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There’s a beautiful couple in front of you. He’s looking at her like there’s no one else in the world–she’s smiling and shining. The sun is setting, the lighting couldn’t be more glorious. You’re excited, their excited….you snap a few shots here, a few shots there “Beautiful! Perfect!” You encourage them! After a while your creativity seems to wain. It feels like you’ve gotten the same picture, the same look. You need a spark.

Here are a few easy tips to jump starting your creativity while working on your toes!

Change your angle.

You got it! Super simple. Keep the couple exactly where they are (because if you love the pose they’re in, the lighting behind them–keep them there!) It’s much easier to readjust your body than to get two people (or a family) in a new location with a new pose. So move! Be sure to encourage them! “Stay right there! You look perfect! Ah! I love the light behind you!” Then jump to the side and switch up the angle. Maybe at first you were looking straight on–run to the side and get the profile of their faces. Tell them to touch nose to nose. Notice not only is the perspective different, but the lighting is now coming from the other side. Your subjects didn’t move but you’ve got a completely fresh set of pictures!

Get in close. Like, REALLY close.

Get the details. Move in close. You love how your couple is looking at each other–try cropping most of the guys head so all you see is his wife’s eyes. Let your audience know where your focal point is. Take out all the surroundings, zoom in. Careful here though! You want to zoom in, but be sure your picture is still dynamic. (Things to keep in mind: rule of thirds, focal point, leading lines). Don’t be afraid to be bold in your crop!

Now back up. You’re making them uncomfortable. KIDDING! But seriously. Back up.

Can’t figure out what else to take a picture of up close!? Move back! Like REALLY far back! Capture the whole scene! Take a picture of what you’re seeing! You love the landscape? Show the whole thing! It’s okay to have your subjects be a tiny part of the picture. (Again, please note that you don’t want all their pictures far away! They want to be able to know that was them! One or two like this is okay, but don’t overdo this one!)

Add a little somethin-somethin to the foreground!

Next up–pictures with dimension! Put something in the foreground! You love the wooded area you’re shooting in, but you need something new! Step back behind the tree and make it feel like they are alone in the woods. Bend down behind the hill and allow the picture to feel like you’re peering over to capture that special moment. I love these pictures!! They are so easy to do and add such emotion to the shot!

Lace up those shoes and WALK! Change your location!

It sounds so easy (and it is!) but we forget it so many times! If you’re stuck during your shoot and can’t think of more pictures–change your location! Walk around! I’ve found some of my most unique places a block or two away from where I thought was a “prime spot.” Take this time to get to know your clients! Talk about them, ask how they met, what they’ve been up to this Summer–make it about them! It not only builds your bond, but it makes them feel comfortable to be in front of your lens.

There are literally TONS of ways to boost your creativity when you’re stuck in a lull–but here are just a few to tuck into your memory for your next shoot!

Now go out there and be creative!!!

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