Blog | Mezzaninehttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/2024-03-28T14:16:54+00:00BlogCharleston SC Anniversary Session Portraits at Hampton Park on Film2021-01-05T21:44:42+00:002024-03-28T10:29:48+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/charleston-sc-anniversary-session-portraits-at-hampton-park-on-film/<h2>About the Dowtown Charleston SC Anniversary Session in Hampton Park</h2>
<p>Bronte and Bobby reached out to me through Instagram, finding me through a mutual love for film. They were interested in an anniversary session to celebrate 5 years of marriage and knew they wanted a film photographer for the task. The connection was instant. We bonded over our approach to film, pursuing it as an art and trying to craft our own paths and styles as film wedding and portrait photographers. We chose Hampton Park for the Charleston couples session because of it's lush greenery and plenty of space to move and play. </p>
<p><img alt="couple shot on kodak portra 800 medium format film during charleston sc anniversary session at hampton park" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/bronte-hampton/2021-01-05_0012.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Why Hampton Park for Your Charleston SC Couples or Portrait Session</h3>
<p>Hampton Park is a VERY popular spot for photographers in Charleston. You can hardly take a trip there without seeing at least 4 or 5 portrait sessions taking place, mostly engagements and family's. The few opportunities I've had to shoot there, I've absolutely adored the results. Its the best greenspace in Charleston and it's plenty big enough to stay out of people's way and find your own spots. Most of my Charleston engagement and couples sessions are shot downtown. That's the Charleston look afterall. Shooting downtown can be a bit hectic, constantly dodging people, always having to angle your couple just perfectly to avoid getting passers by in your shot. It can feel a bit restricting at times. I spoke with the couple and we both agreed that we were more drawn to greenery than streets and Hampton Park was the only choice! It has plenty of open space and the most beautiful oak trees and spanish moss in all of downtown. </p>
<p><img alt="hampton park downtown charleston sc couples portrait session on kodak 35mm portra 400 film with girl in vintage dress" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/bronte-hampton/2021-01-05_0030.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Just look at those oak trees and spanish moss!</p>
<p><img alt="couple running through oak trees in downtown charleston sc for anniversary portrait session on kodak portra 800 film and hasselblad" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/bronte-hampton/2021-01-05_0018.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h3>Why I Shoot My Charleston Couples Portrait, Engagement and Anniversary Sessions all on Film</h3>
<p>Film is always my preferred medium to photograph portraits and couples. Sometimes weddings require digital because of the pace and unpredictability, but couples and anniversary portrait sessions are a bit more relaxed and predictable and I can shoot the entire thing on film. For this portrait session, I shot a mixture of 35mm and medium format kodak film - more on my camera and film choices below. The main reason I shoot film is that I like what it does for my process and the end result, particularly the colors, are just undeniable. I feel more present and connected to the couple when I shoot film and the result is one of my favorite Charleston portrait sessions yet. </p>
<p><img alt="kodak tri-x 400 black and white medium format film portrait of charleston couple at hampton park" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/bronte-hampton/2021-01-05_0035.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>What Film Cameras and Film Stocks did I use for this Shoot</h3>
<p>I used two of my most trusted cameras, ones that I feel very connected to, and my go to film stocks. It's important to find cameras that you connect with. A camera that makes you feel good, feel cool, or feel creative can do wonders for your end result. It's also important that the camera feels natural and doesn't get in your way. No camera is perfect and there is always a compromise or a tradeoff, but these cameras find a great balance for me. Oh...and they also really deliver on results. </p>
<h4>Hasselblad 202FA Camera, 110mm F2 Lens, Kodak Portra 800 and Tri-x 400 Film</h4>
<p>This is my show stopper portrait camera. It feels cool to shoot, and the lens delivers the closest rendering to large format you can get in a medium format camera. You can find my full review of the camera system <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/hasselblad-202fa-film-camera-review-for-portraits-and-weddings/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/hasselblad-202fa-film-camera-review-for-portraits-and-weddings/">HERE</a></span>. I paired it with my favorite color 120 film stock, Kodak portra 800 and my favorite black and white 120 film stock, Kodak Tri-x 400. Portra 800 is so perfect for fall and anywhere with a ton of greenery. It has a slight blue/aqua tint to the shadows in greens that really render the scene with this almost dreamlike quality...oh and it's perfect for people with red/orange hair. </p>
<p><img alt="hasselblad 202fa portrait on kodak portra 800 film with charleston anniversary couple" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/bronte-hampton/2021-01-05_0008.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h4>Nikon FM3a, Nikkor 50mm F1.2 ai-s, Kodak Portra 400 35mm Film</h4>
<p>My nikon fm3a is probably the camera that I would keep if I could only keep one. There are cameras I love more, just for what they are (my leica and hasselblad come to mind). My nikon, however, just goes. It's so easy to use. It has the best metering system of any camera ever. It allows for easy double exposures, as you'll see below. Also, it's all manual, but still super quick to use so I feel like it lends itself really well to experimentation and movement shots. It's also super lightweight and features a 1/4000s top shutter speed. I pair it with my Nikon 50mm F1.2 ai-s lens and trusty portra 400 film. I took a few shots in the camera on Kodak P3200 35mm film as well that were left over from a previous wedding. </p>
<h5>Double Exposures on 35mm Film</h5>
<p><img alt="35mm film double exposure on kodak portra 400 35mm film of girl with orange sky overlay in charleston sc" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/bronte-hampton/2021-01-05_0042.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>To find out how I do these double exposures, click <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/how-to-twice-exposed-roll-of-35mm-film/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/how-to-twice-exposed-roll-of-35mm-film/">HERE</a></span>. </p>
<p><img alt="charleston couples portrait session double exposure on 35mm film with nikon fm3a and portra 400 of girl and guy " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/bronte-hampton/2021-01-05_0046.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>Portra 400 35mm Film Portraits</h5>
<p><img alt="close up portrait of girl in charleston sc hampton park on kodak portra 400 35mm film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/bronte-hampton/2021-01-05_0011.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>Kodak P3200 Black and White 35mm Film Portraits</h5>
<p><img alt="kodak p3200 35mm film portrait of guy and girl motion blurred in charleston sc park during downtown engagement session" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/bronte-hampton/2021-01-05_0004.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h2>Why You Should Hire Me as Your Charleston Film Portrait and Couples Photographer</h2>
<p>You won't find another photographer, destination or in my hometown of Charleston SC that challenges himself more or pushes his creativity further than I do. I have an appreciation for the timeless and the classic, but strongly believe the great art is the most timeless of all and echo that in the amount of experimentation I do in my work as a destination wedding and portrait photographer. Humbly speaking, I'm the hardest working wedding photographer you'll meet. I have a style that transcends Charleston, SC and have received nationwide recognition for my film work because of it. Ask yourself if you want your wedding photos to look like every one elses, perfect curated perfection, or if you want an artful story to be told. If the latter has your heart, then it's likely that you'll have mine. </p>
<p><img alt="black and white 35mm film ethereal expression portrait during charleston sc engagement couples session" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/bronte-hampton/2021-01-05_0033.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="charleston sc couple under spanish moss oak tree at hampton park shot on kodak portra 800 film with hasselblad" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/bronte-hampton/2021-01-05_0006.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in editorial, lifestyle and portrait photography. I operate a photography studio in Charleston SC and Traverse City Michigan. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina, Northern Michigan, or any destination abroad. LGBTQ supporter and firm believer in the cause for all races to fight for equal rights. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Film Wedding and Portrait Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Charleston SC Elopement at the Hotel Bennett and a Private Mount Pleasant Home2020-11-22T12:39:02+00:002024-03-28T10:31:40+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/charleston-sc-elopement-at-the-hotel-bennett-and-a-private-mount-pleasant-home/<h2>About the Charleston Intimate Wedding by Elopement Photographer Brian D Smith</h2>
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<p>Carson and Mike hired me a year prior to their wedding date. They had the full wedding planned with a big venue and all the trimmings. What they, and none of us, anticipated was getting married during a pandemic. With grace and good spirits they changed their wedding plans, downsized the entire event and had a wonderful time eloping in the beauty that is May for a Charleston SC wedding. </p>
<p><img alt="35mm film portrait of bride and groom in front of charleston sc wedding venue hotel bennett" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/2005-carson-mike-charleston-may-elopement-hotel-bennett-mt-pleasant-00067_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>About the Venue and Intimate Wedding Locations</h3>
<p>Carson and mike got ready at the Hotel Bennett, right in the heart of downtown Charleston's' bustling upper king street district. We had a first look right out in front of the hotel, photographed the bridal party, did a quick stroll around downtown for some portraits before the rain set in then went to a private, waterfront home in Mt Pleasant for the elopement ceremony and reception. </p>
<p><img alt="35mm film portrait in downtown charleston at hotel bennett elopement by film wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/2005-carson-mike-charleston-may-elopement-hotel-bennett-mt-pleasant-00084_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h3>Why You Should Elope in Charleston South Carolina and Why a Downsized Wedding is Just as Special</h3>
<p>I'm so grateful for my 2020 couples that took the pandemic in stride, embraced the changes to their Covid effected Charleston wedding and decided to switch things up with grace and style and have a small elopement or intimate wedding. I photographed quite a few elopements this year and one thing that rang true was that there was no special feeling or magic lost in a smaller wedding. In fact, at times, they felt more special and more rooted in what is really important on a wedding day...the couple, their love, and those closest to them who have witnessed that love grow. So, if you are thinking about changing up your wedding plans, cancelling, or postponing, please give me a call and ask me why elopements are so special in the Holy City. An elopement can be anything and I think that is the beauty of it. You can make it a small wedding or something entirely non-traditional and as long as you are happy the moments and wedding photographs will be beautiful. </p>
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<h2>Why I Shoot Film as a Charleston Wedding and Elopement Photographer</h2>
<p>Film is special. It's special to me for many reasons, but at the end of the day what is most important is the impact the image makes. All of the special reasons that I love film, shooting it, feeling it, waiting for it to return from the lab, coelesce into a beautiful image that makes a statement on me the second I view them for the first time. I shoot medium format and 35mm film, mostly kodak. I prefer to let the character of the images do the talking, so if you have any questions about film wedding photography, please just ask! It's one of my favorite things to talk about. </p>
<p><img alt="bridal portrait in charleston sc at golden hour on 35mm kodak portra 400 film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/2005-carson-mike-charleston-may-elopement-hotel-bennett-mt-pleasant-00101_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="mt pleasant charleston wedding couple eloping on the water shot on kodak portra 800 medium format film with hasselblad 202fa and 110mm F2 lens" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/2005-carson-mike-charleston-may-elopement-hotel-bennett-mt-pleasant-00243_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="dreamy portrait of a charleston sc bride in front of hotel bennett on 35mm kodak portra 400 film shot with canon eos 1v" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/2005-carson-mike-charleston-may-elopement-hotel-bennett-mt-pleasant-00075_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="charleston sc elopement couple first look by film wedding photographer brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/2005-carson-mike-charleston-may-elopement-hotel-bennett-mt-pleasant-00017_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h2>Why You Should Hire Me as Your Charleston Film Wedding Photographer</h2>
<p>You won't find another photographer, destination or in my hometown of Charleston SC that challenges himself more or pushes his creativity further than I do. I have an appreciation for the timeless and the classic, but strongly believe the great art is the most timeless of all and echo that in the amount of experimentation I do in my work as a destination wedding and portrait photographer. Humbly speaking, I'm the hardest working wedding photographer you'll meet. I have a style that transcends Charleston, SC and have received nationwide recognition for my film work because of it. Ask yourself if you want your wedding photos to look like every one elses, perfect curated perfection, or if you want an artful story to be told. If the latter has your heart, then it's likely that you'll have mine. </p>
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<p></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in editorial, lifestyle and portrait photography. I operate a photography studio in Charleston SC and Traverse City Michigan. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina, Northern Michigan, or any destination abroad. LGBTQ supporter and firm believer in the cause for all races to fight for equal rights. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Film Wedding and Portrait Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Hollywood Glam Bride and Groom Portraits on Film in an Outdoor Studio2020-11-16T05:09:19+00:002024-03-28T10:31:44+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/hollywood-glam-bride-and-groom-portraits-on-film-in-an-outdoor-studio/<h2>About the Charleston SC Bride and Groom Portraits in an Outdoor Studio</h2>
<p>I have been photographing studio bridal portraits for a bit over a year, but had yet to do the same with a bride and groom. With the ucoming launch of my new portrait studio location, <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/studio-portraits/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/studio-portraits/">Studio Sixty Reid</a></span>, and putting together my first bride and groom studio editorial, I knew I wanted to go big. I worked with a backdrop setup that had proven successful for me once before, and partnered with a few of my favorite vendors to create something that was all at once editorial yet romantically, classic. The idea was to echo old Hollywood style and the vibe of 1950s vogue. This era of fashion photography was the perfect blend of grit and glam. It was artful and experimental, but so well styled and photographed that it will always be classic. Afterall, true art never goes out of style. </p>
<p><img alt="hasselblad and kodak film portrait of a charleston bride and groom in lace cream dress and white dinner jacket tuxedo in outdoor wedding portrait studio" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/sabine-kris/2006-charleston-sc-outdoor-studio-bride-and-groom-portraits-kodak-film-00061_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<p><img alt="light leak 35mm film image from leica m-a of bride and groom in charleston sc wedding editorial" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/sabine-kris/2006-charleston-sc-outdoor-studio-bride-and-groom-portraits-kodak-film-00086_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>About the Charleston SC wedding real couple and models</h3>
