Andrew Castilla Andrew Castilla

Capture the Moment

It is easy to take a picture, but it can be harder to capture the story in it. Take a look at how you can get a shot that captures the interests of clients and viewers, while also helping you develop as a photographer

Some moments do not require all eyes to look at the photographer. In this picture, I am simply in the background, getting to observe the happiness people get from celebrating with friends and good weather.

Sometimes the right moment is not always what it seems. We look for the perfect shot and miss out on the fact that sometimes the not-so-perfect shot captured the best part of the story, better yet, makes us ask what is happening. Now, I am not saying you can take any picture and justify it to be some sort of masterpiece, but going through the camera roll some pictures do surprise me. Another thing to take into consideration is to look for the shot that no one else can think of. In the split second we have at the moment, finding the shot that no one else has puts you at an advantage to offer your work.

Shots that can be taken through a non-standard form can offer a completely different look at what is happening in a shot.

When talking about capturing the moment and or story, candids are my favorite. The idea behind a candid shot puts the photographer in an almost omnipresent position when done properly. You don’t have to sneak up behind someone and scare them, but simply float around where you are shooting and try to be casual. Constantly moving around will give you a great advantage to always look for a new shot and get the shots to tell the story.

Some moments need no prompt from a photographer to take a picture; all you have to do is look for it.

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When the Shoe Fits

A look at what is taking place in the world of shoes with the photoshoot done with Unique Soles in Lakeridge, Virginia.

Logo of Unique Soles, a fast growing shoe store connecting community and shoe collectors alike.

It All Starts with Quality

When I first walked into Unique Soles, I was only a customer. I saw shoes that I had only seen on websites and stores in La and New York. I was amazed at the inventory and kindness that the workers shared with customers and myself. I was still learning all the moving parts of starting photography and a business, but I knew I wanted to shoot for them when I had the chance to return their amazing service and quality.

When I got my business set up, sure enough I went back to Unique Soles. I offered to take pictures for them for free in order to promote their store and my business. Once again, they were very kind and told me to do what I needed to do and take my time.

I finished up the shoot, thanked the owner for letting me take their shots for them, then went home to start working on the pictures. Once I finished, I let the owner know and I wanted to see what he thought. I was super excited to hear that he liked the pictures and he wanted me to come back and take more for the store.

Now, I am taking pictures for Unique Soles every week and get to work with their amazing staff to help bring them the best content I can offer and constantly improve.

To anyone who is scared to start a business or even reaching out to others to help pick your business up, I assure you, take every chance that comes your way. I guarantee you that every chance you do not take will be one more regret you wish you could change. It is okay to be scared, but do not let that fear keep you from stretching out and working to become the best you can be and the best you can offer as a business. Take the risk, work hard, and see how it will reward you in the future.

To anyone who is looking to visit Unique Soles, you can find them at 2894 Garber Way, Woodbridge, VA 22192, go check them out!

Unique Soles has a mass collection of new and gently used shoes that rivals sneaker stores nationwide.

Owner Bryan Velasquez gives back by buying shoes from the community to give affordable prices to anyone looking for the hottest new trends of street fashion and shoe wear.

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