Blog | Mezzaninehttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/2024-03-29T06:18:12+00:00BlogHollywood Glam Bride and Groom Portraits on Film in an Outdoor Studio2020-11-16T05:09:19+00:002024-03-29T01:21:48+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>
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<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>
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<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>
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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><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>Traveling Through Germany and Austria on 35mm and Medium Format Film2020-06-15T10:21:48+00:002024-03-29T01:58:06+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>
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<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>
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<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>
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<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>
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<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>
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<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>
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<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>
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<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>
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<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>
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<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>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>Charleston SC Film Bridal Portraits in Studio with Bold Olive Green Florals2020-04-18T19:39:09+00:002024-03-29T04:16:31+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/charleston-sc-film-bridal-portraits-in-studio-with-bold-olive-green-florals/<p>Studio bridal portraits are one of my favorite things to photograph. There is nothing more timeless and elegant than a bride, and the studio setting is the perfect opportunity to strip away all of the added grandeur of a wedding day and focus beauty in the simplicity. You take away all of the noise, all of the hustle and bustle of a wedding day and you're left with quiet elegance. You're left with a timeless portrait of a bride. You're left with something that is so simple, it becomes unique. For, when you take away all of the other details of a Charleston wedding day, all that you are left with is you. It's your beauty, against a backdrop, and no matter how much someone tries to replicate that style, that image, they simply cannot. Nobody can replicate you. You are unique, and studio bridal portraits are the perfect way to showcase that. </p>
<p><span><img alt="charleston sc bridal portrait in studio on kodak portra 160 film and savage seamless olive paper and blush lipstick" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/alicia-nailand-bridal/2002-charleston-studio-bridal-portrait-green-seamless-florals-kodak-portra-160-film-strobes-00006_web.jpg" width="600"/></span></p>
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<h2><span>What to expect from your Charleston SC Studio bridal portraits</span></h2>
<p><span>You can expect a quiet setting. You can expect to have fun, to listen to whatever music you like and if you're into coffee...you can expect a ton of that. My studio bridal portraits are a mix of classical film portraiture and experimental, artistic works. You can expect to have portraits that are so timeless and so representative of yourself and your character, that all of your friends will want them, but they will never be able to replicate them - because you are completely unique. I photograph bridal portraits on film, because film renders skin tones and colors with so much beauty. Just look at the way the colors pop in the portrait, above. Everything can be customized to what your charleston wedding dreams to provide cohesiveness for your big day. I have an array of color backdrops that I tend to work with, but if you have a particular color that you would like to represent you and coordinate wedding florals with, we can order it! Most importantly, you can expect a nice and friendly connection. I cherish the connections I make with clients in my Charleston SC studio and I promise you that after a few minutes of conversation and coffee, you'll be having fun. I make it easy to have your studio portrait taken because, let's be honest, when was the last time you were photographed in a studio?</span></p>
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<p><span><img alt="charleston wedding bridal portrait on black and white kodak tmax 400 film at studio sixty reid in South Carolina" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/alicia-nailand-bridal/2002-charleston-studio-bridal-portrait-tmax-bnw-kodak-film-black-seamless-00008_web.jpg" width="600"/></span></p>
<h2><span>Where is my bridal portrait studio located</span></h2>
<p><span>I photograph out of my home studio in Downtown Charleston South Carolina and Traverse City Michigan. I can accomodate all of my brides in studio, whether for a Charleston SC Wedding, Northern Michigan Wedding, or destination wedding. If you can't make it in to the studio, I can bring the studio to you. The options are unlimited! We can rent an old building, an old house, a warehouse, etc. We can photograph in front of a backdrop out in a field. If you are looking for something timeless in your bridal portraiture, we can do timeless. If you are looking for something art forward and experimental, we can do that! If you want to leave it up to me, I'll do both!</span></p>
<h3>What makes my Charleston SC Photography Studio unique</h3>
<p>Well, for starters, I'm the only photography studio in Charleston SC providing elegant heirloom portraiture. I'm certainly the only Charleston wedding photographer offering it to brides. More importantly, even if there were a hundred bridal portrait studios in Charleston, I promise nobody will be as attentive to you and creative for you. Nobody has the passion for portraiture that I do and nobody is shooting film the way I do. I pride myself on continuously learning and pushing myself as an artist, and I promise that no two studio experiences are the same. </p>
