Bob Crum

A long, long time ago, Pilgrims gathered to give thanks for their blessings. Because it became a yearly habit, President George Washington declared the 4th Thursday of November a national holiday. Tradition prevails. Americans have been celebrating the occasion with reckless abandon ever since.

So many blessings: Country, family, friends and good health most days. I am also very grateful for the Gazette publisher and all of you who faithfully read my weekly column. Were it not for y'all and photography, I might still be farming alfalfa.

Thanksgiving is a photographic bonanza! It's usually a time when far-flung family members - from the newest baby to grandfather Artimis - gather to partake of the festivities. Awesome opportunity for fantastic family photos! It's also a great time to graduate from snapshots to making memorable photos for the family album. WHAT?! Photo album? What's that?
Real photos invoke nostalgia like no fleeting Instagram image can. Picture this: The family gathered around the coffee table perusing the pages of the “Family Photo Album” instead of viewing images on a computer monitor. There's something very special about documenting the family gatherings with real photos in a family album. You can't hand down Instagram to the next generation! Family photo albums become precious heirlooms! Think about that! BTW, there are several very good online photo book printers. Upload the photos and an album can be sent to all who desire one. One of the best is https://www.adoramapix.com/.

Battery fully charged? Don't forget about 'composition'! Know exactly what the subject is that you are about to photograph. If it's grandfather Artimis, fill the frame with Artimis. If this means moving then move! Candid shots are generally more interesting. If you're photoing the turkey, fill the frame with just the bird! Think composition!

The dining room table is always a fascinating subject. It's an opportunity to get some closeups of the table settings, decorations, the turkey etc. Prepping the meal in the kitchen always a great photo op.

Two requisite photos are the family getting together at the dining table and the family group portrait.

If it's a big family gathered, stand at one end of the table and shoot lengthwise. Then shoot from the other end to be sure you've included everyone. Omit Uncle Brutus and you'll hear about it forever! It's helpful to carefully stand on a chair or better, have a ladder handy for a unique perspective.

Be ready when it's time to carve the bird. Stand opposite the carver. Again, fill the frame with the carver and bird. Make the subject the subject not an afterthought. Start a new trend for interesting photos. Perhaps light candles in the pumpkin pie for the kids to blow out.

Caution: When it's time to dine, do not photograph people eating!

Now the classic photo: The family portrait. Preferably outdoors for better light. Creatively direct people for interesting placement. When appropriate, have some kneeling in the front and stagger people of various heights. Porch steps are great. When everyone is in place, be sure that you can see every face in the viewfinder. If necessary, get everyone closer or move back. Forget cheese... have everyone say wheeee or money. Blinking eyes not allowed. Don't forget the tripod if you want to be included in the photo. Set the camera timer to 10 seconds, mash the shutter button and dash into position. Don't forget to grin!

Happy Thanksgiving with many happy returns!

Photo of the Week... turkeys, of course. Not promoting the brand... just the occasion.

Send comments, questions or suggestions to bob@fillmoregazette.com