But while high resolution and great color grading are still vitally important to a successful brand shoot, what many product photographs are missing is a certain quality of emotion that pulls consumers in.
Visual storytelling is the art of using images to convey a subtle but impactful message to the consumer, appealing to their emotional side and driving them towards a purchase. In this post, we’ll uncover what it means to use storytelling in product photography and provide some tips for how to achieve it.
Visual Storytelling Is The Key To Audience Connection
Without a visual narrative, product photography can feel a little flat. To bridge the distance between business and consumer, your product photos need to contain something beyond just an empty image of an object. Emotion and depth are needed.
But you don’t have to be Nori Inoguchi or Timothy Hogan to create meaningful product photos. You just need to get more creative about the way you structure, conceptualize, and edit your shoots.
6 Tips For Drawing Out More Emotion In Your Product Photography
Even the most experienced product photographers may struggle to elicit emotion through their work, especially with certain everyday products. For example, you’d be forgiven for asking, “what’s so emotional about tea mugs?” when shooting a new range of ceramics.
Well, the key is to look beyond the product itself and into the real-life experiences and memories consumers may associate with that product. In this example, tea mugs could bring to mind a sense of home, of relief at the end of a long day, of comfort when you’re feeling down.
Tapping into the emotions, memories, and experiences of a product is what will lead you to develop a strong visual narrative through photography.
Here are 6 more practical tips to help you on your way.
One of the most important things about visual storytelling in product photography is that it tells the right story. You might have a great narrative lined up, but does it fit in with the brand you are shooting for? As a photographer, it is crucial that you discuss the product brief with your client beforehand.
Find out what their brand tone is, what kind of message they want to send to consumers, and what kind of consumer demographics they are targeting. This will help you develop as clear an idea as possible about what direction to take the narrative in and make both yourself and your clients proud.
Instead of just diving straight into the visual side of your story, it can be helpful to start off with a simple written narrative. This can help provide structure to your shoot and give you something to refer back to when things start to feel off-kilter.
Going back to the tea mug example, a simple written narrative could look like this:
A woman has just got back from work after a stressful day. The focus is on a big cup of steaming tea, representing the woman’s need for comfort and relaxation. The tea mug is positioned at eye level, which feels familiar and soothing. The lighting is soft and gentle. This is her time to unwind.
Even something as simple and short as this can help put you on the right track for an emotionally fueled visual narrative. Use your writing skills to create consumer-specific characters and scenarios in which the product at hand is most likely to be used.
Lighting is crucial to a successful product photo shoot. Cold versus warm, bright versus low light, direct versus atmospheric—they all have the power to influence the emotional context of a product image.
Equipping yourself with a range of quality lighting tools will allow you to approach your shoots with more specificity, thus creating more compelling images that encourage consumers to hit purchase.
Perspective can completely change the way an image feels. For instance, a high vertical shot can make the focus of the image appear small and insignificant, while a low-angle shot can make the subject feel more dominant and overwhelming.
Framing your product photographs from a different angle can help you convey a certain atmosphere that enhances the story you are telling.
Before you start preparing for your product shoot, it’s useful to gather as much inspiration and references for the kind of style and mood you are hoping to achieve. This can help you gain a clearer mental image for each product shot and create a more succinct result.
Apps like Pinterest, Dribbble, and even just Instagram are all rich with visual content that you can use as research platforms for product photography ideas you may not have thought of on your own. You can also check out other product photographers’ portfolios for inspiration. Just be sure to make your shots your own. Inspiration is great, but you need to showcase your unique take on a subject too.
At the beginning of this list, we recommended putting on your “writer’s cap”. As a professional photographer, you may feel most comfortable in your field of interest. But branching out into other creative disciplines can make you a more well-rounded and perceptive visual artist.
Writing, videography, and graphic design may all be complete art forms in their own right, but picking up more than one can help you develop confidence and approach photography from a more creative and innovative perspective. Think outside of the box!
Sell A Story With Your Product Photography
Instead of thinking about product photography as an image of an object, think about it as a way to provide consumers with insight into the contexts and experiences they will be using the product in.
Tap into the emotional components of what makes the product in question special, and how it stands above others in the industry. Use color, light, and perspective to illustrate the prevalence of the product, and let the quality speak for itself.
]]>As adorable as they are, newborns can be a tricky subject to capture. In order to get those mantle-worthy shots that your clients will ooh and aah over, you will need to do your homework. Below, we've compiled a complete guide and checklist for you to use as an outline as you collaborate with your new parents and photograph their most treasured bundles of joy.
Schedule for 5-14 days old:
To ensure the baby is at the best age for newborn photos, work with your clients to schedule their session during the first couple of weeks. This is when they are sleeping most and the younger they are the more curled up they are which makes for easier posing.
Safety First:
It's good practice to keep all cell phones out of the session for the photographer and parents. The number of germs on a mobile device is higher than any other surface you will encounter. So for the sake of the newborn it is best to keep them out of the session if possible.
Shoot Low:
It is recommended to use a low table, surface, or stacked mattresses. This will allow baby to be safe and for everyone to be more at ease during the session. You can get everything you need in one shot without having to composite later in photoshop.
Get it right in-camera:
One of the biggest challenges a photographer can encounter during a newborn session is editing out wrinkles in your blankets and surfaces. The best thing to do is to use fabrics with a good amount of stretch in them so that you can clamp them down and keep them nice and tight to minimize wrinkles. You will thank yourself for the countless amount of hours of editing you will save.
Take Extra Measures to Ensure the Newborn's Comfort:
Make sure to prepare parents for the optimal time to photograph a newborn session: shortly after a sleep and feeding. You'll want them to be sleeping soundly for the perfect newborn shots, so make sure they're comfy. Having heating pads or area heaters on hand to keep baby warm will help him or her sleep.
Keep Lighting Simple:
All you need to achieve the lighting you will need is a large window for natural light and a reflector to fill in shadows. If you are shooting in a clients home you can set up near a large window or doorway, whichever has more natural light.
If you are using off-camera lighting you can create the look of natural light by pointing the light in front of the newborn instead of directly at it which will create a nice soft and feathered light.
Be Flexible:
Newborns are unpredictable, the amount of time it will take to position new poses and different backdrops/outfits will vary and will be the one thing you can't plan for. Be patient and breezy on shoot; new (and exhausted) parents might be frantic or embarrassed; reassure them that this is perfectly normal and that the fussiness and struggles of the session will not be reflected in their final portraits. Also, consider charging per image or session rather than per hour since the time it will take to wait on baby will vary. You may even have to stop for another feeding or diaper change so plan accordingly.
Don't forget to bring dog training pads and baby wipes to protect your surfaces and clean "messes" that are bound to happen.
Make it personal:
Don't forget to ask parents to bring a prop of their own to the session. There are a bunch of cute things that you can find on the internet, but the sentimental items are the ones that always evoke the most emotion.
As you gain experience and accrue your own set of newborn photography props and standard shots-- add to and get creative with your shot list!
Also take note that the newborn's face should be facing the light source. Do not place feet toward the direction of the light.
Special thanks to Krystal Methenitis of KM Photo Studio for providing helpful insights and imagery to share.
]]>Photography is one of the fastest growing industries in the world. With new trends and technologies popping up every day, there's never been a better time to be a photographer. If you want to get started running your own business as a photographer, here are some tips that can help make your journey easier:
Of course, you will need the right gear for the job. When choosing your equipment, make sure that it is suitable for what you intend to shoot and how you intend to use it. Don’t buy just any lens because someone else has it—buy what will help you achieve your goals as a photographer and grow your business.
Don't be afraid of buying secondhand gear (or third hand if necessary). There are many online marketplaces where professional photographers sell off their old equipment.
Also, there's no reason to spend extra money on name-brand lenses or flashes. When it comes to high-quality photography equipment, companies such as Tamron, Sigma, and Godox are making it more accessible and affordable.
Being a freelance photographer is about being flexible. You have to be willing to learn new skills, adapt to new situations and be flexible in your approach.
As a photographer you need to keep up with the latest trends and technology. For example, if you are a photographer who is not also willing to begin producing video content, which is where our industry is headed, you will have a harder time growing your business.
Don't fall behind and always be willing to learn and pivot as needed.
Don't undervalue yourself or your work. You are the one doing all the work, so it's only fair that you get paid what you are worth. Don't be afraid to say no to jobs that don't pay enough and don't be afraid to ask for more money if a project comes along that is more than just "work."
It's easy to forget this, but there is a market rate for your services and it varies depending on where you live and what kind of photography people want. I'm not telling anyone how much they should charge per hour or day; however, being aware of these things will help ensure that they're not taking any jobs below their value or losing out on opportunities by quoting too low an hourly rate (or daily rate).
If you're trying to grow your portfolio, consider offering a discount on your services instead of a free session. By doing so, you demonstrate to the customer the savings they are receiving while also demonstrating your own value.
If you want to be successful at anything, do not give up. If there is a chance that it might work out, then keep going! As long as your heart and mind are in the right place, then you can achieve anything you desire. You just have to believe in yourself and put in the time and effort required for success.
It’s also important that people realize that failure is not something to be afraid of—it’s part of the process! If we never fail at anything, then how will we know what doesn't work? How will we know what does work? Failure leads us towards success by helping us understand what works best under certain circumstances.
When it comes down to it though... trying isn't enough—you need some help along your journey too! So don't be afraid to ask for advice from other photographers who have already been where you're trying to go; they'll more than likely be more than happy share their wisdom with someone who wants what they have (and has gone through similar struggles themselves).
A successful business owner is always willing to learn and invest in themselves. This can mean taking classes, workshops, networking events, hiring an assistant, or simply listening more intently when a client is explaining their needs. As you gain experience as a photographer, you will find that each new project presents its own set of challenges that require unique solutions and strategies for success.
Don't just stick to natural light photography because you are scared of off-camera lighting.
Learn how to use off-camera lighting. Learn how to use light modifiers. Learn how to manipulate natural light. Adding all these skills to your tool belt will better prepare you to confidently accept any job on any given day. If you want to be a successful photographer, these skills are essential for creating amazing images that clients will love and want more of!
If this seems overwhelming at first, don’t worry! The good news is that there are many resources online where photographers share their tips and tricks (hello #tiktoktaughtme) so they can help others learn their craft while they do it themselves!
Contracts are also important for both parties. They help you to protect your business and your clients, but they also help the client understand what they're paying for, which is not always obvious from the outset.
I'll be honest with you: when I first started out, I didn't have contracts in place. The few people who asked me about them were surprised at their absence and seemed slightly unsure of how to react—it was as if I'd admitted that I wasn't using good-quality paper stock or something equally trifling (which isn't true). Contracts are essential because they establish a set of expectations between yourself and your clients—both parties know what's expected of them, down to the last detail (and this includes things like deadlines).
When it comes to insuring your business, there are two main types of insurance: liability and equipment. Liability insurance covers you in the event that someone is injured on your property or in your studio (or when they're inside your car). Equipment coverage is important because if something were to happen with one of your cameras or computer systems, you could be responsible for replacing it—and no photographer wants to lose all their gear!
The type and amount of insurance you should carry will depend largely on where you live and whether or not photography is a full-time occupation for you. If you're just starting out as a photographer, talk with an agent at a local agency about what kind of coverage makes sense for where you live. They can tell you what size deductible might make sense for your budget as well as how much money may be available through state-run programs like the Small Business Administration (SBA).
It's important to know what type of photography you want to specialize in. It's not necessary for every photographer to be good at taking pictures of children, weddings and pets all at once.
There are so many different types of photography that it can be overwhelming for someone who is just starting out, but don't let that discourage you from picking one area or type of photography and being known for it instead. You don't need to master every category—in fact, by specializing in one field such as wedding or portrait photography, people will immediately recognize your work when they see it online.
How do you know what to specialize in? Try it all out at first and see what you enjoy shooting the most and then put all your effort in mastering that genre of photography.
Let me know what you think in the comments below. I am very curious to hear how this article was useful for you and how it helped you understand more about the business side of photography.