<h2><span>About the Charleston SC Studio Bridal Portrait Session </span></h2>
<p><span>This Charleston SC studio bridal portrait session was designed around the color green. The lush green textures and earthly colors of the bridal bouquet matches the olive seamless paper backdrop, which all matches the brides green eyes. The color coordination and attention to detail is what makes a Brian D Smith Photography studio bridal portrait totally unique. All of these beautiful colors are paired with a timeless A-Line cut wedding dress from Modern Trousseau Charleston. You won't receive this level of care and attention to detail from another photographer in Charleston. </span></p>
<p><span><img alt="black and white film studio bridal beauty portrait in charleston sc on kodak tmax 400 by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/alicia-nailand-bridal/2002-charleston-studio-bridal-portrait-tmax-bnw-kodak-film-black-seamless-00001_web.jpg" width="600"/></span></p>
<h3><span>Charleston Wedding Vendor Team</span></h3>
<p>Photography and Studio: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="https://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/">www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/</a></span></p>
<p>Hair an Makeup: <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>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>Dress Boutique: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.moderntrousseau.com/flagship-stores/charleston/" target="_blank" title="https://www.moderntrousseau.com/flagship-stores/charleston/">Modern Trousseau Charleston</a> </span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/moderntrousseaucharleston/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/moderntrousseaucharleston/">https://www.instagram.com/moderntrousseaucharleston/</a></span></p>
<p>Model: <u>Alicia Nailand</u> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/alicianiland/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/alicianiland/">https://www.instagram.com/alicianiland/</a></span></p>
<h3><img alt="film bridal portrait in brian d smith photography charleston sc portrait studio on kodak film of charleston bride and olive seamless backdrop" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/alicia-nailand-bridal/2002-charleston-studio-bridal-portrait-green-seamless-florals-kodak-portra-160-film-strobes-00021_web.jpg" width="600"/></h3>
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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 wedding 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 - Tips and Tricks for Double Exposures on Film2020-03-19T18:36:27+00:002024-03-29T06:18:12+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/how-to-tips-and-tricks-for-double-exposures-on-film/<p></p>
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<p><span>This is a how to post with tips and tricks for creating breathtaking double exposures. This blog post is tailored to double exposures on film, but the same ideas apply to digital! The image above was created using a Contax 645 and 80mm F2 and Kodak Portra 160 film rated at ISO 320.</span></p>
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<h2><span>How to rate the film</span></h2>
<p><span>I almost always rate the film at twice the box iso speed. This means that I rate Portra 400 at 800, because you are exposing the film twice. Therefore exposing the film stock twice rated at ISO 800 gives the same effective exposure as once at ISO 400. 2 underexposed images yield one perfectly exposed image! If you are someone who likes film a bit more overexposed, you may consider rating at ISO 640 or 400. Medium format film has greater lattitude so you can easily overexpose it by 2-3 stops. I tend to prefer my film at box speed when doing single exposures, so rating at twice box speed for double exposures works best for me. </span></p>
<h2><span>How to compose your double exposure image</span></h2>
<p>The most important thing in composing a double exposure image, besides your subject matter, is the consideration of negative and positive space. For simplicity sake, I break it down into a primary and secondary subject. The primary subject is my portrait, and the secondary subject is my overlaying image. </p>
<h3>Considerations for the primary subject</h3>
<p>What I am looking for in the primary subject is separation between the backdground and the subject. The easiest way to think about this, to start, is to consider a backlit subject. The strong backlighting creates a blown out highlight around the subject. The secondary, overlay, image thus only appears over the primary subject because the background is blown out highlights. This creates a clearly defined subject, a silhouette, and keeps the double exposure from becoming too distracting. </p>
<p><img alt="backlit film double exposure contax 645 medium format film bride bouquet" height="800" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/double-exposure-how-to/.thumbnails/1909-magnolia-86-cannon-boudoir-charleston-bridal-portraits-film-autumn-summer-00216_web.jpg/1909-magnolia-86-cannon-boudoir-charleston-bridal-portraits-film-autumn-summer-00216_web-1200x800.jpg" width="1200"/></p>
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<h3>Considerations for the secondary subject</h3>
<p>For my secondary subject, the second exposure, I like to choose something with a lot of texture or a lot of color/contrast. Flowers are perfect for this! They have tons of texture and tons of variation in tonality and color to give you a really dynamic overlay on your subject.</p>
<h3>More advanced double exposure techniques</h3>
<p>Once you get the hang of the backlit double exposure, you can move on to more advanced techniques. The same principles still apply. The image, below, is a double exposure of a bride in front of a floral backdrop. The primary subject was the bride, and the secondary subject was an exposure of just the backdrop itself. When I composedthis image, I still wanted separation between the subject and the backdrop, but I wanted the secondary image to blend off into the background. This means that I still wanted a difference in light between the subject and background to create separation, but not so much as to create a silhouette. This works in the opposite direction as well. If subject was lit, and the backdrop was nearly black this would mean that the secondary subject would appear significantly clearer on the backdrop than on the subject and could be distracting. For this image, I metered about 1 stop difference between the light hitting the subject and the backdrop. This proved perfect!</p>
