My Third Indoor Session

Yesterday I had the opportunity to photograph my uncles family in Statesville. 

Since this was only my third time holding a session indoors I was a little concerned with the lighting. As soon as I got there I began playing with my camera to see what settings would be best to use.  I began in Manual and then switched to Aperature because I was getting a little frustrated.  Aperature, however, wasn't allowing me to get the right exposure I needed so I switched back to Manual. I'm glad I did!

I also made a point to set my White Balance and Metering mode before I began shooting. 

I believe most of my shots were taken with my Aperature between f/5 and f/8.  My shutter speed was mainly 1/60th.         

I had several posing ideas thought out but was only able to use a few since my four cousins were much more interested in their Christmas presents than in getting their family photos taken!  

When they did pay attention and give me smiles, it was amazing and even though the session only lasted 30 minutes, I was able to get some awesome shots!!

For a few of my shots I used PSE5 exclusively for editing (except for placing my logo) and gave them some personality by using free actions from www.mcpactions.com and www.thepioneerwoman.com. Each time I use an action (especially Pioneer Woman's Seventies action) in PSE5 I fall more in love with the program!

So great session and I'm glad my uncle and aunt have some Christmas photos they'll love. 

Be sure to find and like me on Facebook (Sara Vogt Photography) to see favorites from their session. 

Sara

Just a Thought About Shadows in Photo Editing

So, since I am now using PSE5 for editing, if there is a shadow on a person's face I HAVE to try to get it off, or clone it or SOMETHING! 


Before beginning to use PSE5 I just thought there was no way to get shadows off so I would (sad to say) LEAVE THEM! =(  That, however, I have begun to realize, really detracts from the image. 


A word of encouragement to anyone who is shying away from learning how to use PSE, or any other editing software than they normally use: TRY IT!  It WILL be a big learning curve (trust me) but the benefit you will get will outweigh the curve.  Maybe you'll even learn something that will make your editing way more effective than before, like learning I can take those pesky shadows out did for me!

Sara