<p>I met Sabine through a mutual friend a few years back and I used to work with Kris before I began my photography career. Ever since I found out they were a couple, I've been wanting to plan a shoot for them. When they got engaged, I reached out and learned that they were getting married in South Africa - where Sabine's family is from. However, they had to schedule their wedding for a long ways out because of uncertainty around international travel with Covid. I had a vision for a bride/groom portrait shoot in an outdoor studio where the backdrop blended into the surrounding foliage. I knew I wanted Sabine and Kris for the shoot, so I reached out to them with the opportunity to get some beautiful portraits before their 2021 wedding day. </p>
<p><img alt="close up 35mm film portrait of charleston sc bride and groom in outdoor portrait studio sixty reid" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/sabine-kris/2006-charleston-sc-outdoor-studio-bride-and-groom-portraits-kodak-film-00098_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>About the styling of the old hollywood wedding fashion editorial </h3>
<p>Fashionable styling is very important to me in editorial work, and I knew I wanted something cream/warm toned to stand out against the dark cloth backdrop. I have a good working relationship with Claire Pettibone, so I reached out to her about a dress I've long been wanting to photograph and I began planning. I paired the lacey, embroidered, sleeved dress with a classic Ivory dinner jacket tux. The resulting look is both fashionable, but timeless and traditional. It echoes 1950's hollywood vibes, my favorite era for fashion photography. Weddings and wedding photography in the south, Charleston specifically, tend to rely to heavily on tradition and bride's don't often take fashion risks. I styled this shoot to meet somewhere in the middle. If I have seen something before, I tend to look the other way. I want to see new styles, new ways of photographing couples, new methods for experimenting with portraiture. Thus, the idea of the outdoor studio was born. Studio bridal portraiture is timeless and always in style, and it's something I want to bring back in a big way to the wedding world. I constructed the studio outdoors to add another textural element to the scene. I played with different film techniques, exposing some of the film to light leaks, and shooting bride and groom portraits on Large Format Film...something I've never seen done before. I worked with a local florist to create complimentary bride and groom bouquets. I think the result is edgy, and gritty, and fashionable, but classical and timeless as well. </p>
<p><img alt="black tie wedding bride and groom film portrait with cream lace claire pettibone gown and white dinner jacket in charleston sc portrait studio" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/sabine-kris/2006-charleston-sc-outdoor-studio-bride-and-groom-portraits-kodak-film-00067_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>I had the idea of a bride and groom bouquet set to break down wedding traditions within the context of something so traditionally romantic. I love traditions for what they mean to people, personally, but am not too keen on traditions for the sake of the populous. Different and bold can be timeless and beautiful. This is a value I always strive to reflect in my work through styling, posing and use of color and contrast. </p>
<p><img alt="groom bouquet wedding flowers on kodak portra 800 film through hasselblad 202fa in charleston sc portrait studio" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/sabine-kris/2006-charleston-sc-outdoor-studio-bride-and-groom-portraits-kodak-film-00052_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>About the outdoor portrait studio </h3>
<p>One of my Covid quarantine projects was to set up a studio outdoors, blending the backdrop into the surrounding foliage, but still retaining the classically romantic vibes of studio portraiture. It started out of a sheer desire to create during a time when the city was on lockdown and on location photography was frowned upon. I erected a backdrop in my lush green backyard outside my studio and what was meant to be a one time thing, quickly turned into an ongoing series of portraits. The setting was unique, classic yet whimsical, but what kept drawing me back to the setup was the lighting. I shot in the late afternoon / evening, with the sun backlighting the foliage and occasionally piercing through the cloth of the backdrop. The house behind me reflected the sunsetting light onto the front of the set, all at once providing front lighting and backlighting. In fact, each time I have posted photos from this project, I have been asked if they were artificially lit. </p>
<h4>Other outdoor portrait studio sets at Charleston's Studio Sixty Reid</h4>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/film-bridal-portraits-and-a-claire-pettibone-gown-in-an-outdoor-portrait-studio/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/film-bridal-portraits-and-a-claire-pettibone-gown-in-an-outdoor-portrait-studio/">Film bridal portraits in an outdoor studio and claire pettibone dress</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/projects/creating-moody-editorial-fashion-photography-in-my-charleston-sc-backyard/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/projects/creating-moody-editorial-fashion-photography-in-my-charleston-sc-backyard/">Moody fashion editorial in my Charleston SC outdoor portrait studio</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/projects/fashion-editorial-in-a-backyard-portrait-studio/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/projects/fashion-editorial-in-a-backyard-portrait-studio/">Vintage chic fashion editorial in an outdoor photography studio</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/charleston-south-carolina-portraits-in-an-outdoor-studio/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/charleston-south-carolina-portraits-in-an-outdoor-studio/">A vintage pink dress and building an outdoor portrait studio</a></span></p>
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<p><img alt="hasselblad 202fa and kodak portra 800 portrait of charleston sc bride by film wedding photographer brian d smith in an outdoor portrait studio" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/sabine-kris/2006-charleston-sc-outdoor-studio-bride-and-groom-portraits-kodak-film-00034_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h2>Charleston SC Wedding Vendors for the Bride and Groom Editorial</h2>
<p>Photography: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Photography</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/</a></span></p>
<p>Set Design and Styling: <span>Brian D Smith Photography</span><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></p>
<p>Floral Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.onalimbflorals.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.onalimbflorals.com/">On A Limb Florals</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/onalimbflorals" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/onalimbflorals">https://www.instagram.com/onalimbflorals</a></span></p>
<p>Hair and Makeup: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.wildivorybeauty.com/home.html" target="_blank" title="http://www.wildivorybeauty.com/home.html">Wild Ivory Beauty</a></span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/">https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/</a></span></p>
<p>Venue: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/studio-portraits/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/studio-portraits/">Studio Sixty Reid</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/studiosixtyreid/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/studiosixtyreid/">https://www.instagram.com/studiosixtyreid/</a></span></p>
<p>Gown: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.contoursandcurls.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.contoursandcurls.com/">Contours and Curls</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/contoursandcurls/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/contoursandcurls/">https://www.instagram.com/contoursandcurls/</a></span></p>
<p>Gown: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://clairepettibone.com/products/pearle-gown" target="_blank" title="https://clairepettibone.com/products/pearle-gown">Pearle by Claire Pettibone</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/clairepettibone/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/clairepettibone/">https://www.instagram.com/clairepettibone/</a></span> <span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></p>
<p>Men's Attire: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.berlinsclothing.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.berlinsclothing.com/">Berlin's For Men</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/berlinsformen/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/berlinsformen/">https://www.instagram.com/berlinsformen/</a></span></p>
<p>Film: Kodak / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/kodakprofessional" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/kodakprofessional">https://www.instagram.com/kodakprofessional</a></span></p>
<p>Film Lab: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://photovisionprints.com/" target="_blank" title="https://photovisionprints.com/">Photovision</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/photovisionprints/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/photovisionprints/">https://www.instagram.com/photovisionprints/</a></span></p>
<p>Models: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/sabine_hg/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/sabine_hg/">https://www.instagram.com/sabine_hg/</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/kriswithak/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/kriswithak/">https://www.instagram.com/kriswithak/</a></span></p>
<p></p>
<h2>Film Equipment and Techniques Used</h2>
<p>I shoot all of my work on Kodak film, both medium format and 35mm. Recently, however, I have started shooting large format as well! I tend to shoot a lot of cameras during weddings and editorials, all with a very specific purpose. I'll break down my film camera and stock selection, here. </p>
<p>1. Hasselblad 202FA + 110mm F2 lens - This is my favorite portrait camera. The F2 lens is contrasty but dreamy and it's the closest thing I've ever shot to large format without actually shooting 4x5. I shot two rolls through this camera, 1 portra 800 and 1 Kodak T-max 400. </p>
<p>2. Leica m-a + summilux-m 50mm F1.4 - This is a camera that I always tell myself I am going to shoot more but sometimes I just feel it slows me down. The results from the lens are simply outstanding, however. I shot 2 rolls portra 160 + 1 through this camera and 1 roll of portra 400. I even added in another element of experimentation and opened the film back when I finished the roll, before rewind. I LOVE the results. </p>
<p>3. Nikon Fm3a + Nikkor 50mm F1.2 ai-s - My favorite 35mm camera, and the cam I'd keep if I could only have one. During shoots like this, I typically use the nikon as either an experimental camera or close up camera. I shot kodak gold 200 in this cam. The lens tends to be much softer than my leica, so it's great for dreamy shots or injecting a bit of calculated imperfection into your images. </p>
<p>4. Contax 645 + 80mm F2 - I only shot this camera because It acted up on me in the prior shoot and I wanted to put a roll of Portra 400 through it to make sure it was still working. </p>
<p>5. Intrepid 4x5 Mkiii + Schneider symmar-s 210mm F5.6 - My first ever opportunity to shoot large format film portraits of a wedding couple did not disappoint. I shot 6 images and got 3 that I absolutely adore. Not bad for my first go around. Developed and scanned myself. Ilford Hp5 (i prefer tri-x but this is what I had around)</p>
<p><img alt="large format black and white film portrait of bride and groom in charleston sc outdoor studio backdrop" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/sabine-kris/2006-charleston-sc-outdoor-studio-bride-and-groom-portraits-kodak-film-00056_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="light leak 35mm film portrait of bride and groom in charleston wedding shot with leica m-a" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/sabine-kris/2006-charleston-sc-outdoor-studio-bride-and-groom-portraits-kodak-film-00025_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://ruffledblog.com/autumn-engagement-session/" target="_blank" title="https://ruffledblog.com/autumn-engagement-session/"></a></span></p>
<h2><span></span>Why You Should Consider Studio Portraits for your Charleston Wedding</h2>
<p>My pitch to couples for studio wedding portraiture is simple. You are likely going to get beautiful, traditional outdoor portraits at your wedding venue the day of your wedding, so why not mix it up and do your engagement photos, wedding day portraits, or couples session in studio. It's an oppportunity to strip away the distractions and extraneous elements. It's an opportunity to slow down and create something deconstructed and beautiful. My Charleston SC portrait studio, Studio Sixty Reid, focuses on creating experimental works, well styled, yet simple in their ultimate goal of showcasing you without any other distractions. Studio portraiture is classic. It's timeless. It's artistic and will never go out of style. No two results can ever be similar because when you strip away the beautiful venue, or the crowded downtown Charleston streets, what's left is only you, your love, and your style. </p>
<h3>When should you schedule your Charleston studio wedding portraits</h3>
<p>If you don't wish for one another to see your wedding attire before the wedding, you can schedule them after ward. Doing the wedding session in studio after your actual wedding day is a great way to focus less on portraiture the day of your wedding, meaning you can enjoy more of the spontaneity and cocktail hour. It's also a wonderful excuse to get dressed up in your wedding dress once more. If you wish to do them before hand, but still are unsure about seeing eachother's dress and suit for the wedding day, pick up a second wedding outfit. Maybe a bold suit, or a more playful dress. Alternatively, you could do the opposite and make it the most regal, black tie, over the top styled affair in contrast to a more understated wedding. Nothing is off limits. I help with coordination, styling, and set design to make it a truly one of a kind portrait experience. Studio bride and groom, bride and bride, groom and groom sessions make for a wonderful 1 year wedding anniversary celebration as well. </p>
<p><img alt="like leak 35mm film bridal portrait on kodak portra 400 film with close up red lipstich and bridal bouquet shot on leica m-a" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/sabine-kris/2006-charleston-sc-outdoor-studio-bride-and-groom-portraits-kodak-film-00042_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h2>Why You Should Hire Me as Your Charleston Film Wedding Photographer</h2>
<p>You won't find another photographer, destination or in my hometown of Charleston SC that challenges himself more or pushes his creativity further than I do. I have an appreciation for the timeless and the classic, but strongly believe the great art is the most timeless of all and echo that in the amount of experimentation I do in my work as a destination wedding and portrait photographer. Humbly speaking, I'm the hardest working wedding photographer you'll meet. I have a style that transcends Charleston, SC and have received nationwide recognition for my film work because of it. Ask yourself if you want your wedding photos to look like every one elses, perfect curated perfection, or if you want an artful story to be told. If the latter has your heart, then it's likely that you'll have mine. </p>
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<p></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in editorial, lifestyle and portrait photography. I operate a photography studio in Charleston SC and Traverse City Michigan. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina, Northern Michigan, or any destination abroad. LGBTQ supporter and firm believer in the cause for all races to fight for equal rights. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Film Wedding and Portrait Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Film Bridal Portraits and a Claire Pettibone Gown in an Outdoor Portrait Studio2020-11-11T10:50:36+00:002024-03-28T14:16:54+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/film-bridal-portraits-and-a-claire-pettibone-gown-in-an-outdoor-portrait-studio/<h2>About the Whimsical Film Bridal Portraits at Charleston's Studio Sixty Reid</h2>
<p>This was my second time constructing an outdoor studio at the old location of my Charleston portrait photography studio - Studio Sixty Reid. This go around, I wanted to do something bridal, shoot it all on film, and use this whimsical <a href="https://clairepettibone.com/products/marie-gown" target="_blank" title="https://clairepettibone.com/products/marie-gown">Victorian wedding gown (Marie) from Claire Pettibone</a>. Kyleigh modeled the gown with grace and the whimsical, fashion forward flair that is a staple of my <a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/studio-portraits/#studio-bridal-portraits" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/studio-portraits/#studio-bridal-portraits">studio bridal portraiture</a>. </p>
