Kyle Cleveland Photo: Blog

3 Reasons You Should Book A Professional Couples Session

hello@kyleclevelandphoto.com (Kyle Cleveland Photo) — Fri, 11 Sep 2020 12:57:55 GMT

So you met this person that you really enjoy. You spend every day together. You wake up, get ready, go to work, and come home to them every single day. You two love adventure, you love to create memories, and you love each other.

A couples session is more than just some photos of you holding hands and kissing each other, having professional couples photos taken is an experience! Many couples have photos taken when they get engaged but you certainly don't need to be engaged to have them taken! Here are 3 reasons why I think you should have professional photos taken by Kyle Cleveland Photo.

1. You will have amazing photos to not only share on your social media but also high quality images you can print and display in your home. There truly is nothing better than having professional photos on your wall!

2. You will make memories that you will cherish for a lifetime. You will look back in twenty years and you will be happy that you had them taken!

3. I can capture genuine emotion and the love you two share for each other. I focus on making the session laid back and fun so you two can both enjoy each other and I can just come along to capture it!

There are many reasons why couples have photos taken. Whether you just got engaged and want beautiful photos to celebrate or you just want to do something different and have some photos to keep as a memory, Kyle Cleveland Photo can help. Kyle Cleveland Photo is an elite professional photographer from Cedar Rapids, Iowa specializing in creative imagery. Contact me today to book your experience!

Kyle Cleveland Photo

319-361-0218

kyleclevelandphoto@gmail.com

www.kyleclevelandphoto.com

How to set exposure using the gray card method using a one light setup

hello@kyleclevelandphoto.com (Kyle Cleveland Photo) — Sun, 21 Apr 2019 20:10:50 GMT

Hello and Happy Spring! I have mentioned that I wanted to start putting out some blog posts to help out fellow photographers and show off some of my work! I currently shoot with a Canon 6D, typically with my Sigma 50mm 1.4 Art lens. I use two Godox Ad200's off camera in an AdB2 adapter in either a 16 inch beauty dish or a 32"x 32" softbox. The beauty dish seems to give me more contrast when it comes to separating the subject from the background and really gives the photo a nice "pop", not including that it is also extremely easy to transport. Although I do grab my softbox from time to time when I want to get very soft light.

Spring has finally arrived!

It was an absolutely beautiful day and I really wanted to get out and capture some of the beautiful first blooms of spring. We drove around the neighborhood for a few minutes scoping out a suitable location. This tree caught our eyes and we decided to set up here. We were shooting at about midday on a very sunny day so I knew any shade would be beneficial. I had my model pose with her back left shoulder to the sun as shown in the second photo below, and changed my settings to basically expose for how I wanted the background to look. At this time I still had my flash turned off. I made sure none of my highlights were blown out including the sky, the flowers on the tree, the grass, as well as the light hitting her hair.

Adding in a flash off camera

Now that I have my exposure in the background set how I want it, it was time for me to add in a flash to brighten the subject and remove shadows, especially in the eyes. Depending on if I have time to do so, I fire my lights on manual mode using a gray card to ensure I have correct exposure while using my lights to make post processing easier and therefore more efficient. Using a gray card I start to adjust my lights until the histogram spikes near the center as shown below. If the histogram is showing a spike near the left hand side, that means the light power needs to be raised to bring it closer to the middle. If the spike is near the right hand side, that means the light must be brought down closer to the middle.

This photo of the gray card was just a tiny bit underexposed, but I can always fix that small amount in post.

By using the gray card method, you are insuring that the light you are firing onto your subject is going to be correct every time you do it. It may take a little bit of extra time but it is well worth the extra effort!

If you are looking for a photographer in the Cedar Rapids area, Contact Kyle Cleveland Photo, Kyle specializes in flash photography and currently focuses on Senior Photography, Family Photography, Couples, Engagements, and Weddings.

A Chilly, Windy Weekend In Iowa - Senior Photography by Kyle Cleveland Photo

hello@kyleclevelandphoto.com (Kyle Cleveland Photo) — Wed, 24 Oct 2018 13:55:53 GMT

WOW. This weekend turned out to be a wild one, but I managed to capture some beautiful images!

The weekend started Saturday morning out in Palo, Iowa for my first of 4 senior sessions for the weekend. Ava is also a photographer so I knew that I would have another set of eyes during the shoot. When I arrived to the first location the wind started picking up and let me tell you, softbox's are not meant to be used in the wind... BUT we managed to make things work and I walked away with some great images. Take a look!

Sunday was a slightly different story. The wind had died down for my first senior photo session out at Palisades in Marion, Iowa Sunday morning. This was my second session with Cassie and I think I enjoyed this session even more than the first! The air was a little chilly but the skies were clear, and we had much of Palisades to ourselves which isn't often the case at Palisades in mid October! Look at these photos, that last one is one of my favorite senior photos to date!

For my second session of the day, I headed down to the Newbo District in downtown Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The temperature had warmed up so it was a lot more comfortable to shoot! Peyton and her mom showed up to the session and let me know that they didn't have any specific locations in mind and that is OKAY! If I can take a peek at what outfits you bring to your senior session it is easy for me to find locations to match your look. They did state that they wanted a more rustic look and I knew exactly what I wanted to do. This session was in the early afternoon, and like earlier in the day, the sky was clear so I had to deal with bright sunlight. I think my assistant and I handled it beautifully. Here are a few of my favorites!

My final senior photo session of the weekend sent me back out to Palisades. Monica arrived with her dogs and wanted to get a few shots with them which is always okay by me! I love when my clients bring dogs, because my amazing assistant/girlfriend Ivy makes the best dog noises, which almost always gets the dogs attention. ;) This session was during golden hour and as you can see in the last photo, we definitely took advantage of that beautiful golden light. Here are a few of my favorite shots of Monica!

It was definitely a great weekend filled with a lot of awesome images. If you are looking for someone to capture your senior pictures, family photos, engagements, or any other event, get in contact with me today at 319-361-0218 or head over to my contact page!

Senior Session Recap - Madeline Class of '19

hello@kyleclevelandphoto.com (Kyle Cleveland Photo) — Tue, 09 Oct 2018 21:15:15 GMT

This senior session was split up into two separate days because of this lovely thing called mother nature, but I wasn't going to let that stop me from creating amazing photos for this senior!

Madeline is a high school track star so we started the session at Prairie High School's John Wall Field. Going into the session I knew that it was going to be cloudy so I made sure to bring my 1/2 CTB gel to bring my strobe lighting a little closer to the cloudy ambient temperature which was definitely key! I also knew that the clouds would create a great backdrop for these track photos because I could bring up the contrast and clarity of the clouds in post to bring more attention to Madeline.

One of the first shots we took was a shot of all of her high school medals around her arms. I wanted to create a powerful shot that really put on display the hard work she had put in to win all of these medals. After putting on about 40 of the 70+ medals on her arm, we realized she wasn't wearing her track spikes yet.... lets just say we should have caught that before we started loading her arms with all of that weight!

Another photo that really stood out for me is a photo of Madeline at the starting block. I told her to basically go through her normal routine as if she was about to actually start a race. By doing this, I create a beautiful photo that doesn't look "posed". In post I did some of the same adjustments as the previous photo, although I did add a little more contrast to add more separation from her and the stands in the background.

We took a few more photos here before heading to our second location, the Newbo District. On the way downtown rain drops began to fall and unfortunately we had to reschedule the second half of the session for another day. This was no problem at all and we found a good time to reschedule that worked for both of us!

Newbo District

The weather on this day wasn't perfect either, but we had a break in the rain in the afternoon and we decided to take a shot at it and boy did we time things perfectly!

Madeline's first outfit included a yellow cardigan, a plain white shirt, jeans and a pair of Timberlands that I believe really brought everything together nicely. We started the session at Brewhemia and I figured there was no better place to take a few shots in this outfit than in the peaceful Brewhemia atmosphere.

From Brewhemia we headed around the corner to an alley with a bright red wall that I thought would work well with the yellow cardigan. For this shot I wanted to implement movement by asking Madeline to run her hand through her hair. In this shot I specifically like how one eye is covered slightly by her hair, in turn bringing more attention to her right eye and I really like that. Like Bob Ross, I too like an occasional "happy accident".

For the second outfit, Madeline wore a salmon colored top with a jean skirt. I knew as soon as I saw it that I wanted to take a photo inside of the Almost Famous Popcorn Company. I knew that the salmon colored top would work very nicely with the interiors blue walls, and I knew that there would be beautiful soft natural light coming through the windows so I sat her down at a table against the wall facing the window. One part of this photo I especially like is how the lights in the back create bokeh which creates a leading line right towards her face, which is perfect! I then found some vines growing on a brick wall which I thought would compliment her outfit as well with the green colors of said vines, as well as a plain white wall.

For Madeline's third outfit, she chose an all black jumpsuit with heels. While we were heading to my next spot, I noticed a puddle and decided I wanted to try to get a shot with a nice reflection. If you are a photographer, then you know... not everything goes as planned. I couldn't seem to get my light to hit her in a way that I thought looked good, so I decided to add some movement and came up with this shot.

