Fireworks aren’t just for the Fourth of July! You’ll find them regularly at theme parks, sporting events, and maybe more surprisingly, at weddings. For the latter, fireworks offer photographers a wonderful opportunity to capture epic couples portraits with a truly unique backdrop. Of course, if you’re not familiar with how to photograph fireworks, there are some basic tips you’ll want to keep in mind, all on top of what it already takes to create incredible couples portraits. In this article, we’ve put together a list of tips and ideas for how to capture fireworks during a couples session in a way that will give your photos all the flash and excitement of a grand finale.

All of the images in this article are provided by the photographers at Wedding Maps and used with their permission.

How to Photograph Fireworks for Couples Portraits

If you consider how long, or rather how short the window of time is for photographing fireworks (typically 5-8 minutes, if not shorter), you can see that you’ll have to work efficiently to get set up and capture your portraits. The best way to make it happen is to plan ahead and know exactly where you need to be and what you need to do when the time comes. To make sure you’re ready, follow these tips.

Find the Best Location

If you’re photographing a wedding that includes fireworks on the timeline, you’ll want to find out as soon as possible where the fireworks will appear so that you can scout locations for the best angle. Go-to resources for getting this information include the couple, the planner, and even the venue.

Of course, in terms of finding the “best” angle, it will vary based on what you’re looking for. For example, you might look for a wide-open area if you want to capture an epic shot of fireworks filling the sky while your couple looks on in the frame. On the other hand, you might also look for a spot with foreground elements like trees or buildings that you can use to help frame the shot. Composition is key to successfully capturing fireworks for couples portraits, so make sure you check scouting off of your to-do list.

Maximize Dynamic Range with RAW Files and Exposure Settings

Photographing fireworks brings with it the demand of capturing photos in a challenging lighting situation. The ambient light is going to be dark while the fireworks themselves can potentially blow out your highlights, depending on your exposure settings. For that reason, and to ensure you have the best chance possible of retaining details in your portraits, it’s imperative that you capture RAW files and dial in your exposure settings to maximize dynamic range.

Raw Files vs. JPEG

RAW files will give you more flexibility when it comes to recovering details in the shadows and highlights during post-production. The dynamic range of the details you capture will be significantly reduced if you opt for compressed JPEG files rather than RAW files.

Exposure Settings

Here’s a starting point that you can use to set your exposure when photographing fireworks for couples portraits.

• Aperture: f8
• Shutter Speed: 5-10 seconds (using a tripod is highly recommended)
• ISO: 200 (adjust ISO to increase or decrease the brightness)

Also, be sure to review your camera’s histogram to see where the data is being represented on the graph. You don’t want the data to hit too heavily on the right side, which would mean that you’re blowing out your highlights and losing details in the fireworks. At the same time, you don’t want to go too far the other way either.

Manage White Balance

When it comes to setting your white balance for photographing fireworks, Tungsten is a great place to start. If you’re adding light to the couple via flash or constant light, you can include a CTO (color temperature orange) gel to the light source and set your white balance to somewhere around 3200 Kelvin. Adjust as needed to match your vision of what the portraits should look like.

Choose the “Right” Lens

The lens you use to photograph fireworks for couples portraits will depend on a couple of things. First, the field of view you want to include for your composition will dictate whether you shoot wide or tight. Keep in mind that these are couples portraits, so using a zoom lens to capture a wide angle shot will make it virtually impossible to communicate with your couple. The space you’re in might also be limited, making a zoom lens a non-option. If you opt for a tighter shot, however, a zoom lens will do a great job of compressing the scene and making the fireworks appear larger in the frame. Beyond that, using a wide-angle lens will make it easier to capture epic shots of the couple and all of the fireworks in their grandeur. Remember, it’s okay to shoot wide and crop the shot a bit during post, if necessary.

Try a Long Exposure

You’ll likely need to set your shutter speed to a slower setting in order to capture better firework portraits. The longer the exposure, the more fireworks you’ll see. Long exposures, which might fall somewhere between 5-10 seconds, also give the fireworks motion as the light traces a path across the sky. Shorter exposures, somewhere in the 2-5 second range, will reveal less detail in the fireworks.

Regardless, you’ll need to use a tripod to minimize camera shake while capturing portraits with long exposures. It can also help to use a cable, remote control button, or delay timer (a two-second delay should suffice) to press the shutter button and further eliminate any unwanted motion.

Light Your Subjects

Typically, when photographing fireworks, we don’t need to worry much about lighting any subjects in the frame. In fact, most of the focus usually falls on the fireworks and subjects are either left in the dark or cropped out completely. For couples portraits with fireworks, however, that is not the case. The way we light our subjects should be intentional and well-executed. The good news is, when time permits, you can set up your shot and dial in your flash power and exposure settings before the fireworks begin.

To start, you will light the couple the way you would even if fireworks were not part of the equation. Dial in your flash power and exposure settings to get the balance you need between flash and ambient lighting. Set the light source off to the side at roughly a 45-degree angle (relative to the couple and the camera), and place it at a somewhat top-down angle facing the couple. You can add a backlight to further define your subjects, or consider using a snoot or grid to control light spill and focus the light directly (or exclusively) on the couple. The particular details of your setup will depend on your own creative direction.

Use Manual Focus

Fireworks can cause havoc on autofocus, so make sure you set your lens to manual focus. If your camera has live view, use that dial to focus on the couple (you can use autofocus for this before the fireworks start) and then double check that manual focus is selected and leave it there.

Create a Composite

You always have the option to create a composite when you photograph fireworks for couples portraits. If you choose this route, you’ll definitely want to use a tripod. The trick here is to first capture a solid portrait of your couple, in which they’re perfectly lit and posed. Then, you can capture several separate photos of the fireworks.

Lightroom

After the shoot, when you’re ready to create the composite, start in Lightroom (or whatever photo editing software that you prefer). Be sure to edit the batch of photos that you plan to use for the composite in the same way so that they are consistent. To do this quickly and easily, edit the photo with the couple first, and then run a batch edit to apply the changes you’ve made to the remaining photos.

Photoshop

Next, move the photos into Photoshop and stack them in a single tab so that you can combine them. Set the blend mode to “Lighten” in order to reveal the brightest parts (the fireworks) of the top layers. From here, just create masks to edit out the parts of each layer that you don’t want to keep.

How to Photograph Sparklers

While not technically “fireworks,” sparklers show up often at weddings, especially as part of a grand exit. For that reason, and because they fall under the umbrella, we’ve included a few basic tips for photographing sparklers as part of a couples session.

Use Big Sparklers

Hopefully, if the bride and groom haven’t already purchased sparklers for their wedding photos, you can recommend that they go with the 36-inch sparklers instead of the 10-inch sparklers. The longer sparklers will give you more time to pose everyone and capture additional photos.

Boost ISO and Wide Aperture

As a light source, sparklers don’t offer too much. For this reason, you can choose to add a light source or dial in the appropriate settings to capture the photos in dim lighting. It also matters whether or not your subjects are moving or standing still. Either way, you’ll want to boost your ISO and go with a wider aperture to start off with a brighter exposure.

Here are some basic settings you can use as a reference when determining the best exposure for your situation.

Moving Subjects

• Shutter Speed: 1/125, Aperture: f/2.8, ISO 3200, Aperture: F2.8, Shutter Speed: 1/125.

Static Subjects

Lower your shutter speeds and adjust the other exposure settings accordingly.

Have a Safety Bucket Handy

When handling sparklers, you’re handling fire. After you capture the shots, you’ll need a safe place to put the sparklers. For this, have a good size bucket of water nearby. Problem solved.

Conclusion + More Inspiration

We hope you found these tips on how to photograph fireworks (and sparklers) for couples portraits helpful. Check out the images below for more inspiration that you can draw from when it comes time to photograph your own couples portraits under a sky full of fireworks.

The post How to Photograph Fireworks for Couples Portraits appeared first on Rangefinder.

When it comes to lighting in photography, most of us instinctively reach for soft, flattering light. We diffuse our flashes, shoot through umbrellas, and seek out cloudy days. But what if I told you that some of the most striking portraits actually come from embracing hard light?

That’s exactly what renowned photographer Roberto Valenzuela teaches in his groundbreaking new Dynamic Lighting Masterclass, now available at WPPI On Demand. Today, I’m excited to share his transformative lighting insights, which could revolutionize your portrait photography.

The Hidden Power of Hard Light

“Hard light gets a bad reputation because it’s more difficult to use. But it’s not really difficult,” Valenzuela explains. “If you have some control over your subjects, hard light is going to look ten times more dynamic, ten times more amazing.”

The secret? Intense lighting creates images with:

1. More shock value
2. Increased drama
3. Better contouring
4. Stronger visual impact

As Valenzuela notes, “People are going to look at the photo, and they can’t stop looking at it. There’s something beautiful about it because it’s not normal to see lighting like that.”

The Essential Gear Tip You Need to Know

Here’s a pro tip from Roberto that could save you hundreds of dollars: Never buy a hard light modifier without also purchasing its grid. “Hard modifiers without a grid is like a car without a steering wheel,” he warns. “If you can’t afford the grid, then don’t buy the modifier at all because it’s a waste of your money.”

Why? The grid helps control where your light falls, preventing it from spilling onto backgrounds and losing that sought-after separation between subject and environment.

The Batman and Robin Technique

But here’s where it gets really interesting. Valenzuela reveals his signature “Batman and Robin” approach to lighting:

1. Use your hard light (Batman) as the main light for your subject’s face
2. Add a softer light (Robin) to compensate and fill in the shadows

“You don’t have to,” Roberto admits, “but it works quite well to do it with two sources of light, a hard one and a medium or soft one.”

This combination creates portraits with impact while maintaining control over the overall look. The hard light provides drama and definition, while the fill light ensures you don’t lose detail in the shadows.

Beyond the Basics

Of course, this is just scratching the surface of what’s possible. In his complete Dynamic Lighting Masterclass, Roberto goes deep into:

• Precise light positioning techniques
• Advanced modifier combinations
• Creating separation with grids
• Balancing ambient light with hard light
• Movement and posing with dramatic lighting

Ready to Transform Your Photography?

While this technique alone can elevate your portrait work, it’s just one of countless insights Roberto shares in his comprehensive new course. If you’re ready to master lighting and create images that truly stand out, check out the complete Dynamic Lighting Masterclass at the WPPI On Demand Store.

You’ll learn not just how to use light, but how to shape it, control it, and bend it to your creative will. Because as Roberto shows us, sometimes the most striking images come from embracing the techniques others are afraid to try.

Learn from the World’s Best Photographers—Anytime, Anywhere

Want to learn more game-changing lighting techniques? Roberto Valenzuela’s Dynamic Lighting Masterclass is now available exclusively at the WPPI On Demand Store.

Explore Roberto’s work at RobertoValenzuela.com and @roberto_photo.

[Read: Create Spicy Photos that Enliven the Senses with Roberto Valenzuela]

The post Why Top Photographers are Embracing Hard Light (And You Should, Too) appeared first on Rangefinder.

