Theme Thursday – AGED

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Just another quickie tip, that I’m sure is not news to anyone.  I have some older tips that discuss looking at your environment and finding an outdoor studio when determining places to shoot.   I just wanted to point out a few locations and tips related to old things. 

You might think that a rusted out car is an eyesore, but it actually is an interesting place to take pictures.  You can shoot just the car or with your child.  Try juxtapositioning the ancient with the new.  I guarantee your child will be fascinated by it, and that always makes pictures easier.

Old buildings, barns, and sheds are another place that provides some very interesting backdrops.  Just remember, safety first!  Those are also great places for rusty nails and if the floors aren’t sturdy, I wouldn’t recommend going inside.  Not that it ever stopped us as kids on the farm…I know, it’s amazing we’re alive today after having so much freedom as kids. 😉

There is a historic park about 10 minutes from our house where I want to take the kids.  Not just for pictures, but to see it, too.  Look at the historical society in your town to find interesting places and buildings that are open to the public.  That is on my “to do” list for this summer, which also goes along with just taking the kids to see things that are interesting and provide learning opportunities.

One place I think is very cool to take pictures are on old (as in no longer in use!) train tracks.    I definitely wouldn’t recommend placing your child on working tracks…when I see pictures like that I just cringe.  Of course even on decomissioned tracks this is illegal (with a hefty fine if caught) in most states, so I haven’t ventured doing that yet.

Just as an aside…always remember to ask a property owner first before going on their land and taking pictures.   I see pictures of kids in fields all the time on ILP and often wonder if they asked the farmer before going into the field and destroying crops so they could get a cute picture of their kid.  Just because someone isn’t there to catch you, it doesn’t make it right.  Just a little PSA and vent from me.

Have a great week everyone…and go out and find something old to photograph!

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