From here, the session took a creative turn. I saw a fence that I thought would be perfect for a shot through the fence that brought the viewers attention straight to her eyes. When composing this shot, I made sure both of her eyes were as centered in the fence hole as I could and this was the result, which I thought was complimented nicely by black and white.

Shortly after this shot was taken I felt a rain drop and knew we had to get moving to fit this last outfit into the session! This next look was in my mind "business casual", so I just wanted a few simple shots for this outfit.

Moral of the story... Don't let the rain discourage you, reschedule that session and provide your client with beautiful photos!

If you are looking for a photographer for your senior photos in the Eastern Iowa area, including but not limited to Cedar Rapids and Iowa City... Click HERE to head over to the contact page and get in contact with me today, I would love to help you capture YOU!

Kyle Cleveland Photo

10 Tips For Your Upcoming Senior Photo Session

hello@kyleclevelandphoto.com (Kyle Cleveland Photo) — Fri, 05 Oct 2018 01:19:17 GMT

10 tips for your upcoming senior photo session

Whether you are a senior preparing for your senior session, or a senior portrait photographer yourself, chances are you’ve seen no less than 100 differing opinions on how to do things in the senior portrait world. It’s completely normal to feel a little awkward when taking senior portraits. Many seniors tend to feel self-conscious about their appearance because they feel uncomfortable taking photos on their own. Below are ten tips for taking on your senior photo session with grace and confidence and leaving with photos that you will love for years to come.

Senior Photo in Corn

1. Keep your locations in mind.

Shooting your photos in the middle of a forest? You might want to avoid wearing predominantly green or brown so you don't blend in with the trees! Try a bright color or neutral. Urban locations are a bit more interesting since there is typically more variety in backgrounds, but you should still try to match the mood of the location. For shoes, think about where you will be walking! Some locations can be a bit of a heck to get to, so trekking through the wilderness in heels isn't ideal. Either ditch the heels completely in situations like that, or bring along a second comfy pair of shoes that you can easily slide off when you arrive at the location.

2. Move.

Being stationed in a place can sometimes produce a very staged and cheesy look. It is important to create movement with your poses, such as playing with hair. I always make sure each hand has a purpose. Just because you are sitting or standing still doesn’t mean you can’t change the angle of your body to create a look that is fresh and inspired. Try leaning into the camera slightly to appear more engaged, shift your weight from left to right, or simply move your chin slightly up and down for different shots as this gives us a variety of facial expressions to work with.

3. Bring a friend.

The way my sessions are structured (and a lot of other photographers do this too), you have a certain amount of time allotted for the session, and driving to locations and changing outfits is included also. Rather than waste precious time driving to the next location, lugging your stuff out of the car, then hurriedly trying to change and fix your hair, bring a friend with you, or a parent. While your friend or parent drives you to the next location, you can be in the backseat changing into your next outfit (in the air conditioned atmosphere). And maybe most important of all, they can make you feel comfortable and get some genuine laughter out of you! Just be sure to say thank you and buy them some coffee when you’re done.

4. Do your homework.

Know your photographer's style. Sometimes it can be frustrating as a photographer when clients seem to have a photography preference that is vastly different from the work you consistently produce. If your photographer loves candid, lifestyle photography, you may not be happy with the results if you like a more polished and posed look. Neither is bad, but the photographer ultimately wants you to be happy with your images. Keep in mind their shooting, posing, and editing style, and make sure you like what you see on their portfolio and social media accounts!

6. Think about how you're going to use the photos.

If you're making a graduation announcement card, keep in mind that you may have several different photos right next to each other on the card, so make sure the colors of your outfits are uniformed. Additionally, if you know you need one really good vertical image in your cap and gown, for example, communicate that to your photographer so they can be sure to get you what you need!

7. Ask Questions

Sending a questionnaire to seniors allows you to gather essential information about the client for your records as well as ask them questions about their hobbies, interests and style. The pre-session meeting is also very important if you choose to have one. Being upfront with your pricing is also critical because you’ll be wasting your time and theirs if you set up an in-person meeting just to find out that you’re outside of their budget. As a senior, if you have any questions or have anything specific you would like to have done, communicate this with your photographer beforehand!

8. Relate to Your Customers to Stand Out

Relating to clients and giving them a memorable experience is key in order to offer a premium service and to stand out above your competition. The most important thing to remember is that high school students are very social and most of them interact using social media and technology daily. In general, they prefer text messages and e-mails to phone calls. Get to know each client and be willing to be flexible on how you interact and communicate based on their needs and preferences.

