The Anniversary Session

There aren't many people who get married and do NOT have a wedding photographer.  And after it's all said and done, your photos are the one thing you have to remember and relive that magical day.  

But what about after?  Most couples don't get in front of the camera again until kids come along.  But what about that time in between?  Or if kids aren't in the picture?  Those beautiful wedding photos are great but it's still important to document and celebrate the moments and years in-between as you change and evolve together.

Hence the anniversary session!  An anniversary is the time to think back on the time together and celebrate where you are as a couple. 

An anniversary session doesn't necessarily have to take place on or near your anniversary.  It can be anytime to document your love for one another!

It is often much more relaxed and comfortable since the early days of that engagement session or wedding!  It's also a perfect gift at any age for Valentine's Day or an Anniversary gift.  (because who really needs another kitchen gadget??) . Think about something that will last!

You can also get creative on location.  Is there a place that has significance to both of you?  Or have you recently bought a new home?  Why not a session celebrating this new milestone?

And if you have children you can include them or (gasp!) not include them to keep the focus on you guys, as much of the rest of life does revolve around those adorable kiddos!

So many options, and so much fun.   Contact me for ideas or to schedule something!

Beth and John are Engaged!

I am so excited for Beth and John's upcoming March wedding!  We had so much fun at their engagement session last weekend and getting some super cute shots of this easy going and fun couple! (and their little pup Stella!) . Congrats you guys!  Can't wait for the big day!

5 Things to Consider when choosing a location

"Location, location, location" is the famed mantra, and it is an important factor when considering WHERE To have your photo session!  

Here are 5 things I recommend considering when picking a location.

1. Is there a place with special significance to the people in the photo?

Doing an engagement session at the place where he proposed or your first date adds more significance to the photos and adds another memory to cherish in the photos.  Or having a family session in a frequently loved park or place that meant something to the parents.  

2. Does location has a good variety of textures, architecture, environments – a place that’s visually interesting.  

To avoid the same looking backdrop in each photo, it's nice to have a place where there is something different and visually interesting to work with- a bridge, garden, stone wall, pathway, body of water, etc that just adds a little variety and personality to the photos.

3. Time of year– what will be in bloom, what will the trees be like is all depending on the season!  

For example, if you want to capitalize on spring tulips in the spring, find a location where they will be in bloom!  Or if you're looking for beautiful fall foliage, avoid someplace with mostly evergreen trees that don't turn.

4. Make sure it works well for the age of your kids.  

If your kids need a lot of room to run, look for a place with open space that won’t disturb others around them.  We want it to a be fun and not stressful experience!

5. Do we need a permit or reservations?  

DC is a tricky city with a lot of restrictions around commercial photography.  So is completely prohibited, while other places just require an additional fee and advanced reservations.  I'm happy to advise and talk through those options and comparable "free" locations! :)

Be sure to check out some of my favorite locations here!