As photographers, we are often driven by the pursuit of creating something extraordinary—images that move people, inspire them, and leave a lasting impression. In the world of portrait photography, few things captivate the eye like a stunning woman or couple surrounded by nature’s raw beauty, with a long, flowing dress billowing majestically in the wind. Enter the magical genre of flying dress photography.

There’s something timeless about the beauty of a woman standing against the backdrop of nature, her long flowing dress sweeping through the air, caught in a perfect moment. This visual poetry has become the hallmark of Brittany Colt’s brand, The Flying Dress Experience. Her work blends the grandeur of nature with feminine grace, crafting images that feel both awe-inspiring and ethereal. But beyond the aesthetics, Brittany’s vision tells a deeper story—one rooted in female empowerment and a love for the natural world.

The Birth of The Flying Dress Experience

Brittany, who for many years was the head of education at the Ansel Adams Gallery in Yosemite National Park, discovered a passion for landscape photography as a child growing up in the Pacific Northwest. Later, as a young adult in Portland’s vibrant arts scene, Brittany developed her cinematic eye as she experimented with makeup, lighting, and art direction while setting up fantastical shoots. She also began shooting weddings and photographing women’s portraits.

After years of working within the framework of landscape and portraiture, Brittany found herself pulled toward a new vision—one that would blend her love for nature with her desire to empower women. It began with a simple idea: a flowing satin gown set against an epic landscape. From that initial creative spark, The Flying Dress Experience was born. It was a way to not only showcase the majesty of nature but to give women an unforgettable experience—one where they could embrace their femininity, beauty, and strength. 

“The dress itself became a metaphor for freedom, confidence, and empowerment,” Brittany explains. “It’s as if the natural settings are literally carrying these women into their power, into their full expression.” From the towering granite cliffs in Yosemite to the otherworldly sand dunes of Death Valley, to the fairytale magic of the Pacific Northwest, her sessions allow women to connect with both the environment and themselves.

Since the whole concept of flying dress photo shoots still seems like it’s in its infancy here in the US, you might be wondering, “How do I get people interested in a photo session that they don’t even know they want yet?” While places like Santorini, Dubai and other luxurious resort destinations are bustling with flying dress photo shoot options, the phenomena is relatively new to the US. The answer is simple–show what you want to shoot. Below Brittany kindly shares her tips for how to get started offering your own “flying dress experience.”

Crafting The Perfect Flying Dress Shot

Capturing these dreamy images requires a combination of artistry and technical skill. Below, Brittany shares some of her top tips for photographing long flowing dresses in natural settings.

1. Be Aware of the Wind
   The wind is not your friend, even though it seems like it would be. It can be unpredictable and tends towards flapping furiously rather than flying elegantly. So, if it’s not the wind flying the dress, what is? Read on to find out.
2. An Assistant is Mandatory
   This is probably the most important tip of all. If you really want the dress to fly, and in a way that is beautiful and not chaotic, having an assistant to help “fly the dress” is crucial.  
3. Plan for Location and Lighting
   Shooting in awe-inspiring natural settings is a big part of The Flying Dress Experience, but it also means planning meticulously around location and lighting. Always scout locations ahead of time and check the weather–especially wind conditions.
4. Use a Fast Shutter Speed
   Perhaps this is obvious, but it’s also crucial. Have that motor drive cranking at a fast enough shutter speed to freeze the flying of the dress. 
5. Communicate with Your Subject
   It’s crucial to make your subject feel empowered and comfortable. Long flowing dresses can be a bit overwhelming at first, so help guide your clients through posing and grounding into their bodies and help them find movements that feel natural and beautiful.
6. Focus on Composition
   When photographing flying dresses in these awe-inspiring natural locations, composition is everything. You’re not just capturing a person in a dress—you’re highlighting the landscape as much as the woman. Try to focus on artistically incorporating both the subject and the vast, majestic landscape around them. 
7. Leave No Trace
   As photographers who specialize in taking people into nature, we also have a profound responsibility to minimize our impact on the natural world. This includes avoiding sensitive areas that are susceptible to be trampled such as meadows, river banks, and locations that are closed for restoration. With the assistant running in and out of shots, there could be a lot of impact on sensitive areas. 

Building a Flying Dress Photography Portfolio

For photographers looking to dive into flying dress photography, Brittany emphasizes the importance of building a strong, eye-catching portfolio. Here’s her advice on how to get started: 

1. Invest in Dresses
   Having a variety of colors and sizes of flowing dresses is essential. It’s an upfront investment, but it’s essential to have these dresses ready for your clients.
2. Collaborate with other Creatives
   Partner with local musicians, artists, or small business owners who may want stunning photos for their own portfolios or marketing materials. Collaboration can help you create a win-win situation, allowing you to experiment while offering something valuable in return.
3. Embrace Unconventional Locations and Props
   Don’t be afraid to explore unconventional locations or even props. Yes, the beach, mountains and National Parks are classic, but your local park, venues, or even urban rooftops can provide stunning backdrops for a flying dress shoot. On one of her recent photo sessions Brittany collaborated with a local business that restores grand pianos and actually got a piano out in nature to photograph!
4. Post-Production Magic
   While we photographers all try to capture everything in-camera, sometimes a bit of post-production work is needed to remove any distractions and really bring the images to life. And if you’ve never processed “landscape photography” before, Brittany highly recommends spending time learning this art form.

Empowering Women Through Photography

At the heart of The Flying Dress Experience is Brittany’s mission to uplift and empower women. Through her own personal journey of growth and self-discovery, Brittany realized that photography could be a powerful tool not only for capturing beauty but for fostering confidence and healing. For many of her clients, the photo shoot becomes a transformative experience, allowing them to reconnect with their femininity, embrace their inner strength, and feel truly seen. 

