Before and After
Much of what I do takes place behind the scenes. From sourcing materials, prepping sets, to perfecting photoshop techniques, the actual photographing and your time spent in the studio is only part of the process. While it’s always recommended to “get it right in camera” first, advanced photoshop knowledge has allowed me to create not only whimsical portraits for many families but ensure that every child that comes into the studio is safe during their session. Many photos you see online, pinterest, or in your personal galleries that I deliver aren’t always as they appear in studio. I want to share with you some shots straight out of the camera and the final edited versions so you can get an idea of what's in the realm of possibility for your sessions.
Safety First
No photo is worth putting your wee one in harm’s way, and that’s why I'm extremely mindful of newborn safety. At some points in the shoot, I may ask assistants or a parent/family member to assist by holding the baby, etc. This is because sometimes the perfect shot requires an extra hand or two in order to prioritize safety of the baby. I know those intricately posed shots are adorable, but achieving them can be tricky, and often unsafe. Photographers are only human, and we only have two hands (which are usually on the camera!) so for safety’s sake, when taking shots that include baskets, buckets, posed hands under the chin, we like to have a family member or assistant either just outside the shot, or even with their hand on the baby, which of course you can see will be edited out.
Minor Adjustments
Colours and tones are adjusted in my post production workflow. Skin tones are evened out, and minor blemishes and dry skin can be removed. Areas along the edge of the frame are filled in and matched to the backgrounds. Various crops can be achieved and angles can be altered to create different looks and orientations.
Object Removal
You'll notice in the background of this example that mom is close by. Her had was on baby for the entire time while posed with this moon prop and she was carefully edited out in the final image. Similar techniques can be used to clean up backgrounds of distractions and create simplistic landscapes.
Swapping and Blending Images
Swapping or blending images is particularly useful when photographing groups of small children. Sometimes it's difficult to get everyone to look and smile at the camera at the same time, so taking several images that can later be combined to create one unified image.
Digital Backdrops and Overlays
I have so much fun with seasonal photoshoots! While it's always fun to have the Easter Bunny pop in to the studio or Santa to swing by for a visit, social distancing has made some of these memorable moments hard to achieve. That doesn't mean you have to miss out on those keepsake moments thought. This is where carefully staged "pre" photos can be worked into a digital backdrop to create a seamless digital art pieces.
