Lake Brantley Grad: Glowy New Smyrna Senior Session | LMP Seniors

Prepare yourselves for the ultimate DREAM of a New Smyrna Senior Session!!! It was a little toasty 90 degree day with HIGH humidity, but these Lake Brantley seniors absolutely ROCKED and we were able to explored some of my favorite spots at NSBeach! I was impressed on how Mia and Kyrie took their time to get prepare for their session… we exchanged lots of messages about outfit colors and they ended up ordering the cutest dresses from Lucy In The Sky. They also paid special attention to hair and make up, and my hair/make up stylist Marcia did a wonderful job, like always! Last but not least, they showed up with the BEST attitude at the photoshoot! Talk about a photographer’s DREAM!!

If you know me I am ALL ABOUT CHASING THE LIGHT and FINDING COLORFUL AREAS for the photoshoot!!! I am so happy we had the best glowy light and SUPER COOL colorful areas to use :)

I have so many favorites!

I just can’t get enough of this entire gallery and I hope you love my faves as much as I do! It was really special to be able to capture the radiant personality of these two teenagers. Enjoy scrolling through!

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LMP Senior Experience

What to look for when hiring a senior photographer

It’s your senior year…AH! I’m so excited that you are planning to document this huge moment!

This is such an awesome time in your life! Hopefully you have been considering hiring a professional photographer, because we all know, an iPhone or even some entry level cameras just won’t cut it.

By now, you may just be searching around on IG, seeing who some of your friends have used. Before you start buying outfits and choosing locations, it’s soooo important to really pay attention to the style of photography that you want. This is one of the main reasons you should pick a photographer –– before you look at packages, pricing, etc.

If you don’t like the photographer’s style, the way they shoot and edit, it’s not going to be worth it!

What Does “Style” Even Mean?

STYLE: The way the photos are taken and edited and how the people in the photos look.

There are a million ways photographers describe their styles –– light and bright, dark and moody, looks like film, crisp and clear, cinematic, colorful, very adventures and wide angles, close up portraits, very stylized, or simple…the list is endless!

Really this just comes down to preference. 

I obviously love warmer tons, clean editing with pops of color and contrast, so I gravitate towards those types of photos. But I have a ton of friends that love the “moodier” tones that look more cinematic and I think they’re beautiful as well, but just not my style.

It’s difficult to ask a photographer to shoot and edit in a way that is different from their previous work and you won’t be allowed to edit the photos differently later, so think about your choices when making the investment!

What Type Of Posing Do You Like?

Next is looking at the way the people look in the photos –– do you want to be really joyful? Do you want more model-like? Girl next door style? Lots of candids? Or more strategic posing?

Most of the girls I work with want laughing photos with a little more control over the way they look. For example, I am a very directive photographer meaning I tell you exactly what to do and make little tweaks along the way. This usually lasts for the first part of the shoot and then we get really comfortable with each other and can be more playful –– if you’re feeling up for it! My seniors laugh with me the entire time, specially because sometimes I have no filter 😉

This is totally a preference - I love the candid photos, especially when people are laughing and spinning around. I LOVE the golden hours with the beautiful/soft light shinning at my seniors. I love to move around - we will NEVER stay at same spot for too long.

LMP Senior Experience

What To Expect From My Senior Experience?

With LM Photography, you can expect:

• Bright colors and light (unless we are in golden hours/end of afternoon): all different kinds of backgrounds, bright colors and lots of LIGHT, and LOTS of portraits. I love to capture my girls/boys laughing and smiling.

• “Directive posing” because my goal is to make you feel natural but also give direction so you never wonder what you have to do with your hands!! This makes it easier for girls who may feel a little shy at the beginning before we really get to know each other. I promise I’m here to have fun too!

• High quality images: LM Photography invests in top level equipment to make sure high quality images can be produced, that can be printed in large format products (like canvases and wall prints) and stand the test of time.

• Natural and beautiful edit: One main factor to consider is how the images have been edited. Skin tonality is VERY important to me! Do the senior have pores, freckles and natural skin tone? These aspects are important to observe because what you see in my portfolio will most likely be how your very own senior images appear. Blemishes can be removed but I will NEVER give you a plastic face, all editing will be very natural.

There are different senior photo processes that will allow you to choose which one is best for you depending on your needs. Choose the photographer you will feel more comfortable with, look at their work and google reviews. If you have questions about finding your style, feel free to drop them below so I can help you out!!

