Saturday, March 7, 2009

Let's talk about "Catch Light"

Definition from Wikipedia: Catch light or catchlight is a photography term used to describe either the specular highlight in a subject's eye from a light source, or the light source itself. A catch light may be an artifact of the lighting method, or have been purposely engineered to add a glint or "spark" to a subject's eye during photography. This technique is useful in both still and motion picture photography. Adding a catch light can help draw attention to the subject's eyes, which may otherwise get lost among other elements in the scene.

In this shot there is a window to my Left and I am using my reflector on the right. Your subject does not have to be looking directly into the light to "Catch" it. But, it does help if you have a reflector.

This photo has been edited with a grainy filter, but you can see with the light coming in from behind that there is NO catch light! You can see how his eyes look hollow. Now, if I would have been able to get my reflector high enough to catch the light coming in from the window behind them you would have been able to get the sparkle. Unfortunately there is not ALWAYS someone there to hold it up for you!

If you are shooting outdoors you need to just turn your subject until you can see the light in the eyes. I know this is sometimes difficult to do with small children, but you can typically position yourself in the right place, call their name and they will "TYPICALLY" look at you! You can STILL "Catch" the light if you are in the shade!

Most of the time you will want your subject looking towards the sun, but there are exceptions. If you are shooting in the middle of the day with the high sun you will more than likely get the hollow eyes. In this situation it may be best to "Backlight" your subject: meaning turn them with the sun behind them and use a reflector .

If you are trying to get the Catch light with Natural light indoors, you DO NOT want to use your flash!! If you have a speedlight or off camera flash you will want to point the flash toward the ceiling and NOT directly at your subject! However, even if you don't have LARGE windows in your house the light coming in from a window is ALWAYS better than using your flash. I almost NEVER NEVER NEVER use my flash! I hate it!

PLEASE FEEL FREE TO COMMENT AND ASK QUESTIONS
I will be happy to explain a little more if this doesn't help you! If it does help you please comment so I will know that you understand! Take pictures and email them to me so I can see how you have PRACTICED!!

Friday, March 6, 2009

CONTEST WINNER: Will be announced on Monday!!

Here are the straps you will have to choose from when you WIN!!!

Wrist Strap Dandy Damask Black and White
(you don't have to have an SLR to win this contest)



Camera Strap- Garden Collage


Camera Strap-Carnival Bloom



Monday, March 2, 2009

EASTER PORTRAITS

EASTER PORTRAITS: CALL NOW

MARCH 10th 9:30-1:30
MARCH 14th 1:30-5:00
MARCH 21st 9:00-5:00

Bring your children dressed in their Easter Outfits with their Easter Baskets!!

Call for more details!
830-370-9455

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Give Me Moore Group Workshop

So I REALLY REALLY REALLY want to go to a workshop put on by Kelly Moore and she is doing this contest!!

Give Me Moore Group Workshop


There are SO MANY great entries, mine is kind of boring, but maybe you could vote for me anyway!! Just look for the entry by Jennifer Lankford!!

THANKS READERS!

Friday, February 27, 2009

CONTEST ENDS SUNDAY AT MIDNIGHT!!!

Well I have had several people say they were entering my contest, but I have not received any pics yet!! STILL WAITING!! You DON'T have to wait til' Sunday at midnight to submit them!! Hee hee!!

Here are some of ISAAC'S FAVORITE THINGS


Tuesday, February 24, 2009

1/2 PRICE SALE ENDS SATURDAY

I know there are MANY of you who had your family portraits taken, but have never placed an order with all the hustle and bustle of Christmas!
So, if you had your portraits taken by me at any time last year (January-December 2008) , NOW is the time to place your order/re-order!

You may ONLY order from my "A-La-Carte" price list, which I will email to you if you request it. This offer is ONLY good during the month of FEBRUARY so hurry and place your orders!

Sincerely,
Jenn Lankford

Portraits by Jenn
139 Stephanie Dr.
Kerrville, Texas 78028
830-370-9455
jennlankford@portraitsbyjenn.com

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Check out this site if you own PHOTOSHOP or PHOTOSHOP ELEMENTS! They provide textures and Actions that work with both programs!! They are FREE, but if you REALLY like them please feel free to give a donation!!

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