She wasn't entirely sure about me

Today, I have two photoshoots.  The first was with a wonderful family, and their little girl, E, reminded me of something that I *used to* know.

It's hard to earn a smile from a small child.

Sometimes, I walk into photoshoots, shake hands with some new, interesting people, make a bit of small talk, and then I expect to start shooting. I expect everyone to relax, to smile, to let me peek into their lives for a little bit with a big camera.

That's silly.  Especially when there are toddlers involved.  Becuase I get a lot of pictures that are guarded--that look like this:

Why should these people smile for me?  Why should they relax in my presence, feel trusting that I am here, I am doing a good job, and that they will be happy with the outcome?

Well, many of the adults have seen my portfolio.  Many have had a strong recommendation from a friend, so they know that others have been happy with my work.  So those are reasons for adults to be confident, to be relaxed, to smile and let themselves be genuine.

Four year olds have no understanding of strong recommendations and positive reviews.  I know this.

So, what would compel a small child to give me a sunny smile?

I need to slow down for a second.  Be quieter for a second.  Maybe let the child take a picture of me.  Maybe let the child see a picture of themselves.  Maybe I need to hand out a lot--a WHOLE LOT--of stickers.  I need to just stop, wait, and let them warm to me.  Because after I do, I get this:

Happy, open, smiling faces.  I think I won them over.  And thank you, C family, for trusting me and choosing me to photograph your beautiful, smart, interesting family.

June is around the corner...

And June means weddings.  I saw this nice article on Etsy today and thought I would share.

Only one quibble with the article--and it's a major one, from my perspective.  Just a sentence or two is devoted to the most important question: what happens to your images, and the rights to those images, after the wedding?  Many photographers do hold onto all printing and use rights--which is absolutely appropriate--but it can be difficult to then get high-quality, reasonably-priced prints! The tips about choosing a photographer are spot on, but every couple planning their big day should think extensively about who ultimately owns the full-resolution, non-watermarked images they are working so hard (with the photographer) to create.

This is why I work the way I do.  I am inspired by other photographers (like McGinnis Leathers, like Sheena Jibson) who can and do provide all of their images to their clients.  They are compensated fairly for their time and expertise, and then they transfer control and rights to the client.

I believe, as a professional photographer, that you own your images (without watermarks!).  And you should be able to print, share, or make pinatas out of them as you please. :)

/end rant/

To make up for a serious post, here is an outtake from a little jumping bean I met this weekend.  Love her.

Being still...then...

JUMP!

Happy Easter

If you would like to see the WeeCycle Easter pictures, click here.  I hope everyone has a lovely weekend, with friends and family and love.  And Cadbury Eggs.

WeeCycle Eggventure!

Just spent a few hours with lovely families at the Children's Museum event--Bunny Eggventure! I'm editing the photos now, and will post a link to the ~600 photos shortly!  Photos are now uploading HERE!  There will be about 370 total.  If you would like a copy of your family photographs, just email me at brianna AT littleophotography DOT com.

ophoto of the day 35/365

[an in-between moment]