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During my sessions clients ask me a myriad of questions ranging from baby advice to how to move forward with their modeling careers.

I find that I enjoy giving my two cents.

I know photography blogs tend to focus on.. well photography, so I wanted to touch on topics that I think I would've liked to know if I weren't a photographer, but had the opportunity to speak directly to one.

So I am happily sharing what I have learned over the past 10 years and if one person learns anything or is able to avoid a bad situation from one of my past experiences then I would consider my musings (that's what a blog is, right?!) a success. On this rollercoaster that we call life I have learned and grown so much and I look forward to sharing the good, bad but mostly amazing moments!

Getting Great Wedding Pictures

Getting Great Wedding Pictures

Everyone says that All wedding are different. I can honestly say that I have never experienced the same wedding, bride, groom, family connection yet. However, there are a few things that I find to be universal when trying to get those great wedding pictures. I separated what I thought might be helpful to couples and what may be helpful for photographers(although the 1st point pretty much applies to both parties:)

1.***Communication
Knowing what pictures are must-haves before the big day is Extremely important. This way time can be set aside specifically to get these oh so important moments.

{Couples}
1. Relax
We're there to photograph you and often time's candid shots are the couples favorite photos. Don't try to do everything perfectly or be on cue every time the cameras on you. Relax and have fun with your family and friends. Laugh, joke, cry, hug, those are the moments that will make your wedding day photos breathtaking.

2. Take Time for YOUR PICTURES
It's hard not to concern yourself with the comfort of your guests. I mean, many of them came a long way to attend your wedding. However, NOTHING IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN THE BRIDE AND GROOM PICTURES!!!! They are the picture's you blow up, the pictures that everyone wants to see, they are your WOW factor. Put aside at least 1 hr for just you and your betrothed, step away from the party and enjoy having pictures together that will last forever.

4. Don't be afraid to get your hem's dirty
You love your dress, I love your dress, but as your photographer I know you will want amazing, dramatic pictures of yourself in the dress against a stunning background. Don't be afraid to step out! Drop your hem and let us capture you're beautiful train across an open field as your husband holds you in his arms. I have never had a bride regret doing this but I have had a few tell me they should have.

3. EPDA ( EXCESSIVE  PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION)
The more kissing, the more hugging, the more touching the better. You can never be too affectionate on your wedding day.

5. Remember we're on your team 
Whenever I'm shooting a wedding it's already in my mind that I am there to get all the moments that you may miss. If you want a certain picture beyond what we discussed please let us know, that's what we're here for.



{Photographers}
1. Stay Calm
You will be juggling 100 things at once and you will have a number of things going on around you that you will want to photograph. It's very easy to become overwhelmed because It IS overwhelming when you try to shoot 1000 pictures in a minute. Focus on the details and the moments that tell the story. This helps me focus and then photographing the wedding becomes less daunting.

2. It's all in the Lists
Keep a small notebook with a list of the pictures you would like to take. 

3. Be a Friend
Have you ever noticed how silly your friends can be with you when you're taking pictures. I think the same rule applies. If a Bride/Groom  (and their family) feel as though were just friends, instead of the stiff, formal pictures, you will get a chance to see the "real" them. If I was standoffish or distant I really don't think we would have the same rapport and wouldn't get intimate, real moments. I've helped couples with hair, bustled gowns, gone out to dinner, walked dog's, I've even served cake to guests. (Mainly because my background is Events, I'm not sure Every photographer would do this:) Because I've been there myself I try to help when and if needed, and I think because the couples see that I really care they are more comfortable around me.

Love is in the AIR

Engagement Session Old Town Alexandria / Copyright S. Reese Photography

As the weather turns colder I realize how lucky we are to be able to sit across from the one's we love and cuddle up to a good (or even bad movie:)
Just enjoying these little moments, and breaking up the day to day stresses is something I'm learning to enjoy. 
I admit it is hard not to think of all the other things I have to do, but I'm slowly learning to be "present" during these rare moments. So today forget about your workload for a few minutes take your loved ones hand and give them ALL of you even if for but a few minutes!

