The Johnson Family came to me as a result of my participation in an auction to benefit a local school.  Michael Van Auken (my associate photographer)  and I are very passionate about helping local businesses and virtually anything related to education.   The client, from an auction especially, is typically very focused on their family and interested in more than just the average family portrait.   They’re involved in the community and have very high expectations.   Often these clients become friends, simply because they have a higher than average return rate to my studio.  They tend to be interested in family portraiture on a more regular basis.  

I chose to make the session a combination of editorial imagery and portrait styles.  These are  two elements that have been part of my wedding day coverage for years.  This session was done in my Benicia Arsenal studio using the large 20 foot windows I am so lucky to have.   Michael was entertaining with magic tricks just out of camera range to aid with greater natural expressions, which were more relaxed and casual.   Some of my favorite images were spontaneous, just watching for instance the little girl as she curled up into her dad’s arms.  I believe it is very important to be aware of what is happening around you… again, much like photographing a wedding. 

All of these shots were done at f2.8 on “Manual” exposure metering.

Gear Box:  Canon EOS 1D Mark III, 28-70mm  2.8 lens, 70-200 2.8 lens, (Natural light)

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