]]>It is a common struggle we as business owners all find ourselves in when we start to turn our hobby into a profession. We want to be taken seriously and we want to show people that we are different and can offer them a better experience than just anyone who has a camera.
The first step we need to take when we get to this crossroads is to begin believing in yourself and that you can make this dream a reality. We need to take ourselves seriously before others can see us that way. This mentality shift comes with a decision to choose whether or not to invest in yourself and your business.
We at foto understand this journey, we were on it ourselves at one point. We created the fotostrap to help new and established business owners elevate their brand through our personalized camera straps. We believe getting the best camera strap in the industry helps elevate your brand by making you look more professional. You have the opportunity to get a strap that matches your brand colors or getting an all leather camera strap that screams elegance and sophistication and is sure to be a conversation starter while you are out shooting.
The best part is that we offer photographers a way to personalize their camera strap through our free engraving service. Not only will you turn heads with your comfortable camera strap you will now have your business name or logo on full display as you become your own walking advertisement.
Our fotostrap make it the easiest way to elevate your business to the public and will 100% make you stand out from the crowd.
Ready to create your own fotostrap? We break it down into three easy steps:
We have four AMAZING categories to find the perfect fotostrap to compliment your brand.
• The Lux Collection - Leather
• The Designer Collection - Pebble Leather
• The Pattern Collection - Fabric
• The Classic Collection - Fabric
Once you choose your strap, personalize the shoulder pad to make it a one-of-a-kind camera strap for your business! You can upload your logo or add your name if you haven't created a logo just yet.
Our Designer Collection offers two places for personalization placed directly onto the fotostrap. We have our main personalization which can be for your name or logo and the other place we call the hidden message, which can be a place to remind you of "your why".
Our fotostraps typically ship within 1-2 business days for all domestic and international orders. We pride ourselves in offering a personalized product that you will have in time for your next shoot.
But I would say that the single best advice I can give to any photographer today comes down to a single word.
Taking time to network with other photographers has been the piece of advise that has helped me the most in my professional career as a photographer. I'm not referring to simply following photographers, leaving a comment, or exchanging email addresses. The best advise I could give any photographer at any stage of their career would be to meet other photographers IN-PERSON.
You'll open up a whole new world of possibilities for yourself if you put community ahead of competition. Not only should you create relationships with other photographers, but you should also see if you can help the other photographers in your area first before focusing on your own needs.
I have been shooting for over 15 years now and some of the biggest opportunities in life have come from connections I have made with other photographers. Here are 4 wonderful memories that I have made simply from networking with other photographers.Brief Story:
Brief Story:
This was a recent experience for me getting to photograph one of the greatest golfers in history, Jack Nicklaus. This opportunity happened by working as a contractor for a friend's photography business. This was a big deal for me not because I am a huge golfing fan, but this was for my dad. He passed away due to Covid but LOVED golf and he would have been my assistant on this day if he was still here with us.
Brief Story:
So many opportunities to speak at events have stemmed from the relationships I have built with photographers over the years. I never sought these opportunities out but here I am speaking on Creative Live, at WPPI, and most recently at the Reset Conference. A special shoutout needs to go out to my dear friend Leslie Kerrigan from Seniorologie. She has been a huge supporter of my photography career and of fotostrap. If you are a high school senior photographer I highly encourage you follow her accounts for tips and education on high school seniors.
Brief Story:
I got this opportunity in the most random and round about way possible. This is also a perfect example of not seeking something out and it just falling in my lap if you can believe it or not. This came about from a videographer who found me online and wanted to work together on a commercial for Smoothie King. The videographer didn't even get hired for the project but Smoothie King loved my work and wanted to keep me on-board!
Brief Story:
This has got to be one of my most mind-blowing opportunities that I just could not pass up. My dear friend Katie Norris wanted me to take over this precious company. This amazing women knows so many amazing photographers and for some crazy reason she thought of me for taking it over. It is completely humbling and something I will never forget. I've loved this company and Fotolanthropy so much over the years and have served any way I could throughout the years and never needed anything back in return. So many years later here I am the owner of foto...wow.
I hope this blog article served as a bit of encouragement and inspiration for my fellow photographers. Take every chance you get to network and build true friendships with our community. It will be time well spent and could lead to some life-changing events!
]]>Foto began when our founder, Katie Norris, experienced a life altering photo shoot with a terminally ill infant and his brave parents. Katie quickly realized the power she possessed with storytelling through photography. Fotostrap was born with the heart to continue to make a positive impact in the world by creating products that could do more, give back, and make a difference. We wanted a camera strap that wasn’t about us, but about the person wearing the strap.
Over the years, foto partnered with our sister company, Fotolanthropy, a nonprofit that uses photography and film to share the powerful, uplifting stories of those who have defied great odds. Ten percent of every foto purchase goes to Fotolanthropy, continuing the legacy of bolstering stories of hope and resilience.
Ten years later, we welcome a new steward of foto, Jared Rey Hernandez. Our mission is still the same; to equip and empower photographers through one-of-a-kind products, education, and meaningful connection.
What we wanted to do was take our vision one step further: “to enrich the lives of photographers and inspire them to build successful businesses full of purpose and meaning.”
We understand as a creative artist and storyteller it is easy to get lost in the other aspects of running a business. Getting your name out there, building a recognizable brand, and finding the clients that value your work can be difficult.
It’s important to us to come alongside our customers and champion them through their creative journey. Our products aim to better position photographers to confidently promote their businesses and tell their story with style and authority. We want to help you elevate your brand while having a strap that’s uniquely you.
Our vision for the coming years will be to create a culture of community within foto that will equip and empower and celebrate. Our hope is to provide opportunities to learn from other stories in the business of how they tackle many of life’s obstacles of running a business, fighting burnout and staying true to you. Here’s to many years to come, guiding photographers towards success in business and in life.
]]>
]]>
It just got easier. What if your camera strap did all the talking for you? Fotostrap exists to enrich the lives of photographers and inspire them to build successful businesses full of purpose and meaning. It starts with your camera strap and we are here to help. Our camera straps can help reflect your brand by the different color selections and the opportunity to create your very own personalized camera strap.
Professionalism goes a long way in making an impression with a new client. Upgrading your camera strap shows you care about aesthetics and putting your brand on display proves your business acumen.
Whether you're out working, or just taking pictures on a walk with your family, be your own billboard. With your business logo on your camera strap, people will take notice and possibly look you up to book a session. Fotostraps give the world a look into your personality and style which creates great conversation starters with potential customers when you are out shooting!
Your logo is your brand's "signature" and the more your clients (and potential clients) see it, the more familiar and trustworthy they become with your brand. Put your signature on everything! Foto offers photographers the chance to create personalized camera straps, memory card wallets, and totes.
Ready to take your business to the next level? Find the perfect fotostrap for your business today.
]]>
We understand as a creative artist and storyteller it is easy to get lost in the other aspects of running a business. Getting your name out there, building a recognizable brand, and finding the clients that value your work can be difficult.
That's why, at foto, we've created a global mission-based brand dedicated to empowering and equipping creatives as they capture beauty, truth, and wonder. We've spent years developing products that are timeless, built to last, make a statement, and elevate your brand since our founding in 2012.
Joanna Gaines writes, "making space to nurture what fills me up so I can give my best to the things in my life that I want to see thrive more than anything. To let little good take root so that I can be someone who gives something life."
You've heard foto talk about the importance of elevating your brand. We believe that it is important work to take the time to pay attention to that area in your business. But, the heart in your very own company can become weary and exhausted if you don't give it the proper care.
I know, I know, this can seem really scary. "What do you mean I need to let it rest? This is my job and I can't say no to a wedding or a family session. What if I miss out on a really great opportunity? I depend on my business." But what if you took a month or two off of shooting? During that time, you took a breath, did something that you miss doing, maybe just sitting and reading at a coffee shop instead of editing. Going on a walk, making a meal with friends, the options are endless, but it takes courage. Taking intentional time off from your business will take preparation work but will allow you to come back with more excitement, creativity, and perspective.
The term "board of directors" may seem daunting. Simply put, it is a diverse group of people you can rely on for support and guidance to provide new and different perspectives as you face challenges throughout life. Think about the different areas of your life and see if you have the following people that can guide you in this journey of your business.
Board of Directors Examples Could Include:
It is fun to give your brand a bit of attention every once and while. If your budget allows, hire someone to help you rebrand and shape your story. Even if the budget doesn't allow, update your photos in your portfolio and write a few blogs of recent shoots you've done to give your audience new content of yours… you can even update your camera strap to a Fotostrap with YOUR business's branding personalized on the shoulder pad.
Artifact Uprising starting at $19
Letterfolk Boards starting at $30
Fotostrap starting at $124.99 and use code: MOM20 for 20% off any camera strap
The afternoon hump is real. This time in the day can be hard to regain focus and motivation to stay true to the task at hand. Distractions can take our attention, but what if we can cultivate a couple of mindful practices to spend our time well?
]]>The afternoon hump is real. This time in the day can be hard to regain focus and motivation to stay true to the task at hand. Distractions can take our attention, but what if we can cultivate a couple of mindful practices to spend our time well?
Create an environment that allows your to be inspired, to be present and to be productive. Maybe that looks like lighting a candle, opening up the windows, playing music. Set the phone down and hide it out of your sight. Whatever it is, it signals to you to be present and ready.
Write down everything that is tugging at your mind. Then make a game plan for the things that you need to complete and the things you want to do. Often times, we have many things swarming our minds anywhere from tasks that we need to get to, groceries that need to be picked up, kids to be played with. Our day can handle that- so write it down then prioritize.
As you begin the day, take your brain dump and prioritize what needs attention. From there, make a plan for the day, lean in, and be kind to yourself if it all doesn't get done.
]]>
For the month of March, we will be exploring this topic further, digging deeper into what it means to achieve “time well spent” personally, professionally, and relationally. Check back in to explore this topic with us and learn what the rest of our team considers time well spent!
]]>Time. What a precious thing that yet is so fleeting.
Time. A concept that we tend to try to grasp and race and get frustrated with.
Time. Something that is never enough and what humans try to manipulate and extend past its intended purpose.
Time isn't to blame here. What if time was not the thief we thought it was?
Maybe it was what we filled our time with that could be pulling us way from the things we deeply long to do. Maybe our devices, our to-do lists, our poor stewardship of time or the raging discontentment. Maybe it is the obsession of work, unrelenting strife for perfection, or fixation on how things used to be. Maybe it is the enslavement to all the things that don't matter- the things that don't give life.
Maybe time is a gift, and the way in which we managed it is the thief. And maybe it is not too late, maybe there's still enough time.
We asked our team what is their favorite way to spend their time; here is our CEO's answer:
For the month of March, we will be exploring this topic further, digging deeper into what it means to achieve “time well spent” personally, professionally, and relationally. Check back in to explore this topic with us and learn what the rest of our team considers time well spent!
]]>At the end of each month, our team will gather our favorite things to share with you - from a recipe to a song we are loving to a new show to watch, you'll thank us later.
]]>At the end of each month, our team will gather our favorite things to share with you - from a recipe to a song we are loving to a new show to watch, you'll thank us later.
@melissasheltonphoto just shared with us this book she is loving and we are obsessed! This could be a great read to listen to as well.
Y'all, if there is a TrueFood Kitchen near you, go there for a meal. Their menu is filled with organic and nourishing foods and even the most picky eaters can find something they like. And while your'e at it, order the Prickly Pear Lemonade.
@Courtneymariezandstra loves this mat and it is the perfect addition to add for the spring. This mat is perfect for picnics, time at the beach or a play mat for the kiddos. She has her eye on the padded mini gathre mat in camel.
The Winter Olympics got us in the mood this month and we didn't want it to end! This cute movie on Disney+ is based on a true story; four Jamaican athletes go to extremes to complete as bobsled racers at the Winter Olympics.
One of our go-to conferences, The Reset Conference will be in Lexington, Kentucky on March 7-9, 2022 and our very own Jared Rey will be speaking. Use coupon code JAREDREY to receive $100 off.
Though hard to do in a season of hurry, moments of rest let us reflect on learnings from the year past and recharge for what is to come.
