Month: June 2024

Reviving Photography Passion with PhLow

I’ve always loved being a photographer. But somewhere between turning professional and needing to make a living from it, the joy of photography started feeling exhausting.

From my perspective, I find myself constantly chasing deals instead of having clients come to me. It’s ironic how clients often praise my work after I’ve delivered, when all along I’ve been quietly confident in its quality.

Navigating this side of the photography world can be draining. However, I’m slowly figuring out how to streamline my workflow with my team, allowing me to focus more on shooting and less on the hustle.

Interestingly, I’ve realized I don’t always enjoy lugging around my bulky camera just for leisurely shots anymore. My initial love for photography began with disposable cameras and pocket point-and-shoots—capturing moments effortlessly with friends was what made it so enjoyable.

Exploring New Tools: The PhLow App

During a trip to Aspen in February, I stumbled upon some stunning photos edited with the PhLow app. Recognizing its potential, I reached out to them. I’m genuinely enthusiastic about this app—I wish they’d sponsor me considering how often I recommend it!

PhLow combines the power of Photoshop with the nostalgic charm of a built-in film camera, offering creative editing tools that fit right in your pocket. If I had the means, I’d buy them out in a heartbeat. It’s that good.

Capturing Lulu’s Essence

I’ve always wanted to photograph Lulu. She’s an incredible golfer who attended the University of Miami. Recognizing her potential appeal to the golf audience, I knew capturing her essence would be captivating—she’s both beautiful and a pro at her sport.

Approaching someone like Lulu in Miami, especially for a guy like me in his mid-thirties, can be daunting. I’ve been in the photography game long before the social media hype, back when connections were made face-to-face rather than through Instagram.

Months ago, at a golf event, I finally had the chance to introduce myself in person. What struck me most was Lulu’s down-to-earth nature. In Miami, many beautiful women can come off as aloof due to the city’s culture, but Lulu was refreshingly genuine.

Seizing the Moment with PhLow

We connected on social media, although I soon learned she doesn’t check her Instagram messages often. Nevertheless, that initial meeting laid the groundwork.

Recently, during an unplanned visit to the golf range, I decided to bring along my disposable camera, just in case. As luck would have it, I ended up needing it, but didn’t have it. Fortunately, I had the PhLow app on my phone, a tool I’ll explain shortly.

While winding down after my round, I noticed Lulu wearing her signature bucket hat during a lesson. Intrigued, I approached her and we caught up briefly. Later, she introduced me to two top Brazilian tennis players also practicing at the range, creating an impromptu photo opportunity.

Using the PhLow app on my trusty iPhone 14 Pro Max, I was amazed by its ability to turn casual shots into professional-quality images. As phone cameras advance alongside mirrorless technology, apps like PhLow represent the future of creative photography.

Despite my reluctance to upgrade my phone just for the camera, my current setup works well with PhLow, offering versatile cropping options perfect for both Instagram stories and feeds.

Showcasing the Results

Among the many shots I took that day, I’ve selected my favorites to share, starting with the introductory image.

While I’m not yet sponsored to endorse PhLow, I highly recommend downloading it to explore its creative potential.

Until next time,

Signing out,

Dwayne Tucker from DwayneTucker.com

Mastering On-Location Photography: Creating a Portable Studio Setup with Backdrops

Welcome to our latest blog post, where we explore the art of on-location photography and reveal practical insights into creating a professional studio setup anywhere, using portable equipment and versatile backdrops. By the end of this article, you’ll discover how to set up cost-effective shoots, harness creative freedom in post-production, and ensure smooth sessions through effective communication and preparation.

Setting the Scene

The images you see here were captured right in my own parking garage in Edgewater, Miami, Florida. In the past, I ran a home studio where I crafted countless portraits. Nowadays, I’m thrilled to offer mobile setups, whether at client locations or a convenient spot like this garage.

A Familiar Tracksuit

If you recognize the tracksuit, it’s likely from our November campaign shoot, which I’ll share more about soon. While I still use traditional studios for jobs needing specific aesthetics and setups, shooting in places like this helps keep client costs down by avoiding studio fees.

Flexibility in Creativity

A few months ago, I shot these portraits and recently began collaborating with talented retouchers like Rina, to refine my post-production process. Rina surprised me with graphic backgrounds in the final edits, a pitstop from my usual clean backgrounds. This artistic freedom showcased her unique skills, particularly in enhancing skin tones, which initially drew me to her work.