<p><img alt="double exposure bridal boudoir film image of the year charleston bride film 35mm kodak portra 160 nikon fm3a" height="1791" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/double-exposure-how-to/.thumbnails/wingate-plantation-charleston-bridal-boudoir-kodak-p160-film-1-89_web.jpg/wingate-plantation-charleston-bridal-boudoir-kodak-p160-film-1-89_web-1200x1791.jpg" width="1200"/></p>
<p>The above image won Belle Lumiere Magazine's 2019 Summer Image Contest in the Double Exposure Category</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://bellelumieremagazine.com/past-winners" target="_blank" title="https://bellelumieremagazine.com/past-winners">Belle Lumiere Magazine Image Contest Winners</a></span></p>
<h2>Which image do i shoot first?</h2>
<p>I typically shoot the portrait image first because this is most critical in my composition. The composition of the secondary image is often less critical, so I like to get the portrait out of the way, knowing the framing I used for it, then choose the best framing for the secondary image. </p>
<h2>How to compose double exposures</h2>
<p>For most of my portrait double exposures, I employ the rule of thirds. For example, if I am shooting a portrait, I will place the subjects eyes through the top-third image line. This helps me keep a consistent framing and remember how to best compose the secondary image if it has been a while since I photographed the primary image. </p>
<h2>How to expose for double exposures</h2>
<p>This all totally depends on your lighting scenario. If you are shooting a heavily backlit subject like in the close up, floral image with the white surrounding above, I like to meter like I would a normal silhouette image. This means that I take a meter reading for the shadows, just like you would for a normal portrait, then I underexpose that by 2-3 stops. This keeps the highlights from being too blown out and means that the subject is darker and more of your secondary image will be able to overlay on top of the dark subject. Keep in mind that all of this is still being done with your meter or camera set to twice the box speed (i.e. ISO 800 for 400 speed film). </p>
<p>I DO NOT recommend doing two heavily backlit exposures as the primary and secondary subject. It usually works to do a backlit portrait subject and something more frontlit for the secondary subject to give it more texture and tonality. </p>
<p>When you are exposing for a frontlit primary subject or a primary subject in diffuse light, just exposure as you normally would for a portrait. </p>
<p></p>
<p><span></span>I wrote an article for my trusted film lab, Photovision, on the technique. Check it out for a more detailed depiction of composition in double exposure imagery.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://photovisionprints.com/blog/how-to-shoot-double-exposures-on-film" target="_blank" title="https://photovisionprints.com/blog/how-to-shoot-double-exposures-on-film">Photovision Prints - Double Exposure Article</a></span></p>
<p></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 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>
<h2>Film Double Exposure Examples</h2>
<p></p>Charleston Bridal Portraits on the Cover of The Carolinas Magazine2019-12-29T11:37:09+00:002024-03-28T18:21:06+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/charleston-bridal-portraits-on-the-cover-of-the-carolinas-magazine/<h2>Wingate Plantation Charleston Spring Bridal Portraits Featured in The Carolinas Magazine</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.thecarolinasmagazine.com/shop/winter-spring-2020" target="_blank" title="http://www.thecarolinasmagazine.com/shop/winter-spring-2020">The Carolinas Magazine - Winter / Spring 2020</a></span></p>
<p></p>
<p>I'm just so thrilled to announce that my spring bridal editorial at Wingate Plantation in Charleston South Carolina made the cover story for The Carolinas Magazine! This editorial paired a skirt dress and lace bodysuit from Sweet Caroline Styles with a dainty purple and green bouquet from Petaloso. The petite form of the bouquet accentuated the effortless flow and movement of the skirt dress, while its colors matched the hues of Charleston's Azaleas. The bouquet was featured in Looks Like Film's top 20 wedding bouquet trends for 2019 <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.lookslikefilm.com/2019/04/15/bridal-bouquets/" target="_blank" title="https://www.lookslikefilm.com/2019/04/15/bridal-bouquets/">Looks Like Film - Top 20 Bridal Bouquet Trends of 2019</a></span></p>
<p>Charleston's azaleas are only in peak bloom for a short period of time, sometimes only lasting a week or less. With a little bit of luck we scheduled our shoot on the beautiful plantation grounds when the purple, pink and white blooms were on full display. Beautiful flowers combined with fading spring light filtering through the spanish moss of the oaks, create an enviable backdrop for any bridal portraits and an ideal location to host your southern wedding. I'm so thankful for everyone who helped work on the project and trusted me with their brand and hard work. A special thanks to The Carolinas magazine for selecting one of my images for the cover. It's truly an honor and I couldn't be more proud. </p>
<p></p>
<p><img alt="charleston azaleas wingate plantation bridal wedding portraits brian d smith photography spring" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/1%20gen/wingate-plantation-charleston-bridal-portraits-film-haylee-26_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>The Charleston Wedding Vendor Team:</h2>
<p>Photography/Styling: Brian D Smith Photography (Charleston, SC)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">http://briandsmithphotography.com/</a></span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/"></a> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://instagram.com/briandsmithphotography">https://instagram.com/briandsmithphotography</a></span></p>
