Let’s make this a great experience.

I’ve photographed farm and ranch families across the country for 8 years. Many producers are hesitant about inviting a photographer on their operation. Here’s how we make their photo shoot a good experience and create natural, authentic photos:

Connect.

My farm background often gives us shared experiences, values, and almost instant rapport. I genuinely like getting to know growers and learning from them. They can feel that, and most farmers and ranchers love to connect with others in the industry.

Understand.

Cameras can be intimidating. To counteract, my approach is soft and thoughtful. I work to understand what is normal and comfortable for the subject and then create poses around that, if needed. Sometimes we can get everything we need in a candid shot.

Respect.

I respect the farm or ranch family’s time by moving through the shots quickly and logically. This maximizes the diversity of shots captured, too. All of my gear fits into my backpack, enabling us to move at everyday speed and capture real life on the farm or ranch.

The End Result.

By the end of the shoot, goodbyes usually include a big smile, firm handshake, and an invitation back if we ever need more photos. While making this a positive experience for the farm or ranch family, I’m shooting with the end result in mind: a diverse set of beautiful, believable photos that leave plenty of space for copy and graphic elements.

About Erin Ehnle Brown

Background: I grew up on a corn and soybean farm, and spent my early 20s traveling across the country photographing farmers and ranchers for agriculture clients. In my late 20s, I launched an agricultural stock photo and video site. Realagstock.com has grown to house the work of more than 70 photographers.

Currently: Managing realagstock.com and traveling the Midwest for photo shoots. Open to occasional travel outside the Midwest.

Location: Central Illinois.