Jessi Ingram + The Story Behind
There is just no denying that you can spot a photographer who has mastered light a mile away. Often times, you can spot a photographer’s unique work just by the recipe of light they used mixed with their editing overlay. This recipe along with their specific  individual interactions with their subject boils down to the very essence of the style of the photographer. And Jessi Ingram? Jessi Ingram has got a style! A style we adore we might add. Friends, scroll her IG feed and you’ll see exactly what we mean. We had to know the method to her madness and we’re so glad she obliged!
Can you tell us “The Story Behind” this shot?
I think sometimes the light tells the story and determines where I put the client/subject. In this case, the light was getting to the place that I LOVE. It was starting to cast that warm glow on the tall grass, creating such beautiful affect that the light just illuminated around them! They were in there own little world when I began shooting. I tried to use the grass to frame them while they talked and loved on each other. I’m really happy with how the shot turned out, however, it was NOT the easiest to edit! 🙂
DSLR, iPhone, instant or film?
DSLR
What were your camera settings for this image?
ISO: 125, f/ 2.8, Shutter Speed: 1/1600
What speaks to you about this image? What specifically made you press the shutter?
A couple things I think: DEFINITELY THE LIGHT! Light plays such a HUGE roll in photography. In this case I think it’s one of the first things you notice. The way it bounces off the grass and frames the subject. Second, Their connection. For sure.
What was your composition technique with this shot?
I’m so terrible about composition. I’m so much more about the moments and less about it being technically correct. I know, I know it’s terrible and I’m not saying I NEVER pay attention to it, but in this case, light + emotion ruled over ANYTHING!!
Did you have any lighting challenges? How did you light the image?
YES!!! This light…as much as I love it, I struggle SO hard with it. Its still just a little too bright for me. In fact, I sat them down because I couldn’t get it right with them standing. I moved around A LOT until I found the right angle. I typically am a HUGE sucker for backlight, but I just wasn’t happy with the result so I split the difference. It’s kind of a combination between side light + back light.
Was this photo happenstance or did you visualize it prior? If so, how did you envision the image and set up for it?
Well, I feel like MOST of my images are happenstance. Okay, maybe not MOST, but typically the ones I LOVE the most are. I’m not big on posing so that’s probably why. Whatever happens, happens and that just what HAPPENED here! 😉
Did you use a preset to edit this image, your own selective edits or a combination of both?
I did. I use Rooke & Rover, but I do so much tweaking that it’s practically my own.
Any advice you can offer to photographers regarding patience and progress?
I think I mentioned this when I originally posted the image, but I think the point bares repeating. Six months to a year ago I would have TOTALLY scrapped this image because I just couldn’t edit it! I have pushed myself and pushed myself to edit through the tough images! I can’t tell you how many AWESOME images I could’ve included in client galleries if I would have pushed through and encouraged myself a little more. I’ve kicked myself for it! In this business, time plays a HUGE factor! I’m not where I was six months ago! It takes hard work and constantly shooting/editing to figure out the tough light or hard editing scenarios, and believe me I’m still no master, but I’m happy with my progress! Don’t give up! Keep pushing!!! You CAN do it!
Jessi Ingram is based out of Dallas + Fort Worth, TX and she and her stunning portrait and wedding work can be found:
SITE // FACEBOOK // INSTAGRAM