Communication is Key

If you’re working with a retoucher, clarity is crucial. While I welcomed Rina’s creative choices here, it’s essential to specify your preferences upfront. Had I insisted on a solid black background from the start, I would have avoided surprises. Remember, clear communication ensures your vision aligns with the final product.

Preparing for Success

When shooting portraits like these, preparation is everything. Plan your lighting setup beforehand and communicate this to your client. Remember to include setup and breakdown time in your session planning and billing. This ensures a smooth workflow and professional experience for everyone involved.

Closing Thoughts

My goal is to share insights that benefit your creative journey. While I’ve kept this post light on technical details, I’m here to delve deeper if you’re curious about settings and lighting techniques. Let’s keep the conversation going—reach out if you have questions or want to explore more about shooting portraits like these.

By exploring the practical aspects of setting up and conducting a successful on-location photoshoot, this article equips you with the knowledge to create professional photography setups anywhere, manage client expectations effectively, and elevate your creative output through collaboration and preparation.

Until next time,

Signing out,

Dwayne Tucker from DwayneTucker.com

Behind the Lens: Capturing the Essence of Sports Apparel Lifestyle

The Journey Begins

In 2021, a phone call from Perry Ellis’s headquarters in Miami, Florida, marked a pivotal moment in my photography journey. While this unexpected invitation may have seemed like a stroke of luck, it was the culmination of years of relentless dedication and the transformative power of personal projects.

Unexpected Opportunities

But let’s rewind a bit. In 2019, after a successful campaign with Birds Of Condor, I found myself at the PGA trade show in Orlando. Little did I know, my Instagram caught the attention of a representative from Callaway Golf. This chance connection led to an unexpected collaboration, as they provided me with golf clubs to create captivating content. What began as a simple partnership soon revealed a hidden opportunity – Callaway Golf’s apparel line, licensed under Perry Ellis.

Evolution of Craft

As an independent photographer, I’ve spent over two decades honing my craft, constantly learning and evolving. This shoot was no exception, teaching me valuable lessons that continue to shape my approach today.

Navigating the Shoot

At the time of the Perry Ellis shoot, I wasn’t tethering into the computer, and much has changed in my workflow since then. However, the essence of my photography has always transcended the gear or technicalities; it’s about capturing the right energy and framing compositions that resonate.

Overcoming Challenges

I have a good relationship with Aperture, a photography rental company in Miami, for additional gear when needed. Reflecting on this now, I realize how far I’ve come since then, gradually acquiring the equipment I once rented for productions. Perhaps sponsorship for these essentials is on the horizon—a thought I’m throwing into the universe.

Collaborative Effort

On the day of the shoot, I arrived to find a well-organized production with a planned creative brief and a crew executing it meticulously. Navigating the shared models between sets posed a unique challenge. I had to ensure I captured the shots I needed, knowing I wouldn’t be involved in the post-production process.

Moments of Connection

Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle of the shoot, there were moments of connection and collaboration that made it all worthwhile. I clicked with several individuals on set, including agency-represented models who brought professionalism and expertise to the shoot. With support from stylists, makeup artists, and assistants, the collaborative environment fostered creativity.

Reflections and Future Plans

Despite the challenges, I embraced the opportunity wholeheartedly, armed with a blend of experience and an unyielding passion for candid photography. Each moment was an opportunity to capture magic, to tell a story through images that would resonate with audiences.

Sharing the Journey

Now, as I reflect on this experience, I’m able to share these images as the project’s license extends for two years. Behind the scenes, I’m updating my portfolio, reviving my blog with this entry, and showcasing the sports apparel portfolio I’ve cultivated over the years, remaining independent for now.

Looking Ahead

Stay tuned for another blog post where I’ll share more images from this shoot, highlighting what I look for when shooting sports apparel or any lifestyle images meant to help my clients sell products. I’ll delve into the intricacies of composition, lighting, and storytelling that elevate these images from mere photographs to compelling marketing assets.

Acknowledgments

A special thank you goes to one of my new retouchers, Aneri, whose skill brings my vision to life in post-production. Tony for being my first assistant, and everybody mentioned on my Instagram post that made the day possible.

Conclusion

As I continue on this journey, I’m excited to share more insights into shooting lifestyle images for clients and the nuances of creating images that not only tell a story but also sell clothing. Thank you for joining me on this adventure.

Until next time,

Signing out,

Dwayne Tucker from DwayneTucker.com

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