What you need to know before your Lifestyle Session

What is a Lifestyle Session?

A lifestyle session aims to capture the everyday moments in a beautiful way. It’s captured in your home, with your own surroundings, and your own memories. One day you can look back on the photos and remember that bedspread you had, the toys across the floor, the nursery set up, and those couches you spent your days and evenings on. Lifestyle photography aims to express the essence of you and your family, with minimal posing and no additional props. With newborns, it aims to catch those little details – such as the tiny toes, the way they hold onto your finger, the resettling in your arms when they won’t sleep, or the multitasking of holding a baby while making lunch.

Where do you take photos in a Lifestyle Session?

Photos are taken inside your home, and usually in the areas where you spend the most time. When I arrive, however, I’ll have a quick walk through to see where the best lighting might be – and maybe I’ll suggest something strange like having a little picnic in the hallway instead of the kitchen because the light is better in the hallway! Most of the time there are at least some photos taken on Mom and Dad’s bed – and sometimes the kids will even be allowed to jump on it if allowed (just this one time!).

What do we do in a Lifestyle Session?

The aim of Lifestyle Sessions is to photograph you and your family in a REAL way – not just in a way where everyone is dressed nicely and smiling for the camera. Lifestyle sessions have very minimal posing – although situations will be set up so that we can capture some of the memories you want to freeze in the time allocated for the session. For example, we may see you dressing your little one, reading your

child a story, doing dishes together, making a cake together, playing a board game together – whatever is real and relevant for your family. If it’s a newborn lifestyle session, we may just see you just laying and looking at your new little baby and their little toes and gorgeous features, you feeding your baby, dressing your baby, or putting him/her to sleep. Before the session I encourage you to think about the things that make your family special and let me know the type of things you might like to freeze in time.

We will also likely just spend some time with your family hanging out on your bed. You don’t all need to be sitting nicely and looking at the camera – although we will often get some of those as well – lifestyle is all about keeping those real and genuine connections. What happens when the kids start jumping on the bed? What happens when your little one comes in for a snuggle? In your session just be as relaxed as possible. The aim isn’t to be perfect – the aim is to be genuine.

Do I need to clean the house?

No! Lifestyle is real and authentic, so things don’t have to be perfect. However, I would recommend some decluttering and a basic tidy – you just don’t need to go crazy! Especially if you have a newborn, you don’t want to be worrying about everything looking perfect!


What do we wear?

Lifestyle is about being genuine and authentic. There is no need to go out and buy new outfits (although – any excuse for a new outfit, right?!). Wear clothes you feel relaxed in and comfortable. Avoiding tops with logos is very important! Also keep your hair in a way that won’t cover your face at time of session. Having said that – avoid wearing your worst/oldest gym clothes that you might normally wear around the house on the weekend! A nice jumper or jeans with hair loosely tied back,

looks beautiful and natural because it is a good compromise between being too casual, and being too dressed up. With kids, you might like to let them choose what to wear so that they feel that they can let their little personalities out. For example, if they want to wear their tutu and tiara – let them! It captures who they are at this moment in time! You may want to restrict their choices, so that they at least pick something you have pre-approved!

How long does the session go for?

Lifestyle sessions usually last for 1-2 hours. If there are particular activities you really want to show, but they are only done at certain times of the day (example:

putting your little one to sleep) – then let me know and we can try to book the session so that the time suits. Many activities can be recreated so that they are done at times you wouldn’t normally (example: making pancakes at lunch time instead of breakfast, or getting your little one dressed in pj’s in the middle of the day), but some do require very specific timing.

Please give me a call or text 407.773.2463 if you have any questions! I am excited about capturing this fun day for you and your family :)

Creative Eyes Being Used Beyond Photography

Covid impact in my business

I am going to be honest, when we started quarantine in April, I was the most happy and positive family member around my house - my family was anxious, especially my college son. I dove into my photography and took advantage of my time to adopt new marketing techniques, build up my web presence, and learn new skills, I was basically breathing photography 24/7.
Months passed and I caught up with many goals, what now? This pandemic has been tough on business and being a photographer I can feel the impact. The first semester is the busiest for me, I have various business events/group headshots, but 2020 really disappointed.
So, I decided to get creative! All I have is TIME so I started few projects, because if I don’t I am literally going to go crazy!

