Congratulations to WordPress & Automattic on the launch of their new swag store! I had the great honor of shooting some of their merchandise photos with their amazing models-slash-employees contracted by Monstro.Tv. Here are some of our favorites -- and of course, visit the swag store to pick up your own shirts: https://mercantile.wordpress.org
Presley's Marla Dell Talent Agency Portraits
This little talent is building her portfolio, and I was approached by her parents to shoot some portraits for MDT Agency. Presley, along with her parents, Jenn and Paolo were a dream to work with and we packed in a ton of fun in just one session. I even had the honor of styling four looks for this young lady, and she rocked the outfits non stop!
We met in Golden Gate Park, where there's a variety of backgrounds in such a small area. Good luck, Presley! You worked hard during our time together, and I just know you're going to rock this world with your talent. :)
Natural Looking Speedlight Flash with Hafiza in Golden Gate Park
For a few months, I'd been borrowing a buddy's speedlight flash(es) and diffuser. I remember the first time I borrowed it -- I had no idea what I was doing and everything came out over-exposed, and it was intimidating to learn when I was so used to shooting with only natural light (don't worry, I still live by my reflector!). With time, I learned how to add a little light for some extra pop while still keeping the photo looking natural. So eventually, I purchased my own set!
Here's a little example of the same positioning of the model and camera with and without flash. Both photos came out nicely -- Hafiza looks beautiful either way. But I think adding some light draws the eye more to the subject.
Left: Off-camera speedlight flash. Right: All natural light.
Each of these shots below used my new wireless HVL-F60M speedlight triggered by an on-camera HVL-F20M flash. My friend, Jason assisted in holding the speedlight to either camera left or right, except for the shot where the flash is behind Hafiza in a tree. I should note that I find the line-of-sight to differ between the two HVL-F60M speedlights I've used. I'm going to keep experimenting.
If you're interested in seeing more of Hafiza's work in front of the camera, follow her on Instagram here: @hjnoorie. I'll leave you with a (natural light, higher shutter speed) shot of this jumping beauty.
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Jesse Plenos Portrait Session: Transportation in San Francisco
Something I love about San Francisco's lifestyle is the crazy amount of transportation options you have as a professional (or anyone looking to get around without a car). Between taking one of our beautiful bridges in, the MUNI busses, cable cars, street trains, underground BART, or your own two feet, it's easy to get around.
Ive been itching to do a themed shoot around San Francisco transportation around the Embarcadero, so I was stoked to collaborate with Jesse for a classic, timeless project. Check out our results!
I also wanted to give a special thanks to Jeel for being the third team mate in this excellent set. She did a lot of great work directing and assisting with light!
San Francisco Fashion Photography: Nancy at the Presidio Batteries [ Adore to Adorn ]
This is a woman after my own heart. When I read Nancy's words about her choices in style and fashion, at the core, it's really not just about the clothes. Being a new(ish) mom myself, the way we put ourselves together is conducive to the way we need (and want) to live our lives. It's smart to invest in items that are practical, versatile, resilient, and long lasting... just like us. :) And who says it can't be super cute!? Just take a look at her.
Check out these photos from our SUPER windy session at the batteries overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge (I shouldn't have even thought of busting out a reflector -- it'd fly into the ocean). This isn't the first time I've shot here, but it seems new every time because there are so many unique corners of this place that are full of gritty textures... the perfect contrast (and compliment!) to Nancy's style, which you may see more of at Adore to Adorn.
If you're looking to highlight your style in a shoot like this, contact me and let's chat ideas! I need more of this in my life. xo
