Shoot During the “Golden Hour”

Lighting plays a HUGE role in fashion photography. The lens of the camera is sensitive to sunlight the way our eyeballs are sensitive to it. The only difference is, our eyes automatically adjust to the elements. Rather than struggling with ISO, saturation, shadows, and light reflector screens, shoot with your amateur photographer during the “Golden Hour.” During this hour before sunset, the sun is higher in the sky and the light is juuuuust right for photos. Download the Rizon app and track the Golden Hour from anywhere in the world in the palm of your hand.

Shoot in Auto Focus

If you shoot with a DSLR camera, then you’re probably shooting in manual mode. When you shoot in manual mode, you have the ability to adjust how much light enters the lens (ISO), how fast the lens closes (shutter speed), and how much you want to be in focus (aperture or f/stop). I am definitely not an expert, but after three years of blogging I am finally comfortable with the different settings on the camera. Avoid blurry photos and set your camera to auto-focus (not automatic mode) when your Instagram friend is behind the camera. I shoot in manual mode with a Nikon D610. Not only do I set it to auto-focus, but I turn on the focus indicator beep. My mom wears reading glasses – it’s difficult for her to see the “focus squares” through the viewfinder. Instead of relying on those, she pushes the shutter halfway down and waits for the beep. The beep is her cue to push the shutter all the way down and snap the pic! Voila!

More Tips and Tricks

It’s hard to play stage manager, camera setter-upper, and fashion model at the same time. Reduce stress and practice your poses ahead of time! Take mirror selfies or jot down a few notes so that you remember what looked good and more importantly what didn’t. Finally, if you’re still struggling with blurry photos, consider shooting on a tripod to avoid “camera shake.” Tripods are inexpensive, collapsable, lightweight, and may just solve your photography blues.

Shop the Post:

Top | Shorts | Sandals (sale alert!) | Earrings

Thanks to my Instagram Mom for taking these photos.

The post Photography Tips for your Instagram Person appeared first on Kelsey Kaplan Fashion.

I find it so much fun to meet the face behind the @ symbol. You know that girl you’ve been following for months (maybe even years) that you just know you’d connect with. The people watching is also very entertaining. Just when you think you nailed it with your outfit, someone walks by in the most incredible ensemble that you’ve ever seen. Then there are those that leave you wondering…people go to great lengths to get their picture taken by street photographers! You already know my visit to BaubleBar HQ was a trip highlight, but spending time with Instagram friends (that’s a thing now!) and bouncing ideas of off each other is invaluable.

Now let’s discuss the outfit! Most of my NYFW looks are not what you would refer to as “everyday attire.” But can you blame me? There is only one week a year where ANYTHING goes – so go all out! I chose to mix in this off the shoulder maxi dress because it’s simply chic. It is so satisfying when a brand new dress fits perfectly right out of the package. With a three-four inch heel, even a shortie like me can get away wearing this. The color is a great fall hue, and it can appear dressy or not. What would you say if I told you this off the shoulder maxi is only $24?!

Shop My NYFW Look:

OTS Maxi | Sandals | Purse | Earrings c/o

A special thanks to Laurel Creative for capturing the moment.

The post NYFW in an Off The Shoulder Maxi Dress appeared first on Kelsey Kaplan Fashion.