Answers

Thanks for asking your photo questions! Here are the answers...

Sue said: How do you decide when to take an off center shot? Is it just natural and spontaneous? Or do you crop it later or actually shoot it that way?
So I normally shoot families and with kids going a mile-a-minute it is rare that I have a chance to think of composing a shot in a certain way. If it is 2 adults, who can hold their pose, I do think about it much more.  I would say though, most of the time it is a happy accident. And I rarely crop photos,  I am big on shooting it how I want it the first time.  But, there is a “rule” in photography called the rule of 3rds that tells you how to compose your photograph so It is most pleasing to the eye. Often this means the focus of the photograph is not dead center. 



Karen Said: I finally got my 50 mm lens! Now I just need to learn how to use it. Can you get bokeh (however you spell it) with that lens?


YES! Congrats on the new lens. Your 50 mm lens has an aperture of either f/1.8, f/1.4, or f/1.2. Basically this means when you set your aperture close to that number like a 2.8 or below, you will get those yummy blurry backgrounds and bokeh! Have fun with it!



AshLouise said:  What dslr camera would you suggest? What do you use?

First, let me say, It is a common misconception that an un-trained photographer could just buy an expensive camera and all of the sudden take stunning photos. While the auto setting is better than the average point + shoot, it does take some practice to learn your camera and how it responds to light.  I am a firm believer that equipment does not make the photographer but, if you have the money, it does certainly help!

Right now I shoot with a Nikon D7000. I used to own the D60 and learned on it until I grew out of it (about 2 years). I plan to do the same with my D7000. I would say that if you really want to take photography seriously, you should invest in a DSLR camera.  I would suggest starting with maybe the Nikon D40 or I have heard good things about the Canon Rebel from Canon users.

Amy Jo said: My kids eyes are always closed in pictures. Is that my fault or my camera's fault? If it is my fault, how can I improve? Do you have any recommendations on a simple, straightforward camera that still delivers quality pictures?

I'm not sure what camera you have but I would guess it is probably your camera’s fault. Point+Shoot camera’s are known to have a shutter response delay. This makes it very easy to miss the shot or get your kids with their eyes closed.  I wish I knew more about point+shoots. From what I have heard, the Nikon cool pix series is pretty affordable and has good image quality and fast shutter speeds. But, if you go looking, I would make sure to tell the sales person that you want a camera with “fast shutter speed”. 

Kyla said: I am due in March (I know it is still a while!).... I am trying to decide when to get pictures done as a family and of this new baby... any suggestions on seasons or age of baby?

As for newborn shots, they say the first two weeks is the best time to photograph them when they are still all sleepy and mold-able.  It would be smart to book your newborn session while you are still pregnant. It is probably the last thing you want to worry about during that time but it will be worth it in the long run.

As for seasons, my favorite time to shoot is in the spring or fall when the trees are full and the colors are bold and beautiful. Plus it is usually much more pleasant temperature wise. To me, nothing beats an outdoor nature shoot!

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