“I’ve always believed in the power of art to transform, not just the artist but the subject as well,” Brittany says. “Many of the women I photograph come for the experience itself, not just the final images. They leave feeling confident, celebrated, and empowered in ways they didn’t expect.”

In the world of wedding and portrait photography, Brittany Colt’s The Flying Dress Experience offers a fresh, visionary approach that inspires both photographers and clients alike. Through a combination of breathtaking landscapes, flowing gowns, and her empowering message, Brittany has carved out a unique space in the industry. For photographers eager to elevate their portfolios, experimenting with flying dresses could be the key to unlocking a whole new level of creativity.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a way to infuse new life into your work, let Brittany’s journey inspire you expand your creativity, collaborate with others, and create something truly magical.

Explore Brittany’s work at BrittanyColt.com, The Flying Dress Experience, @theflyingdressexperience, and @brittanycolt.

 

Shawn Reeder is a Yosemite & Eastern Sierra-based adventure elopement photographer and film maker who loves to photograph couples in love amidst the majesty of awe-inspiring nature. See more of his work on his adventure elopement and landscape websites, and his elopement and landscape Instagrams.

The post Flying Dress Photography: Brittany Colt’s Tips to Get You Started appeared first on Rangefinder.

Wedding photography is one of the most competitive markets in the world, and these days, having an online presence is an absolute must! In a past article, I went into great depth on how to create a standout website–the cornerstone of your online presence–as well as how to build credibility with online reviews and testimonials. Read all about it here. In this article, I’ll share my key pro tips on social media for wedding photographers.

Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest are invaluable for showcasing your work and engaging with potential clients, and I’ll give you a quick start guide to make the most of them. Read on to learn about these essentials for your photo business.

Instagram for Photographers

On Instagram, focus on posting high-quality images, utilizing Stories and Reels for behind-the-scenes content, and using relevant hashtags to increase reach. Engage with your audience through comments and direct messages, creating a dialogue rather than just broadcasting your work. I highly recommend posting once a day and aiming for 2-3 reels a week, and 2-3 stories a day. Consistency matters a lot when it comes to reach and engagement.

Facebook for Photographers

For Facebook, maintain an active business page, join wedding planning groups, and use Facebook Live for interactive sessions such as Q&As or virtual tours of your studio. If you don’t get a ton of engagement at first, just keep going! Regularly update your page with new content to keep it engaging and informative.

Pinterest for Photographers

Pinterest can also drive significant traffic to your website. Create visually appealing boards with high-quality images, detailed descriptions, and links back to your site. Optimize your pins with relevant keywords to improve visibility.

Consistency is Key

Consistency is key when it comes to social media for wedding photographers. Maintain a regular posting schedule using a content calendar. Collaborate with other wedding vendors for joint giveaways, which can increase your reach and attract new followers. Share educational content like wedding planning tips and behind-the-scenes looks at your photoshoots to provide value and establish yourself as an expert in the field.

Use the analytics tools provided by social media platforms to track the performance of your posts. Monitor metrics such as engagement rate, reach, and follower growth to understand what type of content resonates most with your audience. Adjust your content strategy based on these insights, experimenting with different types of posts and engagement techniques. By leveraging these platforms effectively and maintaining consistent, engaging content, you can build a strong social media presence that attracts and retains clients in the competitive 2024 wedding photography market.

Lastly, understand that social media very much is pay-to-play. The days of getting reach for free are slowly coming to an end. Consider investing in paid ads, so that you can be sure your messaging is reaching potential clients. There are several reputable courses online that can help you understand how to use online ads to bring clients to your website.

Michael Anthony is a Dallas, Texas-based photographer known for his colorful, contemporary, cinematic style of portraiture. He is also a WPPI favorite educator. See more of his work on his website, 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 courses below. Use the code RF25 at checkout to redeem. This code cannot be used in combination with other sales.

The post Pro Tips: Social Media for Wedding Photographers appeared first on Rangefinder.

As the bride and groom walked onto the balcony after cocktail hour, photographer Yana Petrova suddenly saw a moment that encapsulated her aesthetic—an image both modern and timeless, where her wedding photography storytelling would naturally shine. Thinking quickly, she managed the strong outdoor lighting by setting her aperture at f1.2 and her shutter speed at 1/15. She also employed an ND filter to get the perfect exposure, overcoming the hurdles to capturing a gorgeous image that would remind her wedding couple of the beautiful day they said, “I do.” 

A Cinematic Flair 

Yana, a photographer with John & Joseph Photography based in Los Angeles, is one of Rangefinder’s 30 Rising Stars of Wedding Photography for 2024. She describes her photography style as “a mix of editorial, fine art, and photojournalistic influence, with a touch of cinematic flair.” A student of film and television production, her passion for storytelling is evident across her portfolio, which is full of “natural, candid moments, especially those with dramatic lighting and unique, unposed elements.” 

Yana leans toward images that are atmospheric and dramatic with moody and dark undertones, which add depth and emotion. Her primary aim is for her images to “feel both artistic and genuine.” 

Yana’s Tips for Wedding Storytelling  

Yana Petrova is “deeply focused on capturing the essence of the moment through a blend of spontaneous and styled elements.” For other photographers wishing to nurture spontaneous storytelling, she offers these tips: 

1. Pay attention to the lighting, especially when shooting outdoors.  Use a fast shutter speed to freeze motion effectively, ensuring sharp images even when your subjects are moving. Work with a narrow aperture or employ ND filters to manage the bright conditions. 