<p><img alt="35mm film double exposure on kodak gold 200 of charleston bride in outdoor studio" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/2006-kyleigh-double-exposure-35mm-film-roll-charleston-bridal-claire-pettibone-00006_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Photographing Portraits in an Outdoor Studio</h3>
<p>The oudoor studio is a pretty simple concept, and simple in construction. The idea came to me for an outdoor backdrop that belnds into the surrounding foliage, all the while still looking slightly out of place as an entity in nature. The studio is erected from a simple set of backdrop stands and a Savage Universal dark grey muslin cloth backdrop on the ground and some linen curtains I found at Ikea in the spare parts bin. That's it!</p>
<p><img alt="contax 645 film portrait of a bride in an outdoor portrait studio in charleston sc on kodak portra 800" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/2006-charleston-studio-bridal-portrait-south-carolina-wedding-photography-00008_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Equipment, Cameras and Film Stocks Used </h3>
<p>I shot the entire series on film using a few cameras. For 35mm, I used my trusty Nikon Fm3a loaded with my favorite color 35mm stock, Kodak Gold 200. For medium format, I shot 1 roll of Kodak Portra 800, my favorite medium format color stock, through my Contax 645 (<a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/contax-645-medium-format-film-camera-review-for-weddings-and-portraits/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/contax-645-medium-format-film-camera-review-for-weddings-and-portraits/">review here</a>). I also shot a roll of Kodak T-Max 400 120 film through my Hasselblad 202FA and FE 110mm F2 (<a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/hasselblad-202fa-film-camera-review-for-portraits-and-weddings/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/hasselblad-202fa-film-camera-review-for-portraits-and-weddings/">Review of both here</a>). </p>
<p>Hasselblad 202FA + T-Max 400</p>
<p><img alt="kodak t-max 400 black and white 120 film portrait of charleston bride in outdoor portrait studio in victorian wedding dress" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/2006-charleston-studio-bridal-portrait-south-carolina-wedding-photography-00018_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Nikon Fm3a and Kodak Gold 200</p>
<p><img alt="bridal portrait by film wedding photographer brian d smith in charleston sc on kodak gold 200 35mm" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/2006-charleston-studio-bridal-portrait-south-carolina-wedding-photography-00039_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Contax 645 + Kodak Portra 800</p>
<p><img alt="studio bridal portrait with victorian dress on kodak portra 800 120 film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/2006-charleston-studio-bridal-portrait-south-carolina-wedding-photography-00007_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>I even shot some large format film and developed and scanned it myself. The result was my favorite bridal portrait EVER! Intrepid Mkiii 4x5 and Schneider 210mm F5.6</p>
<p><img alt="large format film bridal portrait with intrepid mkiii black and white film photo of bride in charleston sc" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/2006-kyleigh-charleston-sc-backyard-studio-bridal-large-format-tri-x-film-00005_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>35mm Film Double Exposure Bridal Portraits </h2>
<p>One of my favorite personal experiments in film is shooting a roll of film twice (<a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/how-to-twice-exposed-roll-of-35mm-film/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/how-to-twice-exposed-roll-of-35mm-film/">How To Here</a>). The process requires me to shoot through a roll of 35mm film once, this time with the subject being clouds and sky, then I wind it up, reload it and shoot through it again with portraiture. The results this time were absolutely fantastic and resulted in, again, one of my favorite bridal portraits ever (see top image). I initially shot through the film roll in my Nikon fm2n then the second go around in the nikon fm3a. The film used was kodak gold 200. </p>
<p><img alt="double exposure on 35mm kodak gold 200 film of bride and clouds in charleston sc photography studio" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/2006-kyleigh-double-exposure-35mm-film-roll-charleston-bridal-claire-pettibone-00013_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="double exposure film bridal portrait on 35mm kodak gold 200 of charleston bride close up on red lipstick" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/2006-kyleigh-double-exposure-35mm-film-roll-charleston-bridal-claire-pettibone-00011_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h2>Portrait Photography Studio Locations - Studio Sixty Reid</h2>
<h3>Charleston SC Photography Studio</h3>
<p>I own and operate a portrait photography studio in Charleston, SC. Charleston South Carolina is the birthplace of my photography business and where I discovered and refined my love for studio portraiture. Studio Sixty Reid, named after a location where I created some of my favorite early portrait work, is a natural light and flash photography portrait studio right in the heart of Downtown Charleston. The studio is in a prime location, just a short walk from bustling king street and features solid color seamless backdrops, clean white walls, a mid century styled section for lifestyle photography shoots and enough space to create custom sets for your portrait and editorial photography projects. </p>
<h3>Northern Michigan Photography Studio - Traverse City</h3>
<p>I spend most of my Summer in Northern Michigan, 45 minutes south of Traverse City. I run an in home studio, under the same name of Studio Sixty Reid, in my lakefront family cottage. The studio features natural light and flash photography capabilities and has beautiful lake front views in the small town of Bear Lake Michigan. My Bear Lake studio is where I first set up a portrait studio, and first developed my love for flash photography and shooting film with strobes. </p>
<h2>Learn more about Brian D Smith Film Wedding Photographer and Studio Portrait Photography</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/studio-portraits/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/studio-portraits/">Brian D Smith Photography Studio Portrait Portfolio and Information</a></span></p>
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<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></p>
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<p><span></span><em>FROM BRIAN D SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY</em></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the portrait photography studio services I offer. I have poratrait studio locations in Charleston SC and Traverse City Michigan. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and tell your story through intentional and creative portraiture. I photograph Branding Portraits, Bridal and Wedding Portraits, Heirloom Portraits, Boudoir, and Creative / Editorial Portraiture and Fashion in studio. I celebrate all people, LGBTQ and straight. I celebrate all races and backgrounds, and there isn't a soul in this world that doesn't have an inspiring story to be told. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Studio Portrait Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>A Kiawah Island Beach Storm Captured on 35mm Film2020-09-03T21:29:56+00:002024-03-28T12:00:07+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/09-03-20/<h2>35mm Film Lifestyle Documentary of Good Friends and A Charleston Beach Trip</h2>
<p>A threatening storm rolled in on our beach trip to Charleston's Kiawah Island and cut our day short, but produced some breathtaing clouds and intense wind. Featuring Olly, my girl, and some new friends. </p>
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<p><img alt="nikon fm3a and kodak gold 200 35mm film portrait of girl and dog running on kiawah island beach" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/weekly/2008-bear-lake-summer-kodak-gold-35mm-film-lifestyle-00073_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>Film Stock and Camera Gear Used</h2>
<p>All images were shot on my Nikon Fm3a, 50mm F1.2 AIS lens, and Kodak Gold 200 35mm film</p>
<h2>See More Weekly Documentary Projects and Lifestyle Photography</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/weekly/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/weekly/">Brian D Smith Photography Weekly Lifestyle Blog</a></span></p>
<h2>Learn more about Brian D Smith Photography</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Portrait, Wedding, Editorial and Branding Photography</a></span></p>
<p>~~ ~~</p>
<p><span></span></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in editorial, lifestyle<span> </span>and portrait photography. I operate a photography studio in Charleston SC and Traverse City Michigan. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina, Northern Michigan, or any destination abroad. LGBTQ supporter and firm believer in the cause for all races to fight for equal rights. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Lifestyle Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Using Pushed and Expired 35mm Film for Grainy Black and White Studio Portraits2020-08-24T17:33:04+00:002024-03-28T13:56:53+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/using-pushed-and-expired-35mm-film-for-grainy-black-and-white-studio-portraits/<h2>About the Creative 35mm Film Portrait Project in Charleston SC</h2>
<p></p>
<p>Brandy and I have photographed many times before, but these portraits came out something extra special. We tried 4 or 5 different portrait setups on the day, and this was the last lighting setup in my Charleston SC portrait studio. I had seen an image recently of a spotlit face where the body sort of blended into the backdrop and wanted to try something similar, incorporating my love for grainy film. I loaded up my Leica M-A with a roll of 15 year expired Fuji Acros 400. I metered the film, for the highlights, at 800 and had my photo lab push it 1 stop in post. </p>
<h3>Shooting 35mm Film with off Camera Lighting</h3>
<p>I find that 35mm film often requires me to meter for the highlights. Most of the time, in fact, when I shoot film in studio, I am metering with my meter tilted up toward my light source. I work a lot with off camera constant lights and strobes. This gives me a more direct light source and in my experience, I have gotten very blown out highlights when metering shadows in studio, as would normally be my process for outdoor portraiture. So, I metered with my Sekonic L-558 positioned in front of the model's face and pointed toward the light source. </p>
<h3>Shooting and Metering Expired 35mm Film</h3>
<p>Generally, when shooting expired film, I will meter at least a stop over. So, I would typically have rated this 400 iso film at 200 iso. However, my intended result was different for this project. I wanted crushed shadows, deep blacks and tons of grain. So, I decided to go against convention and treated it like fresh film, while also pushing it a stop in development. So, the film was treated as 400 +1, rated at 800 iso while shooting. </p>
<h3>About My Lighting Setup for the 35mm Film Studio Portraits</h3>
<p>I used a pretty strange lighting configuration for this project. I set up my LED light and positioned it, bare bulb, with only the flash tube surround/bounce pointed directly at the models face about 2.5 feet from her. My light was angle up 45 degrees and about 60 degrees off center, nearing complete side lighting. Still, however, there was more light spill than I wanted. In order to reduce the light spill, I needed a snoot. I don't own a snoot. So, I made one by cutting open a cereal box and wrapping the cardboard around the light housing in a tube shape. This narrowed my beam and focused it like a spotlight on the face. The light was a bit intense, in terms of light quality, so I took a white t shirt and covered the tube opening, holding it on with a rubber band. It was now exactly like I wanted it!</p>
<p><img alt="pushed and expired 35mm film studio portrait of girl in black and white in charleston sc portrait studio" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/brandy-grainy-bnw/1911-charleston-studio-fuji-acros-400-pushed-film-35mm-dramatic-portraits-black-and-white-00012_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h2>The Results of Shooting Pushed and Expired 35mm Film in Studio</h2>
<p>Honestly, I was blown away when I got the film back. I introduced so many new variables into this shoot: shooting expired 35mm film in studio, pushing expired film, using spot lights with film. These studio portraits turned out so much better than I ever could have imagined. Honestly, the unknown and the wait of seeing results on film has done more to encourage experimentation in my photography than just about aything else. It is too easy to chase perfection or to quickly write off lighting setups or techniques when shooting digital because of the instant preview. It's always important to remember that digital is such a blank canvas and the images require so much post to fulfill a vision. So, sometimes the lighting might be exactly what you need to achieve the finished product, but since it doesn't meet the initial expectation in RAW form, you move on. </p>
<p><img alt="grainy 35mm black and white film portrait of a girl in studio against a black savage seamless paper backdrop" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/brandy-grainy-bnw/1911-charleston-studio-fuji-acros-400-pushed-film-35mm-dramatic-portraits-black-and-white-00024_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="grainy black and white female studio portrait pose with spotlight on face using expired and pushed 35mm black and white film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/brandy-grainy-bnw/1911-charleston-studio-fuji-acros-400-pushed-film-35mm-dramatic-portraits-black-and-white-00003_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h2>Portrait Photography Studio Locations - Studio Sixty Reid</h2>
<h3>Charleston SC Photography Studio</h3>
<p>I own and operate a portrait photography studio in Charleston, SC. Charleston South Carolina is the birthplace of my photography business and where I discovered and refined my love for studio portraiture. Studio Sixty Reid, named after a location where I created some of my favorite early portrait work, is a natural light and flash photography portrait studio right in the heart of Downtown Charleston. The studio is in a prime location, just a short walk from bustling king street and features solid color seamless backdrops, clean white walls, a mid century styled section for lifestyle photography shoots and enough space to create custom sets for your portrait and editorial photography projects. </p>
<h3>Northern Michigan Photography Studio - Traverse City</h3>
<p>I spend most of my Summer in Northern Michigan, 45 minutes south of Traverse City. I run an in home studio, under the same name of Studio Sixty Reid, in my lakefront family cottage. The studio features natural light and flash photography capabilities and has beautiful lake front views in the small town of Bear Lake Michigan. My Bear Lake studio is where I first set up a portrait studio, and first developed my love for flash photography and shooting film with strobes. </p>
<h2>Learn More About Shooting Film in Studio</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/category/forphotographers/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/category/forphotographers/">For Photographers - Brian D Smith Photography's Tips, Film Techniques, and How-Tos</a></span></p>
<h2>Learn more about Brian D Smith Studio Portrait Photography</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/studio-portraits/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/studio-portraits/">Brian D Smith Photography Studio Portrait Portfolio and Information</a></span></p>
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<p><span></span><em>FROM BRIAN D SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY</em></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the portrait photography studio services I offer. I have poratrait studio locations in Charleston SC and Traverse City Michigan. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and tell your story through intentional and creative portraiture. I photograph Branding Portraits, Bridal and Wedding Portraits, Heirloom Portraits, Boudoir, and Creative / Editorial Portraiture and Fashion in studio. I celebrate all people, LGBTQ and straight. I celebrate all races and backgrounds, and there isn't a soul in this world that doesn't have an inspiring story to be told. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Studio Portrait Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Family and 4th of July in Northern Michigan Documentary on Film2020-08-16T14:31:41+00:002024-03-28T11:52:12+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/07-04-20/<h2>4th of July Fun and Why I Document my Family on Film</h2>
<p>My family all gathers at our lake cottage in Bear Lake Michigan every year around 4th of July. My sister and her husband weren't able to join us this year, but with 2 nephews, it's always a rambunctious time and I always have plenty to photograph. I always photograph the family on film. When I shoot digital, I tend to shoot more and then the thought of editing all those images from scratch becomes so daunting and I never end up doing it. With film, I slow down, shoot more conciously and can 1 click edit the images when I get the film scans back. This year I brought out my favorite camera, my Hasselblad 202FA with a roll or two of Portra 800 film and my trusty old favorite Nikon FM3a with Kodak Gold 200. The presence of a 6x6 medium format image is hard to ignore and I just find it so visually pleasing. 35mm film just screams summer to me. It reminds me of childhood and carries a certain nostalgia with it. Film has a permanence about it which makes it the perfect medium for capturing something so fleeting as life. </p>
