Actor Headshots ArtQuest Center at SteelStacks, Bethlehem Pa ©JCAgentis

With most photo shoots, unexpected challenges will happen. Whether something was forgotten such as extra batteries; or umbrella blows over in the wind busting the spokes or even smashes your flash, something will most likely happen. Something may go wrong Eeven when it comes to your chosen location, it may rain unexpectedly, though you checked the weather beforehand, etc. Well, last weekend the unexpected did happen.

I chose the ArtQuest Center at the SteelStacks, Bethlehem Pennsylvania, for an actor photoshoot. Based on schedules, we decided on a date and time knowing the weather may turn at anytime during the shoot. The ArtQuest Center provided shelter with gorgeous architectural features and backgrounds varied enough support a full shoot if needed. All was set can confidence high. As is my usual practice, I arrived onsite early to review the location and map a plan for the shoot. I like to chose specific venues and the timeline in advance, i.e. start in stairwell with casual attire, etc… The shoots always benefit by this as we all get more from the shoot.

Anyway, upon my arrival I had quite a shock, the entire ArtQuest Center meaning all floors inside and the patio out front were ‘hired’ for a black-tie function for St Lukes Hospital. The event was to start in the middle of the shoot, with the Center roping off the area an hour before. Sparing the details, let’s just say it was too late to move the time or date. I was able to get the client to arrive slightly earlier, about 15 minutes earlier. This helped a little; but as soon as they arrived and before we had to take our gear and move outside the ropes, I ran into the building with the client and got a few shots off inside. Now, I had an additional worry that the function may not allow the client to use the restrooms (for wardrobe changes). Thankfully they were nice enough to allow this via a side door.

Now, before the client arrived and after discovering the ‘bad news’ I did scope out some areas on the side of the building. These new venues were not originally what I had in mind; but with a little thought and creativity we pulled it off and it turned out great! By keeping steady and pliable with our vision, the shoot was a success. The motto…Don’t Panic when the unexpected happens!

The images included in the post were taken that day. These are straight out of the camera with no retouching at all, not even color correction.

Actor Headshots ArtQuest Center at SteelStacks, Bethlehem Pa ©JCAgentis

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