9. Treat yourself.

Get your nails done or do a face mask the night before your shoot! Be sure to go to bed early so you are well-rested the next day. Hydrate throughout the day. For your nails, think about what color will work with all of your outfits. If you plan on showing off a class ring or engagement ring in your photos, make sure you get a manicure! If you're wearing open-toed shoes, treat yourself to a nice pedicure

10. Think about how you're going to use the photos.

If you're making a graduation announcement card, keep in mind that you may have several different photos right next to each other on the card, so make sure the colors of your outfits coordinate. Additionally, if you know you need one really good vertical image in your cap and gown, for example, communicate that to your photographer so they can be sure to get you what you need.

11. One last bonus tip.

HAVE FUN while you create beautiful images!

If you are looking for a photographer for your senior photo session, head on over to the contact page and get in touch with me, I would love to help you create beautiful images!

Spooky Fall Cemetery Photoshoot

hello@kyleclevelandphoto.com (Kyle Cleveland Photo) — Sun, 30 Sep 2018 21:01:36 GMT

Doesn't this photo just look like it belongs on the cover of a magazine!? I think it turned out amazing. I love the frame that the leaves, tree, and headstones create and the facial expression Ivy used was just perfect.

Today was the perfect day for a spooky fall shoot in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The sky was gloomy and gray, the weather was chilly, the leaves were turning and starting to fall. Ivy wore all black, layering black pants, a black long sleeve shirt, and a long lace dress over the top. Kyle found the black brimmed hat to added the perfect finishing touch. With this look they chose the cemetery. This location was great for shooting because the trees created frames, the tombstones created lines, and the green grass added contrast that made her outfit really stand out. The overcast day was perfect for soft ambient light.

Fall is the best time of year to get your photos taken, get in contact with Kyle Cleveland Photo to book your session today!

5 Great Places To Take Your Senior Photos In Cedar Rapids, Iowa

hello@kyleclevelandphoto.com (Kyle Cleveland Photo) — Fri, 28 Sep 2018 03:08:42 GMT

Kyle Cleveland Photo is booking 2021 seniors right now! Get in contact today to reserve your spot! Limited Fall dates available!

Are you trying to decide where you want to take photos for your senior photo session in Cedar Rapids, Iowa? Well you have come to the right place. I am going to share 5 places in and around Cedar Rapids where I love to photograph seniors! Hopefully these ideas will be helpful for your session!

Piersons Flower Shop and Greenhouses Inc.

Piersons is an awesome place to have your senior photography session. It is located near Ellis Park, just north of downtown Cedar Rapids. Piersons has a wide variety of plants and flowers which will help create beautiful backdrops for your photos. If you plan on having your session at Piersons, bright colors will definitely go great with the greens!

Squaw Creek Park

Another great location to take your senior photos is at Squaw Creek Park on the southeast side of Marion, Iowa. Squaw Creek is right off of Highway 100 and offers some beautiful fall foliage in October. Squaw Creek offers a nice open field that I like to take advantage of as well as some hidden trails. I think you could surely create some amazing photos here!

Mt. Vernon and Cornell College Campus

Mt. Vernon is one of my favorite locations to shoot, not only does main street have some awesome old buildings and lots of color, but the Cornell College Campus is just down the road with even MORE awesome spots to take photos. If you haven't checked out Mt. Vernon and considered it for your senior photography session, I highly suggest you do!

Palisades-Kepler State Park

Whether it is photos on the sandy area near the Cedar River on fallen timber, or portraits deep in the woods on the beautiful trails and bridges, Palisades-Kepler State Park is a gorgeous place to have your senior pictures taken. I have done quite a few sessions here, specifically in the fall season as the fall foliage is BEAUTIFUL to say the least. Even if it isn't for a session, checking Palisades out in mid October is a must do! *Unfortunately due to the Derecho, Palisades is currently closed. I have heard it should be open sometime in Spring of 2021!

Downtown Cedar Rapids/NewBo District

The NewBo District in Downtown Cedar Rapids is an amazing location for your senior photography session. The bright beautiful colors as well as architecture in the NewBo District make it a prime location for photo sessions. You walk 10 feet and you have another awesome frame for a photo, it really is perfect! Bright colors, Buildings, and neat businesses that are happy to share their space with you make NewBo an awesome spot!

I really hope that this blog helps you a little bit in choosing a location for your senior photography session. These are just a few of my favorite locations in and around Cedar Rapids and there are certainly more. Go out and explore and find the perfect spot for your photos today!

Visit www.KyleClevelandPhoto.com to book your senior session today!