June and July are graduation photos taking time. Exciting yet hectic for fresh graduates. Traditionally graduation photos were taken in a studio with a backdrop, lighting setup. This is still popular however, covid pandemic has an added layer to it which is social distancing. Also not every photographer can afford to have a studio with an array of expensive and elaborate gears. This scenario has evolved photographers like me to use an outdoor setup. Using a few simple tricks that can make a remarkable creation and brings out the creativity at its best, this changing times.
The following has helped me to achieve a beautiful array of photos.
1. Location: Half of the challenge in getting good pictures is location. Whether it is an outdoor park or institution can make a big impact on the outcome. Having the location view in the backdrop (either in focus or slightly out of focus) can lead to a very dramatic yet creative graduation photos.
2. Sunny vs cloudy days: Partly cloudy days with fluffy cumulous clouds are ideal for any background showing the sky. I also prefer end of the day photo shoot if it is particularly sunny. I find the color dynamics needs least twining during post processing if the photos are taken that time of the day.
3. Fabrics: For a solid color background some fabrics with cotton or rayon works like a charm. Heavy and stretchy fabrics works better avoiding any creases. Also, I find fabrics that are not shiny works better than the glossy ones. If parents are accompanying the graduate, I often ask their help to hold the fabric backdrop. This makes the session more hands on and fun for all. Post processing can be done to edit any crease or gaps in the fabric behind.
4. Brick or light color or patterned wall: These can be amazing when portraits are shot outdoors. Have the participant stand closer to the camera than the wall to increase the dynamic effect of the image.
5. Prime lens: Most important tool in any photographers bag is the right kind of lenses. Any lens can be used for taking pictures however using right kind of lenses are very important and time saving tool during post processing work. Prime lenses keep the subject in focus yet control the background beautifully. Almost gives a 3D effect to the portraits. My favourite is a 100mm prime and 24-70 mm zoom with f2.8 for both.
This graduation session was done within the University of Manitoba campus. The day was bright and sunny yet with the simple tricks described above led to some beautiful images.
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