Modeling 101: Test Jaclyn

I enjoy working with models, especially models that are passionate about, we'll modeling. Im sure you've seen Jaclyn in a number of other session's. She's always professional and very easy to work with but most importantly doesn't need a ton of direction.. it's literally as easy as pointing and shooting!! Check out her recent test...**ACTION**

3 Things to Think About Having Ready For Your Wedding Photographer, A Few Stress Relieving Tips!

3 Things to think about having ready for your wedding photographer, a few stress relieving tips!

1: You want a picture of your beautiful dress before you put it on, having it hung somewhere on a nice hanger ready for the photographer to photograph will save on time, and manage the number of people handling your dress.

2: Taking pictures of the wedding bands is something that most couples want. Have the rings together and available for the photographer when they arrive that way they can take the pictures and hand them back before things start to get hectic.

3: A detail that often goes forgotten as a must have photo, but is one thing that couples generally tend to spend a lot of time on is wedding stationery (wedding invitations, menus, programs etc.) Keep an extra copy of all of your stationery to hand over to the photographer. They can take it as a bundled shot or use it as props for wedding rings, shoes, or boutonnieres.

Weddings: Kristy & Ralph Wedding

“I believe in the immeasurable power of love; that true love can endure any circumstance and reach across any distance.”

I love Kristy and Ralph's Love Story! Despite the distance between them one in LA the other in DC they still made it work,and let their love blossom! 

We had the pleasure of capturing their Love at the Bluebird Theater in Petersburg, Virginia.  

Family Portrait Advice: What to wear for Family Portraits

Getting your often times unwilling family together for the quarterly family portrait is, pardon the pun, no walk in the park. Tack on coordinating everyone's outfit's, and of course the back up outfits for those right before you get to the session juice spills, your stress levels can be out the roof. To help alleviate a bit of your stress here are some helpful ideas and links on what to wear.

• wear solid colored clothing
• choose  brightly toned colors that are eye catching
• choose similar tones for your top and bottom (both dark or both light)
• choose 1-3 colours for your group portrait, ones with similar tones that go nicely together and have everyone work within that colour palette. For example: green, navy, and burgundy  OR tan, bright pastel green, and denims
• choose a top with sleeves at least to the elbow
• choose long pants for men/ladies or a skirt below the knee for ladies
• choose dark socks and footwear (unless it’s a barefoot photo on the beach)
• keep jewellery simple and minimalistic(mom)
• Let your kids add touches of their personality with accessories and footwear

Check out these great links for more ideas:
 http://www.pinterest.com/hunybuny/photo-styling-what-to-wear/

http://www.pinterest.com/jenniferporter/portrait-outfit-ideas/

Wedding Advice: The Importance of the Engagement Session

When planning a wedding session we always tend to focus, of course, on the big day.. The Wedding Day. I am guilty of doing just that myself when I was married I wasn't concerned with engagement pictures, trying the cake, testing the caterers food, none of it was of any concern. As a bride, I just wanted to get married! 

However, as a photographer I have come to appreciate the moments before the "I do's" and  actually advise all of my clients to think carefully about all the decisions that they make before committing to any vendor. (Including myself!)
I know that if for whatever reason the bride/groom and I don't have chemistry it will make for a terrible session..Now in all honesty, that has yet to happen, I consider myself very easy to get along with and strive to please all of my clients, but I still always warn against leaping before you look.

One thing I offer with the majority of all of my wedding sessions, to a bride and groom,  is a complimentary mini engagement session. This serves two very important purposes:

1) The couple will get to know me, outside of the hectic, stressful and fast paced environment of their wedding day. Which will allow them, when the big day comes, to be very comfortable and natural in front of me. My goal being to become a good friend. fast.

 2) It allows me to get a feel for the couple, their sense of humor, what they are and aren't comfortable with,  if they need a lot of direction, allowing me to tailor their wedding day photography to them.

100% of all of the weddings that I do this with are better overall!

