We all want that fabulous Instagram photo. The snap that speaks volumes about our good taste and creative sensibility. Two of Portland’s most photogenic facets are the landscape and its diverse food scene. Because picture perfection requires more than luck, we asked two local photographers how to capture the best of Portland outdoors and dining. (In Part 2 of this series, we’ll provide tips on snapping high quality photos of our fellow humans.)
Here’s our advice – in Q and A format – from Jess Selig and Aubre LeGault.
Jess Selig: Landscape (IG: jess_pdx)
Photo by Jess Selig.
FP: What’s your favorite thing about shooting landscapes?
JS: Taking landscape photos helps me to slow down and really see what’s in front of me. Sometimes I sit for quite a while pondering the landscape in front of me before I shoot. It’s a very meditative exercise.
FP: What is the best time of day or setting?
JS: I like low light, so mornings and evenings are best for me. If it’s cloudy, and especially if it’s foggy, I go into the forests. I love a good foggy forest so you’ll see a lot of those scenes in my work.
FP: What makes a great landscape photograph?
JS: Shoot what is pleasing to you, even if it doesn’t follow certain “rules.” Your own artistic touch or edit is what will set your photo apart. Be curious, not rigid, and most importantly, have fun.
FP: What’s one app or filter everyone should try?
JS: Snapseed is by far the one I use the most.
FP: What’s the secret to getting that perfect Instagram-blowing-up shot?
Taking photos of what you love, engaging with other accounts by leaving likes and meaningful comments, and engaging with your followers helps keep people interested. If you do what you love, you will get recognized for your work and opportunities will follow.
Photo by Jess Selig.
FP: What’s an iconic Portland scene or location you love to shoot?
JS: The Wildwood Trail in Forest Park any time it’s foggy. Get me up there in October during a heavy fog, when the autumn colors are peaking, and I’m in heaven!
Top tip from Jess Selig: When shooting landscapes always take in the view from several angles and never forget extra batteries!
Aubre LeGault: Food (IG: PDXFoodPhotos)
Photo by Aubre LeGault.
FP: What’s your favorite thing about shooting food?
AL: Food is a lot of fun to photograph because it’s full of different colors and textures and you have complete control over your composition. The subject always sits still and does as it’s told. Well, usually. Ice cream tends to melt even though I tell it not to.
FP: What’s the best time of day or setting?
AL: Beautiful soft light is best for food so think “side light” or “diffused light.” If you’re outside this means sunrise or sunset time. Those two times of the day will have nice side light with a softer warmer glow. If you’re inside, shoot your food by a window.
Photo by Aubre LeGault.
FP: What makes a great food photograph?
AL: It makes the viewer want to eat that dish right then and there. The goal is to make them salivate. A great image has interesting light, strong composition, and accurate color. Filters and funky presets are fun but I don’t think they add to food images.
FP: What’s one app or filter everyone should try?
AL: Snapseed is my go to app for quick editing.
FP: What’s the secret to getting that perfect Instagram-blowing-up shot?
AL: I wish I knew! I have an image of some waffles that’s decent but nothing spectacular and it has the most “likes.” My guess is people really like waffles! So if it’s a cherished item, like pizza, and a cool image you’ll probably receive a lot of love.
FP: What’s an iconic Portland food, dish, or restaurant you love to shoot?
AL: I have to give a shout out to one of my clients, Quaintrelle. Camille is the head bartender. Her cocktails are amazing and a lot of fun to photograph. Their food is wonderful too.
Top tip from Aubre LeGault: When shooting food always choose the perfect angle and never post a photo that is out of focus.
Look for Part 2 of our picture taking tip series – all about people photography – on Oct. 12.