]]>Winter is a season that, if we are being honest, can get lost in the hurry of the holidays and wish away even as we tire of the wintery weather, anticipating the warmth of spring. The world around us lay dormant, even the sight of death and dread, so what significance could winter bring?
The winter is a reminder that we of course can’t be in motion all the time. True progress often requires stepping back, stepping away, or even sitting down.
Though hard to do in a season of hurry, moments of rest let us reflect on learnings from the year past and recharge for what is to come.
Let’s think of a garden. It is essential for a garden to have a season of rest. How the soil needs a break in order to replenish its nutrients and become rich enough to nurture growth in its seasons to come.
Joanna Gaines said, “I grew to learn that the promise of harvest begins with this pause in nature's pace.”
We like the garden too, were made to work, to produce, to bear fruit. Some of us come alive when busy, when checking boxes off our list. And, in a world that often feels like it runs on efficiency and is driven by results, this all makes sense.
But like a garden, we too, need rest– true deep, meaningful, deep, nurturing rest.
Dear friend, know the months of barrenness will not be wasted, that they will not return void. What if we become people who appreciate the beauty in the season of rest.
How it readies the soil for what is to come and how our own moments of quiet will do the same for us. Even if just for a breath or two.
]]>
The beginning of a new year can come with dichotomy of emotions. On one hand, you are filled with great vision and energy with new perspectives and ideas to pursue. On the other hand, you fell short the year before because New Year's resolutions never go the way you would hope causing more anxiety. So the start of the New Year is a reminder of all the unfinished tasks so why would a new year go any differently? We see you.
]]>The beginning of a new year can come with dichotomy of emotions. On one hand, you are filled with great vision and energy with new perspectives and ideas to pursue. On the other hand, you fell short the year before because New Year's resolutions never go the way you would hope causing more anxiety. So the start of the New Year is a reminder of all the unfinished tasks so why would a new year go any differently? We see you.
Maybe you had wonderful intentions to be more intentional with your business. Last year ran yourself into the ground. Now you realize that something has to change because what you were doing before is not sustainable. We see you.
As a business owner, there is a lot to juggle. From family, to emails, the countless to-do's, editing, to personal health, the list goes on. Our attention starts to split and at the end of the day, we wonder if we were present to anything we accomplished. We see you.
Brené Brown, maybe you heard of her, was interviewed in 2012 by the Washington Post on the topic of exhaustion. The interview is as relevant today as it was 10 years ago, causing us to believe that this deep ache we experience is a journey we will continue to pursue.
The team at foto sees you. We see your diligence, hard work, sacrifice, creativity and your weariness. Our heart is to empower and equip YOU.
This year we have some exciting things in store, one of which is to create connection. We understand that sometimes work can be done in silos, so we want to come alongside you to encourage.
Breathe- take a deep breath. Download our free guided worksheet or just take a blank piece of paper and brain dump. Write everything down that keeps your mind racing. Begin to take inventory of what needs to be done and create a timeline.
Then (don't miss this part) write down what brings you joy. What are the things that you delight in, what captivates your attention that you just love? Keep a running list of these things and between your work tasks, take part in one of the things on your delight list.
This worksheet is designed to help you release those things that are keeping you from reaching your greatest potential and stealing your daily joy. We encourage you to repeat this exercise any time your to do-list gets to a point of producing weariness rather than purpose.
]]>
At the end of each month, our team will gather our favorite things to share with you - from a recipe to a song we are loving to a new show to watch, you'll thank us later.
]]>At the end of each month, our team will gather our favorite things to share with you - from a recipe to a song we are loving to a new show to watch, you'll thank us later.
Our fearless leader @JaredRey is loving this book. Go do yourself a favor and add this to your Amazon cart now and take a deep dive into all things Enneagram.
@Courtneymariezandstra makes this simple and yummy dish every other week. Skip the bok choy and roast brussel sprouts at 400 for 25-30 minutes and then toss them in the sauce with the beef! It's *chef's kiss* SO DELICIOUS! And it's Whole 30 if you are into that sort of thing!
Adele is back at it again. Go ahead and put this album on repeat today. You'll thank us later.
Lin-Manuel Miranda does it again and directed another AMAZING musical/movie. Andrew Garfield AND Vanessa Hudgens?! Let's GOO! Add this movie to your weekend watch- it won't disappoint.
One of our go-to conferences, The Reset Conference will be in Lexington, Kentucky on March 7-9, 2022 and our very own Jared Rey will be speaking. Use coupon code JAREDREY to receive $100 off.
Whether it's for you, your S.O, or galentine - may these ideas help you find the perfect gift to spread love this Valentine's Day!
]]>celebrate your valentine by thoughtfully personalizing any one of our genuine leather Fotostraps photographers adore
support your loved one whose coffee gets cold when they deep dive into Lightroom…
feed their creativity and desire to learn with a subscription to Masterclass, starting with a lesson from THE Annie Leibovitz.
Masterclass starting at $15/mo
frame a favorite print of theirs, or a favorite portrait of the two of you - bonus points for displaying in a meaningful place or with a creative unveiling.
Floating Frames starting at $85
invest in your relationship with adventures, fun dates and memories to come, using this couple's adventure book as your guide.
]]>We are committed to nurturing and pouring inspiration into our family of photographers and creatives. To better serve you, we are beginning an Encouragement Series of blog posts and newsletters where we will use our platform to equip & empower you in your realm of creativity.
]]>We are committed to nurturing and pouring inspiration into our family of photographers and creatives. To better serve you, we are beginning an Encouragement Series of blog posts and newsletters where we will use our platform to equip & empower you in your realm of creativity. Our heart is to come alongside you in your daily tasks, encourage you with some of our favorite resources and create a community. Your work matters and we see your efforts. Let this be an exhale and a pause that will allow you to come back to your task with a renewed perspective and some time to breathe.
So go grab your Topo Chico, sit back and allow yourself this time.
Coming into the new year more weary than you anticipated? However you are entering into the new year, we see you. Take a minute to refresh and refocus…
We are LOVING this episode (#243) from The Lazy Genius Podcast
As we focus on what we are thankful for this week, we want to give some love to ALL the photographers, creatives and small business stars who have hustled so hard this year. And, so many are offering amazing Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals on their products and educational resources. If you are shopping for yourself or a creative you love, check out the list of deals below from some of our fave friends, brands and industry peers. Happy, meaningful shopping!
Our friends at the LawTog offer legal resources like contract templates specifically for photographers. From November 25 through December 2, everything in their online store is 20 percent off with the promo code BLACKFRIDAY20.
If you don't follow Shalonda Chaddock, you are missing out. We adore her magical work AND this special she's doing for Black Friday. She's offering 20-40 percent off almost her entire e-learning store. You can grab her mobile and desktop presets for a discounted price. And - just in time for the holidays - her Holiday Wonder Christmas tree guide is on sale.
Branding photographer Christina Jones founded Color Joy Stock this year. Her site offers lifestyle stock imagery for women of all skin tones, shapes and sizes (awesome!). She's doing $75 savings on an annual membership. Use code THANKFUL for this deal.
Seniorologie is an educational and inspirational resource for high school senior photographers. They are having an incredible Cyber Week sale - 50 percent off their entire store and all courses using the promo code THANKS. Don't miss the Senior Session Prep Guide.
Courtney Slazinik's site Click it up a Notch offers some of the most helpful and thoughtful tips for beginners and pros. For Black Friday, she is offering 30 percent off the guides in her store.
Product photographer and branding strategist Angie McPherson's shop has great marketing resources for creatives. Her templates, guides and more will all be 40 percent off through Cyber Monday. No code needed.
It's a great time to pick up a subscription for Click. For Black Friday, they are offering annual subscriptions for only $22. Subscribe here.
Want some beautiful inspiration for your office? Emily Ley's Simplified site is currently running its biggest sale of the year. You can pick up a lovely, motivational art print like this one, a planner or happy office accessories at a great price.
Many of our customers rave about the camera bags from ONA and Kelly Moore Bag. ONA is offering 25 percent off with code HOLIDAY25 and Kelly Moore Bag is offering up to 40 percent off their products. Maybe treat yourself to a new bag that coordinates with your new Fotostrap?!
]]>We are talking with brand photography expert, Angie McPherson, to discuss her secrets on establishing and capturing her clients' brands!
]]>Image credit: Elizabeth Henson
At FOTO, we are committed to helping our fellow creatives flourish no matter the season. In our Q&A style blog series, Coffee with Creatives, we highlight the unique expertise of some of our favorite professionals, sharing tips and information on relevant topics to bring you some practical insight and inspiration for the important work you do. Today is no different as we delve into a subject we can all try as we continue to socially distance and appreciate the stillness of time and beauty surrounding us.
We are talking with brand photography expert, Angie McPherson, to discuss her secrets on establishing and capturing her clients' brands!
First things first, how do you take your coffee? (And if you are not a coffee drinker, what is your go-to beverage for fuel?)
Angie: I LOVE coffee!! But it has to be full of flavor, almost to where I can’t taste the coffee anymore haha! You can find me at Starbucks getting whichever coffee matches the current season! But at home, I stick with Starbucks Caramel K-Cups :)
Image credit: Leigh-Anne Stump
Tell us a bit about yourself and your photography business.
Angie: I started my photography business in 2013. I bought a camera, watched every YouTube video I could find, invested in mentoring, joined a local photography community on Facebook, and started my wedding photography business. I LOVED shooting couples and beautiful weddings around the country! But years into running my business, I realized I wanted to work with entrepreneurs and also spend more weekends with my family so I pivoted into branding photography!
What got you into branding photography and what do you enjoy the most about it?
Angie: I have a background working in marketing and PR so, at some point, I found myself educating other wedding vendors on growing their business. This grew into offering branding photography so I could help all types of entrepreneurs not only with marketing and strategy, but equip them with the photos they need for their website, social media, and more!
I love helping entrepreneurs take their brand vision from an idea to a gallery of images that empower them to show up consistently and authentically, ultimately growing their business.
Let's talk about shooting product specifically. Is it challenging to have a subject that doesn't smile?!
Angie: Not challenging at all! Props and products take direction easily (aka, I can move them anywhere and everywhere)! I love styling props and bringing in fun elements complementary to the product.
Before a product shoot, what kind of research and prep do you do with your client?
Angie: I send over a questionnaire that asks about their overall brand, the products they’d like me to shoot, and what their intentions are for the photos (i.e. where will the photos be used, what will the message be, etc.). I also have the client create a small inspirational board on Pinterest so I can see the vision they have in mind.
What is the most interesting product you've photographed? What did that shoot look like?
Angie: I recently photographed a new coffee subscription called UniQorn Coffee by Olympic gold medalist, Shawn Johnson, and her husband Andrew! They sell bags of coffee beans so I had to grind the beans and use a French press. I usually put a K-Cup in the Keurig when I make coffee so it was super fun to try something new for a photoshoot!
How do you like to have fun with flat lay photography? Any tricks you often use?
Angie: I bring in a ton of complementary accessories and literally pull items in and out of the shots! Layering and/or filling in the image with plants or flowers is a trick I often use if the shot needs a little more ‘oomph’! Whiteboards, window light, and a reflector also go a LONG way.
How has COVID-19 impacted the branding photography you are doing right now?
Angie: The pandemic definitely moved all of my spring shoots to late summer and fall. It actually encouraged me to start photographing products! I wanted to continue working while being quarantined at home and a client reached out to ask if they could send me their products to shoot. I bought some backdrops and props and created an entirely new niche in my business!
What tips would you give an entrepreneur on defining their brand?
Angie: Oh, I love this question because defining the brand is the first thing I have my clients do before we plan the shoot! My best tip for entrepreneurs would be to create your brand story. The brand story can include:
Image credit: Elizabeth Henson
Lastly, what Fotostrap do you wear? Favorite thing about it?
Angie: I have the Rose Designer Fotostrap and I love the pop of color it brings to my ensemble while I’m shooting! I also have a custom shoulder pad with my logo on it that gives my camera bag a swanky look :)
]]>September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and we are honored to feature The Gold Hope Project, a nonprofit that is giving back to families battling pediatric cancer through photography while raising awareness and funds for a cure!