2. Encourage genuine interactions between your subjects. Candid shots often capture the most heartfelt emotions and create memorable images. 

3. Pay attention to your surroundings and how they can complement the couple and the theme of the wedding. 

Dynamic Narratives – Emotional and Alive 

Storytelling is all about paying attention to moments that resonate with emotion. To do this, Yana Petrova relies on “a commitment to not just documenting an event but creating a narrative that feels alive and dynamic.” By combining artistic composition and emotional depth, she offers a fresh perspective on weddings that is both classical and contemporary. 

Follow Yana Petrova’s work on Instagram. View the full 30 Rising Star Winners Gallery for 2024 here.  

The post Classic and Contemporary Wedding Photography Storytelling  appeared first on Rangefinder.

“It was one of those wedding days that fell behind schedule – no surprise there! With guests from 13 different countries, my couple had a lot on their minds,” says Kim Wilfriedsson, setting the scene for a magical, timeless wedding shoot she recently photographed in Istanbul. Kim is one of Rangefinder’s 30 Rising Stars of Wedding Photography for 2024. The images she shares with us exemplify her ability to create moments of calm connection for her couples—even during a busy wedding day that is running behind schedule! 

Space and Room to Create Memories 

Weddings are full of activity, people, strong emotions, and timetables. They can be chaotic and stressful. But Kim Wilfriedsson prides herself on “making the couple feel comfortable, finding that balance between focus and spontaneity.” She is a rare person who thrives in stress and chaos. For her, thinking on her feet and adapting quickly “keeps things exciting and often leads to unexpected, great shots.”  

In these images, Kim wanted to create space for her couple – Negar and Nick – to have moments together to enjoy their special day and their love for each other. So, when guests started arriving, she led them into the interior of the venue for some privacy. She had already scouted it, and knew it was gorgeous.  

She began with some simple poses, adding in a touch of creativity where she could. To help them loosen up and have fun, she began with some poses that involved movement. They wrapped up in the hallway, giving the pair “a quiet, intimate moment before the craziness kicked back in.” 

Kim’s Tips to Create Calm in Chaos 

Kim notes that it is typical for weddings to be chaotic, “and when things run late, we photographers often have our time cut short.” Here are her tips to create a sense of beautiful stillness and calm in the midst of all that action. 

1. Always do a quick scout of the venue beforehand, so you’re not wasting time looking for spots. 

2. Start with a few reliable poses you know will work. This helps avoid getting stuck or overwhelmed. 

3. Even if time is tight, don’t be afraid to try something new when a creative idea pops up. Sometimes those spontaneous moments turn out to be the best shots! 

Support and Ease 

The mission of a wedding photographer is to create gorgeous images for their clients. However, Kim Wilfriedsson is careful to not allow photographs to take over the day. Her artistic style for creating a timeless wedding shoot is to be “a calm presence for the couple,” helping them to feel “supported and at ease so that their wedding isn’t overshadowed by the photography process.” She’s mindful that many people are not used to being photographed, and she wants to help create “those special moments with as little stress for them as possible—even when it feels like everything around them is falling apart.” 

Follow Kim Wilfriedsson’s work Instagram. View the full 30 Rising Star Winners Gallery for 2024 here.  

The post Create Calm in Chaos: A Timeless Wedding Shoot in Istanbul  appeared first on Rangefinder.

All the exuberance of the wedding reception is expressed on the dance floor. Rangefinder 30 Rising Star of 2024, Robin Goodlad has pioneered a flash technique for capturing all that joyful energy and amplifying it by projecting the dancers’ shadows on the walls and ceilings. Today he shares some of his favorite dance floor images and his tips for how other photographers can get similar shots. 

Moments, Portraits, and Place 

Robin, who is based in Dorset, UK, began his photography journey with a passion for photographing nature. The influence of the landscapes, light, and shadows of nature permeate his work. He says, “whether capturing a bride’s bouquet placed in low sunlight to mimic the long evening shadow of a tree on land, placing couples as small focal points in a wider scene, bringing in the ceiling of a church as though the sky above, or painting shadows with flash on the dance floor, all are drawn from my landscape background.”  

While Robin doesn’t see the landscape in the dance floor so much, he is very inspired by the shadows of nature as a feature that adds extra impact to an image. He says, “The shadows of trees or mountains are another version of the subject, and seeing that other version–seeing it’s outline as a silhouette–allows you also to get a clearer feel for the three-dimensional structure that is within a scene, which is then being conveyed in a two-dimensional image, the photograph. So, it’s a great way of adding scale and depth, too.” 

Robin’s dance floor images also embody his passion for capturing portraits of the truly authentic moments that tell the story of a wedding day. His unique perspective, inspired by long shadows and wild winds, perfectly captures the revelers embraced in the glory of love and music. 

Tips for Painting Shadows with Flash 

For photographers who wish to capture shots like these, Robin advises that the angle of the flash is key. His technique involves a flash at the end of a monopod held nearly at floor level, pointed up at the subject from below. Robin uses manual focus with a wide-angle lens between 14-20mm. He puts the f-stop at f10, and focuses on the hyperfocal point, which means both subject and background will be in focus without focusing at all. Robin says having the ISO at 1000 and the shutter speed at 1/10 second is “a great starting point–and easy to remember, too!” Flash power can be around 1/32, but adjust that according to how large or small your flash is. Goodlad uses the Godox AD100, which works great at the end of monopod because it doesn’t articulate and doesn’t need a hot shoe mount.  

He says, “Shoot in continuous burst. Then, as you shoot, as well as keeping an eye on the composition on your screen, watch how the shadows appear on the wall or ceiling and adjust your flash angle to project the shadows where you want them. It’s great fun!” 