<p>Florals/Styling: Petaloso (Charleston, SC)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.wearepetaloso.com/">https://www.wearepetaloso.com/</a></span><a href="https://www.wearepetaloso.com/"></a> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/wearepetaloso/">https://www.instagram.com/wearepetaloso/</a></span></p>
<p>Model: Haylee Michalski (Charleston, SC)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/hayleemichalski_/">https://www.instagram.com/hayleemichalski_/</a></span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/hayleemichalski_/"></a> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.millielewischarleston.com/haylee-michalski">http://www.millielewischarleston.com/haylee-michalski</a></span></p>
<p>HMUA: Pampered and Pretty (Charleston, SC)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.pamperedandprettyxo.com/">https://www.pamperedandprettyxo.com/</a></span><a href="https://www.pamperedandprettyxo.com/"></a> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/pamperedandprettyxo/">https://www.instagram.com/pamperedandprettyxo/</a></span></p>
<p>Bodysuit/Dress: Sweet Caroline Styles (Etsy Store)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://sweetcarolinestyles.com/">https://sweetcarolinestyles.com/</a></span><a href="https://sweetcarolinestyles.com/"></a> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/sweetcarolinestyles/">https://www.instagram.com/sweetcarolinestyles/</a></span></p>
<p>Venue: Wingate Plantation (Charleston, SC)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://wingateplantation.com/">https://wingateplantation.com/</a></span><a href="https://wingateplantation.com/"></a> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/wingateplantation/">https://www.instagram.com/wingateplantation/</a></span></p>
<h2>Why I love Wingate Plantation as a Charleston Wedding Venue</h2>
<p>Wingate plantation is a massive, yet intimate property just outside of Charleston South Carolina. It has all the charm of a Charleston wedding venue without the hustle and crowds of a downtown or more touristy plantation setting. The wedding venue features a massive oak tree that is the perfect spot for your wedding ceremony, a small cottage house for bridal prep and getting ready, and a permanent tent for your wedding reception. The oak trees and spanish moss at this south carolina wedding venue are some of the pretties I have seen in Charleston and it's a dream drenched in sunset light. If you catch it at the right time of the year, usually in April, you get the most dazeling purple and pink Azaleas in bloom. The sunsets are beautiful and there is plenty of open property to catch that last charleston golden light all the way through til it fully dips below the horizon.</p>
<p><img alt="charleston south carolina azaleas full bloom in spring at wingate plantation wedding venue with bride in bodysuit dress" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/1%20gen/wingate-plantation-charleston-bridal-portraits-film-haylee-29_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="wingate plantation oak trees with charleston south carolina bride during wedding in bodysuit dress at sunset" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/1%20gen/wingate-plantation-charleston-bridal-portraits-film-haylee-30_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>Why You Should Hire Me For That Venue</h2>
<p>I'm always searching for unique backdrops, light and colors to document your love on your charleston wedding day. I wasn't planning on the azaleas being in bloom, but quickly noticed their brilliant colors and made them a significant part of these bridal portraits. Every time I photograph a wedding, elopement or bridal portraits at a Charleston wedding venue, it is always different. My approach is always the same, to find the best light and most interesting backdrop, but no two results are alike because every couple is different and Wingate Plantation changes so much throughout the year. Wingate is one of my favorite Charleston wedding venues for all of the reasons you'll see in the images below. As a Charleston wedding photographer, there is so much beautiful light and interesting texture to play with and the end results are timeless, art forward yet quintessentially southern wedding photos.</p>
<p></p>
<h3>To See the Accompanying Bridal Boudoir Shoot at Wingate Plantation Check out the Following Blog Post</h3>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/charleston-sc-bridal-boudoir-on-film-at-wingate-plantation/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/charleston-sc-bridal-boudoir-on-film-at-wingate-plantation/">Timeless Charleston Bridal Boudoir at Wingate Plantation</a></span></p>
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<p>~~ ~~<br/><span></span></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 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>Chartreuse In Tuscany an Italian Inspired Elopement Weekend at Hotel Domestique2019-10-31T13:09:55+00:002024-03-28T18:22:26+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/chartreuse-in-tuscany-an-italian-inspired-elopement-weekend-hotel-domestique/<h2>SOUTH CAROLINA WEEKEND ELOPEMENT FEATURED ON MAGNOLIA ROUGE! </h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.magnoliarouge.com/inspiration/vintage-european-elopement-inspiration-in-the-hills-of-asheville/" target="_blank" title="https://www.magnoliarouge.com/inspiration/vintage-european-elopement-inspiration-in-the-hills-of-asheville/">Magnolia Rouge - Vintage European Inspired Elopement Inspiration in the Hills of Asheville</a></span></p>
<p>I had a vision to bring vintage, timeless European romance to the southern United States. The styling would be reminiscent of a more traditional era, yet retain the elements of sophisticated dress that's commonplace at European weddings. I expanded my search outside of my native Charleston wedding destination to find a wedding venue with a European flair. I found the Italian inspired Hotel Domestique and planned the entire shoot, with it as my aesthetic muse. It's most important for me to tell a story when I put together creative projects. That's why I decided on a weekend elopepment as the storyboard. It would take place in stages, reflecting a casual time away with all the intimacy of true love echoed in playful banter and sun-drenched relaxation. From poolside lounging to a picnic among the vineyard vines, and culminating in a sunset ceremony, I wanted the focus to be on the couple. It was meant to feel as if my presence as the photographer wasn't known. This helps keep the focus on the story and the true chemistry between these once total strangers. </p>
<h2>South and North Carolina Elopement Editorial Team</h2>
<p>Photography: <a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Photography</a> / <a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/</a></p>
<p>Venue: <a href="http://hoteldomestique.com/" target="_blank" title="http://hoteldomestique.com/">Hotel Domestique</a> / <a href="https://www.instagram.com/hotel_domestique/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/hotel_domestique/">https://www.instagram.com/hotel_domestique/</a></p>
<p>Florals: <a href="http://www.laurelcreekflorals.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.laurelcreekflorals.com/">Laurel Creek Florals</a> / <a href="https://www.instagram.com/laurelcreekflorals/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/laurelcreekflorals/">https://www.instagram.com/laurelcreekflorals/</a></p>
<p>Hair and Makeup: <a href="https://www.emilydawnmakeup.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.emilydawnmakeup.com/">Emily Dawn Hair and Makeup</a> / <a href="https://www.instagram.com/emilydawnhmu/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/emilydawnhmu/">https://www.instagram.com/emilydawnhmu/</a></p>
<p>Pottery: <a href="https://eastfork.com/" target="_blank" title="https://eastfork.com/">East Fork Pottery</a> / <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eastforkpottery/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/eastforkpottery/">https://www.instagram.com/eastforkpottery/</a></p>
<p>Models: <a href="https://www.sterlingstreetactor.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.sterlingstreetactor.com/">Sterling Street</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/christigarland/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/christigarland/">Christi Garland</a> / <a href="https://www.instagram.com/christigarland/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/christigarland/">https://www.instagram.com/christigarland/</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sterlingstreet/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/sterlingstreet/">https://www.instagram.com/sterlingstreet/</a></p>
<p>Dress: Vintage <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sustainablestylegvl/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/sustainablestylegvl/">Sustainable Style Greenville</a></p>
<p>Groom Styling: Vintage <a href="https://www.brooksbrothers.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.brooksbrothers.com/">Brooks Brothers</a> and <a href="https://www.jcrew.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.jcrew.com/">J Crew</a></p>
<p><img alt="asheville hotel domestique elopement wedding vineyard summer film contax 645" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/domestique/1906-hotel-domestique-vintage-tuscanny-chartreuse-styled-elopement-83_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The shoot came together in stages, thanks entirely to the creative team we assembled. Kendra, from Laurel Creek florals is an experienced wedding and arrangement florist who grows her own flowers on her farm outside of Greenville. She was inspired by seasonal blooms and hand dyed silk ribbons, with a continuous aspiration for and experimentation with new color palettes. Prior to the shoot she sent me images of Chartreuse ribbons and matching florals. I was at first a skeptic. The color was bold, and unconventional for the wedding industry. I trusted her vision, and it instantly became my favorite detail of the entire shoot. Christi was my female model, and my styling companion. I met up with her a day prior to the shoot and we scoured thrift stores, her own personal wardrobe, and vintage pieces from her Greenville based Sustainable Style to put the finishing touches on the wardrobe and picnic stylings. The pièce de résistance was her mother's vintage, hand sewn wedding dress which she stumbled upon days prior the shoot. The moment she tried the dress on, the shoot felt complete, and I knew that we'd successful carried out the vision I had been dreaming about for months. Emily Dawn created 3 distinct and effortlessly perfect hair and makeup looks to put the final touches on our three elopement vignettes. She paired the perfect rosy cheek and lips to accent the bold yellows by the pool. She created a soft, and playfully charming ponytail and red lip to bring casual elegance to our countryside picnic. Finally, a brilliant updo with her own exclamation of "my best updo yet" was a tall order to pair with such a dress, but again the creation was as magical as the sunset light catching the loose curls draped from either side. Sterling, a Greenville based actor, was our male model and the playful chemistry generator that truly made the shoot feel like an elopement between two smitten lovers. He told stories by the picnic of vacations to European chateaus in the south of Italy, eliciting giggles from their believable prose. He carried an infectious smile that proved contagious, even from behind my camera. He was styled with vintage finds, my own personal wardrobe and pieces from his own closet and signature garb.</p>
<p><img alt="hotel domestique elopement wedding photography contax 645 portra 400 film " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/domestique/1906-hotel-domestique-vintage-tuscanny-chartreuse-styled-elopement-180_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h2>What I love About Hotel Domestique as a South Carolina Wedding Venue</h2>
<p>A special thanks is due to the lovely venue, Hotel Domestique in Traveler's Rest South Carolina. Sarah was a wonderful host, and allowed us all the time and space we needed to piece together our vision. It is truly a unique, and rare destination tucked away in the mountains of Traveler's rest between Greenville and Asheville. Hotel Domestique is large enough to host big weddings but it's remote location gives it a very intimate feel, perfect for weddings and elopements alike. The venue is inspired by italian vineyards and it is this aesthetic that makes it unlike any other wedding venue in South Carolina. It features a sprawling inn and a large back patio with a fountain that overlooks the vineyard and blue ridge mountains. It is one of the most beautiful wedding reception spaces I have ever had the pleasure to photograph.</p>
<p><img alt="hotel domestique south carolina wedding and elopement venue back patio with italian architecture in blue ridge mountains" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/domestique/1906-hotel-domestique-vintage-tuscanny-chartreuse-styled-elopement-23_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="hotel domestique bride and groom in vintage wedding dress and suit during south carolina wedding elopement featuring old world italian design" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/domestique/1906-hotel-domestique-vintage-tuscanny-chartreuse-styled-elopement-167_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<p>Last but not least, I'd like to thank East Fork pottery and the beautiful coincidence that led me to them. I'd followed them for some time and long admired their branding, artistic creations and social media styling. Leaving a vintage shop in Asheville, 2 days before the shoot, I happened to walk by their downtown shop and noticed their seasonal color was a chartreuse green. I knew it was meant to be and they graciously lent me some of their handmade pottery to put the finishing touch on our romantic picnic.</p>
<p>Everything came together to tell a story: Chartreuse in Tuscany - Vintage European Elopement Inspiration in the Hills of Asheville.</p>
<p></p>
<h2>Why You Should Hire Me For That Venue</h2>
<p>I sought out Hotel Domestique intentionally as a south carolina wedding and elopement venue because I was completely enamored with and inspired by the european archicteture and styling. It had this old world, romantic charm that I just couldn't find at any other charleston, asheville or columbia wedding venue. Hire a photographer that is inspired by where they shoot. Hire a photographer who will be so enthusiastic and excited to photograph your south carolina wedding at Hotel Domestique. This shoot was a dream and a beautiful change of pace for a Charleston wedding photographer and I truly can't wait to photograph another elopement or wedding at this lovely european venue. Also, I just really really love the Blue Ridge Mountains!</p>
<p></p>
<p><img alt="One of south carolina and north carolinas best wedding venues hotel domestique overlooking the blue ridge mountains with vintage fashion bride and groom during ceremony" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/domestique/1906-hotel-domestique-vintage-tuscanny-chartreuse-styled-elopement-141_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<p>To see more inspiring elopement content, check out my Wavering Place South Carolina Elopement that was featured on Ruffled Blog!</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/fall-elopement-wedding-at-south-carolinas-wavering-place/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/fall-elopement-wedding-at-south-carolinas-wavering-place/">Wavering Place Intimate Fall Wedding Elopement</a></span></p>
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<p>~~ ~~<br/><span></span></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 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>2019 Belle Lumiere Summer Film Image Contest Winner2019-08-21T14:50:34+00:002024-03-28T18:25:48+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/2019-belle-lumiere-summer-film-image-contest-winner/<p>I'm so thrilled to announce that one of my images won Belle Lumiere Magazine's Summer Film Image contest for the category of Emerging Film Photographer!! I am short for words to describe just how ecstatic and honored I am. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://bellelumieremagazine.com/past-winners" target="_blank" title="https://bellelumieremagazine.com/past-winners">2019 Belle Lumiere Magazine Summer Image Contest Winners</a></span></p>
<p>I entered the contest on a bit of a whim and was aware of it because of one of my favorite Charleston photographer's taking home 1st place in the color image category the previous year. I received the email that I was selected as one of the ten finalists and honestly could not believe it. I was so honored to be included in the same class as so many amazing photographers and have my images selected by a panel of judges that are so influential in the film photography community. To learn about the contest and see all of the amazing finalist images and read about the judges, check out the link to the contest description!</p>
<p></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.bellelumieremagazine.com/2019-summer-image-contest/" target="_blank" title="https://www.bellelumieremagazine.com/2019-summer-image-contest/">Belle Lumiere 2019 Summer Image Contest Entry</a></span></p>
<p></p>
<h2>Judges</h2>
<p>Lexi Clifford - Founder and editor of Belle Lumiere Magazine - <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.bellelumieremagazine.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.bellelumieremagazine.com/">Belle Lumiere Magazine</a></span> - There are few publications that carry weight and influence in the wedding photography world, and Belle Lumiere is one of the premier. It's widely respected in the film community and offers a quarterly print publication, which is extra meaningful to the film world that values tangible goods so much. I've followed the publication since the beginning of my film journey and it is an honor to be a part of its beautifully curated and influential aesthetic. </p>
<p></p>
<p>Braedon Flynn - Wedding and editorial photographer and founder of Film Supply Club - <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://filmsupply.club/" target="_blank" title="https://filmsupply.club/">Film Supply Club</a></span> - Ask any film wedding photographer where they get their film...I'll wait. Film supply club is critical to supplying us photographers with a discount on the film that we all use and love. I've been a member for over a year and it's one of the best financial decisions I have made to date. </p>
<p></p>
<p>Rebecca Yale - Film and wedding and editorial photographer - <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://rebeccayalephotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://rebeccayalephotography.com/">Rebecca Yale</a></span> - If you are in tune with the film world and the wedding world, you know the name. Rebecca's work is beautiful and influential in the film community and I'm honored that she helped select my image as a finalist. </p>
