Flattering your body to love the way you feel!

One time I had a really important job interview, and I really felt the pressure of wanting it to go well. I studied really hard for the potential question. I went shopping for clothing to hopefully impress them. I even brought a friend along to help me try on outfits. But, you can only go through so many clothing racks of expensive blazers, before you realize how ugly and expensive everything is. I was feeling pretty exhausted from all of the running around.

But that’s when my friend said something that changed everything for me. She grabbed me, kind of shook me a little and said: “Willow, it’s not about the clothes. It’s about YOU. Just go in there, show them how bubbly and classy you are, just by being it.”

I didn’t get the job.

But, I still remember what my friend said because I realize how common it is for wanting things to go well. I know I’m not the only one who spends some extra money just to feel like everything will suck if not! There’s nothing wrong with it— clothes do have a way of symbolizing class and can give us confidence.

I think the trick is to love the way you look in such a way that you love the way you feel. That’s why I’m very strategic in my style guide. I coach my clients on how to look their best so that they feel their best. But my true goal is that they will only notice is how happy they look in their photos!

In my experience, every woman (regardless of her size or shape) has an area of her body that she’s self conscious about. Recognizing the areas you’re self conscious about when selecting your outfits is key. Choosing flattering silhouettes and colors that complement your natural features is the best way to ensure you’ll love the way you look in your photos. Three-quarter length sleeves create an awesome slimming effect on all arms, so be on the lookout for an option with a longer length sleeve. If your dress has shorter sleeves (or no sleeves) consider bringing a cute jacket, blazer, cardigan or pashmina to incorporate into your look. Skinny straps or strapless dresses have the opposite effect on arms on camera. For most women, skinny straps actually make arms look BIGGER. So I recommend avoiding those whenever possible if your goal is slimmer-looking arms. If it’s colder outside, I suggest bringing a warm coat (the longer, the better!) to wear when we’re not shooting so you don’t freeze in your dress.

For shoes, keep in mind that heels elongate women’s legs and force constant tension in the calves –– which makes them look more toned. Closed-toed heels, in particular, look great on camera because they carry out the line of your leg all the way down to your toe. You can never go wrong with a pair of neutral pumps! If your toes are showing in a peep-toe heel, you might want to schedule a pedicure before your session so you don’t regret letting your toes show. If your shoes don’t show at all in the dress you’ve selected, you could always choose neutral ballet flats to make your session more comfortable. Lastly, make sure to bring a pair of flats/flip flops to wear when moving from place to place. Your feet will thank you later!

Make a statement:

Pairing an accessory or two with your outfit can really help bring some extra dimension to your images. Whether it’s a necklace, belt, bracelet, earrings, hat, or scarf, bringing an accessory or two can bring great visual interest to your photos, so choose one or two that don’t compete for attention when paired together. For example, if you go with bolder earnings, you might want to choose a more humble necklace, or maybe even no necklace at all. Fresh florals in a crown or bouquet can be a really romantic touch as well! 

Skip the spray tan— Although it might seem counter-intuitive, I recommend that you do not get a spray tan before your session (even a few days prior) because it tends to photograph orange even when it’s applied subtly and by a professional. Your actual skin tone will photograph most beautifully.

Go Pro— Professional hair and makeup is on the top of most of my clients’ portrait session checklists because it looks amazing on camera and removes the stress of getting ready on your own. You’ll have these photos forever, so this is the time to pamper yourself! Whether it’s lash extensions or blown-out hair, professional hair and makeup will give you an extra boost of confidence in front of the camera, and it always photographs like a dream. If you’re working with a makeup artist, have her apply your makeup in natural light (if possible) so that it looks fresh and not too heavy. Plus, that’s the type of light we’ll be shooting in, so it’ll give you the best expectation of how it will translate on camera. Most of my clients feel like their makeup is “too much” at first, since it’s more than they would wear on a normal day, so if you feel that way at the beginning, don’t worry! Good makeup artists know how to get it just right for the camera — and my clients always love the final result.

More tips to come soon, but the main thing is to stop worrying and just be your beautiful self!

The magic of family sessions

In the famous words of ferris builer, “life moves pretty fast…” and if you don’t stop and taking pictures once in awhile, you will realize that you can’t get that time back.

My litter brother has a beard now. When did that happen?! I swore he had baby cheeks not that long ago.
My second littlest sister is starting college. Well, actually, she’s already on her third semester. I vividly remember her learning how to spell her name.

You always think that you’ll have more time. But the truth is, time slips through our fingers too quickly. I hate it. But this is why we photograph: to document the way we feel about each other, and remember things that you hope you won’t have to have documented in the first place.

Family Photography has a magic that is so important. It brings people together. And when you think about it, that is REALLY hard to do! Getting everyone in one place, at one time, and INTERACTING with each other? Not on the phone or watching TV? How many times do you get that? It’s kind of funny because in a sense, family photos are memories in themselves. The experience is fun, lighthearted, and full of laughter (not just awkward laughing either). And sure, the guys might snarl at first, but they understand why it’s important. And they’ll be pumped to see the pictures when they’re done. Most importantly, family sessions remind you of what’s important. (insert heart-melting awwww). But it’s so true!

