Monday, November 23

Chasing Light

HAMPTON BEACH, NEW HAMPSHIRE - OCTOBER 1, 2009

One of the biggest challenges for photographers is getting the right light in which to capture your subject.    There are volumes written on the topic.  Joe McNally (an amazing photojournalistic photographer http://www.joemcnally.com/) from his book, The Moment it Clicks shares:

“What sticks with us, always, is light. It is the wand in the conductor’s hand. We watch it, follow it, respond to it and yearn to ring every nuance of substance, meaning, and emotion out of it. It leads us, and we shoot and move to its rhythm.” (pg 178)

Just when you think you have it figured out then something happens that surprises you.  Such was the case with a recent engagement shoot.  The couple was coming up from Massachusetts and meeting me at Hampton Beach at 4:00pm.  It had been raining on and off all day and I was ready to cancel the shoot.  I was fearful that I wouldn't have that late afternoon magical light that puts a warm glow on your subject.  I heard from the couple about 2:00 and they were already in the area kicking around!  Drats!  No opportunity to cancel.  I later left my office to meet them--not feeling very optimistic about what my results would be.  Wrong!  It just so happened that the magical light was there...just above the clouds.  The cloud cover was thin enough that it acted like a giant softbox spreading the light evenly over the entire coastline.  It was wonderful!  Here are a few of my favorite shots.  A big thanks to Andy and Kat for allowing me the opportunity to capture their love, laughter and sense of adventure.

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