Baby Basket Head

[HotHolly]

I've had a run on baby shoots lately.

Thought I'd share. I think its kind of lack luster but then I tend to think most of my stuff is. Im guessing this is cute and thats my issue. This was from a play session. Cute kid.

Do you like either of these? #1 or #2?

[Shelby Lane]

So what is a play session? Sounds like fun.

Be careful with your burning on a black background like that -- it's tough to hide the PS work.

[HotHolly]

Thanks. Im going blind. Mike usually does the blacks/PP. I used an overlay for a quick edit. Not sure if I like these shots.

Play sessions are usually done in the child's home, however these people wanted it in the studio. So we had toys and props for her to play with. And that pretty much sums it up - she plays while I shot.

[PictureCow]

Your monitor might need calibrated if you're having a hard time seeing black. My monitor is trying to die here... so I ALWAYS have to make a super bright layer on top so I can see my burning underneth. I'll attach your image with my "working" layer... it really helps to be able to see what you're doing.

[HotHolly]

Thanks for the info. They so don't look like that on this monitor. How embarrassing! lol. I don't like burning. It tends to look ghetto...as demonstrated. Mike has been doing most of the PP lately as you can tell. I'll fix and repost.

[HeatherLou]

Hey Holly, Im a sucker for kids looking at the camera, so my fav is the second one :)

[picasso]

Holly, I like #2 with all the apples and her expression. Its cute. Ditto to Shelby's question. Whats a play session? They come in w/some prop's they can play w/like the apples and bucket? I have seen something done w/a clear jar of fruit loops or cheerios and the kids have a great time and breakfast too.

Paul

[HotHolly]

Hey Paul! We have a special session called a 'play session.' Play sessions are usually done in the child's home, (however these people wanted it in the studio, so these images are a bit of an anomaly).

There aren't usually too many props (maybe a flower or a toy - usually the kids stuff), I usually use off camera lighting or window light, and basically let the kid be themselves. They usually play with their favorite toys, show off their room, and show me their house during the session.

Its a laid back type of session with the purpose to get the kids natural expressions in a fimilar environment. We started these before we had the studio and people like them, so we still offer them. Nationally, this type of session is trendy right now. BUT - you have to LOVE kids to be able to do it. You have to talk to them and be able to interact with them - otherwise you're just a freak with a black box covering 1/2 your face! lol. These sessions are great for toddlers that dont sit for 2 secs...they are always off exploring.

Anyway, I decided I don't like the images above. They are getting the ax. Thanks for the feedback! Off to work.