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<p><img alt="documentary family photograph on a lake in michigan on kodak portra 800 film with hasselblad 202fa" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/weekly/2007-bear-lake-michigan-family-kodak-gold-portra-800-film-00028_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>See More Weekly Documentary Projects and Lifestyle Photography</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/weekly/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/weekly/">Brian D Smith Photography Weekly Lifestyle Blog</a></span></p>
<h2>Learn more about Brian D Smith Photography</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Portrait, Wedding, Editorial and Branding Photography</a></span></p>
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<p><span></span></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in editorial, lifestyle<span> </span>and portrait photography. I operate a photography studio in Charleston SC and Traverse City Michigan. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina, Northern Michigan, or any destination abroad. LGBTQ supporter and firm believer in the cause for all races to fight for equal rights. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Lifestyle<span> </span>Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Film Wedding Photography at West Michigan's Felt Mansion2020-08-04T10:22:44+00:002024-03-28T06:49:36+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/film-wedding-photography-at-west-michigans-felt-mansion/<h2>About the West Michigan Wedding Editorial at Felt Mansion</h2>
<p>Felt Mansion was the first stop for Emily of Connolly House Events and I on a 5 day road trip through Michigan, touring the most stand out wedding venues that the state has to offer. Emily and I both share a passion for elevating Michigan wedding style and fashion and when we had the opportunity to piece together an editorial on our road trip, we took the opportunity to showcase some fashionable Michigan love. A real couple, killer native Michigan florals, artful hair and makeup, a classic dress silhouette and brilliant vision came together on a sunny West Michigan evening. The result became some of my most effortlessly romantic bride and groom portraits to date - all shot on 35mm and medium format film. </p>
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<p><img alt="felt mansion wedding portrait photography by brian d smith photography with out of focus bride and groom on 35mm film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/connolly-felt/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00054_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>The West Michigan Wedding Vendor Team</h3>
<p>Photography: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Photography</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/</a></span></p>
<p>Planning + Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.connollyhouseevents.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.connollyhouseevents.com/">Connolly House Events</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/connollyhouseevents/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/connollyhouseevents/">https://www.instagram.com/connollyhouseevents/</a></span></p>
<p>Floral Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.cassandjean.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.cassandjean.com/">Cass and Jean Flower Co.</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/cass_and_jeanflowerco/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/cass_and_jeanflowerco/">https://www.instagram.com/cass_and_jeanflowerco/</a></span></p>
<p>Venue: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.feltmansion.org/" target="_blank" title="https://www.feltmansion.org/">Felt Mansion</a></span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/eventsatfelt/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/eventsatfelt/">https://www.instagram.com/eventsatfelt/</a></span></p>
<p>Hair + Makeup Artist: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://wildemeraldbridal.com/" target="_blank" title="http://wildemeraldbridal.com/">Wild Emerald Bridal</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/wild.emerald.bridal/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/wild.emerald.bridal/">https://www.instagram.com/wild.emerald.bridal/</a></span></p>
<p>Dress Boutique: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.springsweet.com/bridal" target="_blank" title="http://www.springsweet.com/bridal">Spring Sweet Bridal</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/springsweetbridal/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/springsweetbridal/">https://www.instagram.com/springsweetbridal/</a></span></p>
<p>Couple: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/jess_brinks/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/jess_brinks/">https://www.instagram.com/jess_brinks/</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mynameisjaroldo/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/mynameisjaroldo/">https://www.instagram.com/mynameisjaroldo/</a></span></p>
<h3>About The Michigan Wedding Couple</h3>
<p>Jessica and Jared met while studying at the IIT Institute of Design in Chicago. Both are charasmatic, ethusiastic entrepreneurs - their first extensive formal encounter being at a mentorship program for creative minds in business at the college. Jessica is sophisticated and classic. Jared is a renaissance type man. They are a power couple in the most figurative sense of the phrase. Most importantly, they genuinely love eachother and in an outwardly expressive way. They are quiet in demeanor and expressions of affection but I felt every pause, every whisper and every gaze come through in the imagery. There is a quiet poeticism to their love, and I'm not sure I've ever seen it so well reflected in photographs as I did in this michigan wedding editorial. Love is bountiful and plentiful in the world, but it is a rare thing to find a love with such a deep sense of affection and appreciation for one another. This editorial just happened to correspond with the 1 year anniversary of their wedding and I'm so happy to capture their love still going strong after this trip around the sun. I very much want to thank Jared and his affectionate little wing nut for being such cool, romantic souls. </p>
<p><img alt="bride and groom portrait on medium format kodak film at west michigan wedding venue felt mansion" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/connolly-felt/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00046_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="35mm film photograph of bride and wedding dress at sunset at felt mansion by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/connolly-felt/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00065_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>Why I Love West Michigan Wedding Venue - Felt Mansion</h2>
<p>Felt Mansion is a dynamic wedding venue with rich history. In the 3 hours we were shooting, I never ran out of unique backdrops for portraits. The venue, itself, features beautiful architecture and a ceremony location the likes of which I have never seen. The grounds it sits on backs up to a sprawling golden grass field - my favorite nature marvel in all of Michigan. I longingly gaze out on its golden grass fields during my long car rides through the state and whenever I have the chance to photograph amongst them, I'm in a wedding photographer's paradise. The inside of the property is well curated and serves as a museum to the mansion's original state when it was a home to a welathy investor - before being gifted to the state. Felt Mansion brilliantly combines historic, romantic architecture (almost remniscent of detroit) with the idyllic beauty of western and northern Michigan, all in one wedding venue. I could photograph here for hours and never get bored of the scenery and never run out of new spots to photograph...and we didn't even have the chance to photograph inside! </p>
<p>If you'd like to see a detailed tour of the interior and exterior of the property, and a tour of all my favorite Michigan wedding venues, check out Connolly House Events and I's blog post from our <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/5-days-and-a-tour-of-michigans-best-wedding-venues/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/5-days-and-a-tour-of-michigans-best-wedding-venues/">5 Day Road Trip To the Best Michigan Wedding Venues</a></span>.</p>
<p><img alt="black and white film portrait of bride and groom at felt mansion wedding by brian d smith photography on hasselblad and kodak t-max 400" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/connolly-felt/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00011_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>Why You Should Hire Me For Your Felt Mansion Wedding</h2>
<p>I like to let the images speak for themselves. In my blogpost about <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/5-days-and-a-tour-of-michigans-best-wedding-venues/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/5-days-and-a-tour-of-michigans-best-wedding-venues/">Michigan's Best Wedding Venues</a></span>, I touched on all the beautiful styling details and history of the venue that I loved. I love that it stands for something greater than just a venue to make a profit. It stands for preservation and history and I think that is such a romantic backdrop for something as timeless as marriage. I'm genuinely proud of the images we created here. I'm proud of this team and I think they are my most romantic couple's portraits to date. The venue let me inspired and I think it shines through in the images and I'd love to see what I can create for you at your wedding. I still feel like there are so many spots on the property that I have yet to explore. I shoot entirely on film, 35mm and medium format. It's the perfect medium for showcasing that beautiful, golden Michigan light. Most importantly, no one will work harder to tell your story in a unique way that showcases who you are in the greater context of this property. Art through storytelling is always most important to me when photographing anything and I promise you we will create something equally beautiful as these images, but alltogether, entirely different. Importantly, I am committed to any kind of love and any love story. I celebrate all couples, LGBTQ, all races, all religions and believe so deeply in the right of everyone to pursue happiness and love to their fullest extent. </p>
<p><img alt="felt mansion wedding portrait on 35mm film by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith of couple in golden field" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/connolly-felt/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00056_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Felt Mansion Ceremony Locations</h3>
<p>Here are the two most popular ceremony locations at Felt Mansion, West Michigan wedding venue. The first location is a long walkway out to a circular platform surrounded by a reflecting pond. The beautiful evergreen backing, pink flowers greeting you at the entrance to the pool, and long isolated walkway make this such a unique spot to say I do in Michigan.</p>
<p><img alt="wedding ceremony location at felt mansion in west michigan of bride and groom on medium format film with pink flowers" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/connolly-felt/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00111_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The second location features an adorable white church atop a small hill facing West Michigan's gorgeous, golden grass fields. </p>
<p><img alt="bride and groom in front of church ceremony location at felt mansion best michigan wedding venue by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/connolly-felt/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00097_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Check out these amazing florals! Wild Flowers local to West Michigan, too.</p>
<p><img alt="michigan florist bouquet with wild flowers on 35mm film by brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/connolly-felt/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00009_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Michigan light and film go so perfectly together with timeless, affectionate love. </p>
<p><img alt="michigan wedding photographer portrait on medium format film at felt mansion by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/connolly-felt/2006-felt-mansion-michigan-wedding-editorial-film-photography-brian-d-smith-00080_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<p><span></span><em>FROM BRIAN D SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY</em></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the wedding photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in wedding photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your wedding and tell your unique story with an artful eye. I celebrate all couples, LGBTQ and straight. I celebrate all races and backgrounds, and there isn't a soul in this world that doesn't have an inspiring story to be told. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Destination Engagement Session at Middleton Place in Charleston SC2020-07-09T09:30:51+00:002024-03-28T11:21:37+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/destination-engagement-session-at-middleton-place-in-charleston-sc/<h2>About the Engaged Couple - Katy and Ryan</h2>
<p>I can't speak highly enough of Katy and Ryan. My career as a Charleston wedding photographer is young, and anyone with any honesty will tell you that the moments when you find your ideal client are rare - especially early on. From the moment I spoke with Katy on the phone she mentioned her love for my film work, her love for the imperfect and artistic and her appreciation for me having my own unique style and voice. Oh...and she wanted me to shoot polaroids at her wedding and was looking into Super 8 film videographers, which if you know me you know that tugs at my heart. The wedding industry can be filled with polished perfection and idealized fairytales and any time I connect with someone that appreciates the imperfections in storytelling, I know we're connected on something deeper. </p>
<p><img alt="charleston sc engagement session portrait on kodak film with a hasselblad 202fa in front of inn" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/katy-ryan/2006-katy-ryan-middleton-summer-charleston-engagement-session-kodak-film-00083_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>When someone puts that much faith and trust in what you do as a storyteller, artist and wedding photographer it allows you to let go of any inhibitions and thoughts of what you should create and produce the work you are inspired to do. This is the feeling I had with Katy and Ryan for their Charleston Engagement Session. So, I left my digital gear in the car and brought along 3 film cameras, medium format and 35mm, and went to work documenting a beautfiul story of two kind and cool people. </p>
<p><img alt="charleston engagement session at middleton place on 35mm film with bride in red sun dress and groom in blazerin " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/katy-ryan/2006-katy-ryan-middleton-summer-charleston-engagement-session-kodak-film-00031_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="charleston engagement portrait on black and white kodak film at middleton place with a hasselblad 202fa" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/katy-ryan/2006-katy-ryan-middleton-summer-charleston-engagement-session-kodak-film-00014_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h3>Their Destination Wedding Story and Why Charleston for Engagement Photos</h3>
<p>Katy and Ryan are getting married in Virginia, live in Indiana and drove all the way down to Charleston for their engagement session. We had been trying to plan the engagement photos for quite some time but travel restrictions with Covid kept putting a damper on that plan and causing flights to get cancelled. With the wedding tentatively scheduled a month and a half away, Katy and Ryan decided to pack up the car and make the long drive to Charleston - all just to have their engagement photos taken in my beautiful hometown :). We were undecided on location, leaning towards downtown, until Katy messaged me that they were staying at the beautiful Middleton Place Inn. She loved the property so much, so we decided to do the whole shoot at Middleton. This was perfect for me because Middleton is my favorite venue. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/colorful-fall-middleton-place-destination-wedding-in-charleston-sc/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/colorful-fall-middleton-place-destination-wedding-in-charleston-sc/">Fall Middleton Place Wedding in Charleston SC</a></span></p>
