Senior citizens digital photoshoot

Author: Yogi Chopra

30 Oct

Shooting Senior Citizens

In May 2005, I was approached by my existing client Dignity Foundation for clicking senior citizens for their upcoming exhibition Senior citizen collection. As a digital photography enthusiast i got an opportunity to experiment with this subject. Clicking mature faces is so easy and smooth. With maturity and age comes this great confidence and energy. I feel seniors are truly very flexible. The whole experience was not about travelling to many corners of mumbai to click these seniors.The experience is about understanding them and sometimes their surrounding (for better light and the right area to shoot). Some homes almost mesmerized me!. All of them were so enthusiastic with the fact that someone was coming to click them. Also the new generation has loads to learn from these seniors. In comparison to them we even lack the most basic etiquettes. Every single senior irrespective of their age and condition made it a point to escort me to the door and give me blessings. Most of them were even ready to come till their building gate to leave me. Even the eldest Mrs Kurva (now 86) made it a point that she escorted me till her door step. It was truly heartening.
Sometimes I wonder can we all be equally sensitive and courteous to people around us.

Key points i kept in mind before shooting Seniors:

1) A sepia tone to give it a classic feel.

2) To ensure there is enough light in the room or shoot near a window. Also i dont shoot using Flash or any other artificial light source as i dont know about lighting. Also i love the challenge of shooting in natural light.

3) The Background should represent them and their lifestyle.

4) They could also shoot with their collectibles but its not always necessary.

5) Make them feel as comfortable as possible. The best way is to chat with them for a good time before you shoot.

6) Always be polite and never seem in a hurry to leave.

7) Golden Rule- Make a friend!

Take as many shots as possible. Don’t hesitate to change the shot if the background doesn’t work for you.