Living room project:

First I searched for weeks until I found exactly what I was envisioning for my living room: a set of 5 large 5.5’’ deep Hexagon Shelves. Here is the Etsy link in case you would like to check out: https://www.etsy.com/listing/603330760/set-of-5-large-55-deep-hexagon-shelves?ref=user_profile&frs=1 (PS: at the end of blog I have a list of pros and cons for this product)
Upon arrival I felt in love with the shelves, they were very well wrapped and no damages were found. Right away I noticed the raw wood color and decided that staining would give a richer look to it.

Painting/Staining shelves

First, I covered my work space with newspaper and made sure to wear gloves. I didn’t have to sand the shelves, it was pretty smooth. To stain the wood, I used “Old Masters Professional Fast Dry Wood Stain” Provincial 60504. This wood stain was really pretty, not to dark and not to light, just perfect! Instead of using a brush I found that staining with a piece of fabric is much easier, you can just use an old white shirt from your husband 🤣.

After the staining process was done I started to wonder… These shelves came with screws that would go directly to the drywall. It didn’t seem like a good idea to me because I knew my flower planters were a bit heavy and I would hate for the shelves and plants to fall. A trip to Lowe’s was all I needed! I purchased anchors specifically for my drywalls. Lowes link: https://www.lowes.com/pd/Blue-Hawk-10-Pack-1-5-in-x-0-19-in-Blue-Steel-Light-Duty-All-Purpose-Anchor-with-Screws/1000103123. I also had to purchase small D-ring hangers because the shelves had none: https://www.lowes.com/pd/Hillman-4-Pack-D-Ring-Small-Picture-Hangers/3029191. D rings needed to be placed in the corners of the top hexagons.

Installing Shelves

Time to figure out how I wanted the shelves to be hung on the wall, It was time to add my personality to it. I did something that made it easier. I placed all in the floor and rearrange all shelves. This way I could have an idea of the final look on the wall. With that in mind, I also had to be mindful of space between shelves, that was the hardest part! You definitely need a level: https://www.lowes.com/pd/KAPRO-9-in-Magnetic-Torpedo-Level/1000179331.
Finally! I was ready to hang the honeycomb shelves!

… the last and more fun part of the project, adding the plants!!!

I just love to sit at my living room and enjoy the peacefulness now… These shelves are amazing and I would recommend it. It definitely ties the room together, and gives it a more “homey” look. I just wish it came with the D rings already attached to it. If you would like to purchased these shelves here is the Etsy link: https://www.etsy.com/listing/603330760/set-of-5-large-55-deep-hexagon-shelves?ref=user_profile&frs=1

My advice to other photographers is to stay positive! The pandemic has been tough on business, but I started to see an uptick in bookings for events and that is awesome!!!

How about you? What have you done to keep busy and mentally stable? Comment below, I would LOVE to know how you are doing :)

What to wear for family portraits?

When it comes to family portraits, one of the most common questions I get is "What should we wear?” It’s a hard decision! Since this photos will be for a lifetime, you want to make sure your entire family looks good as possible. You also want your family to look like themselves and most importantly, you want to wear clothes that makes all of you comfortable. I always recommend wearing clothes that makes you feel and look your best, and this can be different for every person.

Understanding what colors complement each other, will really help the colors in your portraits. Aqua, turquoise, navy, and sea glass always photograph well and work with nearly all skin tones. If you leave in Florida you should avoid wearing solid green, because here the majority of the backdrop will probably be GREEN!

1. COMPLEMENTARY COLORS:

Using combinations of these colors with your subject and background, will help create a flattering portrait. I love this pink, blue, and yellow combination! Yellow is an awesome color to pop the image!

2. PULLING COLORS TO DRESS EVERYONE:

I recommend choosing one pattern and pulling colors from there to dress everyone else.

This family is the perfect example! Not afraid of colors they started with Mom’s top, then dressed everyone else following same tons of pink, white and blue. They could even go further and add more yellow on the mix… Dad could wear a soft yellow top or bottom per example.

Something else to keep in mind: avoid matching polos and khakis! Soft, natural fabrics in cotton and linen that drape and flow also make for beautiful portraits.

3. FUN COMBINATIONS THAT ALWAYS WORK:

Using bold colors, blues and tons of maroon and hot pink is always fun, like examples below:

HOW ABOUT TEAL COLOR SHADES?