<p><img alt="destination wedding photographer engagement session portrait on kodak portra 800 film at Middleton Place " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/katy-ryan/2006-katy-ryan-middleton-summer-charleston-engagement-session-kodak-film-00061_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="engagement photography by brian d smith photography at middleton place in charleston sc on kodak medium format film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/katy-ryan/2006-katy-ryan-middleton-summer-charleston-engagement-session-kodak-film-00104_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h3>Super 8 Film Surprise</h3>
<p>I had been pursuing super 8 for quite some time, but never quite managed to get a working camera. A few weeks before Katy and Ryan's engagement session, I received a camera from Germany. It appeared to be in working order, but I wasn't quite certain. I so badly wanted to surprise Katy with a little engagement short film shot on super 8 film. So, I brought the camera along, loaded up some black and white film and hoped for the best! Needless to say, she was thrilled and I was so filled with joy to give them this surprise. It turned out better than I ever could have imagined. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://vimeo.com/433233764" target="_blank" title="https://vimeo.com/433233764">Charleston SC Engagement Video on Super 8 Film</a></span></p>
<p></p>
<h2>Why do I only shoot film for engagement sessions</h2>
<p>Engagement sessions are the perfect opportunity to experiment and to push the art of photography and storytelling. There is less pressure than a wedding day, and the relaxed schedule allows you to slow down and take your time creating. I push myself to shoot more and more film every day and with every story I tell as a wedding photographer, but sometimes the pace or conditions of a wedding day make digital the better option. Engagement sessions are the perfect opportunity for me to leave the digital gear at home and better myself as a film photographer so I can make my way toward the dream of shooting 100% film at weddings. There is in tangible, romantic quality to film. It feels permanent. It feels instant, much like the fleeting moments and subtle expressions of affection that make love so beautiful. </p>
<p><img alt="hasselblad portrait on kodak film of engaged couple in charleston south carolina at middleton place in hammock" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/katy-ryan/2006-katy-ryan-middleton-summer-charleston-engagement-session-kodak-film-00131_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>My Love For Black and White Film</h3>
<p>I just recently started developing my own black and white film and it rekindled my love for dramatic, black and white portraiture. I try to shoot at least one roll of Kodak Tri-x or T-max at every session. </p>
<p><img alt="black and white portrait of a bride on engagement session on kodak tmax 400 film with crazy bokeh" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/katy-ryan/2006-katy-ryan-middleton-summer-charleston-engagement-session-kodak-film-00070_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="black and white film portrait of groom in charleston sc with hasselblad 202fa and 110mm F2 wide open" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/katy-ryan/2006-katy-ryan-middleton-summer-charleston-engagement-session-kodak-film-00068_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Also, black and white just can't be beat for movement and capturing pure feeling</p>
<p><img alt="motion blur film portrait in black and white at middleton place in charleston sc" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/katy-ryan/2006-katy-ryan-middleton-summer-charleston-engagement-session-kodak-film-00125_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="black and white portrait of couple during engagement session on kodak film at middleton place in charleston sc" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/katy-ryan/2006-katy-ryan-middleton-summer-charleston-engagement-session-kodak-film-00016_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h2>Learn more Film Wedding Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/weddings/charleston-weddings/">Brian D Smith Photography Charleston Wedding Photography Portfolio and Information</a></span></p>
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<p><span></span></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a wedding photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in editorial<span> </span>and portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina, Northern Michigan, or any destination abroad.</span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Charleston Wedding Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Traveling Through Germany and Austria on 35mm and Medium Format Film2020-06-15T10:21:48+00:002024-03-28T12:34:59+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/traveling-through-germany-and-austria-on-35mm-and-medium-format-film/<h2>About the Trip Through Austria and Germany</h2>
<p>This trip started with an impromptu booking when my friend and I got a notification for a cheap flight to Europe out of Charleston SC. This is a pretty rare occurance, so when it happens, we usually snatch them up pretty quick. My friend and I are both photographers, so our schedules tend to be pretty flexible, especially in the off season for weddings. We called up our other photographer friend and an additional friend on top of that and the trip was booked. We were set to fly into Berlin in early March and stay for 2 weeks, traveling through Germany and the Dolemites of Italy. </p>
<p><img alt="burner first of the roll frame of a mountain in austria through a leica m-a 35mm film camera with kodak film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00020_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Unfortunately, the start of our trip coincided with the western spread of Covid-19. A week before our trip, it was announced that Italy was on lockdown at the borders. We decided to still fly into Germany, travel down through Bavaria and into Munich, then head into Austria and do some mountain hiking and snowboarding. We brought along plenty of hand sanitizer as a precaution, along with some clorox wipes for the plane. The virus hadn't quite spread significantly in Germany yet, and we would be spending most of our time in small mountain towns, so we weren't too worried. </p>
<p><img alt="hand sanitizer on kodak film during covid-19 travel to europe" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00121_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h2>What Cities in Germany and Austria Did We Travel To?</h2>
<p>We flew into Berlin and spent 2 full days there visiting art museums and exploring the food scene. We had a rental car, so it was quite easy to get around. After berlin, we drove down through Bavaria and stopped in the Oberpfalz region in search of <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zoigl" target="_blank" title="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zoigl">Zoigl Bier</a></span>. It's the only place in the world you can get the beer, so for a couple of beer enthusiasts it was a must stop. We then proceeded on to Munich for more museums and potentially some mountain hikes. The weather prevented us from doing some of the hikes we had intended on, but we still got to enjoy Munich's traditionally Bavarian food scene and visit it's museums. We then made our way to Austria where we stopped in Innsbruck for a few days of eating, drinking and hiking. Next was two days of snowboarding in Kitzbuhel that was cut short to one because of our concerns for Covid. It was at this point that travel restrictions were beginning to be announced. We packed up and headed to Halstatt, which was our intended next stop anyway. While in Halstatt, we started to plan our exit back to the states. We initially had planned to spend 2 days in Prague, but we decided to cut the trip short, and I am glad we did. We crossed over the Austria-Germany border just 10 hours before they closed it down. </p>
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<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="germany mountain view with 3 friends traveling in bavaria on kodak portra 160 film shot with leica m-a" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00097_web.jpg" width="600"/></span></p>
<p></p>
<h2>Germany Travel Highlights and Favorite Cities</h2>
<p>I was so so excited to travel to Germany. I took German for 7 years in school and used to speak the language quite well. It's been a dream of mine to travel there and finally be able to practice my language skills. We flew into Berlin with the plan of experiencing the city's art scene. I enjoyed Berlin. The museums were wonderful, but there was something about the grunginess of the city that I didn't quite like. The highlight of Berlin, for me and my friends, was <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.koeniggalerie.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.koeniggalerie.com/">The Konig Gallerie</a></span>. The museum was hard to find, and I think my friends thought I was making it up. It is situated, seemingly randomly, in an apartment complex with little signage marking it's existance. Inside, it is pretty minimalist, so you likely won't spend a lot of time there, but I highly recommend spending a solid 30 minutes just sitting in there. The entire building is constructed of conrete and is an acoustic masterpiece. I've never experienced anything like it in my life. It's hard to explain, but you can hear the silence - that's the best way I can explain it. </p>
<p></p>
<p><img alt="favorite german museum the konig gallerie museum in berlin germany on kodak gold 200 film with contax t3" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/46834_23_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Berlin Museums and Art Culture</h3>
<p>We visited several other museums in Germany like The Jewish Museum and the Hamburger Banhof. They were wonderful and are certainly worth a visit. For me, however, Germany was highlighted by the food and beer. We consumed a lot of beer in Germany and it was such a treat to taste all of the local styles of beer, actually in the regions of the world in which they were brewed. </p>
<p><img alt="3 liter beers in a brew hall in germany on kodak gold 200 film with contax t3" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00126_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://nano-kaffee.de/" target="_blank" title="https://nano-kaffee.de/">NANO KAFFEE BERLIN</a></span>! One of my favorite coffee shops I have ever been to. The aesthetic is pretty minimal but the coffee is nothing shy of fantastic. It was the second best espresso I have ever had in my life (the first, strangely being in Mallorca). We went to the coffee shop a total of 3 times in 2 days and consumed multiple beverages each time we were there. Their Costa Rican was one of the most complex cups of coffee I have ever had. I brought a bag home with me in my backpack. </p>
<p><img alt="nano kaffee berlin on kodak portra 400 film with leica m-a 35mm camera" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00072_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The Berlin Wall - It took a while for me to appreciate this one to it's fullest. We traversed the whole standing length of the wall, initially just admiring the amazing street art covering the remains. Eventually, however, the historical significance of it began to set in and you truly appreciate that it was only 70 years ago that this wall separated and divided an entire city / world. </p>
<p><img alt="berlin wall street art on black and white kodak tri x pushed medium format film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00043_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.visitberlin.de/en/memorial-murdered-jews-europe" target="_blank" title="https://www.visitberlin.de/en/memorial-murdered-jews-europe">Jewish Holocaust Memorial Berlin</a></span> - This was the most sobering and somber experiene of the trip. I knew of the memorial's existence, but wasn't quite prepared for the emotional impact it has on you. It's an emersive, art experience that truly overwhelms you with it's size and complexity. We spend quite a bit of time just wanedering through it's maze of pillars, constructed in memorium of all the millions of Jews that lost their lives during the holocaust. For me, this is a must visit. It's such an important historical event, and I think everyone should visit for a reminder of just how quickly societies can devlove into genocide. </p>
<p><img alt="berlin germany holocaust memorial on black and white 35mm film " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00153_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Munich was amazing in it's traditional Bavarian charm</h3>
<p>It was certainly more picturesque than Berlin and had more of that Bavarian charm, while still feeling like a very international city. The highlights from Munich were a few museums, one being related to the Holocaust, and all of the traditional Bavarian food and beer halls. The image below was taken in <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.pinakothek.de/en/visit/sammlung-moderne-kunst-der-pinakothek-der-moderne" target="_blank" title="https://www.pinakothek.de/en/visit/sammlung-moderne-kunst-der-pinakothek-der-moderne">Die Pinakotheken Moderne</a></span> - Modern Art Museum in Munich Germany. I LOVED this museum. It was a nice mix of moern, contemporary art in the well known sense - like Andy Warhol and such. It also featured a lot of really amazing art pieces constructed out of industrial housewares and furniture that I found to be quite beautiful. </p>
<p><img alt="black and white film portrait of 3 friends in munich industrial modern art museum" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00035_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The building's architecture was stunning!</p>
<p><img alt="die pinakothek museum of modern art in munich germany architecture on black and white film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00044_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Me and my Zeiss Ikon Ikoflex Favorit camera on pushed tri x film. </p>
<p><img alt="self portrait on black and white kodak tri x film with zeiss tlr in die pinakothek museum in munich germany" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00040_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h2>Austria Travel Highlights and Favorite Cities</h2>
<p>The highlight of Austria was it's beauty. Every town, even the smallest of towns, was clean and surrounded by mountains. The country is one of the most beautiful I have ever been to. So much of our trip was just spend pulling over for vistas traveling between our major destinations, like this mountainous lanscape, below, where we stopped off and made some sandwiches and had a few beers. </p>
<p><img alt="austria landscape on kodak portra 160 35mm film of mountain shot with leica m-a" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00017_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Skiing and Snowboarding in Kitzbuhel</h3>
<p>We spent a day snowboarding and skiing in the bavarian alps of Kitzbuhel. It was a surprisingly hot 70 degree day, so the weather was far from ideal for skiing, but the snow was still decent and the mountain was beautiful. The resort was the highest rated in Austria and for good reason. The views are amazing an there is a nice variety of slopes, from beginner to advanced. </p>
<p><img alt="oakley ski goggles on snowboarder sitting on mountain in Kitzbuhel austria captured on 35mm film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00104_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="kitzhubel ski resort on medium format kodak portra 800 film at top of mountain resort" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00008_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The mountains were so dynamic and seemingly everywhere. This stunning sunrise view was captured in Halstatt. Halstatt was really beautiful, but I think only deserving of a quick stop through, maybe a full day. It is pretty touristy, but the view is so unique that it's a must stop through on your journey. </p>
<p><img alt="halstatt lake view during sunrise on medium format kodak film overlooking lake and mountains" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00052_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>This was another quick pull off the side of the road shot, where the sky was setting so beautifully over one of Austria's mountainous valleys. </p>
<p><img alt="single cloud hovering over austrian valley with pink and blue cotton candy sky on kodak portra 800 medium format film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00047_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Innsbruck</h3>
<p>Inssbruck was beautiful, even though avalanche blasting kept us from being able to experience the high elevation hike that we had intended to. We found plenty to explore, however, and it's a surprsingly industrious and bustling town with good food and coffee. </p>
<p>The city was surrounded by mountains</p>
<p><img alt="innsbruck river with mountain on kodak portra 160 35mm film shot through leica m-a film camera and summilux 50mm lens" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00095_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>This image was captured at the highest point we could get to during our stay. Shot on Kodak portra 160 35mm film with my Leica m-a and Summilux 50mm F1.4 lens. </p>
<p><img alt="35mm kodak film landscape photograph of mountains in Innsbruck austria" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00096_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h2>Photography Gear and Equipment Used During my Travels</h2>
