Meet the Bartus Family

A couple weeks ago it could not have been a better day for a photo shoot, and Nicole and her family could not have been more willing subjects.  So, a road trip was scheduled and we met @ McConnells Mill.  I had only seen Gavin in photos and one random office visit & needless to say our relationship had yet to be rooted in any way.  As I approached the picnic table where they were waiting for me, let's just say he did not throw open his arms and run to me...  more like, he sized me up and then decided who was going to take control of this shoot.

Once we exchanged some pleasantries and attempted to woo over Gavin, we were on our way & a small hike down to the covered bridge.  We managed to get down to the bridge and find a few families, a high school sr, and what appeared to be a newly engaged couple.  Everyone wants to be a photographer, and everyone thought this was the place to shoot!  This day may well have been!

We did our best at some quick posed shots on the overlook, and then milled about the mill and found some other locations for simply doing our best at capturing a couple special moments.  Gavin was not as excited about the trip as I (we) was (were), though he may not have smiled during each shot, he certainly did add his personality to each photo.

In the end, I think we got some great moments and had an enjoyable couple of hours just putzing around. I'm still weening myself off the 'auto' settings on the camera - so, this gave me a chance to explore my comfort with using the 'aperture' priority on some.  Nicole later asked if I remembered which ones were which -- I hate Q&A -- and although in my head I think I know which ones were, and which weren't. I'm not 100% sure I can say w/100% accuracy. I do think the compositions are getting a little better as well as some of the framing / background shots.  What do you think?

Oh well - everytime I shoot, I feel a little more confident, and I feel I learn a little more. Any tips in working w/kids - I'm all ears (I will say, dressing as a clown is where I draw the line).