Dream Rays

If you can,  imagine or remember those carefree days of youth when life was simple and the days seemed to stretch on seamlessly and without strain. The days when laughter was spontaneous and permeated even the corners of your simple world. Don't we long for that simplicity at times? I know I do, and I think that it why it brings me such joy to see that happen in varying degrees with my children-- why my heart feels like it is overflowing with gratitude when I know that they are building a special memory or so fully enjoying a moment. 

This shot definitely needs a focal point or subject. I do like how the cattails (or whatever
they are called) are catching the light and giving me some of the effect I am looking for.

I saw a series of family portraits recently that gave me a sense of those times. I have described what I saw to the lady at the Camera Center--sure that the photographer must have used a warming filter or some other tool. She seemed confident that the photographer used mainly technique and natural elements to create that feel and not a filter or editing. So...... I am determined to learn how to do this! The portraits I saw had a dreamlike, sunny, warm, carefree quality. I know the time of day was near sunset and I know the photographer was shooting into the sun. I set out on my quest last night and learned some things, but definitely didn't accomplish my goal. I will keep working on it! But here are some shots I think are worthy of sharing.

You can see some of what I mean, with the rays coming through. How would it have looked with
a posed subject sitting/laying in the grass??

ahhhh.....right?? It's restful and carefree don't you think?
Maybe a nice photo--but still not a portrait with the same effect. If I could
back this up a bit and maybe brighten it a tad-- I would love this with a couples pose.
I envision a blanket on the grass, a picnic basket in the top left corner of the frame with 2
partially full red-wine glasses in front of the basket sort of out of focus, coming into the frame
from right, top at a diagonal the couples legs intertwined on the blanket with the focal point
being bottom left, third of frame and filling over almost to the center--
overlapping bare feet, partially off the blanket and on the grass.