What's in your camera bag?

There are a few things I believe that will make you a better photographer when you are out shooting. You need to have your equipment organized, easily accessible, and most importantly it needs to be comfortable.

I had been struggling to find something to hold all of my equipment. When I go out to a shoot, I usually bring with me what I call my essentials. Aside from my camera, I bring at least two lenses: a standard and wide angle. I also bring my Canon Speedlite flash & Gary Fong diffuser. I honestly prefer to work with natural light. However, in some circumstances like photographing a wedding reception I find it necessary. Depending upon how high the ceiling is, I will bounce my flash with the diffuser attached. It helps to soften the light so it is not too harsh on anyone's face. I keep on hand a ton of extra batteries because my flash loves to eat them up! I would rather be over prepared than under. I carry an extra battery for my 5D and 3-6 8 GB memory cards. My light meter comes with me no matter what, just in case any there is any tricky lighting situations or if I'm using strobes. My nonphotographic items include bobby pins and a comb. Sometimes hair can be out of control and if the stylist is not there, it is a quick way for me to tame some stubborn hair. Although it doesn't fit in my bag, I have a multi-colored reflector that always stays in my car. Sometimes it can give that photograph a little bit of extra light that really makes the subject stand out.

Now you may be asking what is so special about a hand held light meter if your camera already has one built in? Well there are two different types of light meters: reflected light and incident light. All cameras have reflected light meters. The cameras measure the light reflected off the subject. They pretty much give an "average" exposure. Incident light meters measure the light falling on the subject. It is an independent reading of what subject is reflecting so it is less likely to give an incorrect exposure reading. If you want a more detailed explanation, there is tons of information on the web if you just Google it!

Here is just an example of some of my essentials:


Now you may be asking, "Amy, what do you keep your essentials in?"
To be honest, I have gone through a few different types of bags and backpacks over the years. Last December I received a ShootSac as a present. I LOVE IT! The ShootSac is a lens bag that is designed to look like a messenger bag. It comes in solid black or a few different prints. It's light weight and made of neoprene. It keeps all my gear safe, especially my lenses, while I am photographing. Everything is easily accessible and I am no longer digging through a backpack or bag for an extra lens or my flash. It costs less than $200.



There are some other options out there. Some are more expensive than others such as the Porter Magnum Shoulder Bag. It starts at $684 and is made from water-repellent nylon canvas. It has a bit of a retro look and I think it is more unisex than the ShootSac.



Jill-E Designs are a bit more affordable and come in AWESOME colors and fabrics. I would check out the Jack medium camera bag ($240). It comes with dual handles and a adjustable shoulder strap.



Jill-E also has a stunning red leather small carry bag ($169) which has Croc trim and a polka dot padded interior. It looks like a great looking purse but can hold an SLR body, 1-2 lenses, and a few accessories.



Check out Jill-E Designs and ShootSac

Why I believe in professional organizations and continuing education

It always seems with the how fast technology is evolving, once you purchase a computer, cell phone, camera, or software it is already obsolete. Just like technology and fashion, photography is ever evolving. I believe it is important for photographers to evolve and change with what the market is demanding.

I am involved in a few professional organizations, ASMP, PPA, PPSCF, and a casual organization that meets once a month. Other careers usually require continuing education such as professions in the health and hair industry. It is not required for photography, but it is worth the investment. Just like professions in health and hair learn about what is new in technology, what is in style, photographers need to be aware of these things too.



These organizations are phenomenal. They give photographers the opportunity to meet up and discuss what is happening in their business and ask questions. How can I better market my business? What are the latest trends you are seeing? What professional labs do you use for printing? These organizations also provide workshops. The workshops can be on any topic from new trends in lighting, exploring new features in Adobe Photoshop CS5, or a guest speaker coming in and giving their insight to the market.

I encourage any photographer, young or old, in high school, college, or a professional to consider joining an organization. The organizations usually have a yearly membership fee. However, they offer great rates for students and up and coming photographers. They give you access to a wide variety of information in regards to contracts, model releases, continuing education, & networking.

See what is available in your city!

Wedding of Patrick and Misa Egan

I had the privilege to photograph the wedding of Patrick and Misa Egan on December 19, 2010. The ceremony was held for close friends and family at The English Gardens located in Winter Park, Florida.

Patrick and Misa have a wonderful story on how they met. Patrick is a lover of Japanese culture and Epcot at Walt Disney World. Misa just started working at the Japan Pavilion in Epcot at Walt Disney World. One afternoon while Patrick and his sister were at Epcot, he met Misa. They really hit things off and exchanged numbers. He asked her out on their first date to Season's 52 and the rest was history!

The English Gardens was a wonderful setting for the ceremony. Not only is there a small garden area and gazebo for the ceremony, there is an English style house on the property. It provides the perfect place for the brides and bridesmaids to prep before the wedding. All bouquets and boutineers are made by the owner. She just did an amazing job.

Misa's parents flew in from Japan for their daughter's big day!



It was very important for Misa to incorporate her bear into the wedding. It was a gift the Patrick gave Misa on their first Valentine's Day! (How cute is that?) Misa's mother held it during the ceremony and I captured her holding it in the formal portraits.

I couldn't have asked for a better day, although overcast, the lighting was perfect, and everyone had a lot of fun. I captured some images of the guys being goofy as they were trying to hold up Misa. Misa's maid-of-honor, Brenna, did a wonderful job organizing everything. Misa was so surprised to see bubbles being blown and flowers being tossed as she and Patrick were on their way to Season's 52, where the reception was being held. Before they jumped in the car, I captured a great image of Patrick picking up Misa. They requested the pose and I think it turned out beautifully!



Season's 52 is also where Patrick and Misa had their first date, so it provided a great venue for the reception. Publix did an amazing job decorating the cake and the food was exceptional. Season's 52 has an alternating menu depending upon what is in season. Misa is a very crafty person and used her origami skills to make one of a kind accessories for the table.

Brenna gave a wonderful toast at dinner. Her words were very sweet and even made Misa tear up. Brenna does not have a sister and is so glad she finally has one now!

Patrick's favorite baseball team is the NY Yankees, so naturally it was the design on Misa's garter. I captured a great image of the guys going crazy trying to grab it once Patrick tossed it!

Besides the wedding cake, the guests savored on mini desserts in adorable miniature glasses.

It was a beautiful wedding and I wish nothing but the best for Patrick and Misa!