MORNING AT KAHVI WITH BRITTNEe

Editorial photography, brand photographer, Arizona branding photographer, local coffee shop, Arizona coffee shops, Arizona photographer, natural light, morning photo session

Back in 2021 when I was jumping back on the creative wagon. I realized I need to relearn some aspects of photography to make significant improvements. When I figured that out, I focused on improving storytelling through impactful strong photographs making them look cinematic. I’ve been honing on that inspiration of creating a cinematic look by simply utilizing my light at any time of day.

When I was planning this creative session with Brittnee the focus was to have it feel bright, warm, and cozy and inspires you to want to savor your regular cup of espresso. The morning of the shoot we decided to make it 1 hour after the sun rose the thing about morning light. It’s cooler and bright it isn’t as orange as a sunset which is naturally what I prefer style-wise. It just makes it more doable in the editing.

The plan was to bring you along on a regular cool morning in downtown phoenix. Guide you along the process of getting your drink, sipping it, and enjoying people-watching. As I was planning this session it was also meant to be filmed like a mini short film. Another reason it's shot and edited wide to fit as if it was in a film you’d see in a movie theater even though clearly we aren’t on that level of production. That was a major inspiration.

I did a variety of poses that felt natural mixed with actual movements/acting. Just fine turning angles and adjustments to refine the entirety making sure the light that was hitting Brittnee would bring out her natural features and make elements of her outfit pop against the white background of the window and interior of the coffee shop.

As a result, this whole session actually took less than 45 minutes because of how we both communicated. We were both super wired from caffeine I bought a hot doppio for Brittnee to drink as I took all of the moments that were captured. Which I will make sure to insert in this blog post.

One thing I will say if you're a natural light photographer. In order to improve on your technique do not be afraid to capture in different lighting scenarios you can know how your own camera responds to the different settings: ISO-500,800,1000-above. In this case, it was in the morning and quite bright it wasn't necessary to bring the ISO up. Know your light well, and how to direct your subject to get the results. It could be as simple as directing and then demonstrating it.

I really wanted to discuss this session of mine. After that month in 2021 capturing with Brittnee, it’s been a very busy two years for me. I’m ready to write about my experiences to help you better understand photography or better yet inspire you.

I love coffee shops both because I work at one part-time, also it's like my secondary spot when I need to get out and relax. Even do some productivity work/networking. It’s also such a great way to support your local businesses in your region if you haven't. If you haven't tried to drink locally roasted espresso/drip it changes the way you really want to enjoy your regular cafe/coffee experience.

When I did this session it meant a lot to me I wanted others to see how going to a cafe makes me feel. Brittnee portrayed it so well with your modeling skills.