Background Story
We created a casting call for models to audition for a spot on a Vanelli and Friends Photography workshop cruise to the Bahamas. Models were asked to bring several beach-style outfits that would look good in the Bahamas. Caitlin, a beautiful 19-year old, brought a few outfits that weren’t exactly kid friendly for the cruise. We proceeded with the test shoot using her outfits. I wanted to see how well she followed directions and gave her a chance to be free with her posing. She did an exceptional job. The only problem; the images were not what we had in mind for the men, women and children attendees (ranging from 13 to 65 years old).
Finding Inspiration
As Caitlin was getting ready to leave, I noticed a long-sleeve shirt she had buried in her bag. The plaid button down red shirt with her jean shorts gave me an idea. I wanted to see how the red plaid, button-down shirt would look again a blue, clouded sky. She changed and we began our second shoot. We shot a few images, but something was still missing. Just then my buddy Jerry, a homeless guy who lives by the beach, rode up on his red bike. Jerry has watched several of my shoots before and asked if he could watch this one. I smiled and said; “Perfect! Leave your bike right there and come down with me.” The red bike was the element we needed to create the look.
Putting the Look Together
Jerry was excited to help and more excited his bike was going to be in my shot. I changed my f/stop from f/2.8 to f/10 to ensured Caitlin and the bike were both in focus. We experimented with different poses to balance the frame and get the perfect mix of blue sky, blue shorts and red shirt, red bike.
Assignment
Create a photo with foreground and background elements that balance the frame. To ensure the background element is in focus, experiment with different f/stops ranging between f/8 and f/22. Reference “When to Use Your Camera’s Auto Mode” if you are unsure of your settings.
Title the image and post it in the Photofocus Facebook or Flickr groups. Give a little detail about the shoot. If you would like feedback, ask the group to critique your image. Photofocus authors select a “Photographer of the Day” from our groups. This is a great way to learn and have fun!
*Feature image © 2015 Vanelli
Vanelli is a photographer, educator and author based in Florida. Currently he shoots for Inside Lacrosse Magazine, teaches workshops, and writes for Photofocus. Click here for a list of Vanelli’s articles.
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Filed under: Photography, Technique & Tutorials Tagged: Background elements, Building a shoot, How to Create the Look, Photography ideas, Robert Vanelli, Shooting assignments, Shooting ideas, Vanelli 