You have lots and lots of teal in your closet? Not a problem! Teal really pops with white… But it also works with cream, navy, pink and specially brown tones. Look below how teal contrasts well with blue and pink. Teal, white and black is also a timeless combination.

HOW ABOUT WHITE? White can be a challenge, but it can also be beautiful for classic portraits, we just need to avoid EVERYONE wearing white at the same time :) At this example they mixed white with different shades of blues.

HAVING A BEACH SESSION?

Using an accent color such as coral or pink will contrast nicely with the sea, and create a more contemporary portrait. This combination is very soft and the blue totally works with it! Like I said before, it is hard to go wrong when you mix any color with blue :) I also love the TEXTURE at girl’s skirt!

4. LET’S TALK ABOUT DOS AND DON’TS

SAY YES TO: timeless and classic pieces

• simple dresses

• button downs

• pea coats

• khakis

• v-necks

• cardigans

• ballet flats

• brown knee high boots

• scarves

• blazers and fedoras

YES to classic choices: Try to steer away from current trends, since they’ll date your photos 10 years from now.

YES to mixing patterns. Checks, plaids and stripes are all okay to include in your photo session wardrobe! Keep them on a smaller scale if you are trying to style a big group.

YES to TEXTURE!!! Add some visual interest to your images with unique fabrics, like: laces, cable knits, chambray, tweed, herringbone, faux fur and wool.

YES to keeping it real. I have never gone out and bought something special for a photo shoot and I tell my clients they don’t need to either. I can guarantee you that there is already something in your closet that will work perfectly for your photo session wardrobe. Keeping it comfy is key, too. Anything stiff and too formal will translate so in the picture, especially for kids. Keep the dresses and boys clothes in soft cottons or flannels. Not only will they be more relaxed in these types of items, but these materials photograph better, too. They don’t get wrinkled or look too starchy, know what I mean?

SAY NO TO :

NO logo wording on clothing. No “GAP,” “Old Navy,” or “POLO” splashed in huge letters across a shirt. Sorry, but this is never okay. When shopping for your family, just stay away from this trend all together and you will never have this issue. Your eye will go straight to those words, therefore deeming them the most important part of the picture!

5. BRING PROPS!!! It adds a special/personal touch to images;

6. ACCESSORIES: Accessories give your photographs that needed punch!

They lend pops of color, personality, and interest. Everybody wears them well and they work for all ages. Here are some ideas and what they can do for your photograph:

• HATS: Hats frame the face, protect the eyes from squinting in full sun, and overall are just fun, fun, fun! You can also use them to strengthen and/or tell your story better, for example putting a baseball cap on the boys if you are shooting a baseball themed image. Wouldn’t a boy in a Cubs hat at a baseball game make your image that much stronger? Now you know what team the boy is cheering on! This image of my daughter was made stronger by giving her my hat to wear before I snapped this frame. It frames her, distracts the viewer from the background and gives the photo some juxtaposition… a little girl in a big fancy hat chowing down on a cheeseburger!

• BELTS, SOCKS, SCARVES and JEWELRY: All these things are going to give pops of color, and work to completing the outfit. They can be unexpected bits of fun, too, like crazy and colorful knee socks on a girl. Striped belts make a boring khaki and polo outfit more interesting. Shiny necklaces give an image a little glimmer and can be a good prop to give to someone who doesn’t know what to do with their hands.

• SHOES: I photograph in homes a lot, so I actually am a big proponent of no shoes. To me, they don’t look right in the setting of home sweet home. Who hangs out on their bed or couch with their shoes on? Not anybody I know! But shoes in other settings can really help support a story and can be an important part of the photo session wardrobe. Patterned or colorful rain boots for a rainy day, cowboy boots to pair with a feminine dress for that awesome prairie girl look, motorcycle boots to amp up a street casual look, boating shoes to lend that extra dose of preppiness… the possibilities are endless!

• GLASSES: I love all things glasses: sunglasses, reading glasses, movie glasses, weird glasses. Glasses can be so fun to work with. Big sunglasses are so fun on a little one and on a sunny day can help eliminate squinting and raccoon eyes from harsh shadows. Tortoise eyeglasses can make a library story way more interesting or be the perfect thing to pair with a school day theme shoot or a really preppy session. No movie picture is complete without the free 3-D frames that are handed out. And weird and silly glasses can make for some exciting shots, too!

