Shooting-balades also includes photo reports in Europe on the occasion of carnivals. More than just a hobby, it’s a real passion that allows me to visit new countries, meet extraordinary people and experience unforgettable moments.

In fact, for the past three years, I’ve been devoting myself, among other things, to photographing the ancient carnivals of Europe. These colorful, lively festivals are veritable spectacles, combining ancestral traditions, flamboyant costumes and lively music. Carnivals offer unique atmospheres, and I love capturing the energy and different moods that emerge.

Photographing European carnivals is first and foremost about sharing moments of joy and collective creativity. For me, it’s a great human adventure, an opportunity to discover the customs of different peoples in a joyful light, and to immortalize ephemeral moments that bear witness to the diversity and richness of European heritage traditions.

My passion for photography on this theme has taken me to several European countries: Sardinia, Galicia in Spain, Slovenia, Northern Italy, Switzerland, not forgetting France with the carnivals of Limoux, Annecy, Richemont, etc.

Carnival photojournalism is no simple exercise, requiring long waits before the parades to find a good spot on the route to avoid the crowds, to identify the right angle for the shot, with an attractive background and good light…

Carnival photography is more than a job, it’s an artistic adventure that nourishes my vision and inspiration throughout the seasons. It’s a job that demands reactivity, rapidity of shooting and resistance to fatigue.

Before setting off on a story, I research the origins of carnival to make sure it’s as old as it is, and the traditions it conveys. Some carnivals were abandoned during the Second World War. They were subsequently revived in more or less identical form, sometimes with a few variations, and today are carried on by active associations who revive them and win a growing fervor among the public and the costumed characters.

Carnivals usually take place before Shrove Tuesday and can last for one or two weeks before Lent, which is still a relatively short period of time and limits the number of photo reports. The longest carnivals start at the beginning of January.

On this blog, I invite you to discover my shooting-balade escapades in Europe through the stories I will publish on this blog over time and the photos on my Flickr gallery: https: //www.flickr.com/photos/101363207@N08/

See you soon with shooting-balades in Paris!

A unique experience in the heart of the capital

Shooting-balades offers you an original and totally Parisian experience: a photo shoot combined with a ride in a 2CV!

Paris is the city of lovers, artists and dreamers. Every street tells a story, so why not live yours?

The 2CV: a charming French icon. Created in 1948 by Citroën, the 2CV, affectionately nicknamed the “Deuche”, has left its mark on French automotive history.

Its unmistakable design, sunroof and distinctive purring engine have stood the test of time. Even today, the 2CV evokes retro charm, timeless elegance and an authentically French spirit. My partner 2 CV in Paris offers you its fully restored 2CVs: perfect for a timeless drive… and unforgettable photos.

A photo shoot to immortalize the moment

During the drive, the shooting-balades photographer accompanies you to capture natural, spontaneous photos, with the 2CV as backdrop and the monuments of the City of Light in the background, with exposure times of ten to fifteen minutes in each square. The car weaves its way through alleyways, along quaysides, climbs towards Montmartre or any other emblematic square, and the driver, an enthusiast, tells you the history of the neighborhoods and shares his anecdotes.

For a special event, you can treat yourself to an extra bottle of champagne!

Whether you’re a couple or on your own, this trip is a real immersion in authentic Paris, full of charm and good humor. The locations chosen together beforehand, the light, the energy of the city and the vintage charm of the car provide a unique setting for photos that you won’t find anywhere else.

Why choose the photo shoot + 2CV package? For several reasons:

• An authentic Parisian experience
• A legendary car for unique retro style
• A friendly, joyful stroll
• Professional photos taken in magnificent settings
• A fun, original and memorable moment

Experience a moment you’ll long remember

The 2CV attracts smiles as it passes, opening up conversations and creating a joyful atmosphere. Combined with a photo shoot, it’s a unique experience that combines culture and creativity.

Ready to experience your Parisian adventure aboard a legendary car?

Contact me or book via my website: https: //shooting-balades.com your photo shoot with the 2CV ride!

Shooting-photo Paris

A photo shoot isn’t just a series of shots: it’s a moment to express yourself, and a part of yourself will be captured by the photographer. Among the elements that play a key role in the photographic process, clothing comes first. How do you choose clothes that reflect who you really are? Shooting-balades gives you some ideas on how to make the right choice.

1. Connect to yourself

Before the photo shoot, ask yourself a few questions, take a moment to ask yourself:

• How do I want to feel during this shoot? Free? Elegant? Natural? Bold? Your outfit should reflect your energy of the moment, your inner light.
• What do I want to show about myself through this shoot? Power, fantasy, simplicity, elegance, playfulness?

2. Comfort – confidence

For the photo shoot, don’t choose an uncomfortable outfit, as this is often visible in photos. Clothes that are too tight, or materials that itch, can prevent you from relaxing in front of the camera! Before your photo shoot , choose comfortable clothes that you’ve already worn, in which you feel comfortable and that allow you to move freely. It’s not about following fashion trends; authenticity is what’s most photogenic. Trust yourself and have fun!

3. Match your clothing to the location and atmosphere of the shoot

With shooting-balades, you have defined the location of your photo shoot in advance. As a result, your clothing will be tailored to the chosen setting and in harmony with the atmosphere and style of the shoot. For example, a flowing dress in a field at sunset for a bohemian, nature-inspired look, a cozy sweater for a cocooning atmosphere, a modern suit for an assertive or corporate look in the city… Think about the story you want to tell with your images. Ask us for advice on choosing your outfits and shooting locations, to help you create a coherent atmosphere and photos.

