As a photographer, it is important for me to ensure that all of my clients are comfortable and confident during their sessions. Recently, I received a request to do a military boudoir session with the American flag as a prop. While this request may seem simple, it is important to note that there are certain rules and guidelines that must be followed when posing with the USA flag.
According to the United States Flag Code, the American flag should never be used as a prop in a photo shoot or any other type of display. Instead, it should be treated with the utmost respect and honor at all times. This means that the flag should never touch the ground, be stepped on, or be used in any way that could be deemed disrespectful.
When it comes to posing with the American flag, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the flag should always be displayed in its correct orientation. This means the stars should be in the upper left-hand corner and the stripes should be horizontal. Additionally, it should be placed in a position of prominence and not obstructed in any way.
As a photographer, it is important for me to abide by these rules and guidelines when posing with the American flag. While it may seem like a small detail, respecting and honoring our nation's flag is an important part of upholding our values and traditions as Americans. I do have fabric and other props with the red, white and blue colors we can use without dishonoring the flag itself. With this in mind, I am excited to work with my client and ensure that their military boudoir session embodies the highest level of respect and honor for the American flag. Below are just two examples of some military inspired photos I have done.
Here is the full list of rules: 12 Rules of American Flag Etiquette (marthastewart.com)
1. Display the flag only between sunrise and sunset on buildings and stationary staffs. The flag may be displayed for twenty-four hours if illuminated in darkness.
2. Do not display the flag in inclement weather.
3. Whether displaying the flag vertically or horizontally, make sure the canton of stars is visible on the upper left-hand side.
4. Do not let the flag touch the ground.
5. The flag should be hoisted briskly and lowered ceremoniously.
6. Before flying a flag at half-staff, hoist to its peak for an instant before lowering it.
7. When displayed against a wall with another flag, their staffs crossed, the American flag should be on the right of the other flag (on the viewer's left), with its staff on top of that of the other flag.
8. When flags of states, cities, or localities are flown on the same halyard with the United States flag, the national flag should always be at the top. No other flag should be placed above, or if on the same level, to the flag's right.
9. When flags of two or more nations are displayed, they should be flown from separate staffs of equal height. The flags should be of approximately equal size.
10. When the flag is displayed from a staff projecting horizontally or at an angle, the canton should be placed at the peak of the staff.
11. An unusable flag that is damaged and worn and can no longer be displayed should be destroyed in a dignified way by burning.
12. When not on display, the flag should be respectfully folded into a triangle, symbolizing the tricorn hats worn by colonial soldiers in the Revolutionary War.
For more information about doing your own session please fill out this form and we will schedule a time that is continent for you to chat. Don't like talking on the phone we can text or communicate via email. It's whatever is easiest for you.
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