This is an image that combines techniques of leading lines, worm’s eye views, repetitive pattern, and children with an instructor. What else could you ask for? 

The instructor is carefully placed to fill the negative space in the sky. Two leading lines (the beam upon which the instructor sits, and the children on the bench) draw your eye into the image) All the children are focussed on the instructor, which also draw the eye to him. Getting down low, and using a 24mm lens, gives this shot a different perspective, which makes it effective. (St. Marie Among the Hurons, Midland, Ontario)

Portraits of pageant participants can often be made in “destination specific” locations, which then “place” the image, geographically. The advantage of the pageant environment is that participants are willing, and have the time, to be photographed, and will pose and place themselves where you wish. The usual short telephoto lenses are perfect for these shots. (Fort Niagara, Lewiston,  New York)

Closeup portraits are often useful for establishing mood, and for historical detail. The antique pipe is a nice touch, but I would have preferred that the subject was wearing more authentic-looking glasses! The head, with the hat, was carefully placed at an ‘intersection of thirds’ in the frame. 

Use of fill flash in this shot produces some nice highlights, in eyes and on other reflective surfaces, and a 135mm lens got me in close, without pushing a camera up my subject’s snoot! If using autoexposure, be sure that you remember to remove any filters from your lens before shooting, if you’re not using TTL flash. (Battle of Georgian Bay, Midland, Ontario)

Allison and I arrived at the ‘Battle of Gettysburg’ re-enactment site, some hours before the  battle was to take place. To our delight, we discovered both sides were presently taking it easy in their encampments, to which we were invited. We spent several hours with both groups, using 50mm and wide-angle lenses, and flash fill, to portray the environment of an army at rest. 

We were able to chat with participants, make copious notes on various aspects of the military techniques of the day, and of course, enjoy a different kind of photography to the usual battle images we would later make. 

The general feeling of this image is that it’s a rebel encampment. The kegs of homebrew ‘white lightning’ and the general air of informality, reinforce that impression. Research indicates that only the Confederate artillery wore the red ‘kepi’, and so this initial impression seems to be borne out in fact. Historical fact is sometimes challenged by these events, where the “good ol’ boys” of both camps might be caught photographically while visiting each other! 

Incidentally, be prepared to show a business card that states your status as a photographer (no need to specify “pro” or “amateur”!)  This will often gain you access to areas that the tourist will never see. (Battle of Gettysburg, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania)