Palm Paradise Photo Shoot

In May Teri Woodward of Creative Transformations posted a note on line asking who would be interested in doing a styled group shoot. I responded as did a few models and soon the plans were in gear for what would result in the “Palm Paradise Photo Shoot”. The shoot took place at HIP at the Flashlight Factory on Pittsburgh’s North Side on Weds June 12th.

“Creative Transformations is a full-service wedding and event planning business. We are based in Northeast Ohio and have spent 10 years planning dream events. Furthermore, we have 20 years of experience in the creative arts. We tailor our custom planning packages to each client’s needs and budget. Our team prides ourselves with extreme attention to detail. As a result, we provide excellent customer service. Let’s work together to create a wedding or event you’ll love and unforgettable memories for your friends and family!

Your Vision. Our Expertise.” (From Creative Transformations Facebook business profile). https://www.facebook.com/creativetransformations2016/

The models involved in the shoot were (left to right): Soigne Legacy, Alice Beckett-Rumberger, Michelle Marie Senko, Sindel Taylor, Lani Dee and Dr. Michele Lynn. Teri Woodward is kneeling in front of the photo.

The resulting photos from the shoot turned out amazing.

What these photos do not show is everything that goes into a production like this.

First there are the hair and makeup artists who help the models get ready. In this case there were 2 ladies working on hair and make up, Kristina Wallace and Sindel Taylor, who also modeled.

Makeup application began at 9:15 AM even though photography was not scheduled to begin until 11 AM.

The model’s outfits.

The hats were supplied by “What a Great Hat”. https://whatagreathat.com

And of course the jewelry and shoes for the models to wear.

I brought with me my entire lighting kit, including multiple off flash strobes, constant lighting, reflectors, etc. Due to the brightly lit space I ended up using available light with a simple on camera flash with a Gary Fong attachment and at times a reflector.

Once the models hair and makeup were ready, then the stylists helped the models pick out their jewelry and hats.

Only after all of this was done, were we able to begin with the photography.

But first, a selfie!

And another selfie!

And another selfie!

Behind the scenes looks more like this. Gracie the owner of HIP at the Flashlight Factory taking my photo with a cell phone while I take the models photo. Behind the scenes photos not marked with my watermark were taken by Paula of What A Great Hat and Michelle Marie Senko.

Teri styling Soigne’s dress before I take a photo.

Teri adjusting the wardrobe of Lani Dee before I take the group photo.

Teri holding the reflector for me while I shoot a photo of Sindel. Some photos required flash shot through a Fong difuser. Other photos required a reflector and natural light. Each photo is different, depending on the desired look. Photography is all about knowing how to manipulate light to get your desired effect.

Gracie taking a photo of Michele Lynn and Michelle Marie with a cell phone.

Me photographing Michele Lynn.

Not everything is serious during a photo shoot. There is time to have some fun as well!

All of this to get one great shot.