Unwilling Subject

So I just finished the last week of Candice Stringham's "Portraiture 101" class at JessicaSprague.com. It was totally worth it, and I learned a lot...almost as much as I did in "Oh, Shoot."  However, to look at my assignments, you'd never guess. Jack is now an unwilling subject.  The sight of my camera elicits the same response I'd get if I told him I was giving him a vaccination. Still, I did catch some lighter shots.  So even though I did not bang out a photographic masterpiece this time, thanks for getting me back behind the camera, Candice.

This is why I must now have lightning fast reflexes.  That ball is made of foam, but you get his drift...

Staying Busy - and Happy Mother's Day!

Well it's time for another Inspired Blueprints Sketch reveal -

This one had me at the photo strips.  For your viewing pleasure, here's Sketch 73:

And here's my take on it.  I didn't have the plethora of Easter photos I had last year, mostly because Jack was sick for the better part of Easter week. Things were pretty low key around here, but we did hit the high points of the holiday.  Like the eggs? They're Jack originals produced at daycare.

My other little endeavor this month is a photography class I'm taking online.  If you have the chance, "Portraiture 101" taught by Candace Stringham for JessicaSprague.com is worth the time and money. I'm learning a ton about taking better portraits (and candids for that matter).  Now if I could get Jack enthused about having his picture taken. I didn't think I'd get this week's assignment done...thanks Brian for keeping him busy with the soccer ball while I snapped away.  Saved me having to slip Jack a mickey.

Last week's assignment was to practice using window lighting in a posed portrait. This was my attempt at side lighting.  Ideally the subject stands parallel with his or her back to the window, then turns shoulders toward the window until there is a nice effect (and not a "phantom of the opera" look).  Jack refused to look over his shoulder.  He said he "didn't want to stand like a girl."  Sharp kid.  So I spun him around, still parallel to the window but looking back at me to the side.  Clutter on the table aside, I love this picture.  Hard to believe a child who pitched such a fit about having his boring picture taken could produce such a genuine grin.

On that happy note, Happy Mothers Day!