]]>The heart of The Gold Hope Project is to bring awareness to childhood cancer through photography while also funding innovative cancer research. It can be easy to think of cancer, especially when it affects children, as something that won’t happen to you or someone you know but when our supporters see the faces of the children and families who childhood cancer is affecting daily, it becomes so much more real.
The Gold Hope Project was inspired by my daughter Ava. When Ava was only 4 years old, she was diagnosed with a terminal brain tumor called DIPG. Unfortunately, there is no cure or known treatment for this type of cancer and most children with DIPG will pass away within two years after diagnosis.
This news crushed my family and we wanted to give her a fighting chance but that just wasn’t possible. I knew that our time together would need to be filled with making lots of memories and that included a lot of photos. Ava was the first fighter photographed for the organization a month before her death in 2011. Her glitter filled session was full of laughter and so many smiles. I’m forever grateful for those images and the memories I hold from that day with her.
Since Ava’s gold hope session, we have been able to give the gift of photography to over 775 families and have contributed to providing research grants for pediatric brain cancer research totaling more than $500,000. Something I hope she could be proud of today.
We are very much a grassroots movement so I have many different roles within the organization but the main one is President and chief operating officer. Besides the parents of the children we photograph who bravely share their struggles and strengths with our audience, I also give a voice to the children who are dealing first hand with the devastation that cancer brings.
It is our hope during their gold hope session, each family and child can just be with each other. Their life can be very challenging filled with busy treatment schedules, constant care, and worry. Sometimes they are also separated from one parent or siblings. We want to bring moments of joy to them at their session. This can look different for each child. Whether it is letting them play with lots of glitter, arranging for them to meet their favorite princess, granting them access to their favorite sports team's field, or just being with their family- we try our best to allow them to forget for a moment what they may be facing and let their inner light and love shine.
Our volunteer photographers mean everything to us! It is because of their generosity that we are able to share this amazing gift with so many families throughout the country and even overseas. To have over 675 photographers who believe in our mission and who are willing to help this cause means so much to not only me but all the families we have photographed.
We offer guidance and suggest some best practices for working with childhood cancer patients but we typically leave it up to them to ask for help if they need it. Luckily, we have a great online group where any photographer can reach out and ask for advice. Other photographers have been able to suggest ways to incorporate gold into their session or offer ways to support a family who may have lost their child. Having a welcoming place to go is a nice way for our volunteers to engage and share with one another.
This is a hard question to answer because our fighters are so special in so many ways. I’d say the main thing that stands out is their ability to smile and laugh through the pain. Children are amazing and especially these children who have been through so much in their short lives but still continue to live in a way that is inspiring to everyone they meet. They don’t dwell on their illness, the medicine they need to take, or the fact that they may need to be in the hospital for weeks on end. Life is still an amazing adventure to them! We can all learn so much by watching their spirit and how they treat each day.
There are so many aspects of the organization that bring me so much joy I don’t think I can name just one. I do have to say it is pretty incredible that we have been able to photograph over 775 families and something that makes me so proud is thinking that Ava lives on through each session we do. The feedback from the families is super rewarding to hear and lets me know we are doing incredible things for them. Photography is a gift and sometimes it takes a major life event to realize that.
So much! Before I was thrust into the childhood cancer world, I had so many preconceived notions of this illness, mostly because of what I saw on tv commercials. There were a lot of sad truths I had to learn. Like, not all children diagnosed with cancer will lose their hair, mainly because there is no chemotherapy that will cure them. And that childhood cancer is severely underfunded. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) only allocates 4% of their budget to the 16 different kinds of childhood cancer (yes 16!) while single adult cancer receives the other 96%. This lack of funding affects drug trials, treatment plans, research, and so much more.
Cancers like the one Ava was diagnosed with have the same survival rate, zero, as they did more than 50 years ago. I learned this soon after her diagnosis and it shocked me to my core. I had no idea a child could be diagnosed with terminal cancer, let alone how stalled some of the treatments were.
If more funding was available, I strongly believe that researchers could make progress with some of the childhood cancers that have such a grim prognosis. This could lead to a cure for so many other cancers. This is why a few years ago, we made it a goal of ours to also be involved in funding research for DIPG. When a cure is found, we want to be a part of that!
The photography industry has been a huge advocate for our organization and the work that we do. Photographers understand the value of photography and the way a photograph can inspire hope in others. The biggest way to continue to offer support is by volunteering. We are always in need of professional photographers throughout the United States (and the world!) who can photograph sessions for any family that may be in need. This is especially true if you are located in an area with a big children’s hospital (like Tennessee) but we get session requests everywhere and the process goes a lot faster if we already have a volunteer in that area.
Another way to show support is by loving on our session shares on social media. The more likes and comments, the more people will see and hear the stories firsthand of how childhood cancer is affecting the families. This goes back to our mission to bring awareness to this disease. More awareness = more funding = a CURE!
]]>
Today, we are talking with Click Pro, Libby Grohmann of Blue Eyes and Bokeh, to discuss her secrets on capturing dramatic sunrises/sunsets!
]]>At FOTO, we are committed to helping our fellow creatives flourish no matter the season. In our Q&A style blog series, Coffee with Creatives, we highlight the unique expertise of some of our favorite professionals, sharing tips and information on relevant topics to bring you some practical insight and inspiration for the important work you do. Today is no different as we delve into a subject we can all try as we continue to socially distance and appreciate the stillness of time and beauty surrounding us.
We are talking with Click Pro, Libby Grohmann of Blue Eyes and Bokeh, to discuss her secrets on capturing dramatic sunrises/sunsets!
First things first, how do you take your coffee? (And if you are not a coffee drinker, what is your go-to beverage for fuel?)
Libby: This is probably going to go against popular opinion, but I am NOT a coffee drinker. I like the smell, but not the taste. I am, however, a big fan of flavored waters. My favorite is Hint Pineapple water. On occasion I will have a nice cup of chai tea latte. It reminds me of a snickerdoodle cookie at Christmas time.
Tell us a bit about yourself and the story behind your Insta name! What do you like to photograph?
Libby: I am definitely not your typical creative. I am equal parts left brained and right brained. I have a degree in biomedical engineering, and my day job is designing implantable medical devices. I like to say that I'm an engineer by day and a photo enthusiast every moment in between! Photography is my creative outlet from my day job. My favorite thing to photograph is my two little blue-eyed girls. They are my main muses; hence my Insta-name: @blueeyes.and.bokeh. I love me some buttery bokeh, so why not combine my two loves into a name?
Our favorite thing to do as a family is to explore, and I always do it with a camera in hand. When we are out and about, I love to capture the movement and magic in our adventures, and of course the skies. I'm a sucker for a pretty sky.
Oh and I'm a Texan. Everyone should know that about me. Because Texas is awesome.
You have captured some incredible sunsets...what is your favorite thing about shooting a dramatic sky?
Libby: I think of skies as God's art gallery. Dramatic skies are like a beautifully painted canvas and each one is uniquely different. They come in all colors and textures. Beautiful skies sing to my soul. A dark and moody sky can make me feel uneasy and a bright blue puffy cloud sky makes me smile. Even my girls know and understand my love of skies. If they are outside playing and see a cool sky, they are quick to come inside and make sure that I don't miss it. I love that they share that passion with me.
Do you follow weather patterns and the forecast before a planned sunset shoot?
Oh, I definitely do!! I am a type A personality in most aspects of my life and that doesn't change when it comes to monitoring the weather. Not that it really matters, the weather people seem to get it wrong 50% of the time, haha. Alas, I have no shortage of weather apps on my phone and I'll flip between them and see what they all say. The Dark Sky app is a good one because it tells you the amount of cloud coverage predicted. My favorite type of sunset is one with a golden sun and a little bit of cloud coverage to make for a pretty sky!
Any quick tips you can share for shooting during Golden Hour? Anything special or unexpected you bring in your camera bag?
Libby: First and foremost, know your location and know what time the sun will be bright and what time it will disappear. This will help you maximize your shooting time for the prettiest light. I like the magic hour app to help with golden hour timing.
Second, I think that spot metering is key when shooting during golden hour. When I shoot I like to get my photos as good as possible straight out of camera. If I want my subject to be the focus of the image, I spot meter for their skin. If I want to capture a silhouette, I'll meter for the sky. I am not an under-exposer. Underexposing your subject creates muddy images in post, so I find it best to get it right in-camera and then bring back the golden hour sky in post processing. If all else fails with that method, I can always do a sky swap in photoshop. One thing I'm always sure to do during golden hour is to snap a photo of just the sky. This way if I need to replace a blown-out sky in post processing, I have the real sky from that night to use. Plus, it allows me to grow my ever-expanding sky photo collection.
As far as special gear goes, I'm not sure I do anything out of the ordinary. I'm a self-proclaimed gear junkie, so I tend to bring a variety of lenses with me on a shoot, but then at the end of the day I usually just stick to my 85mm or 24mm...bokeh and skies, that's where it's at for me.
I do bring a small folding stool when I remember. I'm pretty short, so having something that raises me 10" off the ground is usually good to have when shooting.
Oh!! I keep a pair of scissors in my camera bag. Maybe that's unexpected? It allows me to cut tall grass or weeds out of the way if I need to, or maybe the occasional stray thread on a dress.
What is the biggest difference in capturing a sunset versus a sunrise?
Libby: Timing. My favorite part of golden hour is the part where the sun is low in the horizon. That means for sunrise you have got to be on top of your game right at the beginning of the shoot. As you shoot through golden hour, the light gets brighter and less attractive, so being on location ready prior to the sun rising is key. For sunset, you have the beginning portion to get warmed up and in your groove. However, you have to make sure not to wear out your subject before the good light starts, haha. With my girls, I always have to make sure that we don't start too early or that they are entertained, otherwise, I'll be left just photographing flowers and skies when the good light arrives.
Now all this said, I'll admit that I photograph way more sunsets than sunrises. Reality is that I like to sleep, so early morning shoots interfere with that a little. I do make it a point however to enjoy at least one sunrise every year when we visit the beach. There is something about the beach at sunrise that is different than sunset. Everything is more calm and at ease. Whenever I do get up for a sunrise shoot, I typically question why I don't photograph sunrises more often, but then I remember the fact that I like sleep.
Do you have a favorite sunset that you've captured? Where were you and what was most beautiful about that moment?
Libby: This is actually a really easy question. I absolutely do. Every year we go to the same area of the Florida panhandle to visit the beach. We always get amazing sunsets and skies while we are there, but a few years ago we got one that is engraved in my brain. It seemed like every few minutes it was changing and each moment was more beautiful than the next. The moonrise was even early that evening, so I got photos of the sunset and the moon together. My girls weren't dressed in anything fancy. They were wearing their bathing suits, but they perfectly coordinated with the colors of the sky that night. You could call that serendipity, but it could also be the fact that pastel sunset colors are my favorite colors, so I tend to buy them clothing in that color scheme. Anyway, the cirrocumulus clouds, the colors, the moment, everything about it was perfect.
What program do you prefer to edit in? Any tools you use the most when it comes to editing sky images?
Libby: I use Adobe Lightroom for 90% of my editing. I'll pull my images into photoshop to crop (I always shoot crooked so the content aware crop tool is my lifesaver), clean up any distractions, add some contrast, or perform any local color corrections, if needed.
The gradient tool and dehaze slider in Lightroom are my go-to tools for skies. The gradient tool is hands down the best tool for bringing back an overexposed sky. After pulling down your gradient, if you check the little auto mask box, you can wipe any darkened portions off of your subject with ease.
And for fun, what Fotostrap do you wear? Favorite thing about it?
Libby: Well, I have a few! My latest and most favorite is a personalized Flora strap (flowers in sunset colors...hello it's soooooo me). The Flora strap replaced a much-loved canvas storyteller Mint one. I love the canvas straps on my Canon DSLR because they are comfortable and sturdy for that beast of a camera. For my smaller Sony mirrorless, I have a personalized skinny leather Rose strap. I have it personalized to say Wander Often | Wonder Always. I love that saying because it represents both sides of me: the creative wanderluster and the always pondering engineer.
