Moments at the San Jose Municipal Rose Garden Engagement Shoot
Updated: Aug 28, 2023
Styled shoots, ever heard of them? In the realm of photography, they're like rehearsals for capturing those picture-perfect moments. Think of it as a photographer's playground to finesse their portfolio, tailor their craft, and appeal to their ideal clients. But for me, they're more than just practice sessions – they're opportunities to collaborate, experiment, and have a blast while doing what I love.
I'm a firm believer in the power of styled shoots, and I organize them on a monthly basis. Why, you ask? Well, let me break it down for you:
1. Collaborative Canvas: Building Connections and Networks
Styled shoots are like the creative equivalent of matchmaking. I get to collaborate with fresh faces – talented vendors who are masters of their craft. From working with the incredibly skilled Katya Rich (a makeup artist extraordinaire, by the way) to the artistic touch of Aw Bridal for some stunning dresses, these collaborations are where magic happens. It's about casting a wider net and growing my audience, all while nurturing my portfolio. For this shoot, I chose not to involve a florist, as I wanted to spotlight the enchanting San Jose Municipal Rose Garden, a cherished local spot for photoshoots.
2. A Playground for Experimentation
Ever wanted to try out a new editing style? Or maybe play around with unique lighting techniques? Styled shoots are the creative playground where experimentation thrives. The beauty? It's low-risk. No one's footing a bill for these trials but me. Whether it's bold exposures or playful direct flashes, I get to mess around and refine my craft. At our Municipal Rose Garden San Jose engagement shoot escapade, the timing was serendipitous – we caught the sun's golden descent and I toyed with direct flashes into the night.
3. The Joy of Creative Curation
Amid the chaos, there's a symphony. Organizing styled shoots involves juggling a mix of models, florists, makeup artists, photographers, and other artisans. Sometimes, it feels like herding cats, but oh, the end result is worth it. There's a unique satisfaction in bringing together creative minds and orchestrating unforgettable moments. I might not officially be an event planner, but these shoots tap into my love for curating memorable experiences.
After orchestrating a handful of smaller-scale styled shoots (check out my previous endeavors!), I've taken a giant leap. I've joined forces with an event planner and a sought-after venue, and guess what? We're brewing up a grand spectacle for October – a full-blown styled shoot extravaganza that promises to be an artistic spectacle.
So, the next time you stumble upon the term "styled shoot," know that it's not just about pretty pictures. It's a tapestry of creativity, a canvas for connection, and a playground for innovation. And as for me, I'll continue to revel in these captivating moments, one styled shoot at a time.
FYI - I DO want to mention that if you are a paid professional photographer who gets paid to take photos of a couple, you require a permit. However, "non-professional" photography where the photographer is not being paid is limited to a camera, and monopod/tripod does not require a permit. Click here for more info.
Make up artist - Katya Rich
Dress - AW bridal -- 15% off site wide with code --> Joy15
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