As a bride there are worse ways you could spend 30 minutes of your day than holding your future husband and creating memories that you will look back on for years.
As a photographer, there is nothing more imporant than knowing your client and you are getting 30 minutes to do just that.

Wedding Advice: Key Photos and How many pictures should you get from your wedding

There are 3 very important questions you should ask your photographer. 1: How many pictures should I expect. 2:  Key moments you want to capture 3: When/how will you receive your images.

I agree with those who value quality over quantity.  On average we shoot around 2000-3000 images for an 8 hour wedding.  Our brides were getting really overwhelmed with that many choices so we edit the images down to the best selection possible. Most couples don't really need 6 of practically the same shot.
We brought the number of images available for preview down to 600-800 confident that the images they receive is going to showcase their wedding at it's best. It also means the couple receives their photos much sooner as it now takes less time to edit, so this is a win/win for all parties. Sometimes, and I hate to be cliche, it really is more important to have quality over quantity My suggestion is to ask prospective photographers to see a partial wedding/ not just 20 of the best pics.. ask for about 50-100, so you can note their style and consistency and whether it matches the expectations for your own wedding.
The amount of images we provide for a 4 hr wedding is about 100-400 and an 8 hour wedding 600-900.

One thing that always surprises me is the number of brides/photographer that don't plan ahead what pictures they want to take. I came across this list here: must have shots. I've been shooting enough weddings now that this list is automatic, but it is a very good place to start for brides trying to figure out the flow of their wedding day pictures. Depending on the amount of time you have booked your photographer for this list may be shortened or added to, but as I mentioned it definitely serves as a good starting point.

1. Prep Shots – Bride & Groom
2. The Dress – Hanging or Draped
3. The North Window Shot – Bride facing out northern most window
4. Bride walking down stairs
5. Bride looking out (window or door)
6. Maid of Honor & Brides Mom – Zipping Dress
7. Bride Applying Make Up
8. Groom Fixing Hair
9. Grooms Father & Best Man – Attaching Boutonnière to grooms lapel
10. Groom Checking the Time
11. Groom with Grooms Men & Fathers
12. Bride with Bridesmaids & Mothers
13. Bride with Mother & Father (also grandparents)
14. Groom with Mother & Father (also grandparents)
15. Bride Limo – Groom Limo
16. Bride & Groom – Exiting Limo (Bride being helped out)
17. Groom waiting at altar
18. Church Wide Shot (with & without guests)
19. Bride walking down aisle ( Side Profile & Front )
20. Father giving away bride
21. Groom over the shoulder shot of bride ( & Vis Versa)
22. Holding hands – Bride and Groom
23. Bride & Groom Kiss
24. Bride & Groom Leaving Church ( Receiving Line)
25. Bride & Groom – Inside Limo Shot
26. Reception/Banquet Hall Outside shot
27. Food Shots (Cocktail Hour, Drinks, etc.)
28. Shot of each table full of guests
29. Shots of Bride & Groom with & without family
30. Bride and Groom Portraits
31. Bride & Groom with Bridesmaids & Groomsmen
32. Bride and Groom Hand & Ring Portraits
33. First Dance
34. Bride & Father Dance
35. Groom & Mother Dance
36. Bouquet Toss
37. Guarder Belt Toss
38. Cake Cutting, Bride and Groom Feeding each other
39. Misc. Guests Dancing
40. Bride & Groom Eating
41. Best Man & Maid of Honor Toast/Speeches
42. Bride & Groom Toast/Speeches
43. Centerpieces & Flower/Decorations
44. Guestbook Signatures
45. Small Children Dancing with Bride & Groom
46. Bride & Groom’s Parents Dancing (Plus Grandparents)
47. Venetian Hour Photos (Coffee, Ice Cream, Etc)
48. Bride & Groom giving away wedding favors
49. Groom Giving Coat to Bride
50. Bride & Groom “Just Married” Vehicle – Driving Away

If you are a bride and know how your want your day to flow, what pictures you want and how/when you want to receive your images it makes the job of the photographer a lot easier. So don't be afraid to do your research before selecting a photographer, and ask plenty of questions!