]]>To be a part of something big and redemptive fuels our spirits, and we greatly admire individuals who use their time and talent to serve others. What's beyond inspiring is that we've learned about so many of our customers who do just that. In our new series The Golden Hour, we're excited to use our blog space to highlight photographers who use their camera for good. Today's feature highlights the inspiring nonprofit work of Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep.
]]>The Mission of NILMDTS is to introduce remembrance photography to parents suffering the loss of a baby with a free gift of professional portraiture.
In 2011, my husband and I lost our firstborn, Zachary. We were fortunate enough to have a NILMDTS volunteer come take beautiful images of our little family. I got involved in 2013 as a Community Volunteer - helping with recruiting and dispatching photographers to sessions. I ended up taking on leadership roles, becoming the Area Coordinator for Seattle and not long after became the Regional Coordinator for the west coast followed by Volunteer Coordinator for US/Canada. In 2017 I left my career as an IT Auditor to be more present with my family and volunteer more. I ended up investing in photography equipment to start learning the craft. Then in February 2018, I was asked to consider interviewing to join the small staff and now I am the Volunteer Program Manager overseeing the worldwide volunteer program. I wanted to continue to serve in a volunteer capacity and was finally skilled enough (after being mentored by such wonderful volunteers) to apply as an Affiliated Photographer in April 2018.
Right now, we have 1,147 active volunteers worldwide. 864 of them are photographers and 83 are digital retouch artists. We provide every new volunteer a wonderful online training resource that introduces our mission, standard gift and provides the preparation and support necessary to offer this service with compassion and confidence. When volunteers come on as photographers or digital retouch artists, we know they have the skills to provide quality portraits, as they go through an application process, so we are not training them with technical skills, however we do have wonderful retouching training (some videos and bi-weekly live lessons) and lighting course generously donated from Professional Photographers of America for anyone who joins as a community volunteer or assistant to photographer hoping to hone their skills, as I did, to become an affiliated photographer.
Image courtesy of Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep, Photographer Vicki Zoller
Oh my goodness, so much more than just photos. Personally, I would never even have had photos if it weren't for some NILMDTS photographer across the country that was there for my sister-in-law's employer's sister because my sister-in-law was then able to suggest I see if NILMDTS was here in Seattle. As a parent going through the loss, I could manage looking into one specific resource but I was not going to look for a random photographer to come take pictures of my dead baby - to say it bluntly. So any photographer giving this gift on their own is a blessing but could be helping so many more families indirectly simply by being involved with NILMDTS. Not only do the families get the pictures, but they receive a beautiful free photo album from mpix, deeply discounted professional quality prints/canvas/metal from Bay Photo, if they want. Then there is the ongoing support so the family doesn't feel alone. They are connected with other families also experiencing this loss so they have a sense of community.
I feel so much pride serving these families. It is truly an honor to be one of the few who gets to meet and dote on their sweet baby. Helping families love their child, no matter the circumstance, is truly a gift for everyone. And, quite honestly, besides that immense amount of pride, my photography, lighting and retouching skills have skyrocketed because of these unique sessions.
Images courtesy of Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep, Photographer Vicki Zoller
It is not my own session, but one of another photographer that was retold to me from the mother. They had lost their son and hesitantly agreed to having a photographer come. They didn't know what to do - what was normal - when you lose a child. They had not wanted to hold their baby and were having an especially difficult time until their NILMDTS photographer came into their room and gave them the permission they unknowingly needed to love on their baby. The mom told me that the photographer made it seem so normal and natural to hold, kiss and cherish their baby and they otherwise may not have. So they did and she told me her story through happy tears without regret. It's powerful. Like I said, so much more than just photos.
The biggest hurdle is knowing if you can emotionally handle it. Everyone thinks they could never do this. And of course, it is unimaginable to think there is a need - but there is! I would say, if you have the skills, there is no reason not to try. You never know what you cannot do until you try. If you only end up helping one family, that is one more family that could have been without precious images, one more family that might have regrets, one more family whose kids may not know their older sibling, one more family who is afraid to talk about it, or one more family whose child is dismissed and forgotten.
You can support NILMDTS by volunteering in any capacity, however our biggest need is photographers and digital retouch artists - we couldn't do what we do without a vast group of volunteers and are very much in need of more. Check out nilmdts.org/volunteer for info. If you cannot volunteer, you can always spread awareness. Share frequently with others who may get involved, become an unofficial ambassador of our work. The more photographers who hear about NILMDTS, the more comfortable with the idea they become. We know it takes time to consider volunteering so hearing about it over and over helps. Then of course, we are always looking for donations to help the mission continue.
]]>To be a part of something big and redemptive fuels our spirits, and we greatly admire individuals who use their time and talent to serve others. What's beyond inspiring is that we've learned about so many of our customers who do just that. In our new series The Golden Hour, we're excited to use our blog space to highlight photographers who use their camera for good. Today's feature highlights the inspiring nonprofit work of Sweet Nectar Society.
]]>Sweet Nectar Society was created to give cost-free photography sessions to children with complex medical needs. Each “Sweetie” receives an outfit for their session, a keepsake photo book, and their story is shared on our website and social media pages.
As photographers, we understand the value of a photograph. We have experienced how a simple image can transport you to a moment in time where all of the feels come flooding back into your heart.
As parents, we know that each moment in the lives of our children will quickly pass by, in what seems like the blink of an eye. We feel that having the ability to revisit precious milestones in life through photography is the most amazing gift anyone can be given.
To parents of children faced with complex medical needs, these milestones are especially treasured. The reality that each moment could be the last, is a very real possibility.
The mission of Sweet Nectar Society comforts, connects, and celebrates each child through the art of photography.
The inspiration of Sweet Nectar Society came through a very difficult experience I faced as a parent. In 2009, my husband and I welcomed our first child. As a photographer, I naturally captured every aspect of our daughter’s life- her itty bitty fingers, long eyelashes, her smiles and even her pouty lips. When she turned one, her doctor became concerned that she was not growing and immediately sent us to the children’s hospital for further testing. After many months of appointments and testing, her doctors pin-pointed the cause, hypoactive thyroid, Common Variable Immune Disease (CVID), and Human Growth Hormone Deficiency. Now at age 10, after regulating her treatments, our daughter is thriving. This experience was terrifying because I could not control or fix the problems. We had to learn to trust, push and be patient. For years, we felt like we were stuck at various forks in the road where her diagnosis could go one way or the other.
The silver lining always finds a way to shine though the darkness. The photos taken over the years of my daughter are precious gems. I clearly saw my frail, tiny, little princess as a warrior who always had a smile on her face even in the not-so-fun times. These are the chapters of her story that are captured through photographs.
I believe every experience can be used for good, even the most difficult… especially the most difficult. God had placed a mission on my heart to help others, and for years, I tried to find my place but nothing seemed to speak to my soul. It wasn’t until my passion of photography collided with what I love most in life, my family, that I actually found my purpose. Having the ability to comfort others during their trials through the art of photography is my purpose. Once Carrie Anne and I connected, Sweet Nectar Society took flight and together we have been able to give over 800 photography sessions in our area. Sweet Nectar Society has made living out our purpose a possibility, and the opportunity has been given to other photographers who are also seeking a deeper meaning in their craft and life.
While our journey with Sweet Nectar has brought us incredible purpose, it has also placed an amazing amount of perspective in our lives. Everyday moments, blessings, even struggles have a whole new meaning. We don’t just photograph our Sweeties and their families, we hear their stories, invest in their battles, and cheer for their triumphs. The little day to day problems don’t seem so important, when you meet and fall in love with a family, and then see them lose their three year old son to cancer. You might see someone post a silly vent on Facebook, we’ve all done it, and you just think of how small that issue seems compared to what you’ve seen. Some might be wishing, for that kind of vent to be their greatest worry. It’s an incredible blessing to be grateful in the present and appreciate the moments while you are in them. This is just one of the many gifts that we have received.
Recently we were asked to our local children’s hospital to photograph a baby girl who was born with a genetic condition and heart defect. A few minutes after we arrived and began our Sweetie’s session, the baby’s momma rushed into the room and proudly announced, “I have clothes, I have pretty clothes for my baby!” She was beaming with excitement. This session was not just a photo shoot of her baby, it was a moment of normalcy. These photos were something she’d expected to do when her baby was born but due to the circumstances, newborn photos were not an option. This sweet momma displayed a bag full of tiny dresses, with little bows and matching shoes onto the hospital bedside table. One thing that caught our attention were all of the price tags dangling from each dress; this was a firm reminder that this momma had prepared for her baby girl. She had expected to bring her home after she was born, but instead she is soaking up these moments in the hospital. As mom tenderly dressed her baby it was easy to see this was special for her, and capturing these moments was important to us.
We photographed this perfect Sweetie then quickly uploaded, edited and added the images to a Pixieset gallery for mom to view. As we were re-entering the NICU to photograph another Sweetie, we saw mom, grandma and three other mommas gathered together in the waiting room, all were glued to the sweet photos on mom’s phone. They hugged us and expressed their heartfelt appreciation for this gift. Since then, each of the other mommas have nominated their babies for photos and they will all soon become Sweeties as well. This is why we are so dedicated to our work with Sweet Nectar Society. We feel that these sessions are impacting the lives of others and bringing comfort to families in so many ways.
I would have to say the most difficult part of running a nonprofit is finding a healthy balance. We feel so passionately about our cause, it was very easy to put all of our energy into our project. We quickly discovered that finding our own balance was so important. Without balance it would have been incredibly easy to get burned out.
Creating a nonprofit seemed easy enough, “Use our talents to do something good for someone else. Make a difference. Repeat.” But in reality there are a lot of pieces to the puzzle. We are two, go with the flow, free spirited, energetic, wear our hearts on our sleeve, rose colored glasses wearing, creatives who saw the need and wanted to make an impact. Now, I am not saying that it wasn’t in our wheelhouse to run a successful organization with these dominating qualities, I am just saying we had a steep learning curve, a lot of grace with ourselves, and a lot of help. Our vision has always been centered around giving love through photography but once we added: fundraisers, lots of emotions, donors, taxes, more emotions, annual forms, bi-annual forms, boards, extra emotions, volunteers, admin duties, etc.…all on top of our simple mission- It was a full plate for two moms, who in addition, each run their own businesses and have full family schedules. Luckily, throughout the years we have found our groove and have created a healthy balance between running Sweet Nectar Society, being present in our personal lives and maintaining our emotional wellbeing.
Sweet Nectar Society is so near and dear to our hearts that we have done our best to protect every aspect- our Sweeties, Sweetie’s families, photographers, and our brand. Slowly, we have added additional volunteer photographers to our Sweet Nectar family. Together our team covers California’s central valley, and most recently, a new team member in Arizona. Having dedicated photographers is the key to Sweet Nectar Society reaching as many Sweetie’s as possible. It has been very important to us to grow slow and steady to ensure that each of our families receive the best experience and high quality images during their session. Due to the very emotional circumstances of our sessions, we have made it our priority that our volunteer team members feel comfortable and emotionally supported during shoots.
In addition to our volunteer photographers, we appreciate the volunteers who help us with all of our extra events, fundraisers, and to all of those who comment, like, and share our posts.
I am sure every nonprofit would agree that donations are always appreciated. But truthfully, the very best way people can support our missions, is to become a part of our community. The photos we take are a huge part of our purpose but what happens after the session is mighty important as well. We celebrate, encourage and advocate for each Sweetie by sharing their story. It is amazing to hear how a simple comment or heart on a photo can impact a Sweetie and their family.
Years ago I photographed a teenage Sweetie. Her mother later shared with me that she had never been told that her daughter was beautiful until her Sweet Nectar Society session. People commented on her photo complimenting her smile and how pretty she was. This mother told me that for the very first time she felt as if others saw her daughter the way she had always seen her- perfect! She said that on the hard days she still goes over to her post and reads all of the comments. It just goes to show how a little bit of support can go a long way. Something that takes just a few seconds for one person, can make an incredible impact on another.
]]>First things first, how do you take your coffee? (And if you are not a coffee drinker, what is your go-to beverage for fuel?)
