Friday, January 31, 2014

What should I wear to a photo session?

Probably the most commonly asked question I get is "what do I wear to a shoot"? This is one of the most important things to considering while preparing for a photo shoot. Putting some thought into your outfit can really step up your portrait. I have come up with a list of recommendations for anyone who will ever be in front of a camera lens. Enjoy!

The most important thing is to wear something you feel comfortable in! If you feel confident, it will show in the images!


Coordination of colors or patterns always looks very nice in images.  These families below are great examples of how matching colors can look wonderful, but not overdone. This kind of coordination groups people together even if they aren't seated next to each other. 


Wear a color palette, like navy blue and white, but have each person wear the colors in their own way. This will give the group unity while each person has their own identity.


I like to think that simple is always better! Try to stick to either solid colors or simple patterns.


 Layering adds interest to the photo. It can also keep you warm in the colder months.


Accessorizing and mixing textures always adds a bit of flair to an outfit! It can really add a lot to an image.


Other suggestions:
Wear nice shoes
Consider your background, is the shoot more urban or romantic or fun?
Bring props!

Specifically for engagement shoots:
Matte makeup, powder and fake eye lashes ;)
Wear a cute summer dress or cocktail dress and have the guy wear a nice button up

Things to not do:
Wear perfectly matching outfits
Showing off too much skin
Baggy clothing
Bright red, orange, or yellow
Shirts with logos/words/characters
An outfit you have never worn before

I want to give a special thanks to all these fashion forward clients featured in this post, you guys rock!!

Monday, January 27, 2014

Cedar Rapids Wedding {Summer + Cody}

Summer and Cody were one of the first clients I had. When Summer emailed me telling me that they were engaged and wanted me to shoot their wedding, I was thrilled! To say the least, I had a blast working with them during their first shoot, the engagement shoot, and then finally their wedding! Summer and Cody are a pretty awesome couple, and I think that these pictures sure show it! Enjoy!

Hope Lutheran Church, Cedar Rapids, IA

 The groomsmen

 Mom helping Summer into her dress


 The "first look"!

 This is why fall weddings are so beautiful!I love this shot!

 The bridal party!

The family!


Signing the marriage license




Another one of my favorites



We had some fun....


I just love this shot!










The last picture I took. What a wonderful and beautiful wedding!


Wednesday, July 31, 2013

First Blog Post! First Wedding!

It is so crazy how quickly it all happened. It was hectic. This was my (our, I had my "assistant" Josh helping out) first wedding. I learned so much, like wear your hair up and tell the bride and groom to kiss longer than a second. Regardless of how hot it was and how frazzled everyone was, I still got some wonderful shots! I really did have a wonderful time. The bride and groom were beautiful and amazing! The photos below captured the day! It really was a wonderful and beautiful wedding!

 Hair!

 Isn't she lovely!
 Mom and Daughter!


 Getting ready!
 Ring Bearer!
 Flower Girl!

Walking down the aisle with Dad!
 THE KISS!
The Happy couple!
Parents


 Love this!
The rings!