Tap Room Podcast 37: Powder Sessions our 2021/2022 Season
Our Portrait Powder Sessions have a season in Florida, where we conduct them outside during the months of late November to Late May. It’s the drier months in the state, along with cooler weather when we’re outside. The Tampa Bay weather at times is tricky, so we plan accordingly.
Click here to download our Powder Photo Session Preparation Guide
Portrait Powder Sessions are quite the event and we do work to coordinate with dance, gymnastic and cheer studios in our market. We’re able to create a unique work of art that isn’t your typical photo.
So why would you want to do this particular style of photo session, what can you expect and where would you find a place to do this? We’ll help provide some of those answers on this podcast.
To get ready for this type of session, there are few things to prep for and to think about prior to booking.
Mess - you will get really messy on this type of session, there’s no way around it. Most photographers will do this outdoor or in a very open facility to allow for good ventilation. I’ve heard of studios doing this in tight quarters and it doesn’t end well. It will get all over you and if done in close quarters, also get in equipment and all the other nooks within the location. (Bring a change of clothes at the minimum)
Outfit - This will ultimately depend on what you want to get potentially ruined or changed to permanent ulterior color. Black has worked well with individuals I’ve worked with, but others have opted for white colors, since they weren’t going to use the outfit again. Once again, it’s your comfort zone and what you want. The darker colors do hide stains better.
Hair - This is geared towards more of the ladies, but if you have long hair don’t arrive with it damp or moist. The powder will stick and make the hair a bit clumpy and you’ll lose out on some of the unique movement effects of dry hair. You’ll also being washing it again post session.
Mirror / Phone - Bring a mirror or phone, just to be able to check your face for powder
Towels - When we house the sessions at our facility, we do provide towels to wipe off the face. We try to avoid hitting the face, but wind and the occassional bad throw happens.
Throwing Tips - If your assisting a family member, friend etc… here are a few throwing tips.
Keep your hands into fists if there is a breeze. Use the wind to your advantage.
Don’t throw the powder in front of the subject because you can hide their face and then they won’t get it into their eyes.
Contrasting colors work best if you throw more than one at a time
Water - for our sessions we provide bottled water. We’re outside and with a session lasting an hour you’ll want to clear your throat and possible powder mix getting in the mouth.
Post Session
Bring a change of clothes if the venue/location you’re at allows it
A towel will be necessary to brush off excessive dust/powder from the body and clothes. Do this prior to getting anything wet. It’ll save a little bit of aggravation.
Keep your cleaner clothes away from the session where you’re shooting.
Bring towel for when you ride home. You’ll want to cover the seats in your car.
Have Fun - You’re doing this session because it’s a new experience and will create unique imagery for you. So relax and enjoy the session.
Finding a photographer who will do the session may be a little more difficult to find then some other types of sessions. Part of this is due to the following:
A little more experience and patience is needed in capturing the image
Location - due to the mess, it’ll most likely be done on private property (if you’re going to public places, please be cognizant of your environment.
Supplies - it takes a little extra time to plan and prep
