Which location: home or park?

Although I have access to a formal studio, I am primarily an on-location photographer. I started my business going to my customers' homes for the photo sessions. Now I take most of my pictures at local parks. There are advantages to both locations.

* A young child or toddler may feel more comfortable at home, and more focused on the camera. A new park can be a significant distraction. The natural background may be beautiful, but the child may not be happy with our expectation that they freeze, smile and look at the camera. There are too many other fun things to do! (Don't worry - if this happens to your child, I have a few tricks up my sleeve.)
* Conversely, older children might be more excited about a portrait session at a park setting. The photo session is more of an special event to look forward to.
* A park can provide a beautiful, natural setting for portraits. And there is usually a nice place in your home - back yard, front porch, children's room - that also makes for a nice background for your pictures in addition to providing a sentimental touch to your photos.
* During inclement weather, a photo session at a park will have to be rescheduled, whereas one at your home might be kept. As your photographer, I certainly do not mind rescheduling. However, it might be an inconvenience to you, and something to consider before you decide on a location for your pictures.

Home or park? The choice is yours!

What (Not) to Wear

Many new customers (mostly mothers) often ask me how to dress their family for portraits and group pictures. Here are a few of my suggestions:

* Earth tones are great for outdoor pictures because they compliment the colors found in nature. Try to dress family members in similar tones.
* Be cautious of mixing light and dark colors between family members. A person dressed in white is going to stand out in the picture; a person dressed in black will not. Sometimes this can be an ok color combination, however; for example a baby can be dressed in white to stand out from her parents dressed in dark colors.
* The focal point of a portrait is the face. Adults should avoid clothing with a busy pattern or a bright color that might take the attention away from the face. Children can get away with bright colors and busy patterns more than grownups.
* For adults, avoid sleeveless clothing or bare shoulders. An otherwise flattering pose might make the arms and shoulders appear larger than they are.

All of these guidelines can be broken if you have an article of clothing that is special to you, regardless of the condition, pattern or color.

Here is an example of a family that was very coordinated!

Before your photo session, feel free to visit my portfolio on my web site (click on "Galleries") to get an idea of what colors and styles appeal to you.