On some occasions our shots are really obvious, but other times we need to poke around and see what we can find. When you go to a smaller event, like a reception only, you may have to see whats no so obvious.

At a recent event, we had arrived to do some formal photographs for the bride and groom. We weren't there to document the evening, but still I didn't want to miss anything they might enjoy. The gift table was small, off to the side and really pretty plain. But, the light was coming in from the front of the bird cage creating this really nice pattern of light on the card. Once I saw this, I knew I had to have it.

This was the overall view of the table. The bird cage is on the left side of the table behind the portrait

As photographers we should always be looking for great images. This is what separates us from the rest of "them." Just having a great camera is no more effective than owning a great instrument, if you don't practice.