I have been wanting to get into more portrait photography for a while now, but have always lacked a subject. I’m not confident enough with myself to pursue it yet without fooling around and seeing what I come up with. This was my chance to practice, with Erika who approached me about the idea.

Erika recently got some new hat or as we Canadians like to refer these head toppers as, toques, and wanted some pictures with the hats. I thought sure why not, I need to improve on my skills. The other thing I have often struggled with when it comes to portrait photography, is location. I don’t know the area too well and am sometimes unsure as to where to go. Luckily, Erika did. She live in what they call the Old Fort. It is one of the original Fort St. Johns, yes there were many, before it moved up and out of the valley of the Peace River. So surrounding her house is forest with trails that lead to the river, perfect for photos.

Personally I like candid photos better. I like catching moments, not having to try to create them. I think a photo will make a bigger impact on the viewer if the subject isn’t looking at the camera, as if it isn’t even their. That being said, if a person want to expand the opportunities they must be diverse and that is my plan. I will admit I did start getting into the shoot when I started directing Erika where to look, where to point her head and watching how the light was hitting her face. I’m improving, I promise. Who is next?