Wedding advice: Finding the "Cheap" Photographer

I came across this article and found the content, for the most part, to be spot on and really something brides should think about when looking for a photographer

"I Found a Cheap Wedding Photographer!"

"As in all professions and services, the wedding photography market is rife with a variety of professionals, some of whom are worthy of the “professional photographer” title while others are photographers in name only.  The truth is that a search on the basis of cost will result in a vast range of options from cheapest to most expensive. In a previous article on the selection of a wedding photographer, I used the example of the discount stores.

“If you see big differences in prices, it doesn’t necessarily mean one of the two is trying to con you. Take, for example, bargain basement products. No one really believes that buying a name brand means being tricked because the same item may be marked down 80% at discount stores. It just means that the name brand has more to offer in terms of quality and durability. For photographers, that means more experience, quality equipment, respect for the couple, time devoted to selecting and editing photos, reliability, photo and presentation quality personal attitude, creativity, business premises and many other parameters that unfortunately most couples ignore or are not aware of until it’s too late.”

 

 In the same way that you would never shop from a bargain basement for your wedding day, you should be suspicious of photographers who offer you bargain prices. As the saying goes, “you get what you pay for.” How can a photographer respect his work and his product and, by extension, you as a client, if your special wedding moments are limited by amateur, repetitive photos taken at random?  How can you get good work from a production based on a rough-and-ready philosophy? Your wedding photographs should be guided by rules related to both technical equipment and artistic approach. Such rules objectively make the difference and guarantee the result, as the professional photographer who has invested in his work supports his investment through to the final product, giving the couple the best possible outcome. Such a photographer can’t be bargain basement; he can’t come cheap."

Modeling Advice: Important shots to have in your portfolio for new models

Your model portfolio is the most important tool you have as far as getting hired for jobs and becoming a working/paid model. Your portfolio should be a collection of your best photographs. Your portfolio ultimately gives clients a chance to see how you can and do look in different situations, your experience and demonstrates your ability to move in front of a camera.

A standard model portfolio or "model book" should have at least 10 to 16 photos, in good condition.
However there are a few basic shots that all portfolios should have.
1. Beauty shot
2. Casual shot
3. Fashion look
4. Commercial shot

These shots will not only show your range as a model but will also showcase your knowledge as a model in
how to present yourself professionally.
 
Always put your best pictures in the front of your model portfolio and be sure to place them on the right side of the portfolio as you have it opened. Leave the left side free for the first few images of your book, generally the BEST,  so there are no distractions.
Be sure to have a few strong images at the very end as well, which will make sure that the impression you made from start to finish was a positive one.

Newborn Advice: 3 basics for every newborn session

Wraps: You can purchase scarves or pashminas at a number of local retailers. Wrapping a newborn is a great way to start a session, as it tends to be comfortable, warm and provides them with a sense of security, which will lull them to sleep. I tend to find that all newborns begin a photo session wide awake.  Maybe it is the excitment or apprehension they feel emanating from their parent(s) or maybe it is the introduction of a new character in their life as they have seen so few faces, generally, at this point. Irregardless of the reason, wrapping a newborn is also a great way to ensure that they do not squirm or move around too much, it also serves as a great alternative to the classic birthday suit poses that you are sure to get.

Blankets: Blankets and cloth look amazing in newborn photos. A wide assortment of patterns can be found at fabric stores such as Jo anne fabrics or Hancocks. Make sure that the fabrics are soft to the touch, and never place a baby on a blanket or fabric that is rough. I also recommend choosing fabrics/blankets that are easy to wash, a newborns skin is very sensitive wash all materials in a hypoallergenic fabric cleaner before using for a photo shoot. Some of my favorite blankets are very simple, although plain textured materials looks stunning on camera. Purchasing fabrics as opposed to blankets can be a little cheaper and afford you a wider variety which I believe make an amazing newborn session.

