Thoughts On iPhone 6

The point and shoot camera is dead. That's right. As a portrait photographer and father, I declare that the point-and-shoot camera is history. An iPhone (millions actually) has taken it’s place.

I grabbed this shot while on a jog. Apple's built in HDR function is way beyond most 'pro' cameras.

In the last few weeks, I’ve gotten questions from several friends asking the “what camera should I buy” question. The budget for each was around $500 or less. In each case, without hesitation, I recommended simply sticking with an iPhone. If you’re still itching to spend a few dollars, look for a good book geared towards photo composition or study the detailed features of your phone’s camera. Practice taking pictures in low light, bright light, or try following a moving object.

Why am I so confident of this claim? For most people looking to make snapshots of kids, family & friends, or to record the next vacation, an iPhone 6 is a near perfect solution. The iPhone has an amazing ability to do things that even professional level cameras can’t or can’t do as easily. Time-lapse and slo-mo videos are two features that come to mind. Each distorts time, one slowing it down, the other speeding it up. Used appropriately, these features are very effective in telling your visual story. Slow motion videos are very handy with kids, water, or anything that moves fast. My only worry is that they’ll go the way of cat videos–so use your discretion. And for time lapse videos, pick up a little smartphone tripod, and go crazy! The video below is just a quick sample of the possibilities.

Another huge reason why iPhones are the superior option is that they’re usually within arm’s reach. They’re ready to go with a flick of a thumb. Most people carry their bigger cameras packed in a fancy case. At first glance, it seems to make sense. You keep nice things in a case for protection. But a case works against you when that special moment occurs. You have to stop, find the zipper, open the case, get the camera, remove the lens cap, turn it on, and hope the settings are about right. Odds are, by the time you can push the button, the moment is gone (especially with kids). And the moment makes the picture (not the technical details).

So save your money, read up on your phone’s camera features, and enjoy the moments! And don’t forget to back up those photos...

A Headshot with Randy in Libertyville

Randy dropped by the new Libertyville studio just last week for a headshot session. Officially retired, he doesn't need to worry about the job hunt. But he lives a very active life in retirement. So his new headshot will serve him well for years as he takes on new roles around his community.

In fact, he just signed on as treasurer at his church. That's some serious responsibility, and he's got to look the part. His new headshot is perfect. It conveys his confidence and provides assurance to anyone browsing the church bios.

A Day In The Life Family Session

How was your last family portrait session? Were you worried the kids might not cooperate and that you’d have to bring out the bribes early just to salvage the session? Or maybe someone spilled a snack on his shirt (sometimes husbands need a little extra help).

As a family photographer, what if I told you not to worry about any of that on your next family session?

In any given day, your family has a lot going on. Weekdays are packed with school, homework, after-school activities, and don’t forget dinner! The weekends can be busy with birthday parties and special outings, and those moments of relaxed downtime feel too precious to interrupt by grabbing the camera. Whether they’re crazy or quiet, these are some of the most authentic times you share together. So why not trust a professional to capture them? It’s better than crossing your fingers that everyone will be on their best behavior for the 45 minutes of a staged family session.

I had a great time using this approach with Courtney, Vanessa, and their parents. I spent a few hours at their house in Libertyville — home is always a perfect location — and simply photographed their lives on a typical weekend afternoon. We colored, played in the doll house, baked cookies, and rolled around in the grass. Vanessa even snuck in the chance to literally hose down her big sister!

Get the whole story with this video, but beware of Vanessa with that hose! 

As a parent, this type of session is a huge stress reliever because stage fright isn’t a problem. Maybe someone’s a little nervous at first, but there’s plenty of time for things to settle down. All you really need is a handful of basic activities on hand. Then just let the kids make the agenda.

With the images captured, I’ve thought a lot about how best to showcase the session. Elizabeth, Courtney and Vanessa’s mom, summed it up perfectly. It’s not the type of session where you’re looking for a ‘bingo’ shot. In fact, we’re telling a story, which has a range of emotions and details that maybe only a few close friends or family members would catch. How do we tell stories with pictures? With an album! These sessions will include a keepsake album for your family to enjoy, share with friends, and pass on to your children. Another option will be a video slideshow (as shown above) highlighting the images that best tell your story.

I’m so excited for these new day in the life family sessions. If you’d like to schedule one, drop me a note, we’ll have a chat and set up a shoot!

New Libertyville Studio

The new Libertyville studio is open! I’ve partnered with Studio Share Illinois to offer a full service studio location to all clients.

As a headshot photographer, the Libertyville location brings me just a bit closer to Chicago. And now, groups and large props are easily accommodated. So if your entire office needs headshots, let me know!

Behind the scenes in the new studio.

And as a family lifestyle photographer, the studio space will serve as a practical alternative in the event of uncooperative weather (yep, I’m not in Florida anymore…). It also adds another dimension to family shoots. Fully equipped with props, toys, chairs etc–the options are endless. Simply put, a great studio is a photographer’s blank canvas - ripe to create anything the mind can imagine!

The location is also stocked with coffee, snacks, and even a big screen tv, which will be great for proofing your new images in person on a cozy couch.

Whether you’re in Libertyville, Gurnee, or in the surrounding Lake County area, this studio will be a wonderful asset to the area. Don’t wait, contact me about scheduling a session soon!

A Headshot with Matt in Gurnee

Say you just found out about an invitation to speak at a very prestigious seminar. Do you have a professional headshot ready to go for the conference website, or the slides?

Matt got that very invitation. Luckily, he was ahead of the game. He contacted me just in time so we could arrange a headshot session. At my Gurnee studio bright and early one morning, we captured a few different looks in about an hour. Matt was then back at work in no time.

Also an author, Matt will be using his new headshots for upcoming books.

If you don’t have a great headshot on standby for your next professional presentation, drop me a note and we’ll cross it off your list.