Liz: Sadly, I gave up coffee about two years ago (thankful to finally be migraine-free!) but I LOVE a strong English Breakfast Tea (two bags!) with a dollop of heavy cream. It’s my “Today will be a good day” drink!
Can you share a bit about yourself & your photography business?
Liz: I started my business in 2006 with wedding photography. In 2009 I photographed my first birth story and it changed my life! I immediately began booking birth stories and from there a demand for newborn and baby milestone portraits grew. I opened a brick and mortar studio in 2015 and we’ve been growing since! I’ve enjoyed the privilege of providing families around the country with timeless images to tell their own stories to future generations.
On any given day you can find me baking a loaf of fresh sourdough bread, enticing hugs out of my two daughters (Sunday is 8 and Izzie is 5), enjoying the fruits of our tower garden labors with my husband, and breathing in the sweet air surrounding our Virginia home in the woods. I love my life and the opportunity I have to balance a flexible job with spending quality time with my family!
In your words, what is so special about photographing a birth?
Liz: Oh, how is it NOT special?! Birth is a literal once-in-a-lifetime event! But not just that, it is pretty much guaranteed that many pieces of the birth experience become blurry almost immediately after the day has passed. I think being able to offer a photographic story of one of the most amazing events in a person’s life is such a huge privilege. It’s a hard job, but it is 100% worth it!
What details do you try and capture for mom and dad to look back on and remember?
Liz: In any genre of photography, you will find many different styles; some artists love the science behind birth (‘Did someone say placenta?!’), some love witnessing the power of a woman’s body in the midst of delivery. I personally tend to lean towards capturing the emotional details of birth stories. My eye is always drawn to whatever feeling is being displayed in the room. Sometimes that’s a surprised expression from a nurse, a gentle touch of a partner’s hand, or mom’s reaction as she receives her baby into her arms for the first time. Those are the details that make my heart skip a beat and give me a rush!
Tell us about one of your most memorable birth shoots. What do those pictures reflect?
Liz: I once attended a birth that lasted over 36hrs. Mom pushed for 4 hours after laboring for 32, so to say she felt miserable is a bit of an understatement. When she finally opted for a cesarean section, the emotion in the environment weighed so heavily, like a thick cloud of agony that lasted every minute until her baby was born. I remember feeling exhausted and so heavy hearted as my client’s mother, partner, and twin sister all carried their own fears, anxieties and heartaches for all they had witnessed. I continued photographing as the birth story unfolded, even after not being allowed into the operating room for the delivery. Every photograph I was able to provide to this family felt like an award winning shot to me because I was able to work through my own heaviness at the time. I felt what they felt and yet I captured their real emotions, the true story. At the end, I was able to photograph a brand new baby in the arms of his parents and suddenly all of the hard work felt worth it. It felt a little like birthing my own baby! This was one of the first births I photographed and it is still easily one of my favorites.
Can you share two or three tips for shooting in a hospital setting?
Liz: 1. It’s so important to remember your place on the totem pole in the hospital room! Photographers/videographers are not there to save a life or prevent trauma. But we can be there to help if help is needed. Know when to take a step back and move out of the way of the medical professionals.
2. Be helpful! Make your presence worth it to everyone in the room, not just your client. Offer to bring food for the staff, be an extra set of hands for the doula if you can (handing out-of-reach items, or getting buckets of ice). Have self-awareness and be a positive energy in the space.
3. Know your camera. Don't be afraid to push your ISO. And most importantly - wear a strap (FOTO is best!) to help steady the camera if you have to get to uncomfortably low shutter speeds (low light will make you do crazy things).
How does your own experience as a mother impact your birth photography?
Liz: As someone who has had my own births documented, I realize the importance of birth photography to help recall accurate memories. The time stamps are surprisingly one of my favorite details! Of course, I had some memories from my own births, but they were out of order and I had definitely forgotten a few things. Having those images to look back on remind me that there truly is no value you can place on birth photography. It is a priceless service and I firmly believe each one of my clients would agree with me! With that in mind, I try to document every step of the story for my clients, even if I am unable to be with them 100% of the time. When I am present I am busy documenting because even if it seems like something unimportant, it may be a pivotal moment for that client.
What advice would you share with a client who is hesitant about having a birth documented?
Liz: First, I would remind the client that their images will be and will always remain 100% private. This is often their first concern and it’s important to me that they know and trust that I will never share their images without their permission. From there, I encourage them that if they are worried about having a stranger in their birth space that it’s normal and okay to feel that way. I remind them that I have been to many births and there's not much I haven’t seen. That usually helps them feel a little better! I also try to be aware of their body language and demeanor and mirror it if possible.
In addition to running your photography business, you also oversee the International Association of Professional Birth Photographers (IAPBP). Tell us about this community and what it offers its members.
Liz: Yes! BirthPhotographers.com started about ten years ago. Our mission is to assist expectant birth persons in search of a professional birth photographer or videographer in their area. Behind the scenes, we have a community of over 1,100 talented and genuine artists from 52 countries all eager to connect with expectant birth persons. We support one another in the spirit of community over competition by sharing resources to help grow ourselves and our businesses. In addition, IAPBP is proud to host an annual birth photography image competition with results that have been published in over 500 media publications worldwide including National Geographic, Buzzfeed, The New York Times, People Magazine and so many more. I know I’m biased, but I truly believe our community holds the most talented birth photographers around the world. It has been my absolute honor to be able to facilitate and support my colleagues and I look forward to what the future holds for IAPBP!
And lastly, what Fotostrap do you wear? Favorite thing about it?
Liz: I have the Dutch Skinny and the quality blows me away! I had my logo printed on it and I feel like it gives my brand an extra touch when I am out shooting. I love it!
]]>Today, we are talking with professional photographer, Emily Hamson of Lavender Lime Photography, to discuss her secrets on mastering nature photography!
]]>photo credit: Kristen Ryan
At FOTO, we are committed to helping our fellow creatives flourish no matter the season. In our Q&A style blog series, Coffee with Creatives, we highlight the unique expertise of some of our favorite professionals, sharing tips and information on relevant topics to bring you some practical insight and inspiration for the important work you do. Today is no different as we delve into a subject we can all try as we continue to socially distance and appreciate the stillness of time and beauty surrounding us.
We are talking with professional photographer, Emily Hamson of Lavender Lime Photography, to discuss her secrets on mastering nature photography!
First things first, how do you take your coffee? (And if you are not a coffee drinker, what is your go-to beverage for fuel?)
Emily: I know this sounds super lame and boring, but I am a water drinker, and not much else! On cold winter mornings, I opt for a hot chocolate, and I do drink a fruit-filled protein smoothie after my workouts. But other than that, it's water! Bragging moment: I haven't had a soda since 1995!
Can you share a bit yourself & how you got into photography?
Emily: I loved photography from a young age and I can't remember not loving it really! My dad was a photography teacher at the local high school, and I remember visiting his classroom and being excited to go into the dark room. And yes, I did take photography in high school with my dad as my teacher!
We had a subscription to National Geographic when I was growing up, and I loved looking through those magazines, dreaming of being able to go photograph in far away lands! When it came time for choosing a college major, I was interested in either pursuing elementary education or photography. When I saw all the art class requirements for photography, I got scared and chose elementary education instead because I can't draw a stick figure worth anything. My photography ended up on the back burner for many years. I taught kindergarten for a couple of years, but quit when I became a mom.
When my oldest son was a baby, I did some "amazing" photoshoots every month, but other than that, I didn't pick up my camera very often. When my third and fourth boys were born (they're twins), I started having the desire to pick up my camera again, and I did, but my limited time with four young boys made it hard to do a lot with it. It was about five years ago that I really got back into photographing regularly.
Tell us about Lavender Lime Photography. How did you pick that name?!
Emily: When I decided to start a business, I knew I needed a name, but I thought Emily Hamson Photography sounded dumb. I talked with my sister-in-law about how she got the name for her business and she encouraged me to make a list of some of my favorite things. From that list, I started putting two items together, then I'd look online to see if anyone else had that name. It took some trial and error, but I liked Lavender Lime together - lavender for my favorite flower and lime for my favorite color - and it was unique, so I took it and ran with it!
Your nature photography is breathtaking. Why do you enjoy shooting outdoors so much? What are you looking to capture?
Emily: Aw, thank you! That always makes me blush! I have always loved nature and being outside. We went on many camping and hiking trips when I was growing up, and I fell in love with being in the beautiful scenery so easily found in Utah! Nature soothes my soul in a way that nothing else can, and I find if I go too long without getting outside, I get anxious! Being outdoors is my zen!
When I'm outside looking for something to shoot, I usually start with pretty light, then look for beautiful landscapes or scenery. I tend to look with my heart as well as my eyes, because I want to feel something when I look at my pictures. To do this, I take a deep breath in and just look for what inspires me most about an area, then I try to make that feeling with my camera.
How does living in Utah influence your work? Favorite time of year to shoot there?
Emily: Because there is so much variety here, I never get bored of one type of scenery! I can go from mountains, to salt flats, to red rocks, to desert, to rivers or lakes in a matter of hours! Just looking out my front window at the mountains inspires me to get out and go shoot! I also love seeing the world up close through my macro lens, and pretty much any flower, leaf, insect or blade of grass makes a good subject! It helps to live in such a beautiful place, because sometimes there's an amazing sunset, or the mountain has beautiful alpenglow, and I can just grab my camera, get a couple of quick shots in then get back to life!
I love that Utah has four distinct seasons, and I really don't think I can pick a favorite! I love the flowers and color of spring, the warmth and vibrancy of summer, the crisp, warm colors of fall leaves, and the serenity and purity of fresh snow. I really can get my camera out at any season and make good pictures.
Can you share two or three quick tips on getting that perfect wide angle landscape shot?
Emily: Look for light first! If your subject is in subpar light, then it won't be as pretty. The golden hour doesn't only apply to portrait photographers - the best time to shoot landscapes is also during golden hours of the morning and evening. (Plus that's when you get beautiful sunrises and sunsets to help make your landscapes really show off!) You can totally shoot any time of the day though, so don't be afraid to try on a bright blue sky or sunny day! Just be aware of the light and shadows, and make sure it enhances your subject in the camera lens. Remember that cameras don't have an optic nerve, so they won't differentiate between light and shadows as well as we can - the lights will be brighter and the shadows darker.
Include the foreground, mid-ground and background in your shots. So many people forget to include the foreground, and that's what really helps "ground" a landscape image! (pun intended!) Of course, rules are meant to be broken, so if you aren't including the foreground, make sure you do it with intention!
Try some different compositions too - like going lower to the ground, using trees or other organic material to frame a subject, and zooming in and out (landscapes don't always have to be wide-angle!). I always try at least three or four compositions for each scene!
And a fourth tip, even though you asked for three: make sure you stop down your aperture. You should shoot landscapes anywhere from f/11-f/22 if you want to have everything in focus. It doesn't matter quite as much if you have a super wide angle or are posting online only. But if you want to ever print your landscape images, this is important to have as much in focus as possible!
What about shooting macro? What makes a great macro shot?
Emily: I know every macro photographer is different, but I love my macro shots full of negative space and keeping the image super simple. I also apply a lot of people composition rules to my macro shots - like using rule of thirds, centering intentionally, and not cutting off important things (like an awkward leaf or stem chop). It's important to sweep your eyes around the whole frame as you take the pictures. Also, trying different compositions is important in macro, there are many times I've loved my third or fourth attempts more than the first ones I took. Light is also important here too. If you're starting out with macro, I suggest sticking to shade or even lighting to begin with, then move on to harsher light as you get more comfortable with it. Also, be aware of wind if you're outside - nothing ruins a macro shot faster than some wind!
What's the craziest outdoor adventure you've had to get a shot you wanted?
Emily: Oh that's a hard one! I'm usually pretty careful and nervous to go off the beaten path too much. I'd have to say the scariest thing I've done is gone out at night by myself in the mountains to get Milky Way pictures - every noise in the bushes made me think a mountain lion was stalking me! I did stay pretty close to my car and kept my keys in my pocket so I could sound my car alarm if needed! It sounds pretty sissy, but really it's nerve-wracking for me to be in the dark by myself, and my heart was going a million miles an hour the entire time I was out. I haven't done it since then if that tells you anything!
