pORTRAITS AND CORONA


Seems like everything there is to talk about right now is the CORONA VIRUS. It has affected everyone's life. Some people take it serious and some don't. But our decision's do not matter when we go out in public Masks are required and social distancing whether we like it or not. It is just the way life is now and we all have to deal with it. Has this stopped us from taking pictures? It did in the beginning, EVERYTHING DROPPED cancelations everywhere, it created a panic. But now it is safe to say we are back at it! BUT HOW?


What do you need to know about taking portraits during this pandemic?

This image was well shot at a distance.

Distance


Keep in mind during a photography session the photographer almost never gets close to you. Great pictures can be taken at a distance. There is a Lens for that. As a photographer I can be farther than you think. Farther than anyone you surely pass during a grocery store visit :). This has always been the case in photography. The photographer is always at a distance. The only real need for a photographer to get close is to show you the results of the pictures ( that is if the photographer shows you ). Other than that there is no real reason to get close. And hand shakes are a thing of the past now lol. Even if getting closer is needed I never take my mask off even if I am at a safe distance. So keep in mind, distance is no problem and it never was.

Poses


No need to worry. Most people are afraid of not posing correctly and having an awkward picture taken. This should always be the photographers job to pose you and direct you. And don't worry, no need to get physical. A simple shout to hug, lean, wrap arm around, look this way and look that way. Simple. The best portraits are the natural ones, when you don't even look at the camera. I always give instructions before any portrait session and that is to be YOU. A great picture to me is when a moment is captured and not planned. This should be one less thing to worry about during a portrait session. You got this! You just don't know it.

Location


There should not be a reason to go to the busiest place right now with these conditions. That busy place should be the last thing on your list. That busy place exists with Corona or no Corona. I try to avoid populated places even before the pandemic. Populated areas can tense you up, thinking the whole world is staring at you and this can get you nervous or uncomfortable. A great location is an isolated location, one where you can be you. Chose a time that is less busy maybe in the morning or at noon. I always suggest locations even if you have one in mind, its just what I do. I scout for locations for a living you could say. One thing to keep in mind even if there is people around, if they see a camera they avoid the interruption and the camera period. You know if you see a camera out in public you turn the other way around, especially if you are not ready lol. The same goes for your session.

Time


I don't think time has anything to do with getting infected besides the time it takes you to wash your hands. TWENTY SECONDS!. But other than that time is no affect and should not be in a portrait session in my opinion. Take it easy, rushing never helped anyone.

It is possible and it is safe


So can you take portraits during these times? Absolutely

This is probably safer than doing anything else.


If you are unsure, just ask your photographer and get clearance to ease your mind and continue with capturing smiles and great memories!