Grace

CASE STUDY #44 Grace

CAMERA: Canon D30 LENS: 24–105mm zoom

EXPOSURE: f/11 at 1 / 125 second

LIGHTING: Profoto 800ws head with medium Profoto octagon softbox as main light; Profoto 800ws head with spun glass over 40-degree grid for rim light

Assignment I offered my services to photograph Claire and her daughter Grace for a fashion benefit raising money for a center that helps children with attachment disorders. The image would be used for ads and a poster.

Visual Objective The portrait was for a serious cause so I wanted my subjects to appear somber. Still, I felt that the image also had to reflect bonding and warmth, so it needed a softer edge—and to show Claire’s maternal nature.

The Pose I had Grace stand straight and stare at the camera holding her elbow with her hands—a serious look for a child. I asked Claire to hold her pregnant belly and wrap her other hand around her daughter.

The Story Claire owned a fashion boutique so I asked if she would bring a change of clothing and colorful scarves. When they arrived at my studio I was thrilled—Claire was attractive and very pregnant and her daughter was stunning. I had set up a mattress for them to lie down on, since the client asked for a horizontal for the poster. I also chose a black background to isolate the subjects, and knew I had to light them to stand out. Looking at the wardrobe choices, I chose a black dress for Claire and a red scarf to wrap Grace in.

Tip The image of Claire and Grace appeared all over town and part of the exchange was that my web site was printed on all the posters. When you take on gratis work, be sure that your name/web site appears on the posters, brochures, ads, etc.—otherwise there will be no benefit to you. It’s also a good idea to get the agreement in writing, so there isn’t any confusion about where and how your name will appear.

The session went so well that I decided to shoot a vertical shot (seen here) for myself. After switching the red scarf for a purple one, I had Claire sit on a posing stool and placed Grace in front of her.

octagon softbox for main light spun glass over 40-degree grid for sidelight

LIGHTING CASE STUDIES 111