What happens after a photo shoot...from my perspective!

     As I finish up another beautiful session, I am reminded that even

though delivering the final product to my clients should be and is an

exciting and joyous time, I am a little sad that my intimate editing

relationship with them is over.  Or at least for now.



  

  I go through many phases as I aquire a client to photograph.

Initially I am thrilled that they have chosen me to capture their

cherished moments.  This means they've seen my work and they enjoy it,

they love it.  I then go into a slightly terrified state that I won't

fufill what they want and that I may dissappoint them.  This fear is

what keeps me on my toes. In order to calm that sense, I go straight into

my research phase where I study the area we are going, techniques that

I may need to get familiar with on my camera, etc.  This also involves

a little research on my family or couple so that I am aware of their

likes, dislikes and interests.  Of course, when the day comes that I

get to release the creative juices, I am on top of world!!

 

 

    This brings me to what I call the intimate editing relationship.  I

get to exam each and every picture not only for technical things such

as sharppness, exposure and composition, but for elements such as

emotion, laughter, candidness, goofiness, and the list goes on.  And

as I do this, I myself am laughing, smiling and even at times shedding

a tear because I capture such warm, loving and down right gleeful

expressions.

    After I get some photos narrowed down, I begin the detailed work of zooming

in and learning every nook and cranny of clients face...their eyes,

their nose, their gorgeous smiles and adorable dimples.  I see scars

and wonder how they happened and I see chins and wonder which parent

contributed to them.  This is one of my most favorite times of

editing...diving deep into that person's substance!!  I will examine

little hands and feet, along with whispy hairs that fly across a

brimming smile, shiney headbands or sparkly shoes, and the occasional

little toy train that a certain little someone couldn't put down.

These little details are what make the photographs I take so

extraordinary for the clients.  These particular little elements that

others may overlook or find accidental are what remind my families of

that funfilled, remarkable day that their lives were recorded for

years to come.

    So when you receive that little package with your CD and a thank you

note, please know that I truly thank you for inviting me into your

life for a brief moment to experience the love, support and happiness

of your family, your event and your MOMENT in time.

--

Audra McArthur