On my way home, I was reading about a couple of studies that I thought carried some really interesting implications. A professor found that if you ask people for their seat on the subway (and anyone who knows New York subways knows that’s a ballsy move), 50% of the people will actually give it up for you. In fact, even when cutting in line, people were successful half of the time.

This reminds me of one of my girlfriends. She always said if you don’t ask, you won’t receive. And she really knew how to milk it. Upgrades, better seats, free meals, extra service – so many little things here and there. I was amazed how much she managed to … Read more...

Photo by Robert Dodge
www.ourturnphoto.com

This is a shot brimming with attitude. It’s the type of character shot you hope to see in a couple’s portrait. While it has become common convention in wedding photography that portraits are as much about the actions of the couple as they are about the character, this represents a nice nod to the past when portraiture was all about personality. It preserves a modern feel through framing, light, and tone, but what really makes it work is the connection with its subjects, especially the man in front. Because his head turns slightly away from the camera, his sidelong stare exudes a distinct sense of confidence, which Robert has done a wonderful job preserving. … Read more...

Photo by Maria Hunter
www.mariahunter.com

Irreverence is such a wonderful thing. The ability to walk into a wedding and shoot as you see it without trying to second guess your clients and make sure everything is sellable – to just capture what you feel – is the best thing there is to give to the world. This picture is a simple, unabashed statement about that other part of the wedding day. Not the rituals. Not the romance. Not two people sharing their worlds. But life as it moves between two individuals. It’s what we do when we go from here to there, trying to deal with the rest of the world. The timing nails it, with two expressions that tell … Read more...

Not too long ago, I came across a fantastic article on menu pricing in New York Magazine. I had no idea so much went into it. I’ve integrated some of the ideas (I’ll be sure to report back) into my current price sheet, and it got me to thinking about the the basics of pricing for weddings.

For many, pricing discussions are like religious wars. Every expert is sure their way is the best. But is there really a best? I’ve tried no-hassle pricing, a la carte pricing, two packages, three packages, four, and five. I’ve done pre-design with album credits, I’ve pre-sold albums, and I’ve gone without albums. You name it, there’s a good chance I’ve tried it. … Read more...

Photo by Craig Warga
www.craigwarga.com

What can I say about this one? This is exactly how you take a documentary picture. The purpose is crystal clear – there isn’t the slightest doubt about what’s going on, how everyone feels, and what it’s all about – it’s a classic use of foreground and background coming together to tell the story. The timing is also spot on with expressions that say it all. And the composition is not only well-balanced, but the camera is positioned so each person is clearly delineated. Craig’s use of the wide angle enhances the image further, taking you right into the middle of the action with a low angle not only adds prominence to the bride and … Read more...