<p>I traveled with only film cameras and my iphone for a few digital snaps. I travel light...like really light. I only bring a backpack with me and that needs to fit clothes for 2 weeks and all my cameras and film - so portability is a big factor in deciding what cameras to bring. I settled on the following cameras for my trip:</p>
<h3><br/>Contax T3 - The Ultimate Travel 35mm Film Camera</h3>
<p>My Contax T3 goes with me everywhere - no question. It's too small not to take. I don't use it as my primary camera, as I like a little more control over exposure and composition, but it never fails me. Exposure is always spot on and it fits in my pocket. I typically load it up with consumer film like Kodak Gold 200 for this trip. It's perfect for wider shots with it's 35mm lens and for quick grabs of my friends and I, especially with it's built in flash. </p>
<p><img alt="contax t3 film selfie in mirror on kodak gold 200 film in germany" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00028_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Leica M-A and Leica Summilux 50mm F1.4 Lens for Travel</h3>
<p>This is my favorite camera/lens combination (that and my hasselblad). I shoot it all with this camera. I photograph portraits and take it with me traveling. It's compact, though not very light, and the lens is so sharp that often times I don't even need medium format. I LOVE the colors of 35mm film. It has a classic feel and rendering that I just don't get with medium format, so I tend to shoot more 35mm when I travel. </p>
<p><img alt="wind farm in berlin germany on kodak portra 400 film shot with leica m-a" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00074_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>Zeiss Ikon Ikoflex Favorit and Portra 800 and Tri X Film</h3>
<p>I brought along my Zeiss TLR for medium format. It's relatively small and I just love using the camera. Something about viewing the world through a TLR is so classic and enjoyable. I brought along this camera as my 'experimental' camera. I loaded it up, initially, with two rolls of pushed Tri X 120 film for some high contrast black and white film shots, then shot Kodak Portra 800 medium format film the rest of the trip. I love the look of underexposed film, so I rated the film at box speed of 800 iso and tended toward underexposure if I was between meter readings. Portra 800 loves light, so it can look muddy sometimes when rating it at box speed, which is precisely what I wanted. </p>
<p><img alt="underexposed portra 800 medium format film shot in halstatt austria with zeiss tlr" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/germany-austria/2003-germany-austria-travel-kodak-film-leica-m-a-zeiss-tlr-00002_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h2>Learn more about Brian D Smith Photography</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/">Destination Portrait, Wedding and Travel Photographer - Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></p>
<p></p>
<h3>Follow My Travels on Instagram</h3>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thesmithbrian/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/thesmithbrian/">@thesmithbrian on Instagram</a></span></p>
<p></p>
<h2>For More Adventures on Film Check out My Travel Blog</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/category/travel/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/category/travel/">Brian D Smith Photography Travel and Film Documentaries</a></span></p>
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<p><span></span></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about travel and telling stories on film. Travel became a priority for me when I left my engineering career to pursue photography and in the few short years that I have been in business, I've been to over 2 dozen countries around the world. I travel only with film, and find the permanence of the medium perfect for capturing life's memories and advanture. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or adventure anywhere in the world. No destination is off limits. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Destination Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Photographing The Ring Road on Iceland with 35mm and Medium Format Film2020-05-12T21:14:21+00:002024-03-28T14:00:59+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/photographing-the-ring-road-on-iceland-with-35mm-and-medium-format-film/<h2>About My Travels Through Iceland - The Earth's Other Planet</h2>
<p>My trip to Iceland was scheduled as a result of a clever layover on the way back from a trip through continental Scandanavia. As a professional photographer, and an avid user of instagram, I'd clearly seen a my fare share of Iceland images. It almost seemed like a foregone conclusion that it was a place I'd soon visit. Iceland was the last leg of a 4 week solo trip, and what was the third travel adventure I'd took part in since I left my engineering career behind and dedicated my life to photography. </p>
<p><img alt="iceland mountain on kodak portra 400 film pushed 1 stop with fuji gf670 portable medium format film camera" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/iceland/2017-film-scandanavia-120_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<p>I rented the smallest rental car I could find, which turns out was a bit sketchy at times, and drove around the entirety of the ring road in search of amazing views and all of Iceland's must sees. The car was a Hyundai i10, and to be honest...I loved it. Iceland is the windiest country in the world (no trees!) and there were times where I was driving around and a gust of wind would nearly knock the car across the road. I drove through 6 inches of snow on some lightly studded tires and climbed and descended icy hills and roads. I white knuckled the entire trip. Honestly, I was genuinely scared at times. I think that's what makes travel experiences so beautiful, though. - the discomfort to reach the reward. All that being said, if you plan to drive around the country rent a bigger car!</p>
<p><img alt="red hyundai i10 in iceland ring road during novemeber with fuji xt2" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/iceland/2017-fuji-xt2-scandanavia-202_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h2>What time of year is best to visit iceland?</h2>
<p>I traveled to Iceland during the early part of Novemeber 2017. Although, it was beautiful and there is just something magical about that low horizon light, I probably wouldn't recommend November as my top month to travel to Iceland. The southern part of the country was beautiful...I mean beautiful! The light was golden and the snow was at a pleasing level, leaving some of Iceland's beautiful colors exposed. Novemeber, however, drenched the north in snow and most of the roads were shut down or too snowed in to traverse. The other downside of Iceland in November was that the sunlight was only available from 10am to 4pm. When you plan on driving around the entire country in a week, that doesn't lead to a lot of time to plan your destinations around otpimal light. Luckily, november light in Iceland is always beautiful, any time of the day. </p>
<p><img alt="iceland kirkjufell mountain on medium format kodak film in november covered in snow on fuji gf670" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/iceland/2017-film-scandanavia-118_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The above image of Kirkjufell was shot at around noon and the light was managable reflecting off the snow. </p>
<p></p>
<h2>What film gear did I bring to photograph Iceland?</h2>
<p>Iceland was my last ever trip that I brought along a digital camera. You might notice that all the images, save for 1 or 2 are film shots. I just prefer the look of film, the process of film and I don't particularly enjoy editing travel photos the second I get home. It's such a thrill to relive the moments when you get film scans back a few weeks later. For this trip I brought along my Fujifilm gf670 medium format, folding film rangefinder, my canon F1n (my first ever 35mm camera) with canon FD 50mm F1.4 lens and my Fuji XT2 with the 16mm F1.4. The XT2 is a lovely travel camera, but I just couldn't fall in love with it and sold it not too long after the trip. </p>
<p><img alt="fujifilm fuji gf670 film camera and canon F1n 35mm film camera traveling through scandanavia" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/iceland/2017-fuji-xt2-scandanavia-44_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The Fuji GF670 is an amazing camera. It was a grail camera for me - a dream. I bought it as a gift to myself when I left my engineering career to pursue photography. I think it is the best medium format film camera for travel. It's not light, but it's so compact, versatile in that it can shoot 6x6 and 6x7 and it has the brightest and best rangefinder I have ever used. If you pack light like I do, you won't ever find a better medium format camera for travel. I'm writing a review of the camera and will post it hear when I do. </p>
<p>My canon F1N was my first 35mm film camera and something essential in my journey as a film photographer. It's beautiful, built like a tank, and I still have it to this day. It has been replaced in my daily lineup for various reasons, but the camera just never let me down and the canon FD lenses are cheap and excellent. It's also a heavy beast and maybe not the best 35mm film camera for travel. There are certainly lighter options. Today, I opt for a Leica M-A and Contax T3 duo to travel with. </p>
<h3>What film stocks did I shoot</h3>
<p>I brought along a few different types of film for this trip - moreso than I usually do because this trip ws at the beginning of my film photography journey and I was still experimenting. For medium format film, I brought along Kodak Portra 400, Kodak Tri-x 400 and Ilford Pan F 50 120 film. I shot all medium format film at box speed except for 1 roll that I pushed 1 stop. This actually turned out to be my 2nd favorite roll of the trip. </p>
<p>For 35mm film, I brought along Kodak Portra 800, Kodak Portra 400 and Tri-x 400. Kodak portra 400 was shot at 200, Portra 800 at 800 and the roll of tri-x was shot at 1600, pushed 2 stops - and it was freaking brilliant. My favorite roll of the trip ended up being a roll of portra 800 35mm film. At the time I got scans back, I didn't really fall in love with it, but years later they are my favorite travel photographs ever. Something about the grain and deep contrast just gave the country some grit and soul. </p>
<p><img alt="iceland sunset in november on kodak portra 800 35mm film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/iceland/2017-film-scandanavia-189_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h2>Where did I stay when I backpacked through Iceland?</h2>
<p>I stayed in Hostels and a few airbnbs the entire time I was in Iceland. Lodging was limited in the colder months, so do try and book everything in advance. This is typically opposed to the way i normall travel, as I don't like to plan, but it all ended up working out quite well. </p>
<p><img alt="iceland hostel loft backpacking and driving around the ring road" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/iceland/2017-fuji-xt2-scandanavia-57_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></p>
<h2>Learn more about Brian D Smith Photography</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Photography Portfolio and Information</a></span></p>
<p>~~ ~~</p>
<p><span></span></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in editorial<span> </span>and portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina, Northern Michigan, or any destination abroad.</span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Film Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>
<h2>My Iceland trip on 35mm film and medium format film</h2>
<p><img alt="snow covered iceland mountain on grainy black and white kodak tri-x 400 35mm film pushed 2 stops at 1600" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/iceland/2017-film-scandanavia-286_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="Kodak portra 400 35mm film with canon F1N photograph of mountain in iceland during winter" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/iceland/2017-film-scandanavia-196_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="kodak portra 800 35mm film image of iceland valley with canon F1N" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/travel/iceland/2017-film-scandanavia-142_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>Sunset Floral Fashion Editorial at Havens Boutique in Charleston South Carolina2020-04-24T19:53:02+00:002024-03-28T10:32:05+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/sunset-floral-fashion-editorial-at-havens-boutique-in-charleston-south-carolina/<h2>Inspiration behind the floral themed Charleston SC boutique fashion editorial </h2>
<p>I was approached by a makeup artist who was working with a florist, whose inspiration was to flower bomb a boutique clothing store in Charleston SC. The makeup artist was inspired to turn the shoot into a fashion editorial and this lookbook was born. Reflections off the windows display a romantic downtown Charleston against the sunset soaked shop on historic King Street. I used my signature dramatic, romantic flair and 35mm film for this Charleston SC editorial. The results, I think, bring some much needed NY fashion and drama to the Charleston Fashion Scene. </p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.havens-chs.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.havens-chs.com/">Havens Charleston Clothing Boutique</a></span></p>
<p>~~ ~~</p>
<p><span></span></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in editorial<span> </span>and portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina, Northern Michigan, or any destination abroad.</span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>How To - Twice Exposed Roll of 35mm Film2020-03-19T16:36:50+00:002024-03-28T13:54:59+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/how-to-twice-exposed-roll-of-35mm-film/<p><span></span></p>
<p><span></span></p>
<p><span>This is a how to guide on shooting an entire roll of 35mm film double exposures by shooting over the entire roll, start to finish, on two separate occasions. It's super unpredictable, but easy to do and a ton of fun. Every image isn't going to be a keeper, but the ones that are will excite you to shoot more. Most of the images in this post, all the black and whites, were from my first ever experiment with this method - shot on Kodak Tri-X 400 35mm film. </span></p>
<p><span></span></p>
<p><span>All images were made on either Kodak Tri-X 400 35mm film or Kodak Portra 400 35mm film. I recommend having two 35mm cameras for this process, that way there is no rush to finish off a roll. I have a Nikon FM2n that is dedicated to double exposure rolls, allowing me to take my time and still have another 35mm camera to use for daily fork. If you have general questions about double exposures on film and best practices, check out my other blog post on double exposure basics. </span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/how-to-tips-and-tricks-for-double-exposures-on-film/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/how-to-tips-and-tricks-for-double-exposures-on-film/">Double Exposure How To - Tips and Tricks</a></span></p>
<h2>Equipment Needed</h2>
<p>I recommend having a dedicated 35mm film camera just for double exposures. This allows you to take your time, exposing the roll and carefully selecting the subject matter over a long period of time. This also keeps you from needing to use this camera for other work, and won't cause you to rush through a roll. You'll need a roll of 35mm film - I recommend one of Kodak's 400 speed films like Portra 400 or Tri-X 400 for their flexibility in latitude. You'll get the most consistent results with a high latitude film. The only other thing you'll need is a permanent marker that is visible on the film lead.</p>
<p><img alt="canon ae-1 35mm film camera double exposure kodak 35mm film how to equipment needed" height="1200" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/twice-exposed-roll/.thumbnails/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00001.jpg/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00001-900x1200.jpg" width="900"/></p>
<h2>The First Exposure - Shoot the Entire Roll of 35mm Film Once Through</h2>
<p>Load the 35mm film roll in the camera as you normally would. Set the lead in the takeup spool and advance it one wind lever ONLY. I highly recommend pulling more of the lead out than you normally would because the key is the single advance of the film lever. There will be a bit of excess, but you just wind it back in. Use the rewind crank to pull the film slack back into the canister. </p>
<p><img alt="loading canon ae-1 35mm film camera with kodak portra 400 for double exposure first shot" height="900" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/twice-exposed-roll/.thumbnails/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00002.jpg/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00002-1200x900.jpg" width="1200"/></p>
<p>Now mark the film lead, where it leaves the 35mm canister with your permanent marker. Make sure the marking is visible and is not likely to rub off. </p>
<p><img alt="marking 35mm film canister in camera for twice shot double exposed roll with sharpie" height="1200" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/twice-exposed-roll/.thumbnails/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00003.jpg/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00003-900x1200.jpg" width="900"/></p>
