Photo Tip - How To Use A

Do you consistently use a special "photographic ground modification system" to help you with your individual outdoor portrait photography as well as family outdoor portrait photography? You should! This photo tip will show you how and more importantly, why.

There is a trend towards making everything sound as fancy and as complex as possible... a garbage man is really a "refuse removal engineer", a home maker is a "domestic goddess" and so on. I developed the "special photographic ground modification system" as a tongue in cheek play on that trend.

Why?

Most people are NOT accustomed to getting their portraits done. Most often they are nervous and uptight. The ability to look comfortable in front of the camera is why models make the big bucks! Anything you can do to lighten mood is golden.

When I introduce my special "photographic ground modification system" it never fails to get a laugh and the rest of the session goes just that much better. Anything you can do to make your subjects relax and have a good time is a vital weapon in your photo arsenal!

What is a special "photographic ground modification system"?

When you are posing people on the ground (and you should for at least a few shots) they will often balk at the idea because they don't want to get their clothing dirty.

The way to handle it is to always keep several large black plastic garbage bags in your camera bag.

Tell them what pose you want and - before they bring it up - tell them you don't want their clothing to get dirty so you've developed a special photographic ground modification system! The more you can build it up and make it sound super important (with your tone of voice) the better.

Then when you pull out a couple common, every day garbage bags, everyone will start laughing and you are going to get both their cooperation and a series of really nice photos.

Black ones are easiest to hide so I think they are the best. Just have them sitting or lying on the bags and be sure to tuck them in so that they don't show in the photos.

Their clothes are protected and they are having a good time. They will remember you for it!

So, if you want better outdoor portrait photography, introduce a special "photographic ground modification system"! This photo tip is one that could propel you to local fame! For more information, check out the resources box!