A guided session means you never have to guess what to do: I give you simple direction the whole time, so your photos look natural, not posed.
Most people worry they'll feel awkward in front of the camera. You won't be left standing there wondering what to do with your hands. I'll guide you through easy movement, like walking, sitting, leaning, and interacting with the space around you. I use the direction of the light to flatter you instead of locking you into stiff poses.
The goal is simple: portraits that look like you on a good day, relaxed and confident. Real expressions instead of "say cheese." The best images usually happen once you relax and forget the camera is there.
Guided sessions work well for:
High school seniors and college graduates
Headshots and personal branding
Athletes, in uniform or team gear
Creative and portfolio portraits
Modern black-and-white portraits
Before your session
Plan for about one hour outdoors in natural light, at a location that fits your personality.
Book early. Late summer and fall fill up first, especially for seniors.
Pick a location together. Options include a park, a downtown street, a field, a campus, or a place that means something to you. Favorite spots include Wickham Park in Manchester, Purnell Place in downtown Manchester for a bold, graphic look, Elizabeth Park in West Hartford. There are plenty of great spots around Manchester, so there's no need to travel far.
Light and timing. I shoot with natural light. I avoid harsh midday sun and use open shade and reflected light for soft, flattering skin tones, so I'll suggest a time of day that works best for your location.
Share your style. Tell me if you want something bold and energetic or softer and more reflective. That shapes where we go and how we shoot.
Bring a friend if you like. You're always welcome to bring someone along.
What to wear and bring
Keep it clean, simple, and comfortable, and bring one or two outfit changes at most.
Neutral or solid colors photograph best.
Skip heavy logos and busy patterns; they pull attention from your face.
Wear something you actually feel like yourself in.
Mix it up: most sessions include one casual look and one slightly dressed-up look.
Seniors: bring your cap and gown, a team jersey or uniform, an instrument, or anything else that shows what you're into.
During the session
We keep things moving, keep it natural, and avoid over-posing. Most people end up more comfortable than they expected.
We talk and walk. We start by getting comfortable and scouting spots that feel right for you.
I set up the light. I place you in soft light, often just inside open shade, so you don't have to think about it.
You get simple direction. Turn toward me, walk slowly, lean here, look out there. Small, easy cues.
Poses develop naturally. Once you loosen up, we build on movements and expressions that feel genuine to you.
We change looks. We switch outfits and locations partway through for variety.
After your session
Your images are edited for realism with polish: natural skin tones and texture, never an over-retouched look.
Open question for Rick: how many edited images clients receive, and how they're delivered (online gallery, download, prints)