Lori McIntosh learned the art of taking pictures from her father
Published in the Oct. 29 – Nov. 11, 2014 issue of Morgan Hill Life
By Staff Report
Photos courtesy Lori McIntosh
Photographer Lori McIntosh at work with a client.
Morgan Hill resident Lori McIntosh is a professional photographer who specializes in taking portraits as well as photos of horses and dogs. A graduate of the Leadership Morgan Hill program as well as a member of the Rotary Club of Morgan Hill, she stays very active in the local community.
Morgan Hill Life asked her about her career as a photographer and what advice she might give readers on how to prepare for a professional family portrait now that the holiday season is approaching.
What is your professional training in photography and how did you get into this business?
My dad has been a professional photographer since the 1950s, with three studios and 40 employees in Norfolk and Virginia Beach, Virginia. I grew up working in all of them doing everything by age 14 and having our family portrait taken every year since I was a baby with my three older sisters. My dad is a master photographer who has taught me all I know along with his friends who mentor me. I became certified by Professional Photographers of America and am working on my masters certification.
The holiday season is fast approaching and a professionally done family portrait would make an excellent gift. What should people consider when working with you to get a professional photograph done?
I know family portraits best because I grew up watching them being photographed and assisting for my dad. Preparing for the portrait is key. We discuss clothing that is timeless versus trendy, makeup, colors, where is the best place to tell a story. Could it be the beach, your home, a ranch, a meadow? You name it, I’ll scout it.
You would see me a few times for our consultation, the session, a visit to your home to help you decide where to hang your portrait and find out your style, whether it is contemporary, traditional, modern. I provide a slideshow of the images, and home delivery.
You specialize in taking horse and pet dog photos. What drew you to this, and how do you approach taking photographs of animals?
Being a former occupational therapist who worked with head injuries, I learned how to be incredibly patient and give clients the time they needed. Some animals take much longer than others to really shine, so a quiet, secluded area is always best. My first subject was horses at age 12. My dad gave me a Polaroid camera and I photographed every horse (about 50) at my summer camp. After being in the corporate world for more than 20 years, my own horse, Finn, gave me many signs that he was a top model and I should focus on equine photography. Finn is my muse.
What photographers might have influenced you and how do they influence your approach to making portrait photographs?
My dad and sister are by far my biggest influences. Dad is a master craftsman who is technical with traditional classic influences with large families. Leslie, who specializes in high school seniors, has influenced me with her sense of design and fashion, which helps me visualize the importance of “the look.” I also admire the photographer Annie Lebowitz for her lighting and how she convinces very famous people to really get out of the box. Two younger photographers are Brooke Shaden and Jennifer Hudson, who get women decked out. I use a Lumadyne flash that is huge and really gives people and animal photographs that pop that I love.
What do you personally get out of the process of taking portrait photographs of people and their animals?
Animals bring me the most joy when I work with them as they are 100 percent honest and real. Some require lots of patience which doesn’t affect me as time isn’t noticed other than the sun going down. Whatever time it takes as it is fun.
Seeing pet owners with who they love and capturing their relationship is so heartwarming as I have those same feelings for my pets. I have them on my walls as canvas art pieces decorating my home. Luckily, we have stunning horses whose images I share and sell as fine art pieces for others to admire.
