#Thefrontstepsproject

There has been a fantastic movement going around called #thefrontstepsproject, which documents families on the front porches of their homes during this crazy time. While this is an excellent idea to capture who you are in this moment and remember it forever, if you are in a state with a Shelter-in-Place order, professional photographers should not be available. Therefore, for you “Physical-Distancers,” here is how you can take #thefrontstepsproject photographs without putting you, your family, or anyone else at risk.

 

“The best camera is the one you have on you.” I love this quote. Don’t worry if you don’t have the newest and biggest camera. I am sure you have a camera in your home that will be perfect for you – even if you haven’t used it in a while! Dust it off, find the manual, and get ready! 

 There are three basics camera options to self-taken photos:

– Self Timer: This is a standard function on most cameras, and will require only one person running back and forth after each photograph. It’s a “good” technique and works in a pinch, but, in my opinion, it is not the best option. 

– WiFi: Most newer cameras have a function for you to see what your camera sees through an app on your phone. This is a fantastic feature, as you can capture the image on your camera using the app, with the bonus of not having to keep running back and forth to set the timer or make sure everyone is still in the frame. 

– Remote: If you don’t have one for your camera, I would look into getting one. With a remote, you can set up your camera and take continuous photos without much effort, outside of strategically hiding your remote hand. A remote for your specific camera is easy to find on Amazon or a camera store like B+H photo. They are easy to use and an excellent, inexpensive option if you are willing to wait for shipping. 

Taking the photo!

1. Set-up using a tripod if you already have one. If you don’t have one, a chair or stool will work as well. Just find one at the height that works best for the image you will take. Whatever you use, ensure it is sturdy, as you don’t want your camera falling to the ground and breaking. 

2. Set up your family, spouse, friend, whoever is going to be in the photo in the frame. If you are taking a self-portrait, you can use a stuffed animal, and you will take its place. 

3. I prefer to shoot on manual since I have complete control of the settings, but you can use the Auto setting as well. If you would like to try shooting in manual:

• Start with your aperture at a minimum of 4.0 to make sure everyone is in focus (you can adjust this later if needed).
• Your shutter speed should be no less than 1/125. A fast shutter speed keeps moving kids and animals in focus. You can increase the speed if the kids are extra wiggly.
• Your ISO is dependent on your aperture and shutter speed settings, so set them first. The higher the ISO, the more grainy (noisy) your images will be, so try shooting on a sunny day! 

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4. Focus! Start with doing a center weight focus, as this is the most accurate. It will ensure you capture a few images quickly in case kids and spouses start to lose interest. Once everyone is good-to-go, start the timer or get yourself situated in the frame and snap away! 

5. Embrace the moment and don’t worry about it being perfect! Sometimes the messy images are the ones you love the most.

Tips to make your images shine! 

If you are already one of my clients, you know the clothes you wear will make or break the photograph! If your goal is to capture what this time of your life is really like, your wardrobe is imperative!  Let your kids pick out their favorite outfits, or, if they are in their jammies all day, let them wear them. Be proud of that high bun on your head and your comfy pants. Guys, no need to shave or collared shirts for this photo either – this is the time to relax and document how real-life looks.  

Sunshine, Sunshine, Sunshine!!! Full sun makes the best images, so watch the weather and find a day with full or mostly sunny skies. Keep an eye on your front porch, or any area you plan to use, to determine what time of day the sun is high in the sky, but your porch (or alternate location) is just barely in the shade.

Beyond just the basic photo, here are a few ideas to add visual interest in your photographs. 

-When I photograph families, I think of shooting at different levels – far back to set the scene (the full house and yard), midway (focus on the porch), and up close to show the details. This is a visual example that tells more of a story than just doing the same shot at the same distance, every time.

-Set up shots from different angles. Put the camera on the ground while elevating the lens to get a different look. Play around with the rule of thirds to create more interesting images.

-Everyone sitting nice and smiling at the camera is somewhat dull, so add some movement! It’s as easy as everyone interacting, while not looking at the camera – think cuddling, laughing, tickling the kids, etc. You can also have the kids running around, being kids. Please, do not worry about everyone being in focus and perfect; this is the time to have fun!

 

I hope this helps you take beautiful photographs of your families! Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions. I am happy to help in any way I can. Please stay safe, and I look forward to photographing your beautiful faces soon! 

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