<p>Now close the film back as you normally would and advance to the first frame. IMPORTANT: set the camera ISO and/or your light meter's ISO to twice the film's stock speed. For example// with Kodak Portra 400, you rate it at an exposure index of ISO 800. This is because you will be exposing the roll twice. Exposing twice at an ISO of 800 is the same equivalent exposure as exposing once at an ISO of 400. </p>
<p><img alt="canon ae-1 iso dial for 35mm film double exposure" height="1200" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/twice-exposed-roll/.thumbnails/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00004.jpg/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00004-900x1200.jpg" width="900"/></p>
<h3>Tips for the first entire roll exposure</h3>
<p>There is no right or wrong way to do this! You can be very calculated about your exposure and subject matter or completely careless and spontaneous. I recommend the first time doing this that you lean more toward being calculated that way you can get a good feel for what worked and didn't work and how exposure, subject matter, and thought process affect the end results. </p>
<p>1. Shoot your secondary subject first. I call this the 'texture' subject. I typically shoot once over to give texture and positive/negative space to the subject, and then the second time over I shoot entirely portraits. Focus on shooting subjects, objects, etc. that have a lot of tonality and texture. Lots of differentiation in highlights and shadows means areas where the film will either show more of the primary subject or less of the primary subject. This results in a much more interesting image.</p>
<p>1a. Let me break it down for you quick. Say you take a photograph of an intense storm cloud at sunset. That cloud is likely to have very dark patches and intense highlights (near whites). When you shoot over that cloud image the second time with, say a portrait, the portrait will show strongly on the dark part of the cloud, but little on the bright part of the cloud. This will be because the highlights of the cloud were already eating up most of the film's dynamic range. </p>
<p>2. Pick a theme! The black and white images, below, were all shot with a theme of 'water'. I shot the entire roll through the first time focusing on water: rain clouds, water droplets, lakes, etc. This gives a consistent theme to the image set and helps you figure out what you do and don't like in a double exposure. </p>
<p>3. Be careful with exposure. Remember that you are wanting the primary subject to show in parts of the image (secondary subject). It won't be a very interesting image if you photograph a very tiny secondary subject in dull light with an entirely black background, because the primary image is going to expose pretty evenly over that image. Look for intense variation in highlights and shadows, and texture in midtones. </p>
<p><img alt="labeled 35mm film canister for twice exposed double exposure film roll" height="1200" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/twice-exposed-roll/.thumbnails/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00013.jpg/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00013-900x1200.jpg" width="900"/></p>
<h3>Rewinding the film after the entire first roll exposure - IMPORTANT</h3>
<p>This is very important. Rewind the film slowly. Most 35mm film cameras have a tendency to rewind the film all the way into the canister when you rewind the film after completion. You'll feel a resitance as you are rewinding and then all of a sudden there will be less resistence and you'll hear a 'slap'. This is the sound of the film leader slapping the inside of the camera backplate. As soon as you hear this, STOP REWINDING. This will ensure the film lead is still visible that way you can load it up again! Don't panic if you screw this up. Head to the troubleshooting section to figure out what to do. </p>
<p><img alt="canon ae-1 rewind knob " height="900" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/twice-exposed-roll/.thumbnails/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00007.jpg/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00007-1200x900.jpg" width="1200"/></p>
<h2>The Second Exposure - Shoot the Entire Roll of 35mm Film Again</h2>
<p>Now is time to pick your primary subject for the second go around. I like people, so my primary subject is typically portraiture. Nothing says you have to do primary subject second, but this is just the way I like to operate. It works equally well both ways. Here is why I like to do it this way: I can stockpile rolls of labeled once exposed 35mm films and decide which secondary subject I might want to mix with my portraiture, ex// leaves, weather, architecture, flowers, caligraphy, etc. </p>
<p></p>
<p>Time to load the film again. Insert the film as you did the first time. The goal is to get the sharpie marking on the lead to match up with the edge of the canister as before. It's not the end of the world if it isn't perfect and you can see what happens when it's not in the troubleshooting section. The best way to do it is to pull a little extra out of the canister, get the advance lever set, and then rewind in the extra. If you can't get it to match up close, pull the lead out of the advance real and try again. Keep trying with the takeup spool rotated to different positions until you get it close. </p>
<p><img alt="loading canon ae-1 35mm film camera second time for double exposure roll" height="1200" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/twice-exposed-roll/.thumbnails/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00010.jpg/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00010-900x1200.jpg" width="900"/></p>
<p>Crank in the excess until the film is taught and the marking matches up with the felt edge of the canister. If it doesn't, try again!</p>
<p><img alt="aligned 35mm film roll marking for double exposed roll with sharpie" height="1200" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/twice-exposed-roll/.thumbnails/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00011.jpg/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00011-900x1200.jpg" width="900"/></p>
<p>Now close the back and advance to the first frame and you are ready to go! Again, set the camera ISO to 800 (or twice the film stock ISO rating) and/or the same with your external light meter.</p>
<p><img alt="canon ae-1 35mm film camera in window light and 50mm f1.8 canon lens" height="1200" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/twice-exposed-roll/.thumbnails/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00012.jpg/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00012-900x1200.jpg" width="900"/></p>
<h3>Tips for the second entire roll exposure</h3>
<p>Same tips, essentially, apply for the second go around!</p>
<p>1. Pick consistent primary subjects. I mentioned before that I like to shoot portraits, so my primary subject is often people. However, mix it up! Shoot as many people as possible as primary subjects in different lighting situations to give you variety. T</p>
<p>2. Vary the lighting. A backlit primary subject means that the secondary subject will overlay only on top of your primary subject. A more evenly lit, front lit, primary subject will result in the secondary subject exposing over your primary subject and the background relatively evenly - think a studio portrait where there is light on the backdrop as well as the subject. </p>
<p>3. Separation is key with portraiture. It works best, and is more interesting if there is a clear separation between your subject and the background. Otherwise the overlapping images will make your subject get lost and sort of bleed into the secondary subject/background.</p>
<p></p>
<h2>Troubleshooting - Entire Roll of 35mm Double Exposures</h2>
<h3>1. You accidentally rewind the entire film lead back into the canister. </h3>
<p><img alt="35mm film lead retrieval inside canister kodak p3200" height="1200" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/twice-exposed-roll/.thumbnails/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00014.jpg/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00014-900x1200.jpg" width="900"/></p>
<p>You can retrieve it. It takes a few tries, but persist and you'll get it! All you need is a bad roll of 35mm film where the lead is out of the canister. I have an old roll of film dedicated to 'lead retrieval'</p>
<p><img alt="35mm film lead retrieval using another 35mm film canister" height="1200" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/twice-exposed-roll/.thumbnails/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00015.jpg/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00015-900x1200.jpg" width="900"/></p>
<p>Wet about 2 inches of the exposed, bad roll, lead heavily with saliva or water. I find saliva works best as it is a bit stickier. Next you want to insert that lead as far into, at least 2 inches, into the felt opening of the canister with the retracted lead. There will be a lot of resistance. Be gentle and keep your fingers close to the felt opening as to not bend the lead you are trying to insert. </p>
<p><img alt="35mm film lead retrieval using 35mm film canister lead inserted" height="1200" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/twice-exposed-roll/.thumbnails/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00016.jpg/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00016-900x1200.jpg" width="900"/></p>
<p>Once you feel it is inserted sufficiently, get ready to pull. Pick up both canisters, one in each hand. Holding the lead of the bad roll, pull on it swiftly away from the good canister. If all works well, the lead will pull out with the lead from the bad canister. Sometimes the lead from the good canister folds over on itself and may get stuck in the felt opening. Just gently use your teeth to grip it and pull it out, being careful not to tear the film. Then unfold the film lead. </p>
<p><img alt="pull 35mm film lead out of canister " height="900" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/twice-exposed-roll/.thumbnails/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00017.jpg/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00017-1200x900.jpg" width="1200"/></p>
<h3><img alt="successfully retrieved 35mm film lead from canister kodak p3200" height="1200" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/twice-exposed-roll/.thumbnails/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00018.jpg/twice-shot-roll-kodak-35mm-film-double-exposure-how-to-brian-d-smith-photography-blog-00018-900x1200.jpg" width="900"/></h3>
<h3>2. What does a misaligned 35mm double exposure roll look like? </h3>
<p>Don't worry if you can't perfectly align your sharpie mark the second go around. The process will still work. You will just end up with a small black bar, where the scanned negative area was only exposed once because the first and second go-around frames didn't perfectly overlap. </p>
<p><img alt="misaligned twice exposed 35mm film roll kodak portra 400 double exposure" height="1790" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/twice-exposed-roll/.thumbnails/1909-magnolia-86-cannon-boudoir-charleston-bridal-portraits-film-autumn-summer-00065_web.jpg/1909-magnolia-86-cannon-boudoir-charleston-bridal-portraits-film-autumn-summer-00065_web-1200x1790.jpg" width="1200"/></p>
<h3>3. What does a perfectly aligned 35mm film double exposure roll look like?</h3>
<p>If you were able to align the image perfectly, you'll get even overlap of both the primary and secondary images and you won't have the black bar across your negatives or scans. </p>
<p><img alt="perfectly aligned 35mm film twice shot double exposed roll" height="1790" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/twice-exposed-roll/.thumbnails/1910-kodak-tri-x-35mm-film-double-exposure-twice-shot-roll-portraits-00020_web.jpg/1910-kodak-tri-x-35mm-film-double-exposure-twice-shot-roll-portraits-00020_web-1200x1790.jpg" width="1200"/></p>
<h3>4. Tips for scanning twice exposed 35mm film roll of double exposures</h3>
<p>Tell your film lab that it is a double exposed roll. When I send mine off, I mention to the lab that my primary subject was a portrait subject and I want them to use their best judgement in aligning the scan so that the subject takes up most of the frame. This isn't an issue if the frames overlap perfectly as in example 3, but if they dont as in example 2, then the lab will have to use judgement on what to scan for. </p>
<p><span></span></p>
<p>~~ ~~</p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about<span> </span>telling<span> </span>stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in wedding and portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina or any destination abroad.</span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post,<span> </span>would just like to chat, or are ready to book,<span> </span>reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>
<p>I hope this helps! Happy shooting. </p>
<p></p>February Downtown Charleston Engagement Session on Film2020-02-24T11:52:12+00:002024-03-28T10:30:04+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/february-downtown-charleston-engagement-session-on-film/<p>Meeting this couple comes with a funny little story. I was at a coffee shop with my dog and Nash and Amy were actually there meeting with another photographer to discuss their upcoming wedding. The meeting ended and as the other photographers were exiting a young boy sprinted by the coffee shop and Oliver, my beloved Aussie, barked at the boy. Nash, who was standing right next to me, muttered "your dog doesn't seem to like our wedding photographers". My response was "you know what, no he doesn't, let's chat". The rest is history. Nash, Amy and I hit it off and here I am taking their engagement photos in preperation for their wedding at the Thomas Bennet House later this year. </p>
<p><img alt="charleston alley engagement photos photography kodak film portra 800 hasselblad 202fa 110mm F2 " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/1%20gen/2002-nash-amy-charleston-downtown-february-engagement-photos-film-00032_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>We absolutely hit it off once more during their engagement photos and what resulted were some of the most joyous, and easy going engagement photos I've taken yet. All shot on a mix of 35mm and medium format film, in beautiful downtown Charleston. The photos were taken at Philidelphia Alley, Chalmers Street, Rainbow Row and The Battery on East Bay. I can't wait to see these two hitched on May 2 2020, and see what magic we can create once again. Charleston South Carolina is full of beautiful wedding and engagement photo opportunities. There is a reason it is the number 1 wedding destination in the United States. </p>
<p></p>
<p> </p>Pink Lipstick and Charleston Fashion on 35mm Film2019-12-29T18:08:43+00:002024-03-28T10:31:12+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/pink-lipstick-and-charleston-fashion-on-35mm-film/<p>Pink lipstick and Kodak 35mm film create a charleston fashion lookbook reminiscent of a futuristic Barbie. Images were shot around the old jail, downtown, on Kodak Gold 200 and Portra 800 film with a Nikon FM3a with Zeiss Planar 50mm F1.4 ZF.2 and a Leica M-A with Summilux 50mm F1.4</p>Bridal Fashion Editorial at Charleston's Historic William Aiken House2019-12-12T11:44:29+00:002024-03-28T10:28:12+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/bridal-fashion-editorial-at-charlestons-historic-william-aiken-house/<h4></h4>
<p>Most of my inspiration from my wedding work comes from fashion styling and photography. I discovered a lookbook for a korean wedding dress designer and was instantly inspired. The spread felt high fashion, yet timelessly romantic. I wanted to create something similar, but with a focus on utilizing the colors of one of Charleston, South Carolina's most unique wedding venues, The William Aiken House. I planned the colors and mood of the shoot around this house, and matched the colors of the the shoot's segments to that of the house. My other focus for the shoot was creating something beautiful, yet entirely unique for the Charleston market. Charleston tends to be light bright and beautiful and my style has a bit more grit and mood. I wanted to marry my love of fashion portraiture with that of my bridal/wedding work. I selected two Carol Hannah gowns for the shoot because of her roots in Charleston and because, quite frankly, they were works of art. They matched the color palette of the editorial and had the modern dramatic touches that you'd expect from a designer gown. All images were shot on 35mm film, my favorite medium. </p>
<p></p>
<h4>Thanks to this wonderful team of vendors!</h4>
<p>Photography: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Photography</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/</a></span></p>
<p>Planning + Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://peperevents.com/" target="_blank" title="http://peperevents.com/">Peper Events</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/peper.events/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/peper.events/">https://www.instagram.com/peper.events/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/fabulous_fete/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/fabulous_fete/"></a></span>Florals: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://freshweddingsandevents.com/" target="_blank" title="https://freshweddingsandevents.com/">Fresh Weddings and Events</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/freshweddings_chs/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/freshweddings_chs/">https://www.instagram.com/freshweddings_chs/</a></span></p>