7. LET KIDS HAVE INPUT

If your daughter hates wearing dresses, don’t force her to wear one for picture day. If your son thinks that bowtie is uncomfortable, ditch it. Happy kids make for happy photos!

COLOR PALETTES

PLEASE don’t get overwhelmed … you can use this sample colors and tips as a starting point:

• Choose your palette,

• Pick two or three bright colors,

• Then filled in the rest with neutral colors like beige and gray.

NEED A BIT MORE INSPIRATION?

Look below for more sample clothing boards and color palettes.

Still in doubt? Just go to your room and decide, who has the most colorful dress/outfit for the session? Maybe you or your daughter? Lay it on your bed! Now you can build/add all other colors… laying all at your bed can really give you an idea if colors go together or not. Don’t forget the Accessories!

Take pictures on your phone and text me! I would love to see it (407) 773-2463

No need to be afraid of colors! BE BOLD BE FUN!

CALL/TEXT ME ANYTIME!

What a teen with Down syndrome has taught me through my photography

I have been a photographer for quite a while and have had many sessions with high school seniors. Seniors are easy - they know what to do, how to pose, and how to use the right angles to flatter themselves… especially the girls! :)

A little over a year ago, I was contacted by a Lake Brantley Mom who was inquiring about a Senior Aession for her daughter Abigail. I was super excited and at the same time a little anxious anticipating my session with the senior. Abigail was born with Down syndrome but she was no different to any other senior I photographed before. Like Abigail says: “I am a typical teenage girl except I have an extra chromosome”.

Throughout the whole photoshoot, Abigail was just a smiling happy teenager. Although she had a cold at the time, she still managed to pull everything off so well. I couldn’t believe her attitude, I was very impressed with her determination and positivity. Every picture showed different sides of her. Sometimes she was a teenager having fun, sometimes she was a woman, sometimes she was a young girl with a super confident walk. I hope she felt like a SUPERSTAR, because that is how she looked … just smiling and being herself.

Photographing Abigail has helped me to realize even more that kids with Down syndrome are precious gifts, and even with certain limitation, kids with DS can do anything they put their minds to. From NY Macy’s Thanksgiving parade, Pro Bowl halftime show with Jordan Fisher, meeting politicians in Washington, to TV commercials… there are no limits to Abigail! I learned so much with her ❤️

I photographed Abigail like any other high school senior. I wanted to bring her personality closer to the viewer — to show that she can have the same feelings and dreams and especially to show that Down syndrome is only a small part of her incredible story! I feel so blessed with the opportunity to meet her and her family.

A few words from Abigail and her parents:

“No matter who you are or where you came from, your success begins with you. Always follow your dreams! Down syndrome doesn't hold me back. Don't let anything keep you from being the best you”! Abigail Adams

“Our main goal has always been to give others hope. To share that our girl has done much more than others would ever imagine! We never got to go to Washington and advocate and meet politicians! We never were in TV commercials! We were told so many negative things when we were expecting and even people apologized when she was born and felt sad for us. We reminded them that we were thrilled to have a little girl and she was a baby first and just happened to have Down syndrome.” Steve & MaryAnne Adams

👉 Follow Abigail on Instagram and learn about her work representing people with disabilities

https://www.instagram.com/abigail_the_advocate/

👉 Abigail’s page: AbigailtheAdvocate.com

👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AbigailTheAdvocate/

COVID-19 Quarantine Self-Portrait

COVID-19 has completely changed our world. Some people are alone, some with partners or families, some with pets. Some are working from home, some are not working at all. Some have made peace with the situation, some are grappling with anxiety.
We have seeing the impact in all industries, including the photo industry. People are doing all they can to keep going, keep sane, and keep happy. For a photographer, being stuck at home (if you’re in quarantine like me for 5 weeks) it isn’t fun – especially if you do most of your work outdoors. If you know me well you realize how much I love outdoors! With COVID-19 and all the changes in our world it’s very important not to let the gloom take over, and we all have to push ourselves to be creative and keep active.
So, while stuck in quarantine why not do a self-portrait project. Whether you’re a photographer or not, now is a great time to turn the camera on yourself.
Creating a self-portrait had several benefits in my view. Firstly, for me as a photographer, it placed me in my client’s shoes and helped me understand the feelings and thoughts my clients had when being photographed. Let me tell you this: IT CAN BE SCARY and UNCOMFORTABLE!
Secondly, a self-portrait helped me to love and appreciate myself more. We photographers are so used to looking at others that we sometimes forget to look at ourselves. If you create a portrait of yourself that you like, it gives you a nice confidence boost – both creatively and emotionally.
Last but not least, it’s was a lot of fun. I ended up with good images and lots of bad ones as well, gained more experience in dealing with the challenges that come with getting the right exposure, focus, composition and angles for myself. It’s was a challenge, but a GOOD ONE.
If you ask me what was the more important lesson at this self portrait project? I will tell you that learning how to relax in front of the camera, helped me to understand how I can help even more my clients to relax in the future photo sessions.

