Albany NY Photographer | Albany New York Photographers | newborns, children, seniors, family and lifestlye photography by Genine Gullickson » father

Play Me a Tune

admin — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 16:17:53 +0000

Play Me a Tune – Albany, NY Family Photographer

The holiday season and family gatherings go hand in hand. Although the Fall and early December are packed with sessions for holiday gift giving; the last few weeks of the month for most photographers generally lends itself to some availability. It was great being able to schedule this family’s session towards the end of the month. They were getting together just before Christmas, for an early celebration – and really wanted to have some professional portraits done. We shot in various rooms in the house, and really came away with a wonderful collection of images! Their daughter is a Senior at Emma Willard in Albany, NY. She’s quite involved with music, so her mom requested that we incorporate some instruments. I didn’t realize the family as a whole is quite artsy – and musical. It was adorable to hear them rave about their daughter’s talents, and to see Dad and Daughter giggling and holding some of their favorite instruments for a photo.

It’s very normal for people to feel a bit uneasy in front of a camera. Generally when I review the images from a session – the first are a bit stiff, and then the natural expressions begin to come out as we progress. Given that I enjoy a more “life style” approach to portraits – I usually ask the family about themselves and get them talking/reminiscing. In addition to the parents and daughter – an Aunt and Grandfather were in town. The “girls” now women, laughed as they listened to their father talk about what the two of them were like as little girls. That really is a part of my job that I love. I definitely am a people person – and truly do enjoy getting to meet families and watching them interact. Quick reviews in camera allow me to get a feel for what I’ve captured during the session – but it really is pronounced once I review the images on my computer.

I love when I can hear the conversations - and laughter come right out of the image. And the frosting on the cake…when they share that same feeling as we discuss the gallery during the ordering consultation. This last client did break into some tears at one point – and she’s not the first. Again, I can not say enough how much that warms my heart. I love that I can capture true emotions and interactions that speak so clearly to my clients.

So… something to tuck away – think about hiring a professional photographer to come to your next family gathering. It’s a wonderful time to get some family portraits!

“Holiday Photo Tips”

admin — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 15:30:33 +0000

Just in time for this weekend, Holiday photo tips to save the day

PHOTO TIPS:

1. Flash: Not the easiest thing to work with – but sometimes just necessary! If you’re at a gathering during the day…try to turn your flash off. Set the ISO, which is basically the camera “film” speed, at least at 400. Take a look around the room, and try to find natural light by the windows. You’ll get beautiful soft filtered light, that makes for gorgeous photos! At night, or in dark spaces, you will have to use a flash. Keep in mind that your camera’s flash only really works up to about 6 ft. away. So stay close! Also, if you have an attached flash system – see if you have the capability to adjust the position. On “shoe flashes” you should have a release button to adjust the angle and direction the flash is set up in. If possible, extend the flash straight up, then slightly tip it to point behind you! Ideal position would be if the flash is firing where the wall and ceiling meet directly behind you. If you can’t tip it back, then position it straight up and down, bouncing off the ceiling!

2. Composition:

A. The biggest mistake that people make taking photographs is being too far away! Often I tell clients that the background isn’t all that important – especially when you’re in a house! What you’re photographing are the people, not the bookshelf! LOL When you look through your viewfinder – take specific notice of how much background is in your frame. Before you click your shutter – take a step, or a few steps closer to your subjects! Don’t be worried about if the top of someone’s head is slightly cropped, you’ll be focusing on their faces and expressions!

B. Probably the second No-No people don’t realize is NOT TO CENTER THEIR PHOTOS! Think of your viewfinder as a Tic-Tac-Toe grid. You do not want the focal point of your photo to land in the center. It’s visually boring! Where you do want to focus the attention is the corner points of that center square. Those land 1/3 of the way into the frame. So maybe start by centering the photo – then shift yourself so the person’s eyes are landing at either the top Left or top Right point of that center square. Basically just shift a bit left, right, up or down…you’ll be much happier with the results!

3. Candid Shots:

Looking for real smiles, and emotions? Resist the urge to say “Say Cheese and Look at the Camera!” When you see family or friends laughing and enjoying each others company – sneak over and fire off a few frames! If they are looking at you, try to crack a joke, or remind them of a funny story that gets the giggles going again!

Wishing you a Wonderful Holiday Season – and Happy Photo taking!

another gorgeous mommy…

admin — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 13:35:00 +0000

this pregnant mom was so beautiful…everything about her glowed —- and photographing her was wonderful.

the curves of her body struck me even more as I processed them…i love the simple lines of many of these maternity shots -

between the soft colors, and calming bw…I loved this session and hope they do too! Can’t wait to meet their newborn!

you look stunning Brenda!

Maternity Event Pics!

admin — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 16:49:00 +0000

Well – I’m sad to see Bella Maternity closed…but loved spending the day with Colleen down at her store! “I’m not done…” loved hearing her say that —- I’m sure we’ll be hearing from her, and seeing her own shop again in the near future! The sessions were fun- I love belly shots!

Here are a few…

so glad she let me pull this little cutie in…adorable!!!