My photographing tips

I may or may not be the first person you would come to for photographing tips. But I have been asked a lot about what I think does and doesn't work. So I thought about it and compiled my own helpful list in Q and A form. Plus provided some helpful links. I hope it helps as you get ready to take your Holiday photo's this fall! I know, I know. It still seems far away. But pssst...It's not.

*Please know this is my own personal opinion and in no way intended to offend or put anyone off. Also, if you have attempted one of the faux pas in the past please know you are in good company.

Q. What should I/we wear? This is the number one question I am asked. Even when I'm not the one taking the pictures. Which is still totally cool by me!

A. Wear fun and vibrant colors. The one's that look best on you. Stay away from prints that are two busy and will take away from your pretty face. Unless you can pull it off like this, don't wear white. It's not a very flattering color for anybody. If all else fails bring an outfit change.

Q. But I really want us all to match? Okay that's really not a question but I get that a lot.

A. DO NOT! I repeat DO NOT all where the same color. Instead color coordinate. For instance... Our family photo's this spring. I picked out different but coordinating shirts for my boys. They were all brown with hints of blue and orange. Then Richard wore blue and I wore orange. These were with out question my favorite family photo's we have ever taken. Look around and get ideas off the internet or your friends blogs:) If all else fails "bring an outfit change."

Q.Can we schedule my appointment for after I get my hair done?

A. Yes!!! Try to coordinate this. The same day if at all possible. We all feel pretty after we've just gotten are hair done. Pictures turn out the best when we feel good about our selves. Make sure your children feel cute/pretty as well.

Q. What kind of props should we bring/use.

A. My very favorite props are the ones you wear. Wear your cutest blinged out jewelry! Rings, earrings, necklaces, etc!!! If you have something that is extra special like an heirloom, what better time to wear it? Hats, scarfs, and shoes are extra ways to spice up your pictures! I say the funkier the better! If you have a special interest like an instrument or motorcycle's you should bring that too!

Q.Where should we shoot?

A. I think places that are special to you are the best! Your home, where you first met, etc. Places that are unique or have great architecture are great. Hip and funky pictures are really in right now. Urban or junk yard photo shoots, anyone? Remember there needs to be shade. It should be a public place where you won't get kicked out. Private property is a big no, no. Unless you get special permission.

Q. Any other special advice you can give me?

A. I think I covered almost everything. But here is a fabulous post from a photographer who's blog I follow. She gives some great information for glamed out photo's.