Some photo sessions just feel special from the moment you start and my recent shoot with gospel artist Jonathan White in Logan, Ohio was one of those. Midday light isn’t usually a photographer’s dream, but with the fall colors glowing and Jonathan’s easygoing spirit, it turned into pure gold.
Jonathan recently released his new album, Jesus, and if you haven’t listened yet, go do that first especially the song “I Know a Name.” It’s one of those tracks that reaches deep and reminds you exactly why gospel music matters. The entire album carries that message of hope, and I wanted the photos to feel the same warm, authentic, and full of light.
Capturing Personality, Not Just a Portrait
From the moment we started, Jonathan brought the energy. He laughed, cracked jokes, and made it easy to forget we were working in the bright midday sun. That’s one of the things I love about photographing musicians they know how to connect, not just with a crowd, but with the camera too.
We started around an old barn that instantly fit his vibe, weathered, grounded, full of story. Between the rustic textures and Jonathan’s casual, confident look, everything came together naturally. There’s something about those timeless, simple backdrops that just lets a person’s heart shine through.
He trusted the process completely. That trust is everything in a shoot. It’s what allows real expressions and those in-between moments where a person’s joy just shows up, no posing required. By the time we wrapped, we had a mix of classic portraits, genuine laughs, and those easy, soulful moments that perfectly fit the heart behind his music.
Behind the Lens: Making Midday Light Work
If you’re a photographer reading this, you know midday sun can be tricky. The key is to find open shade or natural reflectors like light gravel paths or wooden porches that bounce soft light upward. Shooting around the barn gave us those perfect pockets of filtered glow that made his features stand out without harsh shadows.
If you’re a client reading this, here’s the takeaway: trust your photographer. Great photos can happen any time of day if you stay relaxed, have fun, and let your personality lead. The best portraits aren’t about perfect light, they’re about real connection.
Corrie’s Notes: Posing Tips for Guys
Guys, if you’ve got an upcoming shoot, here are a few quick tips inspired by Jonathan’s session:
- Relax your shoulders. Tension shows fast in photos. Take a breath, loosen up, and let your stance feel natural.
- Hands matter. Keep them casual — in pockets, one hand hooked on a belt loop, or resting lightly against something nearby.
- Movement helps. Walk, lean, shift your weight — small movements make portraits feel alive.
- Don’t overthink your smile. The best expressions happen mid-laugh or when you’re talking, not when you’re forcing it.
Jonathan’s new album Jesus is available now, and you can learn more about his ministry and music at jonathanwhitemusic.com.
This shoot was a reminder that light, laughter, and faith can come together in the simplest ways — even on a bright fall afternoon in Logan, Ohio.
Corrie LeeAnn Photography 