We Are Hot Chicks Wednesday: Camera-Ready

Alas. June is upon us, and with it, the lovely late-spring/early summer season of which so much is to be cherished. Gone are the days of appreciating the steam off of the morning cup of coffee. Fluttering are the days of crisp, chilly breezes and delicate showers. Replacing them are the glories of air-conditioner arguments with spouses, multiple-bathing days, and sweaty crotches. It's clearly the best time of the year to call oneself a resident of the illustrious Middle West. Along with those icons of lovely come weekends packed with events, and oftentimes travel. The vacations, music festivals, and weddings shine down upon us all in this time of year, and occasions one and all demand that the family photo gadget be loaded, locked, and ready.

Take this weekend for example: Seven and his bride, along with the unit-wielding, up-and-coming baseball star, will travel to the northern parts of colorful Colorado to participate in the blessed exchange of nuptials between a lovely young lady and an allegedly/obviously gay man. The wife and I, for the fourth year in a row, will stupidly plant ourselves in a shadeless Kansas field for the weekend, where the task will be to down two bottles of water for every beer, while we pretend to enjoy some live music. And next weekend will be our turn to grace the Centennial State with some marital ceremonies, leaving Cecil the daunting task of looking after the House for consecutive weekends. (Editor's Note: Not to worry, though; Seven and I have alerted the neighbors and police to keep an eye out for suspicious activity, and by "suspicious activity," we of course meant multiple postings.) The point, though, is that we, each and all of us, must have the camera accessible at all times, as these events of bliss and dirty feet will certainly create many a Kodak moment. After the jump, we'll examine a few examples of the work of some professionals, their efforts something of which to attempt mimicry.

Natalie Estrada



We're pretty sure that Natalie is of no relation to "CHiPs" star Erik, but we're convinced that she's an example of some interesting outfit pieces one might encounter in one's travels.



What's more is that, on occasion, there's some scenery, like sparkles on the water, that one has to photograph, strangers in the foreground or not.

Tailor James



When vacationing, it's important to relax. Miss James displays a perfect "how-to" in this shot,



and in this one,



and here, too.

Alessia Ventura



Again, no relation to the famous (in this case the former Minnesota governor), but Alessia is a prime example of leisure time, which can provide some great photograph opportunities.



She also knows a thing or two about beach/workout attire,



which can come in handy somehow or another.

Karolina Kurkova



Speaking of beaches, skyline shots along the water are the antithesis of the old adage, "a dime a dozen."



One can never snap enough of the sky, its cloud arrangements ever-changing.

Betcee May



Miss May's image is a great reminder to make sure the lighting is appropriately set for each picture taken.

Brandi Corbin



I'd advise taking darker-scene shots twice, once with a flash, and another without.

Corrine Morrill



Take care, however, to go flashless when photographing the always-unavoidable person with sunglasses atop the dome.

Crystal Klein



And have that camera ready, as picture-taking moments can catch one off guard, even in the most unexpected circumstances.

Erica Campbell



Camera-ready is different for every traveler. Some prefer the wrist strap, which is handy in moments when you find your hands full.

Alena Seradova



If you're the household photographer, have your unit within arm's reach, even when you're tired.



And consider the landscape of each image you shoot. If shooting digitally, don't delete until you're home and can review. The images that "didn't turn out" may work just fine in black and white.

Jena Arsenault



Even more important: consider each shot from different perspectives.



What looks good from the side,



could look even better head-on.

Andie Valentino



Obviously, variety in color will make a photo stand out,

Lyndsy Wolff



as will any naturally occurring objects that wind up in the scope.



A good eye will tell you if an object's intrusive, or if it's barely noticeable.

Tamara Redblouse



If there's a lack of the naturally occurring, throw in a discreet prop. Discretion can give a photo flavor, and most viewers will never know the difference.

Veronica Saint



When it comes to human subjects, though, opt for the candid countenance whenever possible.

Mila Kunis



Any layman can tell the difference between the posed picture



versus the unexpected,



although make no mistake: posed pics have their strengths, too.

Moran Atias



Good lighting and strong contrast can make a staged shot invaluable.

Nicole Graves



Those with considerable camera experience shouldn't be bashful, either.



Addressing subtleties like the hair of your subjects,



or even toying with their outfits may result in many a later "thank-you" from the copy-seekers.

Sara Varone



And the copy-seeking friends and family will always be there, doubling your print load.



Whether at the drug store or your home office, never cover up the cost of printing,



because the cameraless are always repeat customers, leaving you, the prepared, with your hands tied.

Victoria Valmer



Finally, there's the art of random photography. See something beautiful?



Snap a shot. From various angles.



Even if the images are semi-repetitive,



your viewing audience is sure to thank you.



Get those close-ups,



experiment with lighting and lenses, and in some form or another, your efforts will be a success. Say cheese!

(Our photographic endeavors are made possible by sponsors: Daily Niner handles the print load, while Gorilla Mask distributes the hardware.)