We are fortunate to live in a magical time in the constantly evolving field of photography. Absolutely anything is possible with a quality camera and photo-editing software. While new digital technologies make the creative process unlimited, it also means that we as photographers must continually push to be the very best at what we do. Cameras are affordable to the masses, and our key to real success in the portrait photography industry lies in our creativity and style rather than our equipment and gear.
In this book, author Travis Gadsby presents a sublime collection of 60 creativity-inspiring images from a range of talented photographers whose styles and photographic techniques vary markedly. The book is divided into five sections, each of which is centered around a particular creativity-enhancing topic: (1) Quick and Easy: Ideas That Can Be Added on the Fly, (2) Location-Inspired Ideas, (3) Wardrobe-Inspired Ideas, (4) Prop-Inspired Ideas, and (5) Creative Lighting Treatments. Within each section, you'll find a sumptuous variety of looks (ever considered photographing your subjects underwater, creating sparks with steel wool, recording the movement of a dancer whose body is dusted with flour, or creating steampunk portraits?). You'll also discover how the portrait concept came to light and will get insight into the strategies the photographer used to pose, light, and style the portrait to perfection. In modern portraiture, it's sometimes creative postproduction work that makes the image sing. Gadsby shines a light on some terrific image-editing work discussing the tools and techniques used to create the final portrait.
With the wide range of creative portraits and specialized applications depicted in this book, you'll find lots of great ideas to expand your photographic repertoire, reinvent your style, and stay at the top of your game.
Travis Gadsby, CPP owns and operates Silverlake Photo Accessories, The Brink Studio and The Model Program.
Travis specializes in High School Senior photography with impact. He and his team spend most of their time working on new products, backdrops, and marketing campaigns that make the senior market stand up and take notice. The portrait industry has changed dramatically over the past decade and photographers must constantly evolve to stay at the top of their game. Having started at the bottom and worked his way up over the past 23 years gives Travis an ability to relate to photographers of any skill level at workshops around the US and Canada. As a vendor, Travis has also spent a great deal of time speaking with photographers from all walks of life, which helps him understand the complex problems of the modern day studio. His style of teaching concentrates on the individual needs of his students and what they can do to adapt and prosper.