Hats or Headbands: Cute and colorful hats and headbands add a touch of whimsy to newborn pictures. Instead of the classic bare baby shots, simply by putting a floral headband on your little baby girl you now have a more artistic and interesting image. It is very easy to go overboard when staging a scene, but by utilizing this simple prop with a complimentary backdrop the affect is a timeless image that captures the innocence of your baby boy or girl.

Although photographing a newborn is not always easy, being able to get that amazing shot is always worth the time and effort that you put in. Remember they won't be this little forever, dress them up, have their picture taken and most importantly dote on them while you still can!

Wedding Advice: Selecting a Photographer

What should brides and grooms consider when selecting a photographer for their wedding?
My main advice for couples when looking for a wedding photographer is to look closely at the prospective photographers wedding portfolio. All photographers have a different approach and editing style, make sure that their style is what you are looking for.
Another thing to take into consideration is your budget, although many photographers will work with a bride and groom as far as payment options. If they are too expensive or if they don't charge enough which is something I will provide insight on in a bit, have realistic expectations as to how much you are willing to pay.           
With that being said please remember that you get what you pay for and I strongly advise caution when working with a photographer that is not charging or charging under the usual wedding photographer rate which is anywhere from $1,000-$1,400 /4 hrs to $2,000 - $2,600/8+ hrs.(There are even a number of photographers who have honed their craft and charge upwards of 10,000.. but I'll just keep this post about the average wedding photographer)  **This price often does not include an assistant so check whether you will have a 2nd/3rd shooter for your wedding. A WORD TO THE WARY: Often a free photographer is a  new photographer, and may not have the experience or know-how when dealing with an unforeseen circumstance. Also, they may not know how to plan the flow of the session to ensure that you get all of the important wedding moment photos. If you are easy going and just want to capture a few images and have no expectations, on quality or clarity, and don't care whether or not you have any decent pictures then this is less of a concern.
             If you are hoping to save money  "the early bird catches the worm" aptly applies to a couple planning for a wedding. When working with any vendor securing your product or session at least 10 months ahead of time may save you a bit of money, it will also ensure that your date is more likely to be available. Many photographers have promos geared towards the "planning ahead" bride, as they like to fill their calendar months out, so keep that in mind when you start looking around.
Finally, find out how you will receive your images and how many you will receive. Some wedding photographers only offer negatives, others offer a high resolution CD, some may have inclusive package options, others create custom packages for your wedding. When interviewing potential photographers ask plenty of questions beforehand, and take notes so that you can compare the potential photographers for your wedding.

REMEMBER:

• Check the photographers portfolio to make sure their style coincides with your tastes
• Are the photographers fees within your budget,  if you really like their style, but have a smaller budget, find out if they have payment plans.
• A free photographer is an option, but you are taking a chance on not getting quality images on one of the most important days in your life.
• Scheduling your session early is a good way to get a quality photographer at a lesser price. 
• Know what you are getting ahead of time how many images, prints, cd, etc., to avoid surprises later

Modeling Advice: Snapshots or Professional Pictures

Reviewing snapshots of potential models is a normal screening practice used by modeling agencies. You send them a couple of snapshots of yourself in a bathing suit or tight clothes. Some agencies weed out the talent  from these snapshots and  may get a sense as to whether you have what it takes for modeling.
They use these photos as a screening tool so be sure to send good, clear, properly exposed, properly composed photographs in which you are properly positioned. If there is an opening for someone with your look, the agency will be interested in meeting with you in person to see if, in fact, you look like your picture. This does not necessarily mean that you have or do not have what it takes to be a model. It just gets you an interview and maybe on to a test shoot.
Most would-be models send bad pictures, or they may look great but they don't meet the agency's needs at that moment, or the agent guessed wrong. Modeling agencies say, "Don't spend money on getting photos taken; a Polaroid by your friend is just fine." But when they talk about sending in a simple snapshot, what they are really looking for is at least an advanced amateur level of photography or a would-be professional photographer level. Please be cautious when using a beginner for your photographer, many beginners have problems with exposure, focus, and composition, let alone knowing how to position models for their best look. You may not want to trust your career to your best friend's ability as a photographer unless they meet the advanced amateur criteria.
Try sending your photos to several modeling agencies to see if they are interested in you. Agencies are always conscious of what look is in at the moment, and they may be in need of brunettes this season and currently have a roster full of blondes. It can be as simple as being in the right place at the right time. For example, one agency or photographer may tell a would-be model that he or she doesn't have what it takes; that wannabe model then goes to another agency and becomes a star model
The initial snapshot, interview, and test shot are just screening processes to find those who would have an easier time in modeling. A special few may still find some measure of success in modeling by hard work and developing special talents. They may not become superstars but they can find enjoyment and financial rewards pursuing a modeling career.
However you decide to submit your photos be sure to provide your contact information and stats!