Any unexpected similarities in capturing nature photography and the family/children's photography you do?
Emily: I do take clients, and prefer to shoot them outdoors in nature - it feels more me! The biggest similarity is that lighting is important for both - be aware of how light is falling on your subject, whether they are human or not. But that's about where the similarities end...I know a lot of people are hesitant about taking landscape or macro photos, but landscapes and flowers don't cry, pout, make faces or pick their noses!
And lastly, what Fotostrap do you wear? Favorite thing about it?
Emily: I have the Classic Strap in Avocado (recently retired to introduce new styles). I love that it's a lime color and enhances my brand and makes my logo seen by others. I've been places shooting before and people have seen my strap and ask if I take clients, or where they can find my work. It really helps me stand out as a photographer amongst the crowds of plain black, standard issue straps. Also, I am completely in love with the shoulder strap! It's such a great thing to have when I am walking around with my huge 150-600 telephoto lens, or even when I've had my camera on me for awhile and it's getting heavy. I just love my strap!
Coffee with Creatives: Misty Rodda's Tips on Keeping a Fresh Perspective
Coffee with Creatives: Katie Lamb's Tips on Finding that "Mompreneur" Work/Life Balance
Coffee with Creatives: Mastering the Art of Low Light Photography with ClickPro Dana Leigh
Coffee with Creatives: Caroline Jurgensen's Tips on Running a Business with her Spouse
Today, we are talking with lifestyle, editorial photographer and NYC local, Michelle Rose Sulcov, to discuss tips on getting great shots in New York City!
]]>
photo credit: Ren'ee Kahn Bresler
At FOTO, we are committed to helping our fellow creatives flourish. In our Q&A style blog series, Coffee with Creatives, we are highlighting the unique expertise of some of our favorite professionals, sharing tips and information on relevant topics to bring you some practical insight and inspiration for the important work you do.
Today, we are talking with lifestyle, editorial photographer and NYC local, Michelle Rose Sulcov, to discuss tips on getting great shots in New York City!
First things first, how do you take your coffee?
Michelle: Can you believe that I just started drinking coffee recently after a seven-year hiatus! Right now I’m drinking a Cafe au lait with almond milk and sugar free hazelnut or vanilla sweetener. Yum!
Tell us about yourself & your photography business.
Michelle: I’m a native New Yorker and kitty mama. I’ve always had a love of photography which started at sleep away summer camp. I found out within my first few days at camp that I was so allergic to nearly everything there, mainly the beautiful horses that the camp was known for. My counselors put me in double periods of photography, arts and crafts and drama, and my passion was born! I continued practicing photography most of my life and studied art photography at Syracuse University where I earned my BFA in Art Photography. From there, I worked in women’s magazines for more than 10 years as a photo editor. About four years ago, I started Michelle Rose Photo as a side hustle after my friends encouraged me to try it out. I would occasionally shoot for the magazines I worked for but I still wasn’t sure if shooting would be a good fit for me. I did a few test shoots of college friends who had beautiful growing families. The pictures came out so well that I launched my website shortly after. I juggled essentially two full time jobs until the day came, last February, when I was laid off after my magazine folded its print edition. It was honestly the best thing to ever happen to me, although it certainly didn’t feel that way at the time. I’ve been lucky to tap into the NYC mama network to get my name out there and I’m happy to say my business is thriving!
What is your favorite thing about living in New York City?
Michelle: My favorite thing is that each neighborhood has its own distinct personality and that there are just SO many opportunities here.
From the perspective of a photographer, what makes the city so special?
Michelle: New York City is really the best city in the world and, not to sound like Stefon from SNL, but it really does have EVERYTHING! It’s such an amazing melting pot of people and cultures with the most gorgeous buildings, apartments and backdrops around every corner. Sometimes I’ll stumble across a street I’ve never seen and mark down the address so I can shoot there in the future. Did I mention there are lots and lots of people and families?!
Could you share a few of your go-to locations for families and couples and why you like shooting there?
Michelle: Central Park is such a photogenic place. It’s my go-to for mini shoots. It looks different every season (even year to year!) and feels so authentically NYC.
I also love what they have done with the financial district down around the Oculus. There are brightly colored walls everywhere - it’s a photographer's dream location.
Clients also love the cobblestone streets in TriBeCa and Soho. Again, iconically NYC. If you want the best views of the city in your photos, go to Hoboken or Jersey City. There’s nothing more special than a session later in the day when you can catch the city skyline in the background. I recommend Maxwell Place Park if you head to Jersey. The little beach there is so cute!
How often do you shoot in Central Park and do you have a preferred area you like to be in?
Michelle: It’s really my go-to spot for family portraits because you can walk around and find something new around every turn. Cherry Blossom season is truly something to capture though. It hits slightly different every year but mid-April should be a safe bet. I head in on 72nd on the east side and explore from there.
Most underrated place to shoot in the city?
Michelle: Hmmm, that’s a toughie! I really think the best way to shoot in the city is to pick a spot you want to photograph and then walk around. Pan a 10-block radius and find all the hidden gems. Things are always being painted and repainted. I walked out of my local lunch spot and across the street they had painted the most beautiful grey wall and I thought, "Now that’s the perfect headshot background right there!"
Can you share about a favorite shoot you've done in the city and what made it magical?
Michelle: Another toughie. There have been so many magical shoots around the city. Two different shoots come to mind and the clients are actually friends! One was a cake smash that I did by the Flatiron building. I literally laid down on the ground so that I could get the building in the frame. There is a behind-the-scenes photo somewhere and my hair was totally touching the ground - worth it!!! Another magical shoot was in Soho, by Laduree. It was a pregnancy announcement with a gorgeous couple. It was so freezing and windy that we had to take breaks but mama was glowing and the city street backdrop was just stunning. Throw in a little baby’s breath and it was perfection.
For fun, your top five to-dos for a first timer in Manhattan?!
Michelle: 1) Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. There are so many great photo ops along the way! Pro tip: go super early to avoid the crowds.
2) Have tea at The Plaza because that’s what Eloise would do!
3) Get up high...you need to find a place with an amazing view of the city and take it all in. Check out the top of the Freedom Tower or a rooftop bar like 230 Fifth or Upstairs at the Kimberly.
4) Check out a museum. Depending on your vibe, the American Museum of Natural History is always a classic! If you are into all kinds of art then hit the MoMA for contemporary art, head to the Whitney and then walk The High Line or go to The Guggenheim.
5) Go to Central Park and rent a row boat then grab some lunch at The Loeb Boathouse and walk around the park.
Bonus: Walk down Fifth Ave and go shopping! Or window shopping at least!
And lastly, what Fotostrap do you wear? Favorite thing about it?
Michelle: The Skinny! I wanted something that would protect my neck and look great! I love the Cognac color because my logo really pops. I wear it across my body because I hurt my neck recently. It’s nice and light and doesn’t get in the way. I can’t tell you how many compliments I get on the strap - all of my friends want one!
Coffee with Creatives: Misty Rodda's Tips on Keeping a Fresh Perspective
Coffee with Creatives: Katie Lamb's Tips on Finding that "Mompreneur" Work/Life Balance
Coffee with Creatives: Mastering the Art of Low Light Photography with ClickPro Dana Leigh
Coffee with Creatives: Caroline Jurgensen's Tips on Running a Business with her Spouse
Today, we are talking with blush session expert, Kim Lyn Chauvin, to discuss tips on making your clients comfortable in their own skin and empowering your subject to unleash her inner goddess!
]]>At FOTO, we are committed to helping our fellow creatives flourish. In our Q&A style blog series, Coffee with Creatives, we are highlighting the unique expertise of some of our favorite professionals, sharing tips and information on relevant topics to bring you some practical insight and inspiration for the important work you do.
Today, we are talking with blush session expert, Kim Lyn Chauvin, to discuss tips on making your clients comfortable in their own skin and empowering your subject to unleash her inner goddess!
First things first, how do you take your coffee? (And if you are not a coffee drinker, what is your go-to beverage for fuel?)
Kim: I'm not going to lie, I'm not a HUGE coffee drinker...I was addicted to soda (coke + mountain dew) for a little while, but when I do drink it, I like a whole lotta cream and sugar with a splash of coffee! Haha! I like hot coffee at night especially after a wedding and iced coffee in the morning, yes even in the winter.
Can you share a bit about yourself and your photography business?
Kim: My name is Kim Lyn Chauvin and I've been in business since 2013. I got my start a lot like Jasmine Star (I know you all know her!). I was a bride turned photographer. My passion began with Boudoir and it transitioned into weddings. I do this full time, photographing about 20-30 weddings a year and upwards of 100 Boudoir sessions. Add in a few families, brand sessions, and maternity sessions and I'm a busy woman! I'm blessed to have a husband (Shiloh) that supports my dreams and loves photography as well! He actually photographs weddings and lifestyle sessions with me! I have a 14-year-old son named Ayden, who is my everything! Shiloh has three boys, 15-year-old twins Azariah and Issiah, and a 14-year-old named Judah. We also raise my 16-year-old niece Cali Kim and my 13-year-old nephew Madden. Together we have the most perfect blended family. Needless to say, our house always has a ton going on and I wouldn't trade it for the world!
We've read that you love to photograph women of all ages in hopes that you can inspire confidence in their lives. Tell us more about what makes a photo shoot and the resulting images so special for a woman.
Kim: Boudoir is such an empowering experience. Before my husband and I got together I was in a really bad relationship. I suffered a lot of emotional and physical abuse. When Shiloh and I got together I started to love myself again. He taught me how to see past all the hurt and to see me for who I truly was. I gifted Shiloh a Boudoir album for our wedding. I had a friend photograph it and I felt inspired. I knew in that instant that I wanted to share that experience with other women. Every single woman that steps in front of my camera has insecurities. We all do. It takes courage to be photographed in such an intimate way. From the first contact we have through email, I work with my clients. We talk about what they love about their bodies as well as what they might not want to showcase. We talk about their comfort levels and what this session means to them. I help them choose the outfits they will wear by giving them a Pinterest board with ideas and having them text me or email me with any questions or if they want my opinion. When they arrive we go over everything again. We work through their outfits and start photographing. I talk my clients into poses and will even pose right along with them. Sometimes it's easier to show than to explain. We play music, we talk, we laugh, it's such an amazing experience. Once the session is over we talk about the process of choosing images for their album and how the gallery will be delivered. We hug and then I get to work on editing. I am a very light editor. I want my clients to know that when I photograph them, the images they will receive are 100% them. I do not use photoshop to manipulate my clients into something that is unreal. I truly want my clients to see the beautiful body they are in! It makes the experience that much more authentic to me. I deliver the album and wait for their reaction. I'm always brought to tears when a client responds with how much it changed their life!
Can you describe what a Blush session is? What about a Blush Party session?! How do these differ from Boudoir shoots?
Kim: A Blush session is basically a boudoir session but with my own little spin on it. Boudoir tends to be super sexy and sultry. My Blush sessions can be that or they can be cute and cozy! They empower you as a woman, no matter what type of outfit you're in. They don't even have to take place in the bedroom! I've done Blush sessions outdoors, at Airbnbs, and even in professional spaces. It's honestly just owning your self confidence! A Blush Party is a photoshoot for a group of women who want to celebrate each other! They can be family, friends, or even co workers! I used the term Blush because I want people who view these photos to Blush when they look at them. I want them to feel the power these women have taken into their lives. I want them to see the confidence and to embrace their energy. So often women are just objects in photographs, used to sell products. Blush sessions are NOT that. They are ALL ABOUT THE AMAZING WOMEN and everything they embody! They are Moms, CEOS, entrepreneurs, gardeners, mangagers, nurses, teachers, the list goes on. I want every single woman who steps in front of my camera to feel so empowered they make everyone around them Blush just a little for ever doubting their greatness. We are badasses! Blush sessions are about owning that.
We adore the Blush sessions you do. What inspired you to start doing these and what do you try to capture?