Double the Impact 

Robin says, “My photography style is one where I am always looking for the highlights and shadows, and reflections of the subject in water or mirrors as a means of adding impact to the image by duplication.” A shadow is second version of his subject, which amplifies its impact and its meaning.  

However, natural shadows and reflections don’t often occur on the dance floor of a wedding reception, so Robin “decided it was up to me to make them.”  With his unique method of creating dance-floor shadows, he has found a way to both capture an amazing moment and to accentuate its shape and form. 

Follow Robin Goodlad’s work on Instagram and Facebook. View the full 30 Rising Star Winners Gallery for 2024 here. 

The post Create Dramatic Shadows with Flash on the Wedding Dance Floor  appeared first on Rangefinder.

One of the first and most powerful lessons I learned in photography had nothing to do with photos. It had everything to do with trust.

When I was 20 years old, I met my mentor, Michael Zagaris (the legengary rock and roll photographer, also team photographer for the SF Niners and Oakland A’s). He taught me that the art of capturing a great photograph had less to do with technicals (while don’t get me wrong, this is still important – as I’ll refer to later), and more to do with connecting with your subject on a personal level and building trust.

The vast collection of rare and jaw-dropping imagery he has created all came from his ability to build trust with every single person he met. They love him–some even adore him–for being a true raconteur, and just plain funny and a really interesting person. By his side for eight years, I watched him work his magic and learned the key to any great image I’d ever take was all about the trust I’d build with my subject.

As a naive and earnest photo student at SF State, I had no idea what I was getting myself into – in the best way. I found myself inside the locker room with famous, powerful athletes parading around in nothing more than their birthday suits, hanging out in the dugout with Nick Swisher, riding the team bus seated behind Barry Zito, and I felt like a kid sister with the team. They were surrounded by media constantly, kept up their image, but when they were with me and Zagaris, they relaxed. And that’s where the magic happened.

BOSTON, MA – OCT 4: Ted Lilly, Tim Hudson and Barry Zito pregame at Fenway Park on Oct 4, 2003 in Boston, MA. The Red Sox defeated the Athletics 3-1. © Michael Zagaris/MLB Photos

After spending nearly a decade with Zagaris and the teams, I created my own photography company and moved into the wedding industry. Using all of my experience on the field along with my photojournalism training at SF State, I knew that I wanted to do this differently. I built a company with a team of photographers and trained each of them with the lessons I’ve learned about what makes a photographer really incredible at what they do.

During my 20 years in this field, I’ve worked alongside many talented photographers and trained over 100 artists who worked under my wing. As I’ve contracted these photographers out to various clients, I’ve noticed a very interesting trend: most clients want connection over perfect image quality. For example, I can send my most technically sound and artistically gifted photographer a client to deliver incredible imagery. However, if the photographer doesn’t connect with them emotionally and build rapport (or even worse, if they clash), then no matter how incredible the images turn out, the client is likely to be more picky and prone to find a reason to be unhappy with the images. Whereas, when I send out my more emotionally-aware photographer who values bonding with their subjects, despite being technically rough-around-the-edges and growing in their artistic inspiration, when the images are delivered to the client, they rave about them. Why? Because the photographer unlocked a truly relational experience of trust with their subject.

So, how exactly can we build trust with clients? The best photographers I know all value the below qualities and focus on embodying them intently in their work. Whether they realize it or not, they are tapping into their emotional intelligence (AKA “EQ”). It’s a skill that can be developed and is important for social awareness and relational competence in any setting, but particularly powerful in a place that requires vulnerability from a subject to open themselves to a camera.

Top 5 Signs of a High EQ Photographer

1. AN EASYGOING LEADER. Calm under pressure, light-hearted. Confidently able to take the reigns of a situation while putting those around you at ease.
2. PROBLEM-SOLVER. Able to make solid decisions quickly while under pressure and changing weather, backgrounds and time constraints.
3. A FRIEND AKA TEMPORARY THERAPIST. From wedding nerves to challenging family dynamics, they genuinely care for their client’s well being. They make people feel good.
4. PASSIONATE. Their personal and professional passion will be what drives them when they are up against fatigue and challenges. No amount of money will drive someone like passion will.
5. INNOVATIVE. Creative at every turn. Always trying something new at every shoot. They “break” the rules!

Pre-Camera “Work”

As photographers, we don’t typically show up to a shoot instantly prepared to capture magic. It takes preparation and planning, and it takes lots and lots of practice. As I said to Brendon Urie before he hired me for his wedding, “The key to the most transcendent art is learning all of the rules so well that you can break them at just the right time to create something incredible.” He nodded and smiled, knowing this truth was the key to his incredible success. He signed the dotted line.

The work we do ahead of a shoot allows us to be prepared to connect with our client — to establish trust and make them feel comfortable. Then the images come naturally.

Before you begin any shoot, start the groundwork and preparation using these steps:

• GOOGLE YOUR CLIENT: Find their IG/Facebook account and learn about who they are and what they love!
• TEXT THEM AHEAD OF TIME: This is a personal touch that goes a long way. Text them when you have arrived to scout or even the night before. Tell them that you are looking forward to their shoot.
• MAP THE LOCATION: Don’t cut it that close. It’s not worth the stress. Use Waze. Anticipate the unexpected. Get there early and scout or have a coffee.
• CONFIDENCE: Sometimes we don’t have the confidence. We’re super nervous! That’s fine. Fake it till you make it. Keep smiling even when you’re freaking out. Eventually, you’ll get in the zone.
• SUBJECTS REFLECT BACK WHAT YOU GIVE: In light of the above point, your energy is contagious. Mirror their energy, but always with a bit of positive pep or passion to help lift them up. If you are tense, they will be tense. If you are happy and excited for the images, they will relax and feel at home.

