Photo Tip :: Outfit Photos Part Two

At the beginning of the month, I shared with you the preliminary outfit photos post here. This is the second follow up to it, and usually my step by step for when I go out and take photos. Ask any other questions you might have!

Frame the Shot
First, set your camera up. Stand behind the camera, look through the viewfinder, and figure out visually where you will need to stand to be in frame. Set the camera to a single focus point - usually the center one - and not automatic. Ensure that the camera is set to automatic timer or remote in the drive mode. If you have two options for the timer and a remote - like 2 second auto timer or 10 second - it doesn't matter which you choose. If you are setting the self timer and running, 10 seconds is always better.

Set Up Your Remote If You Have One
Depress the shutter button on your camera. Standing near your camera, point the remote at the camera and make sure you have it set to the correct drive mode and the remote is working. If you have the option like my remote to switch between one and second seconds between the shutter, try two seconds. This gives you enough time to hide the remote.

Work on Poses
After awhile, you will get your 'angles' down so to speak. If I leave my mouth open at all like those models do, I look like a brainless zombie. This will take time, but play around with positions you feel comfortable in. I want to say don't force it, but you'll have to force it a bit at first. It's an acquired taste.

Aperture Priority Mode
Trying to shoot these on manual is really rough - so set your camera to aperture priority with a small aperture (try below f/4) to get bokeh and freeze as much movement as possible.

Take Multiple Photos
For each set up I do, I take probably 20+ shots. This way, if my eyes are closed or I am at a funny angle, I'm not relying on one shot. Twirl, dance, move. Pause before you hear the shutter go if possible. I count 1, 2 then pause.

Make a (Mental) Checklist
I take note of each item I am wearing, and as I take the shots, check things off. Usually, my checklist goes something like :
-Full body, front
-Second option full body, front
-Full body with coat or sweater off, front
-Full body, back or side
-Shoe detail
-Bag Detail
-Nail Detail / Ring Detail
-Necklace Detail
-Other Jewelry Detail
-Head Shot
-Other Details, Dog Shots
I try and ensure I get enough to have a variety of shots. I also move around the park or location I am at, so that my full body shots aren't in the exact same spot. This is personal preference.

Avoid People
Try and find a secluded area if you are somewhere really crowded. Try not to set up right in the middle of a busy walkway, or if you do, set your camera off to the side and shoot towards the middle. When someone comes by, move out of the way for them to walk or bike past. In parks, be aware of your surroundings - the last thing you want is a child or biker knocking over your camera, right?

Whatever, Whatever, I Do What I Want
When in doubt, be Eric Cartman. Laugh at yourself. Something awkward is going to happen. Someone is going to insist on taking a photo for you at Disney because you're forcing your husband to take outfit photos in front of Splash Mountain. Someone is going to stare at you. A waiter is going to giggle as you snap photos of yourself sipping a cocktail. You will drop your camera on the ground as your dog topples the tripod over. Things are going to happen - go right, wrong, awkard, and everything in between. Don't be nervous! Shrug it off - at least you'll get a good photo out of it!