Salt Flats – Engagement Shoot images by Scott Jarvie
Capturing a moment filled with engaging emotion on location is no easy task. However, doing it with 50+ mph winds is near impossible. As location photographers, we learn to deal with, what Mother Nature gives us and adjust accordingly. This is a skill and a talent. Plus, being a boyscout comes in handy. You, know the motto.
In this situation, a few strong assistants redirecting the wind current with large diffusers allowed the necessary time (as the sun sets) to capture this endearing portrait. But the fun did not stop there. This happy couple played with the wind, danced and basically ignored the gusts, making their motions appear lighter than air against the last few seconds of dusk.
Shot with a Nikon D8OO, these images are examples of “situational solving” on the fly. On a college level, we are taught to be prepared with a proper gear bag; packed with basic essentials and a few “MacGyver” items. This will separate you from the amateurs and hobbyist. Professionals are always prepared. Professionals are problem solvers. Professionals get the shot they came for. It may not be exact to the initial vision, percentages are high it is better. That’s what happens when you are an artist.
Earlier that evening
“One of my favorites was taken earlier at the Salt Lake Marina. Time was a factor (wanted to make it to The Flats by sunset), so, these photos were shot in under 10 minutes.” -Scott Jarvie
The Stewart’s -What a wonderful couple.
An artist would probably described (critique) these images like this: (harp playing) The soft light of these images adds to the romance. The sky is fading, the sun highlights the mountain range, creating a mystical feeling from the horizon. Their beautiful reflection in the wispy waves moving your view forward then back to the newlyweds.
And this is all true, opinionated and maybe a little high minded sounding, but true.
As a photographer, you see through an image – you look for the emotion. In Wedding & Engagement photography, naturally you would be looking for love, excitement and joy. Then come the lighting of the models and location. The composition of the image and equipment placement, camera settings, and more technical aspects. Sounds like the joy is lost, right? Not a chance. This all happens with in split seconds in the mind of the professional… and then, snap, back to the emotion. This is the essence of an image. And it is this memory that has been captured, processed and preserved for all of eternity. At least until you need to order re-prints to replace the faded ones on your wall.
A master photographer captures the essence.