<p>Venue: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.holycityhospitality.com/historic-rice-mill/" target="_blank" title="https://www.holycityhospitality.com/historic-rice-mill/">The William Aiken House</a></span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/historicricemill/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/historicricemill/">https://www.instagram.com/historicricemill/</a></span></p>
<p>Hair + Makeup Artist: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.wildivorybeauty.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.wildivorybeauty.com/">Wild Ivory Beauty</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/">https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/</a></span></p>
<p>Accessories: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://modelbride.com/" target="_blank" title="https://modelbride.com/">Model Bride</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/modelbride/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/modelbride/">https://www.instagram.com/modelbride/</a></span></p>
<p>Hair Pieces: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/frolainbrides/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/frolainbrides/">Frolain Bride</a></span></p>
<p>Gown Boutique: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.maddisonrowsouth.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.maddisonrowsouth.com/">Maddison Row South</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/maddisonrowsouth/">https://www.instagram.com/maddisonrowsouth/</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/maddisonrowsouth/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/maddisonrowsouth/"></a></span></p>
<p><span>Gown Designer: </span><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.carol-hannah.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.carol-hannah.com/">Carol Hannah</a></span><span> / </span><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/carolhannahbridal/">https://www.instagram.com/carolhannahbridal/</a></span></p>Summer Fashion Lookbook on Northern Michigan Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes2019-11-21T14:48:49+00:002024-03-28T10:56:33+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/summer-fashion-lookbook-on-northern-michigan-sleeping-bear-sand-dunes/<p>Summer fashion lookbook on Northern Michigan's Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes. Shot on Kodak Gold 200 film with a Leica M-A and Summicron 35mm and a sony a7iii with a adapted Leica Summilux 50mm. </p>Shooting Outdoor Fashion Portraits Against a Seamless Paper Backdrop in Asheville2019-11-18T16:20:54+00:002024-03-28T12:30:26+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/asheville-river-arts-outdoor-backdrop-fashion-on-film/<p>A fashion portrait sequence in Asheville's River Arts district shot against a Savage Mocha Seamless backdrop. Images were shot on a sony a7iii and Leica M-A with a Leica Summilux 50 F1.4 and Kodak Gold 200 film.</p>Fall Elopement Wedding at South Carolina's Wavering Place2019-11-12T11:50:11+00:002024-03-28T11:55:31+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/fall-elopement-wedding-at-south-carolinas-wavering-place/<h2>FEATURED ON RUFFLED BLOG!</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://ruffledblog.com/micro-wedding-wavering-place/" target="_blank" title="https://ruffledblog.com/micro-wedding-wavering-place/">Ruffled Blog - Autumn Southern Elopement at Wavering Place</a></span></p>
<p>The couple arrives on their bicycles, racing playfully down the avenue of trees<br/>and lush vegetation. Their dog skips eagerly beside them. They sit beneath<br/>the ancient oak for a while, taking in the day and the beauty of the morning.<br/>Togetherness. He plays his guitar as she watches with a joyous smile, then<br/>wanders toward the forest to forage. They swap tales of true love, scribbling the<br/>stories on handtorn paper to share at each place setting later.</p>
<p><img alt="wavering place proposal film kodak tri-x zeiss tlr south carolina wedding" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/wavering/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00024_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="wavering place dog bikes film contax 645 portra 800 film wedding elopement proposal" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/wavering/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00074_web.jpg" width="600"/><br/>As afternoon sets in, they stumble upon an old house in the woods and<br/>climb through the window, exploring the historic corners inside. They find a<br/>countertop next to a window pouring with light and empty their basket of fruits<br/>+ berries, picked from the gardens earlier that day. Together, they prepare<br/>miniature fruit pies for the dinner later on and playfully soak up the moments<br/>surrounded by flour and light.</p>
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<p><img alt="elopement engagement contax 645 charleston wavering place pies love kodak portra 800" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/wavering/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00137_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>To see the first half of this intimate weekend elopement, and the proposal leading up to their autumn affair, please see our other feature on Ruffled Blog!</h3>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://ruffledblog.com/autumn-engagement-session/" target="_blank" title="https://ruffledblog.com/autumn-engagement-session/">Ruffled Blog - Autumn Proposal at Wavering Place</a></span></p>
<h2>Shop These Fall Southern Earth Toned Engagement Looks on Ruffled Blog</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://ruffledblog.com/fall-winter-engagement-outfits/" target="_blank" title="https://ruffledblog.com/fall-winter-engagement-outfits/">Ruffled Blog - Fall Engagement Inspiration</a></span></p>
<p><br/>LauraLee traipses up the curved stairwell to get ready. Her thick braid falls into<br/>a loose natural wave, and she adds a touch of makeup to her freckled face -<br/>dash of rouge, a soft lash. She dons a silky apricot gown that flows behind her,<br/>billowing in the brisk fall air. Meanwhile, Taylor changes into wool blend pants<br/>with a sage green hue and white shirt.<br/>She carries a bouquet of foraged blooms in muted spice tones, found earlier in<br/>the day along the grounds. They wed before an arch of wild florals in autumnal<br/>shades, their parents standing by. The sun starts to set as together they set the<br/>table - bread, honey, berries, figs, cheeses and charcuterie. An artisan feast.<br/>Upon each handmade ceramic plate sits a jagged slice of wicker upon which<br/>hand torn cloth paper is scribbled in natural pigment from berries showcasing<br/>their guests’ names. LauraLee stretches into a cream knit sweater over her<br/>dress as their parents start to read about the classic love stories shared at their<br/>place settings. They toast to spontenaity, serendipity and love as the autumn air<br/>fills with their laughter and song.</p>
<p><img alt="wavering place autumn fall kodak portra 800 contax 645 film wedding" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/wavering/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00030_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>Charleston South Carolina Wedding Vendor Team</h2>
<p>Photography: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Photography</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/</a></span></p>
<p>Planning + Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.willowandoakevents.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.willowandoakevents.com/">Willow and Oak Events</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/willow.and.oak.events/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/willow.and.oak.events/">https://www.instagram.com/willow.and.oak.events/</a></span></p>
<p>Floral Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.philofloral.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.philofloral.com/">Philo Floral</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/philofloral/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/philofloral/">https://www.instagram.com/philofloral/</a></span></p>
<p>Venue: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://waveringplace.com/" target="_blank" title="https://waveringplace.com/">Wavering Place</a> </span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/waveringplace/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/waveringplace/">https://www.instagram.com/waveringplace/</a></span></p>
<p>Paper Goods: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://littlenorthcompany.com/" target="_blank" title="https://littlenorthcompany.com/">Little North Company</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/littlenorthcompany/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/littlenorthcompany/">https://www.instagram.com/littlenorthcompany/</a></span></p>
<p>Hair + Makeup Artist: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.contoursandcurls.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.contoursandcurls.com/">Contours and Curls</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/contoursandcurls/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/contoursandcurls/">https://www.instagram.com/contoursandcurls/</a></span></p>
<p>Gown: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.jennyyoo.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.jennyyoo.com/">Jenny Yoo</a></span> via <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://bellabridesmaids.com/" target="_blank" title="https://bellabridesmaids.com/">Bella Bridesmaids</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/jennyyoonyc/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/jennyyoonyc/">https://www.instagram.com/jennyyoonyc/</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/bellabridesmaids/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/bellabridesmaids/">https://www.instagram.com/bellabridesmaids/</a></span></p>
<p>Bride's Sweater: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.stories.com/en_usd/index.html" target="_blank" title="https://www.stories.com/en_usd/index.html">& Other Stories</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/andotherstories/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/andotherstories/">https://www.instagram.com/andotherstories/</a></span></p>
<p>Bride's Autumn Attire: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://hackwithdesignhouse.com/" target="_blank" title="https://hackwithdesignhouse.com/">Hackwith Design House</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/hackwithdesign/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/hackwithdesign/">https://www.instagram.com/hackwithdesign/</a></span></p>
<p>Groom's Fashion: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.asos.com/us/" target="_blank" title="https://www.asos.com/us/">ASOS</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/asos/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/asos/">https://www.instagram.com/asos/</a></span></p>
<p>Pies: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.vanillaandthebean.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.vanillaandthebean.com/">Vanilla and the Bean</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/vanillaandthebean/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/vanillaandthebean/">https://www.instagram.com/vanillaandthebean/</a></span></p>
<p>Rings: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.sofiakaman.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.sofiakaman.com/">Sofia Kaman</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/sofiakaman/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/sofiakaman/">https://www.instagram.com/sofiakaman/</a></span></p>
<p>Tabletop Pieces: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.farmhousepottery.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.farmhousepottery.com/">Farmhouse Pottery</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/farmhousepottery/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/farmhousepottery/">https://www.instagram.com/farmhousepottery/</a></span></p>
<p>Linens: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://magiclinen.com/" target="_blank" title="https://magiclinen.com/">Magic Linen</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/magiclinen/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/magiclinen/">https://www.instagram.com/magiclinen/</a></span></p>
<p>Napkins: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.silkandwillow.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.silkandwillow.com/">Silk and Willow</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/silkandwillow/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/silkandwillow/">https://www.instagram.com/silkandwillow/</a></span></p>
<p>Bicycles: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.outspokinbicycles.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.outspokinbicycles.com/">Outspokin'</a> </span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/outspokincola/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/outspokincola/">https://www.instagram.com/outspokincola/</a></span></p>
<p>Models: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.directionsusa.com/portfolio/women/fashion/1330375/kelsey-chambers" target="_blank" title="https://www.directionsusa.com/portfolio/women/fashion/1330375/kelsey-chambers">Kelsey Chambers</a></span> and <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.directionsusa.com/portfolio/men/fashion/874222/dylan-gibhardt" target="_blank" title="https://www.directionsusa.com/portfolio/men/fashion/874222/dylan-gibhardt">Dylan Gibhart</a></span> from <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.directionsusa.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.directionsusa.com/">Directions USA</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="wavering place house autumn fall kodak portra 800 fall film contax 645 southern wedding" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/wavering/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00031_web.jpg" width="600"/></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="wavering place carriage house southern charleston film elopement wedding contax 645 kodak portra 800" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/wavering/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00036_web.jpg" width="600"/></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="fall trees wavering place southern wedding venue columbia south carolina kodak portra 800 film photographer" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/wavering/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00029_web.jpg" width="600"/></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img alt="wavering place south carolina wedding elopement venue film canon eos 1v kodak portra 400" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/wavering/1909-charleston-wavering-place-elopement-wedding-fall-film-southern-styled-00037_web.jpg" width="600"/></span></p>
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<h2><span></span>Why Wavering Place is a Favorite South Carolina Venue to Photograph</h2>
<p>Wavering place has history. It has a story. To me, that is the most inspiring aspect wedding site and makes it one of South Carolina's most beautiful wedding venues. I love it when the story of the venue is as romantic as that of the couple exchanging their vows on their wedding day. The venue has history and the grounds are sprawling with endless locations to photograph. Greenery is a plenty and it looks beautiful in every single wedding season. If you look through the photographs, below, I think you will see just how beautifully it photographs. If you are looking for a venue for your Charleston or Columbia South Carolina wedding, look no further than wavering place. </p>
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<h2>Why You Should Hire Me To Photograph Your Wavering Place Wedding or Elopement</h2>
<p>I prefer to let the images speak for themselves, and I think they do in this romantic wavering south carolina micro-wedding / elopement. I was inspired to create something beautiful from the moment I stepped on the property and spoke with the owner. She spoke poetically about what the venue means to her family, and it is this personal touch that I think makes it the perfect southern wedding destination. Plus, it's super peaceful and provides an intimacy that is perfect for weddings - small and large. As a South Carolina wedding photographer, every couple and every wedding is an opportunity to create something artistic. Hire me to photograph your south carolina or charleston wedding and let's create some art and tell a story that is unique to you.</p>
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<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in wedding and portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina or any destination abroad.</span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></p>Fashion Bridal Portraits in Mid Day Sun on Charleston Folly Beach2019-11-12T10:19:08+00:002024-03-28T10:30:09+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/fashion-bridal-portraits-in-mid-day-sun-on-charleston-folly-beach/<p>Bridal portraits with a high fashion twist on Charleston South Carolina's Folly Beach. Mid day sun added a touch of stark shadows and dramatic expression to traditionally soft portraiture. Shot on a Contax 645 with Kodak Portra 800, Hasselblad 500 c/m with Kodak Tri-x and a Canon EOS 1V with Kodak Tri-X</p>