DOs and DON'Ts at your headshot session - for the men

Have you EVER found a man looking forward for his headshot session? If you answer in NO, before we get started I would like to say, you are welcome. You are welcome for what I’m about to tell you. I totally get it, you hate getting your headshots done. There are so many aspects of a headshot session that can cause anxiety… I know that you all have insecurities and that when you step in front of a camera they all come to the surface. But guess what? You are not alone, that happens more often than you can imagine. With few tips you can totally overcome the insecurity and turn your session to a very enjoyable experience. Below is a guide for how to prepare for your next headshot session, DO’s and DON’Ts and other elements. No need to stand in your closet for a good 30 minutes trying to decide what to wear, I got ya!

Last but not least, do your homework and choose a photographer that has the style you like, it also helps if the photographer has a fun personality, this way you can warm up to each other quickly and end up with a very relaxed and original image of you!

Above: Winter Park session for Metts Legal P.A - Personal injury attorney - https://www.mettslegal.com/

Roger Gannam

Sixth District Court of Appeal Judge

FOR THE MEN …

- this one might be the most important one - clothes should be freshly washed and neatly pressed and should look like new. I don’t care if they are expensive Egyptian cotton shirts or a cheap polyester ones, iron them and bring them to your session on a hanger, not rolled up in a gym bag! (all black exception: MVP fitness personality shot above)
- wear clothes that are comfortable and that make you look great. Pick your favorite suit in a preferably dark color, such as grey or navy blue. Bold patterns and colors, as well as shiny ties, detract from the face and can look unprofessional. If you don’t wear a tie, it’s best to wear a sweatshirt or jacket or some other kind of layer
- Fitted tops: make sure your jacket and shirt fit you well. A poor fitting jacket or shirt will be obvious in the photos (especially around the neck). If your shirt is not fitted it will appear boxy in the photo
- don’t overdress
- turtlenecks are almost always a bad idea (since they crowd the face)
- avoid busy patterns and large lines/stripes
- a white dress shirt by itself is a bad idea (specially with white background) – unless you plan to wear it underneath something (jacket or sweater)
- Jewelry: simple jewelry and accessories need to be used with caution, be careful and don’t use jewelry that is distracting
- a fresh cut two days before your scheduled headshot is recommended

Below are few images of my latest headshot session at Winter Park. I worked closely with this incredible lawyer to decide locations and choice of clothes according to his brand. Look at all different, professional and fun looks we created together! Good job Mark @https://thushlaw.com/

Ready to book? Just click below to select your package:

DOs and DON'Ts at your headshot session - for the women

Your headshot is branding of you, it shows you are professional, it shows personality & style. It’s important to think about the message you are trying to convey and dress to match. For example, a law firm might opt for wearing a suit and looking more serious, whereas a creative business owner might prefer something more casual and fun. Remember, eyes tell a story, and a smile that says “I love my job, I’m proud of this organization” will help to truly connect with your consumers and potential audience. Portraits help to humanize your business, whether it’s editorial or professional. Below is a guide for how to prepare for your next headshot session, DO’s and DON’Ts and other elements that will help give the best impression possible. Last but not least, do your homework and choose a photographer that has the style you like… HAVE FUN at your session, headshots don’t have to be stuffy, you can have a laugh and show your personality as much or as little as you/company would like.

