Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Portraits at Ceilidh's birthday celebrations




On Saturday 10 April I got hired to photograph Ceilidh Vigoriti's 30th birthday. The celebrations took place at Pomodoro Ristorante in Morningside, Johannesburg.
We set up a "photo booth" with studio lights where guests were photographed when they arrived, many choosing to ham it up with supplied props. Throughout the rest of the evening I shot digital pics of the proceedings which were printed out on the spot and given to the guests. It was a great idea and worked wonderfully.
In addition I shot a few pictures of Ceilidh and her mates with the Bronica on black and white film that was processed in Rodinal. The others can be seen here.

Thursday, April 1, 2010

Rain and this Johannesburg wedding photographer

I am beginning to think I have super-powers and should be called "the Rain-maker" -- but don't tell prospective brides who want to hire me!
The last couple of weddings I've done have all had one thing in common -- rain and rapidly-changing, poor light.
Danielle and Wimpie's wedding was not different. When we arrived at the venue, the Thatchery in Muldersdrift, it was overcast and threatening to rain but every few minutes a gap in the clouds would appear and bright sunlight streamed through.
Then moments later that gap would close again and the light would again quickly become gloomy and dull. The result was constant checking of exposures -- that is one disadvantage of shooting film, on digital you have instant feedback. But then, on the other hand, film can handle the changing light and extreme contrast far better. Swings and roundabouts!
To cap it all, in the midde of the ceremony, the heavens opened forcing everyone to scurry for cover. Did I mention it was an outdoor wedding? This meant some photos had to shot with the couple standing under a large umbrella held by someone hiding behind the groom. In truth, he did a pretty good job keeping out of view.
In some cultures it is supposed to be a good omen if it rains on your wedding day. If that is the case, Danielle and Wimpie can look forward to a long and happy life.
But all in all it worked out well. The photos look good and tell the couple's story.
They can be viewed here.