Utah Strobist meetup July 2009

Yesterday we had a wonderful Utah Strobist Meetup. We went out to the Great Salt Lake just west of the marina. We started out with pictures under the overpass and then we hiked through the reeds and bugs to actually get to the lake. I will be posting up some pictures when I get home and can link them up.

This is what I dubbed the "Jarvie Jump" It is photographer Scott Jarvie jumping.

Melissa

Last friday I had a shoot with a wonderful model named Melissa. We went out by saltair to a trolley and an old building. Then we decided to go out to the water (it seemed like an hour walk out there) and then went up Big Cottonwood canyon to finish up the shoot. She laid down on the hot sand/salt and didn't even flinch as I took pictures, but I walked on it for about 100 feet and burned my feet. :-( I am honestly impressed. Here are some pictures from the shoot.

Brit K.

Today I went and had a shoot with Brit K. She is a gorgeous model and very easy to work with. She brought her brother and friend Aryan, so I enlisted their services during the shoot for talking, making her laugh, and also for models. :-D I look forward to working with Brit again.

Jamie M.

Today I had a wonderful shoot with Jamie. It was our first shoot together, but it was like we had worked together before. She was on point and very professional the whole time...not to mention her eyes...they just draw you in! Here are a couple of pictures from our shoot. :-D

Yuba

I am a couple of days behind. We went down to Yuba Lake this past weekend and I got some great shots. They will be up soon.

Choosing a photographer

I have compiled a list of things to look for when looking for a photographer:

Although I would prefer that you chose me, I know that some of you will pick another photographer. So for those of you shopping around, I thought I would mention a few tips that might help you in your search for a good photographer.

• Make sure you see a portfolio of some kind from the photographer that your looking at
• Ask the photographer for a copy of the contract (if they have one) so you know what to expect.
• Obviously price is a big concern. Make sure you know exactly what a photographer will charge for what you want. The "You get what you paid for" doesn't exactly work for photography. There are alot of photographers who are updating their portfolios or build/get more business so they are willing/doing the shoots for free or for less money.
• It is always a good idea to do a "Mock" photoshoot or atleast talk with or meet the photographer before the day of the shoot. This is for a few reasons. One of which is to determine if your able to work with the photographer (personality types) also this gives you the chance to discuss what exactly your looking for with the shoot. (I.E. location, Clothing, etc.) This makes the finished product a better product because it is what you want and makes it easier on everyone.
• Also "most expensive equipment" doesn't always mean the best photographer. There are alot of photographers that a $5,000 camera isn't an option to buy.

Jeannine and Jackie

Today I went on a shoot with Jeannine and Jackie. Two gorgeous redheads. We did a shoot in formal/wedding dresses up and down one of the local canyons. I didn't have anyone sit in any ants or ice cold water, but I did have them hiking around in formal dresses. :-D