Taking a chance in your portrait work can be a daunting step, especially when you are just starting out in the photography world.
I know that when I was a beginner, I was intimidated by all those buttons and dials not to mention the fact that I had a living person waiting patiently for my to say "say cheese". Believe me, I felt the pressure.

I think that for a person to be a successful photographer, no matter how you define that, they must go beyond the technical aspects of making a portrait. A skilled photographer is so comfortable with the mechanics of making an image, that it is second nature. They are thinking more about the subject, lighting, positioning, and ultimate goal.  All that camera "stuff" is assumed. 

Case in point, let's look at this image. I shot this for a personal project on musical instrument makers. Richard here, makes Irish flutes. His business partner (who wasn't available) makes Irish drums, bodhrans.  Beforehand, Richard talked about where he spends part of his time in the production process, his workshop that used to be a garage. He admitted that he has never had a car in here. It's always been a workspace for him.

He also pointed out that the graphic on the exterior is his adaptation of an old Irish fairytale creature, and that he uses it on all his branding material.
To get this image, I had to position two lights. One inside the shop and one outside a small window that he is facing.  The exterior was lit by a cloudy sky.

Once I figured out the mechanical aspects of getting the lights to fire, (optically triggered), I just had to position him properly and wait for the sun to submerge a bit to pull it all together. I was no longer thinking about the camera and flashes once I had established that I was getting the response I wanted. 

Before we entered the space, I had a half-hour chat with Richard about his process and his history. Having this time to become familiar with each other, made the shooting part all the more comfortable. He relaxed and played, I snapped away. I made him a framed 18x22 print that he graciously accepted and loves.

The point is to go beyond the technical before you can truly be a creative photographer. You will be more successful when you think more about the subject and what you are attempting to express. This all comes with practice and with continued observation of the world around you.

I highly advocate the study of art in all forms. Painting, dance, figure studies, sculpture and other forms of creativity and expression. Get your butt down to the local galleries, museums, book shoppes. Whatever it takes. When you find arts that inspire you in any way, ask yourself why they get your creative juices going. Keep a record of some sort and draw from that record in your portrait work. It will serve you well.

Please take a few minutes to come enjoy some wonderful artwork now on display at Beard Free Brewing on The Parkway in Peterborough.  I have a number of fine art prints on show and available for purchase. 

Along with my work there are pieces by local painters on the walls as well. All work is available for purchase at very reasonable prices.
When you stop by, I encourage you to help support local business by trying some of the delicious local brews made right there at Beard Free.

Owners Marie and John along with brewer Jenn will be only too pleased to talk about the product they produce should you ask. You can also bring a meal and relax at the brewery in their eating area if you wish. People have been known to stop in a lunch time with their meals and enjoy a cold drink 

My work will be up for about a month. The prints on show are 12x18 inches and are available for just $30 each. Additional prints are available for $55 and $90 respectively as the sizes increase to 16x24 and 20x30 inches. Each image will be ready for your framing.  See an image you would like? Tell the folks at the counter and they will start your order. Thanks.