We’ve been through some strange times the past few weeks, and life might look strange for a while longer. But here in Massachusetts photographers are excited that we can begin to work with clients again! In case you’re wondering what sessions are going to look like in the time of social distancing, this blog post is for you.
Where can we have our session?
For the time being, all sessions must take place outdoors. That rules out in-home and hospital sessions right now. But spring is a wonderful time for outdoor photos! If you are looking for senior portraits, a family session, couples or maternity photos, or anything else we can shoot outside, I’m up for it.
When choosing a location, we will have to look for places where it’s possible to stay distanced from other people. If you have pretty outdoor spaces on your property, or you know someone who would let us use theirs, that is the perfect option. It’s more likely going to be a rural setting than an urban one at this point, so you city dwellers may need to head to the suburbs!
Massachusetts does currently require a mask to be worn when social distancing isn’t possible, so a busy location is probably out. Some towns, such as Cambridge, are requiring masks to be worn in public at all times. Assuming you don’t want to be wearing a mask in your photos, that would make it pretty hard to shoot there (again, unless it’s private property). So we’ll be sure to choose a location where masks aren’t required.
When can we have our session?
Choosing a less popular time and day will be a big help in our ability to social distance. If you have your heart set on a location that is likely to be popular or crowded, a weekday is a better bet than a weekend. For even fewer people around, a sunrise session is a great choice!
I’m booking sessions now and will start shooting the week of May 25. I will continue to follow this social distancing policy as long as necessary.
What will our session look like?
In some ways it will be no different than any other session with me. I like using long lenses for the beautiful backgrounds and bokeh, so that will be how I will shoot from now on, in order to stay six feet away. It will still be possible to get beautiful shots–I just can’t get close or touch you to guide posing. If you want to incorporate an outdoor activity in your session, that’s a great idea for more variety!
Instead of bringing my own blanket for seated shots, I will ask you to bring one of yours. I’ll also need to rely on a stepladder so I can get those shots while still keeping my distance.
For ease of communication, my preference will be not to wear a mask while I’m shooting, which is allowed as long as we are six feet apart. If you would feel safer with me wearing one, I will be happy to do so.
What precautions are you taking?
In addition to everything I’ve already mentioned, I will be sanitizing my hands before and after sessions, and during if necessary. I will also wipe down my equipment between sessions. I’m practicing social distancing on my own and with my family to do my best to stay healthy. We are all virus-free here so far, thank goodness.
On the day of your session, if I have any concerns that I could be ill or have been exposed, I will reschedule. I would ask that you do the same. Let’s all stay safe–but I can’t wait to start working with clients again!
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