NoBs Digital Dogbowl
The NoBs Digital Dogbowl Newsletter:
Keeping you up to date and informed on the latest, coolest, and outrageous happenings inside the world of NoBS Photo Success.
Loaded with Free photography tips, Photoshop tutorials, photo reviews,
and other totally relevant essentials. Be sure to check out the whole thing!
Hungry for more? Visit our digital photography forum.
Photo of the Month by Bonjovi Girl
I had a headsup by email that she was going to be wearing hijab, and what she said 'normal girl clothes' too. Since I knew nothing about the culture and customs, I didn't realize until the session took place that her entire body (except for her hands) would be covered in clothing.
She was a very timid, shy girl, while her mother was one of the warmest people I've ever had in my studio. Her mom told me that education is very important in the Islamic culture, and women are treated no different from the men when it comes to feeding the brain.
Dearborn, Michigan is known for it's high Arabic population. It's no surprise then that there are three stores there where the local woman purchase everything for their hijab with the exception of scarves.
I photographed Amal's cousin last year (also a senior), but she was not wearing a headdress. Amal told me that a woman chooses when to wear hijab, when she's ready. Her mom said that a girl is supposed to wear it at 9 years old, but God forgives if she isn't ready for that commitment. Amal, and all women of the culture are allowed to have their father, brothers and uncles see them without their headress on, but friends such as boys, cousins and strangers cannot.
This image was the eighth shot I took during this sitting, and I was trying to 'loosen' her up at the time. She was tall, thin, but a little on the stiff side when it came to getting her to relax and position her. My God, the face - she had a particular look she would give me and I swore, it was Angelina Jolie standing in front of me.
The main was to the camera left at F11, kicker to camera right at F8 and hair at F8 overhead from left (and I may be off on that kicker reading- I'm getting old!). I used a silver reflector to the camera right.
The only prep I had for this session was from here (I posted a plea for help). Nobody posted images, but I got friendly advice. I found myself treating her different because her hair was hidden, but when I caught myself, the session changed.
I know what other photographers know what I mean when I say that this was a session that reminded me of what a priveledge it is to be a photographer. We have the dream job, and if you don't believe me, then why are your clients so fascinated with your studio, lights & camera? It's an opportunity, I believe, that God gives to us as individuals for a reason.