Kim: Awh, thanks! I adore them too! It's my whole heart. My own insecurities and coming out of my shell was the inspiration. Wanting to show everyday women that they are beautiful and sexy and that it's okay to be confident. I try to capture the women that step in front of my camera in their most natural state. If they are a tomboy I want them to wear clothes that match the way they feel. Boy shorts and an oversized tee? We got this! If they LOVE dressing up and wearing heels, then we will pose to the nine in 4-inch stilettos! If my client is more comfortable in a bra and undies while barefoot then that is what we are going to photograph. I am all for my clients trying something new and picking one outfit that might not be something they would normally choose but my main objective is to bring out their natural sexy in the clothing that they feel comfortable in. I believe sexy comes in all different shapes and sizes. I believe it comes from within and that's what I try to capture.
What does a Blush session look like? What can a client expect to experience? Do you provide wardrobe guidance?
Kim: Our Blush sessions range from 30 minutes to two hours depending on the collection clients choose. We have mini sessions and also sessions that include hair and makeup. Most of my clients choose our middle collection that includes makeup and an album. I am there for my clients every step of the way. I love walking them through the process and answering as many questions as I can! Yes, I will help choose outfits that work with their body type and comfort level! I also help with posing and give lots of how to prepare tips! Our current studio is located on our property, so my clients come to my home for their session. I have found they feel a little bit more at ease because it's warm and inviting. When they arrive we walk through outfits, they will have their hair/makeup done, and then we will photograph for their set amount of time. Our sessions are really laid back. We listen to music, I'm always talking throughout the session, and I'm always crawling on the floor or getting into the poses to help nervous clients! Every year I try to do at least one session where I am in front of the camera with a photographer I haven't worked with yet. I think it helps me to feel what my clients feel, I learn new things, and I get to experience it all over again!
We bet you have photographed some really meaningful friendships. Can you share the story of a session that really impacted you?
Kim: Ouuf this one is tough. I have made a connection with every single Blush client that I have photographed. It's such a liberating, empowering, and intimate experience. I do have a few that continue to shoot with me year after year because of the life changing effect it has had on them. I have photographed moms who were lost and didn't know who they were anymore. After our session they found themselves again. They found a new sense of confidence and have gone on to make big changes in their lives. I have photographed women who have been in abusive relationships who thought they were worthless, who have gone on to leave those relationships and have come into themselves and believe in themselves again. There have been countless times that I have cried because of the reviews I have read and the stories I have heard. Women are strong and fearless and so so powerful. I am blessed to be surrounded by so many amazing women. I just want to share a few of the reviews I have gotten over the years, that have made an imprint on my heart.
"I decided to do a blush shoot with Kim during a trying time in my life. It was during a moment in my life where I was second guessing myself, and my confidence was at an all time low. I wanted, and needed, to do this for myself. Of course I was nervous, since I hadn't done anything like this before, but I put my full faith and trust in Kim after seeing her previous work. I loved that her style was classy and fun, while still giving sexy vibes that were NOT raunchy. Let me start off by saying how FREAKING CUTE Kim's studio is! Clean, warm, and inviting! Once in her presence, I felt so at ease. She made me FEEL so beautiful and she made the awkward poses, not awkward at all! When I received the photos from my shoot, I started to cry. I was overwhelmed with emotion that was, and still is, difficult to put into words. I couldn't believe that what she had captured was ME in those photos. She gave me the confidence I had been missing for so long, she made me appreciate myself and view myself in a way I never had before. I am forever grateful to Kim for reminding me to love myself- and whenever I have any doubts- I know where to look." - Garineh
"Where do I even begin? Doing a blush session was something I decided to do as a grooms gift for the morning of our wedding, but I may have had some alternative motives as well. I have had a tough year and have not been feeling as beautiful and confident in my skin as I once did. Well, I worked hard to lose my 10lbs and attended this session that I didn't realize would actually change my life. Kim is AMAZING. I walked out of her studio feeling beautiful, sexy, confident, fierce, and strong. I was reminded that even though I have flaws, they are beautiful and make me who I am. Kim was so welcoming and comforting. Working with her was natural and easy. She also had all of my images completed within 1 week, and sent some sneak peeks just days after our shoot and let me tell you, they are ALL AMAZING. Thank you Kim Lyn Photography for the best grooms gift ever but more importantly, the most empowering experience I have EVER endured. Every woman needs a blush session, and Kim is the girl for the job. Thanks again Kim" -Rebecca
"My first session with Kim was when I did my boudoir shoot and let me tell you I was really nervous! But Kim made me feel so comfortable and made me feel absolutely beautiful. When I saw my pictures and let me tell you right now, that I cried happy tears. She captured the beauty in me that I've never seen before. From then on I fell in love with her work and Kim, herself. I told myself she would forever be my photographer." -Tiffany
"Two years ago I saw the most amazing picture on Facebook. It was a girl laying on a bed in lingerie and it was absolutely stunning, tasteful, and beautiful. I fell in love with that picture and wanted one day to be that girl. I didn't feel comfortable in my own skin and made it a goal of mine to lose weight and feel better about myself in order to one day have the confidence to do a blush album. Well I just completed my first blush session with Kim Lyn Chauvin and I had the best experience and can't wait for more opportunities to work with her again. She is above all else extremely professional and makes you feel so comfortable through the entire process. I never believed I could be that girl but the end results are beyond anything I could have imagined. I wish every girl would try it because you gain so much more than beautiful pictures. Thank you Kim Lyn Chauvin !" -Jill P.
"I started following Kim on IG last year and knew that I wanted to do a Blush session with her. I always thought I needed to be a certain size or look a certain way. Her motivational posts and the fact that she photographs women of all different sizes and shapes made me realize I could do one now. I booked a session with her and it was one of the best experiences of my life. She made me feel so comfortable and confident. I recommend this to everyone, no matter your age. Thank you Kim for making me feel young again." -Susan
In your opinion, what do you think holds women back the most from getting in front of the camera.
Kim: Insecurities or budget. I think as women we have this idea that we have to be a size 00 but have the figure of a barbie doll. It's what society has always said of us. Models, photoshop, music videos, tv ads, all of it. I also think we are afraid to spend a little bit of money on ourselves. Even something like getting our nails done or getting our hair done is considered frivolous. I think over the last few years things have been changing. Women are starting to support each other and the industry is starting to embrace women of all shapes and sizes (I see you AERIE). We are also talking about mental health and doing things for ourselves is a necessity. I'm here to tell you that every single woman deserves a Boudoir session at least once in her life! My mother-in-law even did one at 68 years old! It doesn't matter how old you are, or what size you are. You are beautiful and sexy and you should take some time to see that.
How has your experience as a mother and entrepreneur affected how you photograph other women?
Kim: I'm a mom first and foremost. Our babies are my entire world. I have been a single mom of one and now I'm a step mama to three and a co parent with my sister to her two children. I have felt invisible in relationships. I have felt unworthy. I have struggled with finding myself especially being a mom and living for my kids. As much as being a mom is the most rewarding experience in the world...it is also one of the most confusing, hardest things in the world. You have days of pure elation and days where you want to curl up in a ball and cry on the floor between laundry and spilled messes. I have been on the rollercoaster of solopreneurship for 7 years now. I know the ups and downs and comparison and doubts that come from it. I take all of those emotions and all of those experiences into my sessions. I know that when a woman steps in front of my camera, she can't see the badass woman I see when I look at her.
And lastly, what Fotostrap do you wear?
Kim: So I used to wear the Black with a personalized shoulder pad. That was passed down to the hubby! Now I wear the Dutch with a personalized shoulder pad with my logo on it! Not going to lie, I get complimented on my strap at every single event I do!
]]>Today, we are talking with Born to Shine Conference founders and educators, Ariel Perry and Jodie Brim, to discuss tips on dreaming up and executing a boutique photography conference!
]]>At FOTO, we are committed to helping our fellow creatives flourish. In our Q&A style blog series, Coffee with Creatives, we are highlighting the unique expertise of some of our favorite professionals, sharing tips and information on relevant topics to bring you some practical insight and inspiration for the important work you do.
Today, we are talking with Born to Shine Conference founders and educators, Ariel Perry and Jodie Brim, to discuss tips on dreaming up and executing a boutique photography conference!
First things first, how do you take your coffee?
Ari: Vanilla Latte
Jodie: Vanilla Almond Milk Latte
Tell us about yourselves & how you got into photography.
Ari: I couldn't find a job in my major. Photography kind of fell into my lap. I started working at portrait innovations. I started taking classes and going to workshops and started my business 2 years later.
Jodie: I got my big break into photography from my wedding photographer. She allowed me to shadow her to build my portfolio. Once I felt comfortable + confident, I began booking my own weddings in 2012 and that's when I formed my business.
So, you both just got back from Nashville where the Born to Shine Conference was held. Tell us about the mission of the conference and what type of photographer it's geared to.
Ari: It's a boutique conference geared towards intermediate photographers who want to increase their revenue + sharpen their skills + create a sustainable photography business.
Jodie: The mission is to create a community of love and diversity for photographers from all walks of life. We wanted to create a conference that is impactful and so motivating that you'll leave feeling empowered to apply what you've learned and start getting the results you need to grow your business.
Can you each share your favorite part of this year's event?!
Ari: Seeing the light bulb go off when one of our attendees learned how to get the photo right in camera versus spending 3-4 hours editing.
Jodie: I had sooo many favorites! My favorite part was when I took a moment to scan the room at the welcome party to see if there was anyone alone...not conversing with anyone. It made my heart so happy to see each attendee open up their minds and hearts to connect with each other without even knowing them. That’s what this conference is all about. Building meaningful relationships that are impactful and inspire each other to dream bigger!
When did you start dreaming of this type of educational event? What made you turn your dreams into reality?
Ari: The Summer of 2019 was when we started dreaming of this event. We held workshops each year prior to this idea and we wanted to create something that would have a bigger impact.
Jodie: We were searching for boutique conferences and could not find one. So we created one.
How significant is the event location? Why did you all select Nashville for Born to Shine 2020?
Ari: We sought out to find a cool, unique venue filled with natural light, and White Avenue Studio fit our vision perfectly.
Jodie: We love Nashville! It's a town full of creatives, good food, good shopping and so many things to do! It forced us to get out of our comfort zones because we were used to planning events in our hometown. We are connected to photographers all over the world and wanted a city that was easy to fly into.
How did you piece together the conference schedule and lineup of speakers and instructors?
Ari: We were very intentional in choosing speakers who would hit every aspect of what a photographer would need to run a profitable business.
Jodie: We knew we wanted to have a welcome party to loosen everyone up, a lineup of speakers to impart the knowledge attendees need to excel, and multiple styled shoots to learn the strategy behind shooting magazine-worthy images for their portfolio.
Anything special you do to make your conference fun as well as educational? Why do you think this is important to your attendees?
Ari: The fact that it's a boutique experience. We are able to give each attendee a personal level of attention that you just won't get at the larger conferences. The feedback we've already received from attendees is that they love they were able to actually speak to the keynote and other speakers and didn't have to fight through a crowd just to even try to say hello. They had real meaningful conversations and that is what makes our conference unique and special.
Jodie: It's important to them because they were able to learn without judgment or intimidation.
For anyone on the fence about planning and hosting a conference, retreat or workshop, what sort of advice or words or encouragement can you offer?
Ari: Be prepared. Hire (i.e. pay) a conference coordinator.
Jodie: Stay positive. The dream you have will become a reality by having a solid plan; be intentional when selecting the team to help execute your vision.
And lastly, what Fotostrap do you wear?
Jodie: I have the Blush Fotostrap.
Photos from Madalyn Yates Photography
Looking for more inspiration from industry creatives? Check out these other Q&A's:
Coffee with Creatives: Misty Rodda's Tips on Keeping a Fresh Perspective
Coffee with Creatives: Katie Lamb's Tips on Finding that "Mompreneur" Work/Life Balance
Coffee with Creatives: Mastering the Art of Low Light Photography with ClickPro Dana Leigh
Coffee with Creatives: Caroline Jurgensen's Tips on Running a Business with her Spouse