly with their children. After all, the point of capturing these moments for families is to offer up a beautiful reflection of what their love looks like on the outside and feels like on the inside. Fatherhood is so important to document — to show how loving and special it truly is. If you offer Father’s Day photoshoots, your clients will definitely look back at these photos and smile, being brought right back into that moment of laughter and joy. 

Tips to Make a Father’s Day Photoshoot Fun for Dad

1. Address expectations. There is always a bit of chaos during a family session because kids have different temperaments, personalities, and ages, and photos aren’t a normal occurrence. Let parents know that you can work around any crying or misbehavior.  Do you know how many photos I have where mom or dad is in a photo with a crying child but you can’t tell from the photo?
2. Tell Dads they will get lots of breaks. They won’t have to be in front of the camera all the time. They are free to check their emails, have a snack, or take a break to do whatever they’d like.
3. Let them know it is the photographer’s job to manage the kids. Warm up to the kids right away, and also loosen up Dad. Establish a laid-back and chill vibe in sessions, so they know this experience will be different from any bad photoshoots they’ve had in the past.
4. Many times, a dad’s dread of the session is based on a previously bad photo experience. Work with families and kids to break the ice, have fun, and calm them down. If parents feel stressed out, it’ll show in the photos. Dads and partners should be relaxed and having fun in the session, and if they are, it will show in the images.

Dads don’t want to spend time doing a photoshoot they think will be fake, corny, and stressful. Addressing the points above will ensure that photoshoots don’t become a chore for dads, taking away from activities they’d rather be doing with their families. When photoshoots are a fun family activity, even dads will look forward to them.

Editor’s Note: Versions of this article first appeared on Kim Hildebrand’s blog: here and here.

For over 15 years, Kim Hildebrand has been a lifestyle photographer offering family, maternity, newborn, pet, and senior photography in Coer d’Alene, Idaho. She loves capturing the little moments that fill life with joy. Follow her on Instagram.

As a thank you to our readers, we’re pleased to offer you a Rangefinder exclusive discount code to get 25% off The Portrait Masters course below. Use the code RF25 at check out to redeem. This code cannot be used in combination with other sales.

The post Four Tips for a Father’s Day Photoshoot Dad Will Look Forward To appeared first on Rangefinder.

What fatherhood looks like is often different from family to family. By getting to know the family dynamics first, photographers can capture portraits of fathers that showcase the unique way that a particular father interacts with his children. In honor of Father’s Day, this week we’ve selected four heartfelt images that capture the essence of fatherhood. Find inspiration in these portraits of fathers from Emmy Lou Virginia Canedo, Anna Bailey, Ally Stuart-Ross, Ella Börner, and Rebecca Loveridge.

Emmy Lou Virginia Canedo, Emmy Lou Virginia Photography

Photographer Emmy Lou Virginia Canedo of Emmy Lou Virginia Photography captured this shot of her husband and kids in the backyard because the moment evoked her own childhood memories. The photographer explained that one of her favorite summer memories of her childhood was playing tag and chasing the lawnmower around the yard. Watching her kids chase their father around the yard brought back her own childhood memories. She captured the shot with the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and Sigma 35mm f1.4 lens.

“My advice for those wanting to capture portraits of fathers would be to first make a mental note of those things that are unique and beautiful about fatherhood for the dad you’re capturing, so that you are aware when the moment happens that you’d like to capture,” Canedo says. “For me with this image, that moment was my kids chasing their dad with a lawnmower. I also think light is so important for setting the mood; in this image, I knew that when my husband mowed the lawn at sunset (as opposed to in the middle of the day), the light would have a glow that would emphasize the nostalgia of this moment, and I crouched lower to the ground to ensure that I captured some of those magical sun flares too.”

Anna Bailey, Anna Bailey Photography

To capture portraits of fathers, Anna Bailey of Anna Bailey Photography looks for the subtle, candid moments that often go unnoticed. She uses movement-based prompts to photograph dads naturally interacting with their children. This shot captures genuine emotion in a playful moment between dad and child. Bailey captured the shot with the Canon EOS R6 and a 70-200mm lens.

“My advice for capturing fatherhood is to focus on genuine interactions,” she says. “I often find dads are the most nervous before a family session, preferring to stand on the sidelines. Use playful prompts to create natural moments of connection and emotion. Look for the candid moments that show emotion and connection. Be patient and observe, allowing the natural dynamics to unfold.”

Ally Stuart-Ross, Mable and Moose

Inspired by the way this dad naturally held onto his baby girl, Ally Stuart-Ross of Mable and Moose captured the little girl snuggling in close to her dad. The dark tones of her hair match the father’s beard and tattoos, while the Mable and Moose style using lots of white help those details to really pop. She captured the shot with the Fujifilm X-T3 and an 18-55mm kit lens. For lighting, she used a Bowens 200 strobe that’s nearly 20 years old as the key light and a Bowens 400 as a secondary light, both fired through a Lastolight Highlite, proof that knowing how to use lighting gear is more important than having the latest equipment.

“I would advise other photographers never to overlook a dad in favor of mum at a newborn session,” she says. “They have had a very different journey, and it’s almost like they are just getting to know their new baby where as mum has carried them for 9 months and can feel more connected. During a photo session, I sometimes see a dad visibly bonding with his baby.”

Ella Börner

Photographer Ella Börner (@dear_ella) says many of her favorite moments feel mundane at first, but then feel incredibly special when those moments are in the past and she’s able to look back at them. That connection inspired this photo of a father looking through a birthday gift book with his son, a simple moment that holds long-term memories. She captured the shot with the Sony a7 III and a 50mm lens.

“I think it’s important to get to know each family (member) a bit before even starting to take photos — so they feel like they know you and have an easier time showing their emotions,” she says. “Then just be a part of the activities of the day, be patient, observant and focus on the little moments.”

Rebecca Loveridge, Rebecca Loveridge Photography

When this father scooped up his daughter and made her giggle uncontrollably, Rebecca Loveridge of Rebecca Loveridge Photography knew it was a powerful moment she had to capture. The image shows the bond between the two. Loveridge captured the moment in a studio with a neutral-themed setup, using the Canon 5D Mark IV, Canon EF 24-70mm f2.8 II USM lens, and a NEEWER 700W with a softbox.

“Capturing fatherhood images can be a meaningful and an emotive experience,” she says. “My advice would be to make your subjects feel at ease from the start to capture the most natural interactions. Engage with them, keep the session light and fun, and be patient to capture spontaneous moments.”

Dig into our Photos of the Day Archives for even more timeless photos, eye-catching wedding photos and portraits. Submit your wedding, editorial, documentary and other interesting imagery (up to 5 images at a time) to: hillary.grigonis@emeraldx.com.

As a thank you to our readers, we’re pleased to offer you a Rangefinder exclusive discount code to get 25% off The Portrait Masters course below. Use the code RF25 at check out to redeem. This code cannot be used in combination with other sales.

The post Photos of the Week June 17: Inspiring Portraits of Fathers appeared first on Rangefinder.