You know that saying, a picture is worth a thousand words…it is so true. Especially when it comes to our newest guest editing instructor inside the Cozy Clicks Ultimate Pro Editing Membership, Chelsea Wert with A Spoonful of Whimsy.
Her images are pure magic when it comes to storytelling.
I first met Chelsea 5 or so years ago when I opened up an email from her asking for a little help with editing. From there she became a Cozy Clicks Photoshop action tester, then she was published on the cover of the Cozy Clicks Autumn PS Action box and then just totally skyrocketed from there, creating her own unique style.
I knew even back then that there was something truly special about the moodiness and innocence of her work and over the years I’ve watched her work evolve into such a clear cut and sought after style by many photographers.
Learn a little more about Chelsea Wert.
How long have you been a photographer and what was the main reason you started?
I have been a photographer for four years now. It was the birth of my children that inspired me to pick up a camera.
What (who) are your favorite types of subjects to shoot and why?
I enjoy shooting a variety of subjects but mostly I enjoy capturing children naturally at play and nature.
Canon vs. Nikon (or other) which one are you? Any specific reason why?
That’s a tough one, I began with Canon and have stuck with that brand, they have beautiful colors and a thoughtful user friendly design with impeccable glass but I have since edited many Nikon raw files and have found their raw files ability to recover shadow details extremely impressive. So honestly, I think they are both very strong options.
What is your go to lens?
I don’t really have a “go to” lens. It’s more of a “go to” per situation. If I’m indoors or shooting documentary style where environment is very important I’m choosing the Canon 24 1.4L, it’s sharp, fast, and has a subtle stretch to the images that feels playful. Now if I’m outdoors and I’m looking for a whimsical compression with tons of bokeh, then I’m reaching for either my Canon 135 f2 or the Canon 85 1.4L. The 135 produces the greatest bokeh but the focal length can get tricky if the children are very young and require my close proximity.
If you could only give 1 piece of advice to a new photographer out there, what would it be?
Invest in your education and practice, practice, practice.
If I gave you $1000 right now (or maybe more) to spend on photography gear, what would you buy?
Ooooh maybe off camera flash, I’ve always wanted to experiment with studio work.
Do you have any secret tips for getting people to loosen up/smile during a shoot?
I’m just very silly and if something isn’t working I will just say so light heartedly. I ask lots of questions, people often feel comfortable talking about themselves and it can help soften the mood. If children are present, I often will give parents and children jobs which helps them feel like they know what to do, “Can you help your son throw rocks into the creek?” “What if you let your Mommy twirl you around.” Also with little kids, have simple games ready for helping break the ice, control excess energy, and help them loosen up… I find Red Light Green Light and Ring Around the Rosie both very helpful.
Who is your inspiration?
I find lots of elements inspiring… other photographers (Twyla Jones, Celia Bell, Andrea Martin), movies (Jane Eyre), shows (Queen’s Gambit), along with just observing nature inspirational. I think paying attention and recognizing the beauty all around and letting that beauty fill you up so you can channel it into your work is what helps you become a more moving photographer and passionate human.
If you could photograph any person (dead or alive) who would that be?
Honestly, I am perfectly contented to capture my children, they are the only subjects I really crave to shoot. After that, it’s not a person I want to shoot but an emotion. The love between a parent and a child or the devotion between spouses.
Where to find more of Chelsea!
https://www.aspoonfulofwhimsy.com/
You can also find Chelsea this month inside the Cozy Clicks Ultimate Pro Editing Membership! Learn her low light set up and step by step editing process she takes to achieve these gorgeous moody images! Learn more here and become a member today!
