Street Studio: Phoenix

When I head to Vancouver or Portland I prepare myself and my gear for rain. When I work in Chicago in the winter I know that I’m going to be cold. Any time I’m in Austin I assume that there’s a maniac on a scooter somewhere that wants to test the limits of my health insurance coverage.

In all cases, I act accordingly.

A photography session outdoors in Phoenix means that the sun is going to be a factor. I learned a long time ago that fighting the sun is futile.

Instead, I use a form of creative appeasement.

A starting point that includes a lot of shade is the first order of business when working in Phoenix. Choosing the right time of day helps too.

Being prepared generally mitigates the ever-present perils. Still, the best way to a great visual outcome is by putting someone interesting in front of the camera.

About the author: I am Stephen Kennedy, an experienced photographer with more than 2500 completed sessions in all 50 US states.