It always feels good to give back to your community. A little over a year ago, I went to my first Photog Shoot Out event. When I was there I met tons of photographers, some new to the business and others who were well practiced, a lot of whom I now call good friends. Since then, I’ve attended lots of Photog Shoot Out events and ones similar to them all around Southern California. They have always been a safe place to gain skills, ask questions and network among people who can talk photo with me. So when Hanssie Trainor and Matt Saville asked me if I would like to lead a workshop dedicated to Senior Portrait Photography, I was honored.

I am going into my ninth year of teaching photo, so teaching at this point in my career comes pretty naturally. Leading groups of 10 through an exercise called Sugar and Spice, I gave one photographer the opportunity to lead a 4 minute photo shoot of our two fabulous models, Hannah & Richard. For the first two minutes all the photographers in the group got to take pictures, but all posing directions were given by the lead photographer. During the last thirty seconds, the lead photographer was the only one allowed to take pictures, giving them the opportunity to get their golden shots.

Lots of sugar was given in the last minute, where I made sure the lead photographer was affirmed and validated for all the things they did well. But to really grow in our profession, it’s necessary to have some spice (a critique) in addition to all the affirmations. I know it was hard for everyone under the crazy two minute time crunch, but you all did spectacularly.

Thanks to Dane Sanders for giving me the idea to lead photogs through an exercise like this.

To see more senior portraits, check out my Senior Portfolio.

Other leaders included: Joe & Mirta Barnet, John Mireles, Bobby Brown & Jenn Disney

My models: Hannah & Richard. You guys were truly amazing! Thanks soooo much for being fabulous!

Accessories & Makeup: Nicole Enjoli

Location: Old Ranch Country Club in Seal Beach