I found this article about an easy DIY Christmas lights background (this came after looking for a Christmas light photography backdrop) and wanted to give it a go.
Here was my setup:
The backdrop is a roll of bulletin board paper with a whitewashed wood pattern, found at Michaels for about $7. I think I even used a coupon so it was cheaper than that. It works wonderfully as a backdrop, and is a heck of a lot cheaper than a true photography backdrop. The "bench" I sat Austin on is really just a laundry basket flipped over with a white tablecloth on top. I probably didn't need to cover it, but I wasn't sure how much of him I'd have in the photo.
I hung two strings of icicle lights across the backdrop so that I could fill the background with lights. And I used natural light with no flash.
First, I practiced my camera settings with a doll borrowed from my mom:
This looked nice so I figured, hey, we're in business. Bring in the kiddo.
Yeah. Right.
He refused to sit for more than the first 10 seconds, so I managed two decent photos. They're not perfect, but they'll do.
I definitely consider this one a Pinterest failure. Maybe not of epic proportions but this isn't the result I was hoping to get in my mind. Ah well, there's always next year!
Maybe it's just me, but I love the second one. ;)
ReplyDeleteIt's not just you! The second one, especially, is adorable!!
DeleteMaybe it's just me, but I love the second one. ;)
ReplyDeleteI think they came out great. The second picture is the best.
ReplyDeleteAs you know, I'm with Steph, I love the rawr face!
ReplyDeleteI don't think this is a fail...that second picture is great! ;)
ReplyDeleteThis isnt a fail at all!! i love how they turned out!! no successful backdrop can overcome a wiggly kid...haahahaa besides, personality pictures are so much more fun!!
ReplyDeleteI don't think you failed. I like both photos. :)
ReplyDeleteThis is a failure? You have high standards! The background is adorable, and your kid isn't blurry or crying. That's a win in my book.
ReplyDeleteOk guys, you win :) The picture wasn't exactly how I wanted it to come out but it is nice to hear that you all think it looks good :) Thank you!
ReplyDeleteI definitely don't think this was a fail! These are both really cute. And I love how the backdrop came out.
ReplyDeletexx
brittneewblogs.blogspot.com
I think these photos turned out great! I especially love the last one.
ReplyDeleteAre you kidding?! I think both of these photos are PinterestFTW!! The last one is perfect!!
ReplyDeleteI love seeing your set up too! I never knew Michaels sold that backdrop. Nice job.
ReplyDelete