So I received a comment in one of my posts yesterday about what I shoot with/photo tips/etc. And this wasn't the first time I've received such an inquiry. So I thought I'd unveil the *big* mystery of what is in my bag and the such...
If you've done a shoot with me, you may recognize that funky pattern up above. It is the amazing Shootsac. For any of you photographers out there, GET ONE ALREADY! I seriously consider it a "tool" when shooting. It holds all my lenses I'd ever need and more. And it grips so nicely to the body that I don't need to worry about a bulky camera bag swinging around and banging into something. And some of you know, when I am shooting, you will find me laying on the ground to get a shot! So this is perfect. I never have to worry about my equipment. And I have to admit...I was a tad nervous when I bought it that it may just be a "stylish" glorified camera bag...boy was I wrong. It changes the way you shoot...you can move all over and not worry about your equipment, etc. So to start, that is my bag.
Now inside my bag is all the "candy"! I shoot with a Canon 30D. You will always hear the debate of Canon vs. Nikon. In my opinion...it is just that, an opinion! They both produce great images. But I am a Canon girl and once you invest money in lenses...it would take a lot to switch!
The two main lenses I prefer to shoot with are the Canon 50mm 1.4 lens. It has a nice yummy aperture for some great depth of field (DOF)--for photo dummies...that means the cool blur you can create in camera on the stuff that isn't in focus. And my wide angle that I use for 95% of my indoor shooting is the Tamron 17-50mm 2.8. I like the low aperture for natural light shooting. And I don't need to back through a wall to get a shot because of the nice wide angle! And the last lens that I use is the Canon 85mm 1.8. I haven't had a chance to actually use it much yet...but I bought it for a wedding I am shooting in September. And for the record, I am not taking on any more weddings at the present! I will make the *grand announcement* the day I start to book more! But thank you for the inquiries I have received so far! However, if you are looking for a great starter lens and don't want to spend a bank full of money...I recommend going with the Canon 50mm 1.8 lens. It is a *phenominal* lens for the price.
So those are the lenses I love to use...however, that is only half the battle. A good camera can only get you so far...you can really BOTCH up photos with a good camera if you have no clue what you are doing!
For those of you interested in photography. The first thing I can tell you is to turn it off the Auto setting (I know, it's a huge step) and turn it on that intimidating "M" setting for Manual! Your camera book will tell you how to change the settings, etc. And if you are *freaking* out at the thought of that, go buy the best book I've probably ever read about nailing exposure, etc. It is called Understanding Exposure by Bryan Peterson. You won't be able to put it down and it is VERY straightforward and explains everything in detail with pictures and all the settings, etc. It will really be an eye-opening book for you if you don't know the in's and out's of manual settings.
And as far as a couple photo tips for the day..
When shooting kids, get on their level. Get down and dirty in the grass so you see life the way they do and that way you are at their level when shooting. Also, I find the best way to shoot kids is let them do what they want and just follow them to capture who they are at this stage in life. This is why I am a HUGE fan of shooting outdoors. I am so thrilled this weekend that we have not had rain and there is an inkling of hope that Spring is around the corner!
And my last tip. TURN OFF THE FLASH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! In my opinion, it makes people look like they were hit over the head with a frying pan of light!
Hope this helps guide any of you that are interested in experimenting with your camera! And now you know what is in my mystery bag at shoots!
Have a great weekend! Now go play with your camera!
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