If I’m trying to explain something, my first instinct is to grab a pen & paper and sketch out my thoughts. Create a visual for the other. I think that’s what has always drawn me to the photographic & art worlds. The ability to 'speak’ using my vision.
Actually, I’d like to extend big warm fuzzy ‘Thank you’s to all that voted for Stacey Doyle Photography + allowed me the honor of being chosen winner not only for The Knot’s Best of Weddings 2010, but also for Wedding Wire’s Bride’s Choice Awards for 2010 for Rhode Island.
So – thank you!!! I owe each and every one of you a hug, a cupcake and, if you’re so inclined, a beer.
Ciao + [much] love ~ Stacey D
Jennifer came to the studio via winning a photo shoot that I donated to Create Your Life’s Dear Oprah Contest. It was such a pleasure shooting with her and chatting about her exciting new projects and lease on life. I loved the story she told me that before she realized she had won the photo prize, she had been contemplating getting professional shots done. The following day she found out she was the winner of my donation. The law of attraction at work!
Thank you Jennifer + many blessings to you!
Ciao + Love ~ Stacey D
On January 4th, Michelle Turner + I got up in front of the crowd attending Mystic 5 in Mystic CT to give a talk about two different photographers approaching the same subject matter, in this case, weddings. We went over our two different styles + showcased numerous examples, including a wedding we shot together in Puerto Vallarta Mexico in December.
Below is a brief re-cap from my portion of the talk. You can see Michelle’s posing tips + techniques here.
Documenting an event isn’t just aiming your camera at a few choice moments and snapping away. There are certain approaches you should take to create a clean and inviting image, even in the midst of a fast moving scene.
As you learn to hone these tips, they will eventually become second nature, so that when a moment strikes, you will be prepared, not only to capture the action but also create a clutter free image that doesn’t compete for the viewers attention.
Below I have touched on a few of the ways in which you can approach a scene and certain rules you can incorporate while shooting.
Pay close attention to what is going on behind and around your subject.
Are there other people or objects that will add or detract from the scene?
Choosing to include or exclude particular elements can make or break an image.
What’s going on in the four corners of your image? Is it clean or is it pulling your eye away from your subject?
The eye tends to stray to the brightest part of an image, so watch that you haven’t got a large glowing light or bright hot spot in one of the corners of your image. If so, the viewer will be distracted and leave the scene.
While shooting, constantly be aware of what is around your subject’s body. Watch for objects sticking out of some ones head or body. If you can use your subject to block out something distracting, do it!
As you are shooting, keep moving. As you are moving, keep shooting. Continuing to adjust while shooting will help bring you closer to a cleaner, more eye pleasing image.
Eye level:
Constantly vary the height of your camera while you’re shooting. There are a few reasons for this. Staying out of the line of sight of
your subject means they will be less likely to focus on you, helping to make you ‘invisible’. This can help you to create images without the subject being camera aware.
See how much better your image could be if you crop out some of the distracting elements that may be exhausting your eye.
Before:
Sometimes using objects or people within a scene can draw the eye into the action while simultaneously cropping out distracting elements. It’s
a great way to create interest within the frame. You can shoot through a crook of an arm, or a chair back.
January kicked off with a wonderful conference in Mystic Ct, run by the super duper Walter Van Dusen. The day before the festivities began, ShootStyle hosted a fun shoot for the photographers attending. In my group were the lovely Jeannie Turnock and Erin Chapman.
I love hanging and learning with other photographers, and this shoot was just fun-tastic! Even in the cold snow 
A few of my fav from the shoot:
Ciao + Love ~ Stacey D
I had never ventured off of US soil before. This summer I received my first ever passport. My goal before the end of 2009 was to use that passport. And did I ever!
I was offered the opportunity to head into Puerto Vallarta Mexico to 2nd shoot for Michelle Turner and her clients Pia + Raymond. The wedding was held at one of the most beautiful and professionally run resorts I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing: Playa Fiesta. It felt like I walked into one big family, welcoming you with open arms, big grins, and some very very yummy food. The wedding went off without a hitch, the scene was serene and relaxing, the guests + couple fun and laid back. What a wonderful night!
The following day, Michelle and I headed into town with Pia + Raymond to do a day after shoot. Michelle + I are gathering imagery for our talk at Mystic5 in January of 2010.
From walking through the cobble stoned streets, to the magnificent colors splashed everywhere, to the friendly locals (even the dogs!), and amazingly warm weather … I had a hard time leaving. I can’t wait to visit again!
Congrats Pia + Raymond and thank you so much for playing with us the day after your event. You were both fantastic to work with!!
Some of my favorites from the shoots:
The day after shoot:
Ciao + Love ~ Stacey D
