How did I capture the Art of Music in a Photo?
I wanted to explain the artistic process it took to create this portrait of my son. I am an intentional photographer; in that I plan and make choices to create photography that is uplifting and beautiful. I studied art and design for my degree, and I understand the variety of options there are to create something artistic. Even my lifestyle images are mostly set up and then I wait and watch for the expression I am looking for.
1. I wanted to photograph my son with his violin.
He has spent a lot of time practicing and growing in his abilities. I am proud of him and want to remember this little moment in time, when he just successfully completed two performances. One at our church, where he played “Away in a Manger”. And the other where he was part of a string ensemble at Rhapsody Music in Anthem. (Rhapsody Music is great, and I highly recommend them!)
2. I wanted a natural background.
I started looking for settings on my morning walks and I quickly found foliage where there were round, soft seeds blossoming. Looking at the final image these round seeds resemble music notes, and they fill the frame with so many of them that they look like they are a floating melody.
3. I watched the light.
On the day of the mini shoot, my intention was to walk down toward the original bush that I found. I noticed other similar plants close to my home and found one in perfect placement. The sun feels overpowering at times in Arizona, and I like to photograph in open shade. This plant was so large, and others around it that it cast a beautiful large shadow. Our back wall was acting as a reflector and filled the shadow with soft light.
4. The photoshoot lasted 5 minutes.
It was so short because I was prepared. My son’s shirt was pressed, and he changed into it right before. I had a good idea of what my setting would be and set them pretty close. I had my stepstool on hand. As I started posing my boy, I had him play the violin like he would normally do. I looked and clicked at different angles. I don’t remember why he laughed at this one, he’s a funny kid so he probably said something to make himself laugh. As I watched him play, the leading lines in the background of the bush caught my attention. I got up on my step stool and looked down. I asked him to bring his violin slightly down-and voila! I got the perfect shot!
5. Why is it the perfect shot?
The main trunk of the plant by his elbow leads your eye up. It curves and bends in an organic way. Like the melody of a song goes up and down. The white seeds are scattered throughout covering the background. And finally, the branches behind his bow match the bow. They have the same long, thin, brown colors to it. My boy has his eyes closed in concentration and enjoyment of creating music.
I love creating images, especially using natural light. Do you have a budding musician that I can photograph for you? I would love to work with you in creating a sweet image of a moment.