Here's the list that I give all of my clients for stress-free family sessions:

1. When dealing with littles, make sure that the kiddos have eaten and had their nap time, and bathroom, before arriving at the session. This prevents any crying or torture tantrums! (Which are very common.)

2. Bring the kids’ favorite toys and snacks! This helps comfort them when they’re stressed or scared of the camera/ new environment.

3. Plan outfits a week in advance, and have all hair and makeup scheduled right after you book your session! Finding cohesive outfits can be a treasure hunt, so it’s best to knock it out as soon as possible! Hair and Makeup artists book up quickly, so book them as far out in advance as possible.

4. Bring any props that you want to be photographed. Think about what makes your family unique, and bring anything that’ll help convey it. If you’re a military family, you can show up in uniform. Or if you’re a fishing family, bring your rods! Adding personality to the session is what makes it yours.

5. Laugh off the punches that will get thrown your way! Tell your kids and your man, that it will be a fun and easy-going time! It’s really important to be patient with your kids and not get stressed out about any of the little details. Trust me, they don’t matter. At the end of the day, the kids are going to be the boss in this I will work around anything that gets thrown our way! It’s important that this session remains fun throughout the whole process, otherwise, everyone will just dread doing it again!

Kelsey & Tyler: like butter on toast

Kelsey and Tyler’s first date was a trip to the dentist.

Not in a literal way, but I just really want to see you again, type of way. They met on a dating app, but the reason why they decided to meet up was the uncanny amount of boxes that were being checked off. Family in car mechanics… check! Love of country… check! There were just enough commonalities that it was pretty much a no-brainer to get together. They went on a few usual dates, but the first official, “I want to see you again” was when Tyler needed a ride to the dentist. I asked Kelsey what her reaction was, and she said she was just happy to be along for the ride!

Really pay attention to that.. she was just happy to be along for the ride.

Us humans are busy creatures! We got dogs to feed, our bodies to exercise, and we got money to make! Or at least catch up on the latest How I Met Your Father episode… all important things!!

So, when we take valuable time to help someone out that we recently met online, that means something big. Even if it’s for something small; that’s the beginning of this love story.

Tyler and Kelsey’s love for each other melts like butter on a slice of toast. It’s warm and easy. Which is why I can never get enough of it! I am so passionate about capturing these types of stories because they are the best stories to share! They make you feel all of the feels in this crazy life that we live.

Our session went by way too quickly, I never feel like I am done capturing love! It’s too cute!!

I’m so happy for these two, and I can not wait to see what their future holds.

Reasons why we need photographers

What’s up friends?! I’ve been doing some reading lately, and sometimes the books that I read give me homework. One book that I am in the middle of is “Book yourself Solid” by Michael Port. Michael helps people who are tired of thinking small, which is the line that got me to pick up his book. Then I thought why not turn his homework into a Blog post, and share what I am learning? So, here we go! The question that got me here:

Why do people buy what I am selling?

Photographers can capture how you’re feeling in the moment

Talk about a superpower! I think this is one of the biggest reasons why professional photography will always out-beat selfies. How do photographers do this? I place my clients in the best lighting and in the best background possible. This eliminates distraction and really pulls the focus on the person in the photo. Next, I give prompts that pull out expressions. Sometimes the way that you’re feeling doesn’t always show on camera. Lastly, photographers help set the tone. They remind you to think about how big of a deal it is to be in that moment. They hype you up with enthusiasm, or they create a quiet moment with a simple whisper. This 100000% makes A HUGE difference in how the photos look!

In the biggest moments of your life who are you going to trust.. someone who doesn’t know how to work a camera?!

When it comes to milestone moments, you don’t get too many do-overs documenting it. Photographers are worth an investment because they know how to work a camera like it is their lot in life! Have you tried working manual mode? Do you know how to find the best lighting in harsh scenarios? Do you know how to pose in such a way that it flatters everybody? If you do, then shh I’m not talking to you. ;) We photographers have studied SO. MUCH. and we’re never done learning. Not to mention— Our equipment is NOT cheap. Our gear costs the price of a car. And you’re going to hire your uncle Jim?

Photography can express your creative juices

Whether you’re the one in front of the camera or behind it, photography is an art form. There is a multitude of ways you can express yourself with this medium. From costumes, angles, lenses, lighting choices, photoshop, and so much more! You can show people you’re creativity and what goes on inside that pretty mind of yours.

Photographs can empower you

This one’s especially about Boudoir sessions, but photographs can help you fall in love with yourself. It’s not really about the photos themselves, it’s about discovering how to feel comfortable in your own skin- then becoming obsessed with it! Photography is an experience that puts the spotlight completely on you. It can make you feel like a celebrity (especially when we blog about you). Photo sessions are a fun reason to dress up, get your loved ones together, and have a blast!

The Cutest Engagement Session in Chico

My favorite part of a session is when the jitters of being in front of a camera totally melt away when you’re just enjoying being with your person. This was for sure the case with these two. Their time together is so natural and full of joy, and their love for each other can not be overlooked. How they met has been woven back and forth from being the girl next door, to summer camps, all the way to college in Florida. Sometimes when someone stays in your life after all that, it’s fate! I had SUCH a blast photographing this session, and I am counting down the days to get them in front of my camera again!