Mid-Shoot Convo

Once the shoot begins, there is a fine line between conversation and photographs. The best photos come after a conversation has naturally been unfolding. However, the key is to not keep them talking the entire time: their mouth open mid-sentence isn’t the hero image. It’s the moment after you have settled them into an experience and they feel comfortable to follow your lead.

• SET EXPECTATIONS. Subjects arrive at a shoot with silent questions in their mind: “What will they make me do? Do I smile the whole time? Will I look weird?” One of the most disarming things you can do is voice those concerns right off the bat, “Hey, It’s normal to feel nervous. No worries, I’ll give you guidance when I want you to look my way, but when I’m not talking, I really want you to focus on ‘x’.”
• KEEP IT SIMPLE AT THE START: It usually feels better when they know what to do with their bodies — but not over-complicated poses. Start with walking, or playing, moving instead of frozen poses in the beginning. Movement helps relieve the anxiety of those early shoot jitters.
• USE THEIR NAMES: Dale Carnegie knew it works because it does. People love to hear the sound of their own names.
• “LET’S TRY THAT AGAIN.” vs “THAT WAS GREAT, LET’S DO IT ONE MORE TIME!”: It happens all the time: either your exposure was way off, or the pose didn’t quite land right. Instead of announcing the problem (which immediately makes a subject question themselves – or you), simply and happily share that you want to do it again (with the inference that the first shot was so great, you want more of it!).  It does wonders for someone’s confidence
• TELL THEM SPECIFICALLY WHAT YOU LIKE AND WHY: A subject can’t see through your lens, and when you see they moved in just the right way, there is no way for them to know unless you tell them. Instead of “Oh! Yes, that was great!” say, “Oh, your hand moving on your face like that was amazing. Keep doing that.” 
• SHOW THEM HOW: You have the vision, you can see exactly what you want in the image. The subject has no idea what you see. So, the easiest way is to physically show them. Stand next to them and model exactly the position you are considering, but encourage them to make it their own.

When you build trust and rapport with someone, you gain access — access into their world and their true personality. Access is one of the main components to all of the great images that inspire us.

It can be a little risky or even downright scary to step into some experiences where we want access, knowing that we have to be bold to get there. Sometimes, we need to dig deep for some courage to try something new, or expose ourselves to something we’ve never done before. Make the choice to seek authentic connection and build trust with those around you. Enter into their story and watch your images transform.

Sara Cooper is a photojournalist and wedding photographer who has photographed over 300 weddings over 20 years. She manages over 100 weddings per year with her associate team. As a Wedding Sales Coach, she teaches wedding creatives how to avoid being ghosted and book more weddings. She recently launched an online sales guide, The Sales Success Blueprint for Wedding Pros.

The post Build Trust and Connection with Your Subjects for Stunning Images appeared first on Rangefinder.

Cropping is one of the most valuable tools in a photographer’s kit. And, knowing how to crop images for photo competitions is an essential part of submitting to them and winning. An intentional crop makes the difference between a good photo and a great one. Let me explain. 

[Read: Be An Icon: Icon International Awards: Enter by October 1]

Crop Out Distractions

Correcting an accidental horizon tilt is just the beginning of what to look for when you crop your images for photo competitions. Many other distractions can negatively impact your photograph, so pay attention to everything that’s in the frame and decide if it should be there. One of the things to watch out for are bright spots in the background. Our eyes will be drawn to the lightest areas, and if that isn’t your subject, it will distract the viewer’s eyes. So, crop it out! Many photography competitions discourage or don’t allow dodging, burning, or cloning out bright spots. Use a thoughtful crop to eliminate problem areas.

Crop the Edges

Next, look at the edges of your photo. If any object, tree, or person is only half in and half out of the frame, crop them out entirely. Incomplete people or objects makes an image look sloppy and incomplete. Take out anything that might draw your eye away from the subject of your photo. 

Before Cropping

We see the bright, distracting blob in the background of the before photo (below)– right between the men’s hips. There’s also lots of space around the men’s heads and hands.

After Cropping

In this version (below), the bright background spot is cropped out, so it no longer draws our eyes away from the subject. The excess space around the men on the sides and top of the photo is also removed. The men fill the frame now, making for a much more impactful composition.

Vertical Images vs Horizontal Images

Vertical images are welcome in most contests but are awarded far less often. There’s no rule saying judges shouldn’t pick verticals, so why the disparity? I believe it is because of how much less space the images take up on the horizontal display screen that judges use. Vertical photographs only take up 30% of the screen. A horizontal image can be shown so much bigger, and therefore, they create more visual impact. If at all possible, crop your images into horizontal format in order to have a higher chance of winning. 

Before Cropping

The example below shows a vertical image as it would be seen by a judge. The image takes up a fraction of the visible screen area.

After Cropping

Below, we see that same image cropped to a horizontal format.

Crop for Maximum Impact

If you’ve got a great subject or story in your image, you can use cropping to maximize the potential of your image. Essentially, zooming in on the most important part of your photograph will make the important part larger when viewed on a judge’s screen. Do this by eliminating as much dead space surrounding the subject as possible. 

Use All Your Real Estate

The concept of real estate in photography competitions is all about using every pixel available to you. If you have too much space all around your subject, that’s real estate that’s not being put to good use. Those pixels aren’t adding anything to your photo, and are, in fact, lessening it’s impact on the viewer. If your photo has lots of space around the edges, crop it in tighter.

