On July 10, myself, Terice and a great group of photographers met up for the first ever Momtography Class. For anyone thinking about attending a class in the future, we had a great time and everyone said they learned a lot along the way.

The first hour was a crash course for many of our photographers in how to use the features their DSLR has. These include Aperture Priority Mode, Shutter Speed Priority, Manual Mode, White Balance, and ISO. We also discussed in depth the relationship between aperture, focal length, and distance from a subject.

Then is was off to the Everett Arboretum for a more practical application of our favorite artistic medium. It was a bright sunny day with the sun high in the sky. Not the easiest light for a flattering portrait, but we used the following simple tricks to capture some great photos.

1. Minimize the contrast level by placing a subject in the shade.

2. Meter for the shadows on the subject’s face to find a pleasing exposure.

3. Fill with a reflector to add depth, dimension, and interest to a portrait.

Here are a few examples that attendees submitted.

This image is by Lynell Hildebrand. Exposure is 1/400 @ F 5. The lens is 85mm focal length. Notice how the background is a beautiful blur but still recognizable, thus keeping the image in context. What you don’t see, is me on camera right doing my best to bounce light onto my son’s face while keeping him smiling. The slight over exposure (highlights on the top of his head, left side of his face and back) which would be distracting in some photos is okay here. The added warmth in the image is great too. These elements really play into the sweet expression.

If you’ re wondering how to tell what kind of lighting is used in an image, just look in the eyes of the subject. You can see in Tyler’s right eye a large round catchlight. This is the reflector I was holding. The eyes will tell you every time how to mimic the lighting senario. Here’s a diagram of the set up.

Jessica Burnett caught a different angle on the same shot and even used a similar exposure. Completely different results though. Take a look.

Jessica’s exposure was 1/640 @ F5.3 using a 200mm lens. The telephoto lens really added to the compression on this image, rendering the background a solid color blur where the park once was. Also the depth of field has been severely shortened. The only thing truly in focus is his eyes and the hair on his arms! The rest is blurred because of the shallow depth of field. Both images are great and would please any client. This time, that client is me, (oh how the tables have turned!) and as a Mom I’m very happy with the great photos of my darling boy.

Next up in the Momtography Class series is Intro to Composition on July 24. I’ve added space for additional photographers to attend. To help this one sell out quickly, as of today the class is on sale! Now only $35 per person. This is a savings of $90! Register now.

I’ve heard from a number of people, “I don’t need a composition class,” and I totally understand the sentiment. But this will be a more hands on workshop environment with each person shooting and learning as you go how to improve your images. No matter the skill level this will be a great opportunity. The best part? Professional models and beautiful historic buildings. It’s worth the money just to add to your portfolio.

Details about what the class will cover and where we will be going are coming soon! If you have questions, just call me! 425.367.4781.

Hope to see you there!

Oh, and I almost forgot. If you attended and would like to share more images or your experience, please comment below!