Wedding Advice: Spring 2013 Wedding Gowns

Last seasons sexy backs returned for Spring 2013 having softened the focus on bare skin with sheer panels of tulle, re-worked lace, and keyhole closings. While the emphasis is still on the bride from reverse, it's with more romance than seduction that she holds our attention. Silhouettes in general gravitated toward coverage, a sign that Duchess Kate's Alexander McQueen wedding gown still reigns supreme a year after the royal wedding.

Newborn & Maternity Advice: How to plan and get those amazing newborn photos

When you schedule your session, always talk with the photographer about  what you are looking for. Do you want only pictures of the baby. Are you more interested in your infant being photographed with family than in props.  Are there specific poses you are looking for?  Think about momentos to use that are special to you and your family, If one of you is a soldier, bring items from home like a flag, tags or helmet.  Let the photographer know if you are you bringing siblings and if  Dad will be there.  If you want skin on skin shots let the photographer know your comfort level up front. By sharing all of this information beforehand it gives the photographer an opportunity to plan ahead for your session.

The day of your session try to have everything packed the night before,  I know this may be harder than it sounds but by packing and planning ahead the day of your session you will be a lot less stressed. This is important as babies are very sensitive and respond negatively to high stressed situations or hectic behavior.

Do not feed your infant before your session. Try to arrive earlier in order to feed the baby at the studio or ask the photographer if they allot time before a session for feeding (* most do)  The reason this works best is that if you feed your baby before you go he will start his sleep cycle while in his car seat.  Not good.  You want him to do that at the studio.

Be patient with your little one as well as your photographer. Your baby may be fussy, or may even have an accident or two at the studio, this happens so don't worry or be embarrassed. Your photographer knows how to handle working with little one's and may slow down a bit to create a more calm less hectic environment, remember 1 amazing shot will be better than 100 shots your not happy with, so try not to rush the process.

3 key words of advice for all parents planning a newborn session, have plenty of milk on hand as well as burp clothes, bring a number of props(hats, scarves, mitts, blankies) be patient and give your newborn a lot of hugs, kisses and encouragement, this is all very new to them, just remember that and enjoy the session.

Spring Pictures

Finally the weather is changing and the flowers are blooming, Spring is here! There is no better backdrop for amazing images than nature. I love shooting outdoors more so than in studio because you have so many more ways to create a memorable moment. When a client wants to shoot in studio as well as outdoors, my mind says yipee! Especially in the beautiful Northern Virginia area that is so close to historic areas like Washington, DC & Mt. Vernon. The best time to shoot is the hour before the sun sets, when soft hues and bright skies add a winsome touch to pictures. I create a bit of drama by angling my lens just so to create a sunburst in an image or by creating silhouettes against an outdoor scene.

If you enjoy taking pictures outside here are 3 tips that I've learned that will help in capturing amazing moments.

•     Shoot on an overcast day: If you plan on taking pictures and look out to an overcast sky threatening rain, grab your camera and go! Clouds are wonderful. They create a giant blanket of natural sunlight diffusion that will make your images vibrant and impactful.

•     Always focus on the eyes: The eyes are what will tell the story.

•     Get close to your subject: You want their face to fill most of the frame. Most people stand back way too far from their subject.

    
Don't be afraid to try different angles, get low, climb up high, shoot through brush or flowers it wont hurt to try.. and have fun!