Head-Shots Don't Have to be Stuffy

It's a new world out there! As business and social media collide the days of stuffy, stodgy, predictable business head-shots are out. Your first impression should be warm, friendly and approachable.

I wish they had a different name - "head shot" is so... aggressive! 

Your personality should shine through in an appropriate and business like manner without looking fashioned and out of touch. 

 

From press releases to LinkedIn portfolios, websites and even your Facebook page - put your best face and personality out there! How may of us a guilty of "face judging"? Doesn't the way someone presents them self affect your willingness to do business with them?

What is your head shot saying about you? If it's time for an update or "re-do", get in touch!

A Sunset Mini :: San Antonio Teen Portraits

It rained today. I was so afraid that this session would have to be canceled - and the thought made me so sad! Instead, the skies were a perfect hazy, diffused, backdrop and the sun powered through for some amazing light.

More will be posted on Facebook! Be sure to LIKE ARG's page! 

The M Family :: San Antonio Family Portraits

Such a beautiful family! I had the pleasure to photograph Mom and Dad's engagements, Mom's bridals and now a sweet family session before Dad headed out for training - I'll give you one guess for the Dad's service branch! :)

What to Wear :: Affordable Family Style

I'm totally obsessed with the amazing colors that stores anda designers are doing for spring and summer! I love every.single.color right now. Don't be afraid of color in your portraits - and remember -- everyone DOES NOT have to have on one or two solid colors. Mix it up! Have fun!

This is an idea that would work for Spring or Summer, inspired by the amazing colors Target has in their spring line.

I started with "Mom" - and I put her in my favorite color!  Often I find that Mom coordinates everyone and then decides what she's going to wear... Mom, CHOOSE YOUR OUTFIT FIRST!!! When you feel and look your best everyone looks great because you are at your most fabulous. Choose a style and color that suits you and makes you feel great.

Dad is comfy in casual pants and a shirt he can leave out with the sleeves rolled up and the kiddos bring everyone together. Yes! It's OK to mix a print or two and shades of a color.

All items are from Target except the Van's for Dad which goes to show that great style can be found at any price point and just about any store.

So go ahead and have fun with color this spring and summer. Step away from the matchy-matchy khaki and denim and brighten up your family portraits.

Mr. & Mrs. :: Playing House :: Engagement Pictures

Alyssa and Justin had the best time "playing house" for their engagement shoot... I love working with creative people and I loved how unique this shoot was. An artist herself, Alyssa had a vision and it was so fun to collaborate and make it come to life.

Sisters | San Antonio Children's Photographer

The love between these precious girls was apparent from Baby C's newborn session. Big Sis C is protective and proud of her little and Baby C is totally enamored with her big. What a special friendship these two will have for a long time to come! 

The Tillyer Family | San Antonio Family Portraits

I love all the families that I get to shoot - but this family was one of the easiest and most fun I've met! Mom and Dad were totally willing to do whatever it took to make their kiddos smile (they were great assistants!) -- and the thumb sucking? Mom's attitude was "Well, we'll always remember him exactly as he was!". I've been going back to these images again and again just remembering how natural, relaxed, and at ease the were with each other. And the lighting? We totally hit the jackpot. It was the perfect "golden hour" glow!

(Nothing like a little momma-sugar!)

The Sewells | San Antonio Family Photographer

There are few things better than photographing a friend - and few higher compliments than having a friend trust you enough to photograph their family! I had a blast with you guys and I can't wait to make it an annual tradition! xx

Wardrobe Inspiration | San Antonio Photographer

I'm so excited about this "cool-snap" we've had the last few days! We can finally indulge in some cool weather fashion without a) looking ridiculous or b) overheating. Here are three of my current favorite looks - remember that layers (as long as they aren't too bulky) photograph beautifully!

Momma to Be | San Antonio Maternity Photographer

As much as I love sunset shooting, there is something pure, lovely and new about early morning light. It's perfect for capturing a beautiful momma-to-be. Enjoy your sneak peak, Wendy! I can't wait to meet your sweet girl in December!

I love when Dad comes along and is game to jump in a few shots. I love it even more when Dad's excitement and love for his baby is worn on his sleeve!

Momma T & Bebe J | San Antonio Maternity Photographer

Tiffany and her sweet family were so fun to work with and were a perfect example of how dad and big brother can really add personality to the session. Tiffany's friend Rachel hosted a shower for her today and surprised her with some prints from the session - which is why I had to (painfully) wait to share!

Preparing for A Session | San Antonio Portrait Photographer

Beth, at Home Stories A to Z, recently had some family portraits taken and wrote a fabulous article on preparing for the session. Read about her process and tips here.

Have a great weekend!

What to Wear | San Antonio Portrait Photographer

Fall is a hard transition time in Texas. It's hard to appreciate the subtleties of the season when the weather still says "summer". Embrace the color palates but not the long sleeves or sweaters to maintain the "feel" of fall without feeling too hot!

These are examples of Mother/Daughter ensembles. The principles applied in these outfits can be easily applied to a whole family or siblings. Go for coordinating but not matchy matchy.

I particularly like this set. Everyone coordinating but some individuality and personal style is maintained. For our weather I might switch our little brother's long sleeves for a cute polo or collared short sleeve shirt and Dad's long sleeves with a button down with sleeves rolled up.

I know the rose color doesn't scream "fall" but I think that the colors would just be divine against the deep, warm autumn colors that nature provides.