Sunsets at The Beach

EXTENDED FAMILY PORTRAITS

Crafting from an idea

Photographing large groups is an art, which is why I like to think orchestrated is a more appropriate description than captured. As a Kauai portrait photographer, you are the music and I am the conductor. Ultimately, the stunning symphony (the fantastic photos I'll place in your private online gallery) are ALL YOU. I’m just there with the crazy ideas, my eye for composition, framing, lighting, high-tech gear, bla bla bla. Big family photoshoots also require organizational knowhow. Decisions on the groupings, sub families, grandchildren only, grandparents and grandchildren, individual portraits, etc. Then there's fun shots, classical, the big shot. It means tons of extra photos need to be taken. With the big group, the greater the likelihood of someone getting distracted, or finding it hard to keep his/her eyes open. Not all photographers are equipped to handle all of this. An extended family photoshoot has lots going on. I've been a big family photographer in Kauai for 15 years, and I'm thrilled to be able to share my skill and talent with you and your lovely family. Now you know there's an art to extended family photography, I look forward to hearing from you and getting you into my extended family photoshoot calendar.

Mahalo,

David Marsh,

Family portrait photographer Kauai

Is it a pose or isn't it?

While some segments of my extended family photo session will involve candid photos where you’d do your own thing, I take pride in be able to orchestrate my photoshoots using film director’s techniques. I like to plant ideas rather than tell things like, “do it like this!” Rarely will you hear from me, "big smile now!” and “Everybody say cheese!” But I might suggest, “Be like a mime artist! You need to get around an invisible wall on tip-toes, and the ground is getting scorchingly hot!" This stupid idea is likely to emote off-the-cuff body language, genuine giggles and who knows what else. And I’m ready for it with my trigger-ready camera finger, up to 20 photos per second, snagging those fun emblazoned moments onto my memory card—even that's got the right name! You might ask, is this the way other Kauai family photographers do this? Well, I suggest you look at my portfolio and theirs and decide for yourself. Or I’ll save you the time. No! By the way, I have also directed feature films! “You’re on stage, opening dance number, wide open arms for the audience!” I’ve actually used that one a bunch of times. I always get great stuff, way better than your typical family pose, standing side by side, shoulder to shoulder.

Guess what lens I use for really big family portraits? Do you think I go for a wide angle lens?

Answer: No. I prefer to use a portrait lens, 85mm and step far back. Sometimes I even go with a 135mm telephoto, and step really far back.

I do love wide angle lenses, though. I use them in family sessions when I want sweeping landscapes overtaking my subjects. It's a very interesting look.

EXTENDED FAMILY PHOTO PACKAGE / BOOK ME