In a f lash
Follow Lachlan Moore’s advice for photographing people and moving objects and you’ll get a great shot every time.
What’s the secret to taking a great portrait?
When you capture a unique expression or gesture that taps into the sitter’s inner self, it’s a special moment. It can’t be forced; allowing them latitude to deliver what only they can is key. Speak to your sitter as a person and take the time to show genuine empathy and interest in their story.
When travelling, what’s your approach to photographing people in the street?
A smile will go a long way, especially if you don’t speak the language. One of the most valuable skills you can acquire as a photographer is to read body language and use your own in a positive way. Don’t take 40 shots – take two or three and thank them for their time. The Olympus OM-D is a great camera for street and travel photography because of its size. When you raise it to your eye, it doesn’t look intimidating.
What’s your advice for becoming a better photographer?
Be true to yourself and shoot what excites you and brings you the greatest pleasure. Aim high and surround yourself with likeminded people who you can bounce ideas off. Mistakes are okay. Without them, we wouldn’t learn the lessons we need to discover our greatest potential.
How did you create these images?
I’ve always wanted to produce a shoot like this. In this instance, using the shutter speed to stop the powder in its tracks was not going to work. Instead, we opted to use a combination of reducing the ambient light and a really short flash duration of about 1/12,000 to ensure a sharp image with no movement whatsoever. This way, the flash froze the subject as opposed to the camera. It’s always exciting to freeze motion. There’s an element of the unknown because every frame is different.