<p></p>
<p>Noelle Reynolds - Lab manager for The FIND Lab - <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://thefindlab.com/" target="_blank" title="https://thefindlab.com/">The FIND Lab</a></span> - there are surprisingly few trusted film labs in the country and The FIND Lab is one of the big ones, and one of the most well known. Their team and efforts have been instrumental in the resurgence of film. </p>
<p></p>
<h2>The Category - Emerging Film Photographer</h2>
<p>I am especially honored to win this particular category. I debated with the idea of submitting the image to the general Color Image category, but I thought the Energing category would better reflect what I'm trying to achieve in my business. I'm only in my second year as a wedding photographer and film has been with me right from the beginning. It wasn't easy incorporating it into my workflow and mastering the confidence in it, to the point of only shooting film during critical parts of the wedding day. There were lots of failures and lessons learned along the way, but now I am confident in film and it means so much to my aesthetic and to me personally. The very first camera I ever shot film on was an old Zeiss Ikon Ikoflex Favorit TLR passed down from my grandfather, my greatest role model. I shot a roll at every wedding I could, with horribly mixed results. Once I discovered 35mm, that is when my film work really began to progress. 35mm film taught me to expose properly and work in a slowed down fashion during my every day life and travels and that transitioned so well into photographing people and weddings. </p>
<p>I often feel like I am pursuing my business a bit differently than everyone else. I often hear the term "selling out" thrown around a lot when you hear story of wedding businesses built. They say to shoot what people want for a few years and build the business until you can start getting your ideal clients and producing the work that is truly meaningful to you. I left another career to pursue photography and my journey has been very intentional. I desire to create unique work that doesn't look like anyone elses, and satisfies my desires to be, primarily, an artist. I love weddings. I love the joy, the people, the pace, the movement. I want to turn your wedding into a work of art, with a bit of unconvential surprise along the way. I never wish to settle and appease in anything I do. I've been building the framework for something unique and meaningful to myself, and to the clients that will value the work. It has been a slower journey than most, but sometimes I feel like I am trying to build a 10 year business in 2. I'm quite okay with that. </p>
<p></p>
<h2>The Image</h2>
<p>I adore this image. The beauty of shooting film is getting it back and the surprise of what you have already forgotten was shot. I remember capturing this image, and knew exactly the look I wanted to achieve. This shattered my expectations. The placement of the two overlapping film images in the double exposure worked perfectly, with the most prominent and boldly colored flower wearing like a hat atop Haylee's stoic expression. This image was shot on 35mm film through a Nikon FM3a film camera on Kodak Portra 160 film stock. The fact that it was shot on 35mm film makes it all the more meaningful as this is my favorite medium for artistic works. There is a unique life and presence to 35mm film. The image was taken during an editorial bridal boudoir shoot that I dreamt up and coordinated. I couldn't have done it without the amazing team that helped me out. Please take a moment to check out all of the amazing vendors below the image!</p>
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<p><img alt="belle lumiere emerging film photographer summer color image winner 2019 kodak portra 160 35mm charleston wingate plantation bridal boudoir" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/blog/wingate-plantation-charleston-bridal-boudoir-kodak-p160-film-1-89_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h3>THE TEAM: </h3>
<p>Photography/Styling: Brian D Smith Photography (Charleston, SC)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">http://briandsmithphotography.com/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://instagram.com/briandsmithphotography">https://instagram.com/briandsmithphotography</a></span></p>
<p>Florals/Styling: Petaloso (Charleston, SC)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.wearepetaloso.com/">https://www.wearepetaloso.com/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/wearepetaloso/">https://www.instagram.com/wearepetaloso/</a></span></p>
<p>Model: Haylee Michalski (Charleston, SC)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/hayleemichalski_/">https://www.instagram.com/hayleemichalski_/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.millielewischarleston.com/haylee-michalski">http://www.millielewischarleston.com/haylee-michalski</a></span></p>
<p>HMUA: Pampered and Pretty (Charleston, SC)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.pamperedandprettyxo.com/">https://www.pamperedandprettyxo.com/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/pamperedandprettyxo/">https://www.instagram.com/pamperedandprettyxo/</a></span></p>
<p>Lingerie: Bits of Lace (Charleston, SC)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.bitsoflace.com/">https://www.bitsoflace.com/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/bitsoflacefinelingerie/">https://www.instagram.com/bitsoflacefinelingerie/</a></span></p>
<p>Bodysuit/Dress: Sweet Caroline Styles (Etsy Store)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://sweetcarolinestyles.com/">https://sweetcarolinestyles.com/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/sweetcarolinestyles/">https://www.instagram.com/sweetcarolinestyles/</a></span></p>
<p>Robe and Shoes: Model Bride (Charleston, SC)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.modelbride.com/">http://www.modelbride.com/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/modelbride/">https://www.instagram.com/modelbride/</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/modelbride/"></a></span></p>
<p><em></em>Robe Designer: Girl and a Serious Dream</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.girlandaseriousdream.com" target="_blank" title="https://www.girlandaseriousdream.com">https://www.girlandaseriousdream.com</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/girlandaseriousdream/">https://www.instagram.com/girlandaseriousdream/</a></span></p>
<p>Paper Goods: Bergen Lauren (North Carolina)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.bergenlauren.com/">https://www.bergenlauren.com/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/bergenlauren/">https://www.instagram.com/bergenlauren/</a></span></p>
<p>Couch: 428 Main (Charleston, SC)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.428main.com/">https://www.428main.com/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/428main/">https://www.instagram.com/428main/</a></span></p>
<p>Venue: Wingate Plantation (Charleston, SC)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://wingateplantation.com/">https://wingateplantation.com/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/wingateplantation/">https://www.instagram.com/wingateplantation/</a></span></p>
<p>Floral Backdrop: Ashley Woodson Bailey (Jacksonville, FL)</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.awblove.com/">https://www.awblove.com/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/ashleywoodsonbailey/">https://www.instagram.com/ashleywoodsonbailey/</a></span></p>
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<p>I'd also love to acknowledge my amazing film lab, Photovision, for being an integral part of my film journey. I switched to them about 1 year ago and they have exceeded my expectations in every single way. The images come back just the way I want them, their turn around times are the best in the country, and they are always happy to help answer any questions I have. I recommend them to every single person who asks me about shooting film. They've truly made a customer for life. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://photovisionprints.com/" target="_blank" title="https://photovisionprints.com/">Photovision Prints</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></p>
<p>So much more to come from this shoot. I'm in the process of submitting it for publication and will share the rest as soon as it is picked up! Thanks again for the honor, Belle Lumeire, and thank you a million times to everyone that worked with me on the shoot. This recognition means everything to me and is an extra motivator to just keep doing what I am doing and don't look back. </p>
<p></p>Spring Charleston Engagement Session on Charleston's Daniel Island2019-07-22T16:19:31+00:002024-03-28T18:17:06+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/spring-charleston-engagement-session-on-charlestons-daniel-island/<p>Sam and David live in San Francisco but chose to get married at Middleton Place in Charleston, SC in the fall of 2019. When they reached out about doing an engagement session in May, I learned that Sam's parents had a beautiful home with a pool on Daniel Island. We decided to use this as the starting point for our engagement shoot. The idea came about when she saw some underwater film portraits I had done, and she mentioned that we could use her pool! I've never been so excited for engagement photos. The backyard featured a large infinity pool and beautiful palm trees that caught the golden hour light just right. </p>
<p><img alt="charleston daniel island engagement picture photograph on kodak portra 160 film contax 645" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/sam-david-daniel-island/sam-david-daniel-island-charleston-engagement-film-4_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Our second stop was the grounds of the Daniel Island Club. The daniel Island club sits on a golf course, with beautiful marsh views and plenty of golden grass, perfectly aglow in that sunset light. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.danielislandclub.com/club/scripts/library/view_document.asp?NS=PPE&DN=WEDDINGS" target="_blank" title="https://www.danielislandclub.com/club/scripts/library/view_document.asp?NS=PPE&DN=WEDDINGS">Daniel Island Club Weddings</a></span></p>
<p>After the best of the golden hour light began to fade, we headed back to Sam's family property to get in the pool. I started off photographing above water. It's no easy feet convincing myself to lug my $4000 film camera into the water, but I'll do just about anything for a unique photograph. I decided on Kodak TriX film, pushed 1 stop, to catch a bit more of the fading light and give me plenty of dramatic contrast. My gosh, the risk was so worth it. </p>
<p><img alt="charleston pool water engagement picture photograph kodak trix 400 contax 645 spring " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/sam-david-daniel-island/sam-david-daniel-island-charleston-engagement-film-73_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Ten minutes above water and it was time to experiment. This was only my second time photographing underwater with my, new to me, Nikonos V underwater 35mm film camera. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2380057.m570.l1313.TR10.TRC2.A0.H0.Xnikonos+v.TRS2&_nkw=nikonos+v&_sacat=0" target="_blank" title="https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2380057.m570.l1313.TR10.TRC2.A0.H0.Xnikonos+v.TRS2&_nkw=nikonos+v&_sacat=0">Nikonos V Ebay </a></span></p>
<p>Honestly, it was incredibly difficult. It's hard to see for me, and even harder for the couple to pose and balance, all while having the perfect timing for my cameras shutter. The images came back as you expect an experiment would. I got a few beautiful images and a lot of awkward ones, but I'll never shy away from an experiment. It means everything to me that my couples embrace the experimental side of me. Sam and David were on board from the very beginning and made this my most memorable engagement session to date. </p>
<p><img alt="charleston underwater engagement session photograph nikonos v kodak p3200 black and white 35mm film" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/stories/sam-david-daniel-island/sam-david-daniel-island-charleston-engagement-film-86_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Thank you Sam and David for getting weird with me!</p>
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