Capturing the Essence of West Point: A guide to Scheduling your Fall photo shoot
Preparing for a Firstie Fall Photo Shoot at West Point, NY
BLUFF:
I will make weather call. Iron your stuff. Don’t forget the items listed below. Schedule in October. Rescheduling is easy. It’s gonna be fun.
As your photographer, my approach is all about making our session fun and enjoyable! I love telling corny dad jokes, hearing about your experiences at West Point, and learning stories from home. Above everything, I want to photograph you—not just the cadet. These photos are for you and are meant to last for generations. I’m genuinely excited to meet you and capture your unique personality amidst the beautiful fall backdrop!
# 1. Prep Your Uniform
One of the first steps in preparing for your fall photo shoot is to ensure your uniform is looking sharp. Take the time to iron your bottoms thoroughly. Wrinkles can detract from the overall quality of the photos, and correcting them in post-production is often a hassle. An outfit that looks crisp and polished will enhance your appearance in the images and contribute to the overall aesthetic of the scene.
# 2. Grooming: Hair and Facial Hair
Grooming is key when you want to look your best on camera. Considering that fall weather can be windy, it's advisable for you to have an updated hairstyle that can withstand the breeze. During the shoot, I may ask you to remove your cover and replace it often, so it's best to ensure your hair looks neat.
For the gentlemen, please remember to shave before the session, particularly if your facial hair grows quickly. A well-groomed appearance makes a significant difference in the final look of the photographs.
# 3. Scheduling Your Shoot
The timing of your fall photo shoot is crucial. I recommend scheduling your session during the month of October, as this is when the color transformation begins. The second week of the month typically marks the beginning of noticeable leaf changes, while I anticipate peak foliage during the third week. You can expect to see amazing autumn colors for about two more weeks, taking us into November. Planning your shoot accordingly will ensure you capture the vibrant hues that fall has to offer.
# 4. Weather Call
I will make the call regarding the weather on the day of our shoot. Storm King Mountain is known to alter weather patterns, often splitting storms right at the last moment and clearing paths for beautiful photographs. Trust my experience—I have lived in the area for a while and use multiple weather apps to monitor conditions closely. I will ensure we have the best possible setting for the shoot.
Mid-October
Foliage is stunning on sunny days and cloudy days
# 5. Rescheduling Your Session
Life happens, and I understand that sometimes plans need to change. If you find that you can’t make it to your scheduled session, simply let me know. Rescheduling is easy, and we'll work together to find another time that suits your availability. The beauty of fall lasts for several weeks, so we’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture those gorgeous colors.
Uniform Item Checklist
Make sure you have the following items prepared for our session:
- Full Dress (grey over white) under arms
- Saber
- Ring
- Red Sash
- White Cover
- Tar Bucket with Plume (to be worn only on the Plain)
- Gloves (can stay in the barracks)
By following these tips and being prepared with the updated checklist, you'll be well-equipped for a successful and enjoyable fall photo shoot at West Point, NY. I look forward to capturing your unique story and personality against the stunning backdrop of autumn!
