My Favorite Photography Sessions: Editorial

How I Keep My Passion for Photography Alive

Theme: Pool, Model: Gabi Crowther, Host: SLC Inspired

I would hope that everyone who does photography has at least a little passion for it. It's crucial in jobs like this to find parts that you love and make sure you get to do that portion often. Otherwise, you're just leading yourself to burnout by not keeping your passion alive.

Theme: Storage Container, Model: Michael Niemann, Host: SLC Inspired

So what part of photography helps keep my passion alive? Shooting my favorite sessions: Editorial and Weddings. These two are so wildly different in nature, so why in the world would I like both? Well, keep on reading and you might find out! This week: Editorial.

The Allure of Editorial Photography

Editorial photography is such a wide variety of subjects it will always keep you on your toes. Sometimes there is a story to tell through the images, sometimes the story is made through the images you've taken, and sometimes there isn't a story behind it at all. Often times the concepts are something that you wouldn't really think of initially for photos so it really gets the creative juices flowing.

Theme: Marina, Model: Sarah Tuttle, Host: SLC Inspired

Since every editorial session is different from the next, you really can't apply a formula to

every one. You are always learning something new and putting your skills to the test. For me it helps to keep the creative juices flowing! You are also presented with an opportunity to test out new things that you wouldn't want to use in a wedding or similar situation, like an ultra wide angle lens.

The Process

Editorial shoots are more of a collaborative process between creatives, rather than a set session type. Sometimes it's a pretty normal sounding idea, and sometimes it is more unhinged!

Usually the process starts by finding a creative that you would like to work with. This can be the model reaching out to a photographer or vice versa. Often times who ever is reaching out will already have a concept on hand that they would like to shoot, but it can be thought of after this step.

Theme: Shipping Container, Model: Samantha Caballero and Michael Niemann, Host: SLC Inspired

Theme: Eureka, Model: Holland Houghton, Host: SLC Inspired

The next step is finding props, outfits, and locations that will match the concept you are going for. Small details can really make or break the feeling you are trying to go for. Locations can really help set the mood for the shoot and can affect how the shoot will go. If it's outside you'll need to consider lighting and weather. This can be done by either party, but is usually a combination from both people.

Once all the details are finalized, you shoot! The photographer will provide feedback with posing and use their knowledge to help with lighting, really adding that extra umph to make the concept come to life. After the shoot is over the photographer gets creative freedom with edits and will usually share the images with the model.

Images like these are great for creative magazines, photo contests, exhibits, etc. They are usually conveying a message and are great for just staring at for a while to really get the emotions from the image being presented.

Theme: Shipping Container, Model: Savannah Rhoton, Host: SLC Inspired

Memorable Moments

Every editorial session I have shot has been an absolute blast! Since it's usually a smaller group of people just letting creative juices flow you are set up for funny moments. Sometimes it's the model doing something funny, sometimes it's the photographer trying to instruct the model through something and doing a terrible job at it. You honestly just never know.

I've been able to meet and work with so many talented individuals through editorial shoots. These usually end up in friendships being formed as well! You also get to go to so many cool locations. Some of my favorites are:

Airplane in the Woods

Marina

Pink Water

Shipping Containers

Midsummer

Theme: Shipping Container, Model: Anavictoria Londono, Host: SLC Inspired

Each shoot comes with it's own challenges as well. Sometimes the space you are using is much smaller than initially thought. Sometimes the weather is bad. Sometimes you're on a massive sand hill and keep sliding down. You honestly never know what you will face until you are there at the shoot. These moments usually end up in a lesson to learn and an opportunity to laugh!

Theme: Midsummer, Model: Makea Honing

Conclusion

In conclusion, I love editorial sessions because they can be so chaotic. I'm always being challenged in new ways that I can then translate over into my other sessions. It also allows me to get all of my weird ideas out of my head. I get to meet so many new people that are okay with just doing weird things and ideas together.

I encourage every photographer to do at least one creative session! It can really change your view on what to look for in a shot and help you broaden your horizons. I have the luxury of being a part of a group that meets up monthly (Salt Lake City Inspired), but you don't need to have that to start. Try reaching out to a model in your area and see if they have any concepts!

Have a favorite session of your own? Or an unforgettable moment worth sharing? Leave it in a comment below! I would love to hear about it.

Theme: Faeries, Model: Maisie Madolyn

Thinking we would get along?

Thank you so much for hearing what I have to say about myself and Rachael Shine Photography! If you think we might get along and you want to work with me check out my pricing or just contact me!