by mphotoadmin | Nov 19, 2018
Juliane was in her element traipsing around downtown Sacramento finding beautiful murals and retro buildings to pose in front of. I knew right from the get go at our consultation that this is the type of location fit for Juliane’s senior portrait experience. I also knew from our wardrobe consult what look she was going for and the color pallet to look for when location scouting. I always try to find the right background to compliment what the client is wearing.
This girl has some dedicated parents, they hauled this paint setup all around downtown Sacramento! Such troopers! But it was all worth it to capture this beautiful scene in Capitol park!
This sun flare was everything!
We decided to throw her hair up for a few shots and as her mom was putting it up I stopped them and started shooting. Her mom loved this hair in the face authentic moment!
The artist in her was all about this shot next to the Frida Kalho mural! IT was the most perfect last shot of the session. With that being said- ” That’s a wrap!”
by mphotoadmin | Aug 14, 2018
The debate about having a second session after yearbook photos
Are you serious? With all the things I have to do for my childs senior year, booking a second session now has to be added to the list? The answer isn’t a definite yes! But it is something you should consider exploring and I will tell you why.
The yearbook photo while timeless with the black off the shoulder drape and the tilted pose, it is also uncomfortable! These photos are typically shot at a high-volume studio where they are doing back to back sittings and just looking to the next customer. While they are good at what they do, taking headshots and maybe few studio shots, they are not interested in getting to know your teen or you. Now this is all I am going to say about these studios because I am not here to bash a competitor I am here to tell you why both of us can be part of your senior experience.
Take a minute to consider both. If you are looking for something a little more personal for your teen then I would strongly suggest you look into booking a local photographer who specializes in senior photography. Senior sessions typically lasts 2-3 hours and include hair and makeup but the experience doesn’t begin at the session it begins weeks or months prior with the photographer getting to know your teen and working closely to develop a session that expresses everything about them.
I will usually meet with my senior at least once before the session and have several phone consultations to go over outfits, locations and overall mood of the shoot. The purpose of this shoot is to encapsulate your life up until this moment. I tell all my teens I want you to look back in twenty years and instantly be transported back to who you were back then. I want their kids or grand kids to look at these photos and right away be able to know what you were like at 18!
I also want your kids to be able to see these photos. This is another reason to go with a local photographer that offers products. You will get a wide array of boutique heirloom options for printing your beautiful artwork. Because just like DVDs have been removed from computers someday so will USBs. It is a disservice to our clients to only hand over digital files when we have access to some of the best photo labs in the country to print at professional quality anything you can imagine.
These local photographers are not a high volume studio, they typically only shoot a few handful of clients a month in order to focus their time and energy on them. This means you will get all of their attentions and a VIP experience. Like I said previously it doesn’t just begin and end at the shoot! There are emails, calls, edits and making your client feels special. All of these things combine makes investing in a local photographer worth the money! Lets talk money!
A local photographer can cost anywhere between 200-$2500 depending on the experience you are looking for. Some photographers are hobbyist and are doing this because it is their passion and may need some extra cash for yearly vacations. Other’s do this as a full-time job and need to pay insurance, taxes, business license and a million other things that it cost to run a business and then on top of that their mortgage and to live! Again, neither option is better but I will speak on the latter since this in the boat I am in. Not to go into too much detail, this can be its own post but because I am premiere award winning full time photographer I treat my clients as such. You are supporting my small business and because of that I am going to put extra attention into my clients. Some weeks I work more than 40 hours and those hours are solely focused on my clients and growing my business. Just remember that sometimes it is worth paying more to support a local and get a premium experience. I know that whenever I need a service done I always look to Folsom Chat on Facebook to find recommendations for locals. I know I may be paying more but I am also boosting the local economy.
You will also have the chance to shoot your session at anytime of the year not just summer!
by mphotoadmin | Aug 7, 2018
These two high school sweethearts were all cuddles and love during their engagement session in Truckee a few weeks ago. Even after 12 years together their affection for each other shows with every loving glance, sweet gesture and patient tone. We started the session in downtown Truckee a fun place to dance to the street performer or cozy up next to each other.
I love this old gas station. Fun fact that the building is now a real estate office!
Then we went down to the Truckee River where Aaron’s parents got married! The sun was setting which made for some gorgeous light on the river.
I just love the way the look at each other here!
Lastly we went up to Donner Overlook, this spot holds special meaning to the couple because it is where they had their first kiss on Prom night!!!!! How cute is that!! It was one of my favorite spots because of the texture of the rock and the color palette!
I fell head over heals for this couple. It made me realize although I am done photographing weddings an engagement session here and there wouldn’t hurt!
by mphotoadmin | Jul 31, 2018
When I am on the other side of the camera and having to plan a session for myself I get so overwhelmed. I get it guys! I have been in your shoes! The planning is the hardest part of your session but it is also the most important. Having a well thought out session is crucial to having a beautiful final product. You will be giving yourself a pat on the back when you view your photos the more time you put in before hand! To help with this process I have put together three things you can do to get started.
