When I was 9, I was participating with my friends in an after school church group with friends my age. We decided to surprise our leaders with a play. Plot was hatched and my director hat was put on which was of course was placed by myself. I dictated to everyone their roles, wardrobes, props, lines, make up, any and every detail was perfectly laid out in my mind and I commanded them to follow my every direction.
I’ve always had this problem. My memories of playing dolls with my friends was me feeding them actions and lines to them in which they had to listen and follow through with. Weird thing was is they pretty much always did. Maybe they were afraid if they didn’t listen I would throw a 10 minute cry sesh about how they clearly didn’t appreciate me or my friendship which sadly did happen a time or two in my childhood but basically for the most part everyone just listened and followed though.
Then, I picked up a D-SLR camera. Friends asked me to shoot family pictures and then one even asked if I would shoot her wedding and quickly but not so quietly my directors hat reappeared.
It’s never been a problem for me, thinking of poses for couples or families. For the most part the problem is just the 2 year old that can’t quite understand my neeeeeed for them to follow my directions and then the creative block that comes after they don’t listen. “Now smile with lips together and eyes really wide and cross your legs with your hand folded casually on your knees mmmmk?”
and then THIS happens….
It takes all of me to keep my maturity pants on and not to throw a pity party about how this 2 year old is seriously cramming my creative ebb and flow. It’s ok though cuz this certain 2 year old is my adorable nephew who I love and trust me, I know parents love this photo for the personality captured in it for each of the children BUT there’s also and always the pressure of getting the money shot. So when all I’m getting are photo’s like these….
AKutarna - I love your writing style! If you ever do run your cameras over and run away crying, write a book. I’d read it. : ) Love these photos! Lucky you to have such cute nephews!!!
PamH - Baha hah aha I loved this post! Yes, I’m bias, but seriously, family photography borderline outright SUCKS! LOL! Really though, it’s so freaking hard…you know I don’t care if you ever get the “money” shot! So would never be your fault…loved all the outtakes. You never even gave them to me I don’t think so this was fun. And loved your quote….especially “the father you will go” part. Ha ha.
amy - You are the photography master Leah! I know what you mean though…it’s a wonderful/frustrating hobby to have. You definitely have the eye though…I love ALL your stuff!
Sami-Jane - leah! I LOOOVE these, I especially love that Baker is just going to town with the sucker lol.
Ashley - Ha ha I’m sure family pics are hard! I have a hard time trying to get my kids to look at the camera too! I bet your excited for our session! lol They still turned out adorable and someday they will thank their auntie Leah I’m sure 🙂
Katelyn - I commented before but I guess it didn’t post. You crack me up girl! I’m glad you go through all the stress of photographing families because I have benefited greatly! Somebody’s got to do it and there is nobody more able than you! Love ya.