Welcome to our special guest series, Photo Philosophy! We know how important photos are to scrapbookers, bloggers, and memory keepers of all types—and while technical know-how is important, we believe that good photography begins with what you believe about your camera and its possibilities. We've invited five incredible photographers to share their own personal photography philosophies with you this week, in hopes that you'll consider your own philosophy. More meaningful images begin with knowing what you want from your camera. Today, please welcome Kelly Willette! Enjoy!
My journey as a photographer started with a horrific studio portrait session with my son (who was then 12 months) at a chain studio (which I still LOVE)….my husband couldn’t stand to see me get so stressed out over the studio photos, so he snuck out that evening and bought me my first digital SLR camera as a surprise gift….under the condition that I learn how to use it and that I don’t freak out over imperfect studio photos anymore. That was nearly 7 years ago. I spent two years mastering the camera…..learning how to shoot in manual, what lenses were best for how I wanted to photograph, how to find the light, etc. That camera was the BEST material gift I have ever received.
I eventually began photographing for friends who loved my photos of my son, then I ran a successful photography business and began teaching other photographers how to run successful business. Then I had baby number two last year. I have put my business of photographing for others on hold—and have returned to photographing my own kiddos exclusively. It really is funny how life does come full circle. Though I LOVED photographing for others, I really LOVE photographing my own children – capturing them in photos (and I LOVE having the time to scrapbook again!).
I believe that finding the light is key to getting powerful photos. When in your own home, be sure to try to find the good pockets of light! Here is a video tutorial if you would like to see me “in action” explaining how to find the light inside your home. The password to view the video is: shiny
joy of love: indoor light from kelly willette on Vimeo.
And here is an image tutorial on indoor lighting!
images © Kelly Willette
I believe that sometimes you should take a close up photos and other times you should take several steps back and get the shot. Sometimes when you capture your environment around your subject the photo tells an entirely different story.
images © Kelly Willette
I believe that the details are just as important as the overall scene. Get in close to remove distracting elements from your photos.
images © Kelly Willette
I believe that everyday, unposed, unplanned photos sometimes make the best photos. I will always treasure the everyday photos of my family.
images © Kelly Willette
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
Kelly McMahon Willette is a life-long resident of Norfolk, Virginia where she lives with her husband, two kids (Max and Flossie), wild Australian shepherd dog and senior citizen cat. She affectionately refers to her home as the Willette “gong show.” She runs Willette Designs, a photography business that offers on-line photography classes for parents and photographers; her popular (free!) Joy of Love classe has helped scores of women consider the emotional and technical aspects of photography in new ways. She also makes a mean beef stew, still knows all the words to the Beastie Boy’s song Paul Revere, and is adjusting to being the master of multi-tasking since having her second child.
Want to learn more with Willette?
Visit Willette Designs, LLC.
Connect with Willette Designs on Facebook.
Watch for her upcoming Joytography™ guides in July 2011 (Joytography: A Collaborative Inpsiration Guide for Hobbyists, Professionals, & Designers).
Purchase her much anticipated Finding the Joy™ photography eBook and maybe mark give.away.day. on your calendar tomorrow. Hint hint.
And finally, what better way to celebrate March than signing up for Willette's free Joy of Luck class? It starts tonight so don't delay!