FOR THE WOMEN …

WARDROBE & CLOTHES
- solid color tops - avoid extensive patterns, decorations… this will grab attention away from your face
avoid white tops - on top of grabbing too much attention away from your face, a white top will blend with a white background
- sleeved tops that cover the shoulders and arms are recommended, unless per example, you are a fitness instructor and needs to show more skin.
- well fitted and tailored clothes - looser clothes will often make you look larger. Good choices for woman are blouse/blazer layers, sweaters, and cardigans
- avoid low cut front - we need to include the whole cut so if it's too low we need to include more of your body than needed.
- put proper undergarments with your outfit so that the bra and the straps are not visible with your outfit
avoid see-through - check in the mirror how well the bra and your top work together
- vibrant colors will get more attention, so if you want get noticed with your headshot wear more vibrant colors
- avoid blending top with hair - if you have darker longer hair avoid darker clothes
- avoid chunky jewelry distraction - You don't want your jewelry to steal any attention from you, earrings and necklaces are fine, but our tip is to avoid large jewelry… unless… you are a blogger, a jewerly store owner, etc.

*For group portraits I recommend having the team dress in similar clothing to prevent the image from becoming too busy. Put together a theme for your group. For example, if one team member is wearing a blue button down shirt under a black blazer, other team members may wear a blue blouse with a black skirt or slacks, etc.


HAIR
- hair cut ad color lead time: if you get your hair cut and/or colored do it about a week before the session. This is when the hair looks the best and natural
- natural look - Do not opt for a hair style that you never wear
- under control curls - some curling is good but don't go too crazy with the curls, you want to make sure the headshot looks like you
- flying hair - most flying hair can be addressed with hair spray, very important!!!
- blowout - if you do a blow out do it the same day as your session 

Speaking about hair… check out below images from an awesome hair/make up artist!

Hair & MAKE-UP

natural look…

- getting hair and makeup professionally done before your shoot is highly recommended - we recommend going more for a natural look
- no sunscreen - do not use any sun screen on your skin the day of your session
- go easy with powder - our cameras are extremely high solution and we have pore level details in our photos. Too much powder will actually cause problems and not look better in headshot

Last but not least

… do your homework and choose a photographer that has the style you like, it also helps if the photographer has a fun personality, this way you can warm up to each other quickly and end up with a very relaxed and original image of you!

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In home lifestyle newborn/family session I Orlando FL

One of my most favorite newborn session ever… And I’ve loved a lot of newborn sessions. The fact that parents allow me into their home during the first weeks of their baby’s life, when they are all just figuring it out, simply amazes me and leaves me feeling overwhelming honor and gratitude. I didn’t realize just how unique and precious it was until I became a mother myself. I recall what a wonderfully, beautifully, exhausting time it was with my kiddos.

This family though… Despite the fact I haven’t seeing them for over a year I felt at ease as soon as I walked in. I could feel the calm and loving environment in the air and instantly felt so comfortable with them… It was also really cool to see my work displayed in their walls as a beautiful canvas :) Her first born is much taller now and he talks more, which made me laugh from the start.

Making life long friends that I truly connect with on a heart level, is one of the best parts of being a photographer. It’s why I know I am where I’m suppose to be. Newborn sessions are always longer and always wear me out but this one was different because it was a lifestyle session, so I could concentrate in the moment, capturing their lives just as they were in that instant.

My most favorite part of the session was towards the end, when everyone hopped into bed, including the dog, and we just hanged out :) I was clicking away while they were talking and having fun in the bed. That’s what I want for each and every person in front of my camera. I want every session to be very relaxed and also a time for gratitude, love and LOTS OF FUN.

Cole | Lake Brantley High School Senior

Cole Parnell is a member of the Lake Brantley High School class of 2020. He will graduate summa cum laude and will be continuing his education at Southern Methodist University where he will be a member of the SMU Mustangs Swimming and Diving Team. Cole plans on studying engineering at SMU. He currently swims for Patriot Aquatics where he has been swimming since he was 5 years old. Cole is a High School All American and 4A High School State champion in the 200 free and 400 free relay.

I wasn’t sure what to expect at Cole’s session, he’s a quiet kind of guy but he made his senior session into such a fun time! We were able to easily capture his charming personality in his photos. Cole is one of my son’s best friends and over the years I’ve had the privilege of getting to know his wonderful family, and it’s been a joy to spend time with them. His parents are some of the sweetest people in the world :)

Cole is a great swimmer and kind of a “down to earth” senior, a location by the water was just perfect for him! The colors of nature out by the water turned a good location into great pictures. The light was beautiful, specially towards the end… the tone was bright but at the same time it was really soft.

I feel so blessed for having the opportunity to hang out with you Cole. You are the third senior I photographed for your family, WOW! I wish you all the best in college!