4. Dare to use the colors that speak to you and the textures you like.

Colors have incredible expressive power. Neutral tones give your photos a soft look, while bright colors bring out your energy. Every color has its own language. Soft tones like beige, powder pink or off-white evoke delicacy. Warm colors like terracotta, burgundy or ochre exude quiet strength. Choose the colors that make you stand out.

Textures also have their say: denim and linen won’t have the same effect or message as lace or silk.

Accessories are personal touches that can enrich your look, as long as they don’t overpower it. They should simply underline your style… Like jewelry, a scarf or a pair of glasses.

In conclusion

The most important thing is not the perfect outfit for a perfect shoot! But clothes that make you feel beautiful, free and yourself, that make you want to smile, move…

Contact Shooting-balades for personalized advice before your next photo shoot!

Setting the right mood

Above all, think about what message or emotion you want to convey through your photo shoots as each district of Paris has its own identity and charm, and you’ll need to choose the location or locations that match the style you want to give your events. photos:

• Romantic, artistic shooting: choose Montmartre, with its staircases, cobblestones and view of the Sacré-Coeur, the quays of the Seine and intimate covered passageways.
• Elegant, classic shooting: the Palais-Royal, Place Vendôme, Place de la Concorde and the Buren columns offer a refined aesthetic.
• Urban and contemporary shooting: The La Défense district or the area around the François Mitterrand library, with its Haussmann façades, are recommended for a modern atmosphere and professional portraits.
• Gentle nature shoots: Parc Monceau or the Luxembourg Gardens bring freshness and greenery, not forgetting the Buttes Chaumont Park and the Vincennes Floral Park, which offer more rural settings.
• Fashion shoots: The Palais de Tokyo, the Trocadéro staircase, the Buren columns and the metal bridge of the Bir-Hakeim metro are ideal for graphic compositions.

For photo shoots in Paris lasting more than three hours, an itinerary will be agreed with you beforehand, so that you can change out of your clothes in an out-of-sight café or hotel.

Taking light into account

Light is a key element for Shooting-balades. In Paris, some areas are best exposed in the morning, like the right bank of the Alexandre III bridge, and others at sunset, like the quays of the Seine on the left bank. Shooting-balades will advise you on the best lighting at the chosen locations, so you can make the right choice of setting at the right time for beautiful photos.

Avoiding the crowds

Paris is a tourist city: certain sites such as the Trocadero/Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame are very popular. For more intimate shots, we advise you to opt for the low hours if you choose busy locations, i.e. early in the morning around 7:30/8:00 or late in the afternoon around 6:00 in summer.

You can also explore lesser-known photo spots, such as :

• Rue Crémieux with its colorful houses (Paris XIIe)
• The Auteuil tropical greenhouse garden (Paris XVIe)
• Canal Saint-Martin (Xe) for a very Parisian style on the water’s edge
• The Butte aux Cailles district (street art) or the Square des Peupliers for a bucolic atmosphere (Paris XIIIe)

Adapting clothing style to the chosen location

A haute couture photo shoot won’t have the same impact in the middle of the Auteuil tropical greenhouses as on the forecourt of the Louvre! You’ll need to match your outfits and staging to the visual universe of the chosen venue. We’ll also advise you on the choice of appropriate clothing for the location.

What about you? Do you have a favorite location for your Paris photo shoots? Send an e-mail to cgarand@shooting-balades.com with your suggestions; we’re always interested in hearing your ideas!

Your photo shoot is waiting for you! Book now via the contact form on the https://shooting-balades.com/contact website.

Photo Session: The Portrait

Shooting-balades about photo sessions in Paris, dedicated entirely to portraits and your image during a lovely stroll through the heart of the capital. Whether for a personal or professional project, artistic or simply for fun, each portrait will be captured to highlight what makes you unique.

Whether you’re comfortable or a little shy in front of the camera, we’ll help you reveal your style and energy, whether to boost your personal image, your professional portfolio, or simply offer you an unforgettable session.

A personal portrait is more than just an image; it’s a reflection of your personality. Dare to step outside the traditional box for a portrait that reflects you, with your expressions, whether raw or stylish, your gaze, and your inspirations of the moment, which will form all the details for magnificent photos!

During a pre-appointment, we will choose one or more locations that match your tastes and, above all, where you will feel supported in developing your inspiration for unique and authentic portraits.

Photo shoots and portrait sessions will almost always be done in natural light, preferably during the summer months, during a themed or non-themed balade, in the capital, off the beaten track, or if you prefer, in front of iconic monuments. If you have a very bright apartment with large bay windows, the shoot can be considered at home.

The choice of outfits and colors will also be important in the style you give to your photos. Accessories such as hats, beanies, scarves, and gloves add a personalized touch to your shots and highlight your personality. No fixed poses, everything is fluid; we will guide you to reconnect with your image and your style, for a natural result that reflects you.

We also recommend a light application of makeup for a smoother finish and to enhance your face. For skin that shines in the sun, a mattifying powder is highly recommended.

Don’t wait any longer to treat yourself to this special moment!

Contact us via the contact form on the shooting-balades.com website to book your photo shoot.