Center Your Subject

If your composition is centered on your subject, take a moment before you submit to make sure it is perfectly centered. Equal sides on the left and right create symmetry and harmony. It can be distracting if the image isn’t quite centered or exactly on the rule of thirds. Of course, if your image relies on the rule of thirds, make sure it looks intentional and not like a slightly-off-center subject.

Before Cropping

This image is already zoomed-in, but there’s still a lot of dead space around the subjects. The image is somewhat centered, but there’s more space on the left than on the right.

After Cropping

Now an even tighter view on our subjects makes the viewer connect with the emotion and expression even more. What started as an ordinary photo now becomes more compelling with this centered composition.

Photo Competitions and Cropping

Just as you would go over an image with a fine-toothed comb before printing it for a client’s wall, go over your photos before submitting to competition. Thoughtful cropping is part of the process of refining and polishing your photograph. Go back to some of your strongest images, and breathe new life into them by rethinking the crop. This is especially useful if you’ve entered competitions before, but not gotten the award or recognition. Reassess your image, try a closer crop, and try again! 

Cropping is a Powerful Tool 

Cropping is one of the most powerful tools we have as photographers to clean up and finish an image after it is taken. Awards competition is fierce, and knowing how to crop images for photo competitions is essential. Small imperfections in a photo, such as distracting elements on the edges and dead space can prevent a great image from being selected. Cropping is a skill just like shooting, editing, and color correcting. As you crop your images more and more, you’ll soon be thinking about the crop while you’re still shooting. Making those changes in camera levels up your skills in the field. Submitting to competitions isn’t just a way to strive for glory, but a way to grow as a photographer.

Lucy Schultz is a multi-award-winning photographer and founder of the Legend Elopement Photography Awards, a photojournalistic photo competition for elopements and microweddings. The deadline for submissions to Round 3 is September 30th, 2024.

The following Legend Awards photographers were featured in this article: Lisa Rushioni: Pretty Bold Photography, Shannon Durazo: Stratus Adventure Photography, Kelly Shoul: In Love and Adventure, Brianna Parks: Brianna Parks Photography, Krista Filchner: Thistle and Tulle Photography, and Sydney Breann: Sydney Breann Photography.

The post How to Crop Images for Photo Competitions appeared first on Rangefinder.

“New York City experienced incredible rain and flooding the day before,” says Autumn Jordan, one of Rangefinder’s 30 Rising Star of 2024. That fated day, she was documenting Cat and Joe Cohen’s wedding at the iconic River Cafe in Brooklyn. Fortunately, the weather broke, travel was not impeded, the waterfront looked divine, and the wedding party was treated to a gorgeous sunset over Manhattan. So as not to disturb its romantic, candlelit atmosphere, Autumn chose to lean into natural light wedding photography, using minimal flash.

Documentary and Dreamy 

Autumn’s favorite image from the day (above) was taken on 35mm with a Contax G2 and was developed and scanned at Indie Film Lab in Birmingham, Alabama. Autumn says it is “equal parts love letter to the life [the couple has] built together and their home in NYC.” Taken from the patio of the River Cafe, which is tucked beneath the Brooklyn Bridge, it features the stunning Manhattan skyline and the close embrace of the newlywed Cohens.  

Autumn, who has BA in film photography and shoots almost exclusively on film, considers her natural light wedding photography style to be both documentary and dreamy. She is thoughtful and deliberate about her shots, wanting her images to both look and feel like her client’s wedding day, reflecting the colors, the emotions, and the weather.  For Autumn, being documentary means “letting the day unfold naturally with low to no intervention.” She comes prepared with as much information about the day as possible, and then leaves “space to notice – to be delighted, to be in awe, to connect, and to capture those moments on camera authentically as they play out.” 

Tender and Technical Tips 

From a technical point of view, Autumn was tasked with documenting this wedding day at the River Cafe on film. Because of its dim, candlelit atmosphere, she knew that if she was not going to distract the wedding party from enjoying its low-light ambiance, she would need to lean into higher ISO films. She used Portra 800, Cinestill 800T, and Delta 3200. 

To prepare for situations like this, Autumn offers the following tips: 

1. Get comfortable pushing your cameras to their boundaries and then continue to push those boundaries. 

2. Learn to photograph in dark spaces – both with and without additional lighting. 

3. Learn what it means to shoot and edit at a higher ISO. Push your film and communicate this to your lab. 

The other side of shooting weddings involves more “tender tips.” Autumn offers this advice for getting into the right emotional space to beautifully capture documentary wedding photography: 

1. Stay present. Do whatever you need to do to clear your head before a wedding day or session. 

2. Create space for your couple to be present. Advocate for them. 

3. Spend time connecting with guests. 

4. Create room to go off script/off list throughout the day. 

5. Make anyone in front of your lens feel good.  

6. Be kind. Always offer to jump in to give a zhuzh to hair or wardrobe if you notice something! 

Love, Place, and History 

For Autumn, each wedding day is primarily about the couple she is photographing – celebrating their love and this moment of central importance in their lives. At the same time, she says, “I am highly aware of how large of a role both place and history play. I always look for subtle and not-so-subtle ways to weave this into my work. . . While the skyline will inevitably shift, my couples will age, and new generations will be born, I hope that this quiet moment frozen in time is able to bring people back to this day and all that comes from it and was part of it, myself included.” 

Follow Autumn Jordan’s work on Instagram. View the full 30 Rising Star Winners Gallery for 2024 here. 

The post Natural Light Wedding Photography at the River Cafe in NYC  appeared first on Rangefinder.