All of the cameras and lenses that are used to make the photographs that appear on this blog, my books or social media accounts are equipment that I bought and paid for with my own money. Any exceptions are mages that were captured with equipment on loan from manufacturers, such as the Lumix S1R camera and Sigma L-mount lenses that were used to write product reviews for this blog.

High key subjects typically consist on lighter tones, use soft lighting and contain white or pale tones. High-key lighting is typically soft and free from dark shadows and often contains small darker areas such as the subject’s hair or eyes to keep the portrait from becoming too boring. This technique also uses bright lighting to reduce or completely blow out any dark shadows that may be lurking in the image. The high key look is generally thought of as producing an images that is positive and upbeat, although I am not sure that I agree with that assessment 100%.

I have decided to go to a number of events this year with one camera body and one lens as a challenge to myself to take photos without having to think about optics, focal lengths, etc. It also ensures I am carrying less camera equipment with me.

There are lots of options when it comes to choosing a backdrop for portraiture, starting with the ubiquitous seamless paper, which is a subject of a previous post. Backdrops may not be the main focus of a portrait but they can not only enhance an image but can improve it in many ways by placing the emphasis squarely on the subject.

For another look at what Labor Day means to me, along with a tribute to my Dad visit my car photography blog today and click on Blog for some memories of my father.