Some things are undeniable, and shouldn’t be challenged with logic, reason or sensibilities. Opal and Max met under the most unromantic circumstances during a training course at their employers. While everyone knows you aren’t suppose to date co-workers, some chemistry can’t be challenged. Their romance bloomed within the week, then officially a couple by the end. Max’s charm and Opal’s clever wit, kept them inseparable.
When it comes to shooting, lots of unexpected things come in handy. By having a Mary Poppins bag of tricks, we pull from our own experiences, emotions, and insights. Being inspired, and stepping out side of a comfort zone is imperative to being creative. I think that each day I learn more and more about myself and grow as a person. Who knew a trip to Chicago had more growth spurts than shooting safely in my home town, in familiar locations.
Although it is slightly unfair, I learn so much more from my clients, than I could possible give. They teach me to stop time and appreciate moments. They show me that I should listen to each word someone is saying. They inspire me with their emotion and love. I learn so much in one 2 hour session, than I feel like I could ever have learned in a class.
Subjects in high school you don’t think you will use when you are an adult if you are a photographer:
British Literature
Physical Education
Chemistry
Well I couldn’t have been more wrong about this.
When we are scouting for light and looking for locations I feel like The Canterbury Tales (a collection of stories in Middle English by Geoffrey Chaucer). We search around and tell stories. We chat about people we know, or stories we have heard. It is a fun little adventure and is always a playful way to start the shoot. I love to get to know my clients, and dive into how they are feeling and help ease whatever nerves that might have settled in. If I hadn’t of taken Brit Lit in high school, I might of missed this little parallel.
It is ridiculous the physical aspect of photography. Granted I am not complaining, and I have some the best arms guns any girl could ask for… I carry camera kit around, granted not as much as other photographers, but I feel like I have done a half marathon, two spin classes, and a bikram yoga class after my shoots. When those endorphins come out it is amazing. I love being creative, having my body pushed to the limit, and being able to crawl around and lay on the ground to get the shot.
While I know that I was a bit misleading with the chemistry subject not being important, I truly meant that physical chemistry. The chemistry between two lovers. And that brings me to this couple in Olive Park, Chicago on a dark cloudy Wednesday.
I love this last one so very much… When I think of Chicago and city sky lines… I think this will always come to mind. Thank you Chicago for making it hard not to have a little crush on you. Shakespeare said, “Now join your hands, and with your hands your hearts.” This is one of my favorite quotes. It makes me feel warm and lit up inside when I think of all the beauty that remains in love and emotion.
by Holly Steen
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