The minute I opened these photos, I was blown away by the awesome use of the colorful backdrops! This photo shoot shows an urban approach to a senior portrait session and really shows off this senior’s beauty among the graffiti and vibrant backdrops.
Tina of Tina Bush Photography says she normally shoots in natural locations such as open fields. But this time she tried something different and took this senior downtown to the art district of Columbus, Ohio. After seeing all the amazing images below, I am sure you will agree that the urban look is a great fit for this photographer!
Thanks for sharing these images with Seniorologie Tina!! Be sure to check out what Tina had to say about this session and be sure to check out her other work here.
What was your inspiration for this session? We wanted a sophisticated urban feel to the images. I did her beautiful sister’s senior session last year with cowboy hat and boots out in a field with a huge barn. While the images were gorgeous, Christi wanted exactly the opposite for her session!
Where did this shoot take place? In the artsy district of downtown Columbus, Ohio.
What time of day was this shot? Evening. I usually start a little earlier than the two hours before sunset when I am shooting downtown because the buildings block the light sooner.
Did you collaborate with the senior on her wardrobe for this session? If so, what tips did you offer? I offer my normal suggestions (nothing to low or too short, colors are better than black and white, solids are better than prints, textures and accessories rock, lalala), but Christie styled this one all on her own – she’s a fashionista!
I love the color in these photos!!! How did you use the colors in the background to your advantage? Most of my sessions are shot in natural locations with open fields and trees, so it’s fun and a little overwhelming to have some color! There were lots of murals and graffiti. I chose those with lots of cobalt (and a minimum of weirdness!) because it complimented Christi’s hair so well. The red door was perfect to frame her black and leopard print dress. And the green ivy-covered buildings worked for her scholarly look!
What camera, lens and equipment were used during this photo session? Nikon D700, 85mm 1.8, 50mm 1.4, and 24mm. Oh, and sometimes a reflector held by my amazing intern Carly.
Can you share any post processing tips used when editing this session? Thankfully my exposure in camera was good because the lighting was even in the open shade of the buildings. I adjusted white balance in Lightroom and then in CS4 I dodged and burned for depth, and then used a curves adjustment for contrast. I also sometimes used a multiply layer to selectively vignette, and a soft light layer for a final pop.
What is your favorite thing about these images? I think the contrast of innocent soft beauty against an edgy backdrop – love that!
What do you want these images to convey about this senior and about your photography style? I want these images to reflect Christi’s beauty and serenity, inside and out. And the style of my photography? I want it to show classy, clean, simple beauty.
What is your favorite thing about photographing seniors? We just have so much fun! We are moving and laughing all evening. It surprised me in the beginning to realize that the guys aren’t usually stiff and self-conscience – they like to have as much fun as the girls! Once they warm up they all love to be fashion models for a couple of hours. And when they see the final images and realize that they really ARE that beautiful? That’s my very favorite part.
Tina Bush rocked this shoot! I love her use of color and light . Her seniors always look relaxed and gorgeous.