Act I, Scene II: Stairs, Shadows & Shades

Cast: Laura Muller

Prelude:

You know what’s somewhat bizarre (and quite possibly a little bit sad) to me? I’ve been living in Oakland for about 6 years, and I’ve never done a shoot here until now. I mean, sure I’ve brought my camera out for some picnics on Lake Merritt and have done a 10 minute headshot session at the bottom of my block–but I’ve never really spent time capturing photos with the many stages that Oakland has to offer. Like, what the hell, Bex? Why you gotta be like that? I know that as I slowly piece together bits of this #TheseSoliloquies project–each shoot I find something new or something I want to change. But as I think more about areas to focus on, Oakland definitely needs to shine more. Because man, every freakin’ corner of this place is it’s own off-broadway theater that’s just waiting to be danced on. And yes, I realize that my lack of Oakland shooting is due to this giant part of my life that is: swimming photography. And the majority of my photography career is: I go to where the pools are. Or the other big chunk: cocktail photography. Which in the end: I go where the booze is. But ah, look at me expanding now…

So. This adventure continues for Scene II of #TheseSoliloquies with this sexy and stellar lady, Laura Muller. I met Laura at the East Bay Beer Runners Club over here. Which is, pretty much, exactly what it sounds like. It’s a runners club for people who like beer. Every Tuesday we (optionally) all meet at a bar/brewery, take a group picture, go on a run, end back at that location, and then drink and socialize. And sometimes, you drink…for awhile afterwards. Needless to say, one night at EBBR, I met Laura with some friends, and we proceeded to keep drinking and we shut down the bar, and best of all, established a friendship. Laura is: 1, a kickass human being with awesome energy and bitchin’ hair. 2, a badass foodie expert and totally smart lady. 3, whiskey lover and curious imbiber. 4, a Disney enthusiast. 5, her dog is awesome. And and the list goes on, but you can tell from this starter kit–I’d like to say that we jive, my friends.

Start Scene:

There are these tall stairs that are slightly off of Lake Merritt, that I’ve always loved. It’s one of those spots that you stumble upon when you’re just going about your regular routine, and then all the sudden you turn your head and say, “Wait, how long has that been there.” The kind of spots you’re bummed you didn’t know about sooner in life, but so glad you have them now. I’ve been wanting to go shoot there for quite some time. Especially when the sun is just right, you get such interesting shadow pockets, and with the long stairs and mixed greens, it creates a fun background full of a range of shots.

I really enjoy working with people who aren’t used to getting their photo taken. It’s always a different and educational experience connecting with people this way, to showcase their character. Seeing what works, what doesn’t, what’s comfortable, what’s challenging, and how to break the wall to keep it fun and lively. Talking with Laura throughout this shoot was really a good time. I learned more about things I need to improve on, and even areas I didn’t realize were strengths of mine that she’d point out. Always communicate, my friends. Be honest when you’ve messed up or a shot isn’t working. It’s not going to take away from you as a photographer or show you’re a failure. Taking photos is all about trying new angles and ideas. Here’s my two cents to anyone who’s jumping into photographing people–it doesn’t matter at all what kind of camera you have or how many photo shoots you’ve done. It doesn’t matter what your Instagram following is like or if you have the perfect lens. Photographing people is all about people. We know this. And if you want to take photos that mean something, you’re not going to do it by just pointing and posing. You have to talk. You have to discover who you’re capturing. You’re not going to get it all in a day, but when you open up and have them open up, you’ll get heart in what you’re doing. Yes, you can always get ‘the shot.’ But even a perfectly framed, exposed, and stylized photograph can fall flat.

I mean, I look at these images of Laura, I would have never guessed that she’s not used to being in front of the camera or that it was uncomfortable at times. She totally killed it. That smile and laughter. Those eyes. That flair. Need I say more? I love the mix of the edgy, power, strength, and playfulness of it all. I feel like I got to know her in a new way here, and I’m happy with how these turned out to give you all a taste of her character. Her and I were chatting about life (before and after the shoot) and how we want to focus this year on growth, fearlessness, healing, and I think, just getting comfortable with the uncomfortable. I think it’s something we’re all working on in some way throughout our lives–and even though this was just a lil’ photo shoot on the stairs with some leather and stunna shades–it’s little steps and activities like these that help us get there.

Now, without further-ado, check out below a handful of images for our time together: