I always seem to struggle with the question, “to take the photo or not,” in certain situations. I love to paint the picture, tell the story, and report the news, but at times the appropriate time to take the photo is not clear.
I ponder, do I bow my head when the wedding officiant asks for all to participate? Or do I focus my lens on the couple and capture the moment when they are praying together? I admit that most times, I do a quick nod and then move quickly to shoot the special moment, reminding myself that I am working the event.
I wonder if I should take the photograph of the homeless person seated and burrowed in his or her possessions? Do I take the shot of those grieving at a funeral for a loved one? Do I take the photograph of a disabled elderly person to show the effects of dementia?
Recently, I attended the Annual Fredericksburg National Cemetery Illumination. It was an awesome view to see the hillside gravesites lit in their full masses. It was overwhelming to see the full measure of sacrifice the soldiers gave in order for me to experience freedom. Soon, I found myself asking the question again, “to take the photo or not.” I knew this was an important story to share and decided to take the shot.
It is not an easy question to ask myself. Sometimes, believe it or not, I elect not to take the shot. But I continue to ask this simple question because it keeps me grounded and reminds me to view each event as a privilege to photograph and to be respectful in my photography.
I am thankful each day for the men and women that have wholly given themselves so that I may live and pursue my dreams in this country. I am grateful for those who serve today and are willing to protect us all on this Memorial Day.
Take lots of pictures- Cheryl
"How 'bout Eggs" /
So I took the egg challenge.
You know, that photography challenge to take an egg (or eggs) and shoot it as many different ways as possible to improve your skills and creativity.
I envisioned shooting a flaming egg. As it turns out, lighting an egg on fire is not as easy as I thought and not the best idea to attempt in my kitchen. However I did learn more about focusing. I also developed a better appreciation for certain safety precautions when shooting.
Next, I took a pair of eggs to the Cherry Blossom festival. It was a bit awkward perching, sharpie painted eggs in front of so many people at the Tidal Basin but an interesting practice that pushed me to forget about my comfort zone and stay focused on creating the shots I wanted.
Then, I grouped fresh eggs together and tried shooting some stock photography photos. But I found eggs do not like to stay in the position you set them as they tend to roll and move around after placement. Shooting many eggs reminded me of when I shoot group shots, you place people but they tend to shift and move around after you set the shot. I realized this was another great lesson about patience when managing the setup of a shoot and not giving up on the final result.
So I did a lot of shooting eggs this year for the egg challenge and these were only a few of my experiences. I admit this challenge sounded easier on paper than it actually was but the challenge did motivate me, it taught me many lessons, and was surprisingly fun too.
Much happiness to all this Easter & Passover season.
"Take lots of pictures." -- Cheryl
Preparation & Practice /
When I was little, I remember having to practice the piano. My mother would set an old timer and require that I play a set period until the buzzer sounded. My musician father, while agreeing with set practice times, pulled me aside and instructed me that practice without preparation was insufficient. He insisted that I make practice count. I was to start with warm-ups, then scale work, then focus on the parts of my piece that were problematic. When I took up a wind instrument, he insisted I practice breathing techniques in addition to my musical piece because my lungs were an extension of my instrument. I needed to put thought and focus into each of my slotted practices. I needed to be prepared to practice.
But I suppose I was like most people-wanting to play fun songs, skip the basics, and become great without practice. I did not want to think about preparation.
Photography, like music, is art. It requires the same dedication, purpose, and amount of practice. I wish I was able to pick up my camera and take a really great shot (and yes, sometimes that happens) but a great shot requires preparation and practice. I find myself studying my camera, lenses, and the techniques of other photographers. I set goals and scenarios that help me to practice the "what ifs" that could happen at weddings or at an event I am shooting. I find as I practice more, my confidence grows. In stressful situations, I am able to resolve camera issues quickly and this allows me more artistic time with my subject. I wish I could say that preparation and practice are overly preached but I would be remiss if I didn't admit the difference they both can make. So take the time, make the effort, and practice with a purpose.
And--"Take lots of pictures." -- Cheryl
PS. Thanks to my dad for expecting me to do my best, challenging me, and not letting me slide when practicing.
I'd Wish I'd Taken That Picture /
“I’d wish I’d taken that picture.”
I can not even begin to tell you how many times I’ve said that statement. Looking through Instagram, Facebook, social sites, or another photographer’s website inspires me. I stare at the photo and envision shooting that photograph. I look at the lighting, focus, and creativity. I study the picture for far too long. I make a mental note to push myself when I’m out there shooting for others or myself. And then I repeat, “I’d wish I’d taken that picture.”
I wish for you all in the new year to find your passion and embrace it!
"Take lots of pictures." -- Cheryl
Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays /
I love my Christmas music playlists. There are the traditional Christmas carols, classic Christmas songs, pop culture Christmas hits, and (yes, even) Mannheim Steamroller that I can’t seem to hear enough of during the holidays. I especially love the holidays because photography like music has so many genres to shoot during this season. There are the traditional Christmas photos, classic seasonal shots, mainstream holiday items, and daytime/nighttime events to add to my portfolio. It is a wonderful time of the year to celebrate life especially through photography. Thank you to all of you that allowed me to celebrate and showcase your lives though my photography. It has been a joy and real blessing more than you may know.
Oh, and my favorite Christmas song— “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays“ by NSYNC. I just love that song!
"Take lots of pictures." -- Cheryl
Treasured Moments /
I shot this photograph over twenty five years ago. My camera was an inexpensive, point and shoot film camera but I considered myself lucky to finally have my own camera. I knew I would have to pay for film development so I made sure I set up my shots so I wouldn't waste money. But I've always been drawn to spontaneous moment shots, that happen just at the right time, and show a natural emotion not a forced pose. And that day, despite the mottled light descending through the trees, the not so green overgrown forest floor with dirt patches showing, and my mother and grandmother moving, I decided to shoot them. I couldn't help but take the shot. Look at their interaction, their laughing, their excitement in a finding a simple, plain Easter egg. It was worth taking the shot.
In the last month, these two beautiful, loving women passed. I imagine them this way in heaven, loving each other, and smiling at us.
I am always encouraging others to, "take lots of pictures." Why? Because your photos/pictures whether on a cheap camera, smartphone, or dslr will be your most treasured memories. Take the time, make the investment, -- take the shot. I promise it will be worth it throughout the years to come.
"Take lots of pictures." -- Cheryl
What I Love... Photography /
You know what I love about photography— EVERYTHING. From setting up a photo shoot with a client or designing a image I’d like to shoot, the shoot, post processing, and finally delivery. I love it all! Each part of the process is like a rollercoaster ride: ups and down, fear and exhilaration, and then the sigh of relief when the project is finished. Inevitably, I start yearning for the next shoot and off I go again on another coaster ride. I wouldn’t have it any other way. It’s a passion that takes so much but gives even more back to me. Find your passion. It’s worth the adventure ride!
"Take lots of pictures." -- Cheryl
Lots of Firsts /
These last few weeks were quite an experience. I launched my website (finally), second shot a wedding, did an engagement session, mini portrait shoot, and then a "smash cake" shoot with the cutest twin boys. Those sessions got me thinking. They were an opportunity for me to capture in photographs a first memory for each one of these people.
Throughout the years, I have pulled out my own family photographs and reflected on the many firsts in my life. I love my photographs even the fading old Polaroids. My photos are memories and moments that help me re-live some of my first events.
These weeks marked a lot of firsts for me, including this my inaugural blog. I'm excited for my new firsts and hope you are excited in creating new firsts for yourselves. Life is full of lots of firsts- don't forget to document them.
"Take lots of pictures." -- Cheryl