Catherine shows you her tips and tricks
Tips + Tricks
Quick Tip: Create a Visual Narrative
Tips + Tricks 
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Tue 11.13.2012
Quick Tip: Visual Story Telling
Your shooting environment can offer up an endless supply of props that can enhance the narrative of your photo. In this image the Boston terrier was not apart of the original concept. In fact, he was graciously loaned to be by a man who happened to be walking by. Adding the additional character gave the story line depth and interest that may have not been otherwise achieved.
How do you incorporate props within your environment to tell a story?
Quick Tip: Don’t baby your gear!
Tips + Tricks 1
Fri 10.12.2012
This was shot at F/18 @ 1/80 sec. using Canon 1D MII @ 35mm.
Tip of the Day: Don’t baby your gear!
This image was shot during the biggest winter storm in the history of New York City. Early in my career I often felt the need to be extra cautious of my gear. However, over the years I have learned that your camera can endure more elements than you think. Don’t let the thought of your gear getting dirty or damaged limit your shot.
Quick Tip: Develop your Image
Tips + Tricks 0
Wed 10.03.2012
Before Shot at F/4 @1/800 sec. using Canon 5D @ 50mm. After Shot at F/4 @ 1/640 sec. using Canon 5D @70mm.
Quick Tip:
“Beauty can be seen in all things, seeing and composing the beauty is what separates the snapshot from the photograph.” – Matt Hardy
Developing your image takes patience, very rarely is the first shot your best shot. Walk around, change your angle and really absorb your environment. Think about what your background says about your subject and the story you want to tell. The before image is what I walked up to, this is how I developed the after…
- Having the subject put on the face mask, (an essential element of relief from the ever present dust storms).
- Getting down at a low angle to frame the image.
- Showcasing the bat tattoo, blue cape and mask to develop the story of Burning Man.
- Cropping in a way, which allowed the subject to dominate the frame.
- Changing the background to add depth, while including the first aid flag to add interest.
- Having the subject look away instead of being camera aware to spark curiosity in the viewer.
How do you develop your images?
Quick Tip: Seize Inspiration over Routine
Tips + Tricks 0
Thu 09.27.2012
This was shot at F/5 @ 1/1,000 sec. Using Canon 5D MII @ 32mm.
Tip of the Day: Keep your eyes open and seize unexpected creative opportunities when they arise. I was in the middle of a setting up a great shot with this couple at burning man when the cupcakes randomly passed by in my peripheral. I had to make the impulsive choice to scrap the shot I had been working on order to seize the unexpected. This image ended up being one of my favorites from the wedding.
Quick Tip: All Art Requires Courage
Tips + Tricks 9
Thu 09.13.2012
This was shot at F/1.8 @ 1/800 sec. using Canon5D MII.
“All Art Requires Courage.”-Anne Tucker
Tip of the Day: I wanted to elaborate on this quote, and explain how it affects me as a photographer. It is easy to gravitate towards poses that we know will produce a good image. However, it is important to push yourself to take risks. For example, with this engagement session shot I asked the bride to lie down on the ground. I figured it would either be amazing or look like sh*t. Taking these chances can be a very rewarding experience and keep you from succumbing to mediocrity.
How do you push yourself to expand your creative boundaries?