1. Your Style
Your style is extension of who you are. These photos are representing you at this age, make sure you are creating outfits that scream you! Putting together outfits that are nicely stylized can really up the WOW factor in your portraits. Why you ask? You are paying for professional portraits which means you want yourself to look put together as well. Our senior sessions include Hair and Makeup so do not cut corners on your clothing choices. This does not mean you have to spend a small fortune on new clothes but it does mean that you cannot throw together a few outfits hours before the shoot. Plan out your outfits and think about your style and the type of setting you want when deciding on what to wear. Check our what to wear guide for more tips and tricks.
2. Your Location
A photographer can take a great photo anywhere so don’t be shy in suggesting locations, even if you aren’t sure of the setting. You can leave it up to your photographer to choose but let me tell you a secret, we love hearing your suggestions!!! It gives us a chance to try out new places and experiment. Creative locations are always fun to play around with. Sit down and think about any places you have been that hold a special place in your heart or any hobbies or interest that have a location that would add to the photo. I had a client that loved reading so we found an old book store and shot in there. Or one that loved music so we found a record store. Maybe your dad used to take you to an old 50’s ice cream shop when you were a kid and going there would bring back such fond memories. Or maybe you love horseback riding and you know of a gorgeous riding stable! The possibilities are endless if you try and incorporate part of yourself when deciding your location.
3. Your Story
Think about what you want to convey with your senior photos. Are just wanting pretty pictures or are you wanting to look back in 10 or 50 years and remember who you were when you took these. Think of your senior session as a time capsule of your time on this earth up until now. What will you tell your grandkids someday about who grammy was when she was just 18. Did she have a certain book that she read a million times or a hat she always wore. Did she play an instrument or was she the star pitcher for her high school softball team. Think really hard what you could add to your portraits to really signify who you were at 18! This is your story to tell, let you photographer tell it passionately and accurately!
by mphotoadmin | Jul 24, 2018
AHHHHH my shoot is in two days and I have no idea what I am going to wear!!!! Your wardrobe plays a huge part in how your senior portraits turn out. It makes your photos go from great to fabulous! I know this can be the most challenging part to your session. Getting your wardrobe together takes time and you should never wait until the last minute to find everything. This is why I recommend booking your session a few months in advance so you have time to look for the perfect pieces.
1. Plan Ahead
Book your session a month or so out to give yourself enough time to put outfits together and shop for new items. This allows for you to shop sales or play around with different ideas. Sometimes you need a few shopping trips to find the right items.
2. Create an Inspiration Board
2. Create inspiration board
What did we do before Pinterest? If you do not have Pinterest then your a lost cause. JK JK but seriously you need to create yourself an account!! Check out my Pinterest board to get started and then create your own board of pins that match your style. Whenever I am planning a new haircut or redecorating a room in my house I always begin on Pinterest.
3. Pull Pieces from Your Closet
Once you have created an inspiration board on Pinterest and before you go out and buy a whole new wardrobe look through your closet with fresh eyes and see if you already have any of the items. Pull out that funky outfit you have in the back of you closet you never wear but would look epic in a picture, or set aside that prom dress that would look so cool next to your uncles old classic car.
4. Think Outside of the Box
You want variety in your looks. It is nice to play it safe with one or two looks because those are images Gramma Donna or Aunt Lynette might want on their fireplace but we also want these portraits to be an expression of you. Look on your Pinterest board and see if there are any looks that are out of the box for you and try it out!
5. Accessorize!
This is very important piece of the puzzle. Adding a statement necklace or an awesome hat can make your images go from pretty to extraordinary. Accessories can pull the whole look together so do not leave them out. Try looking at Charming Charlie or Forever 21 for some inexpensive statement pieces. Accessories can also mean adding props when the scene calls for it. This can be instrumental in telling your story and adding a personal touch to your images.
6. Stay Away From…
Try to find clothes that fit you and are not too flowy It might make you feel slimmer but it can also cause you not to have much shape. The eye wants to see shape in an image. Try googling your body type to see what type of cuts look best on you!
Avoid any logos on clothing and crazy loud prints. If you are going to have a loud print make sure we find a location that is more plain in order not to clash with our background.
MOST OF ALL YOU WANT TO FEEL COMFORTABLE AND YOURSELF. Have fun with the process and get a little creative and remember I am always hear to advice and my wardrobe closet is always here to rescue you!
Where to Shop:
Apricot Lane
Ambiance (in Placerville or Folsom)
Forever 21
Vici
Zara
American Eagle
Crossroads Trading Post
by mphotoadmin | Jul 17, 2018
When the girls first joined the team we got together at Coffee Republic to get to know each other and brainstorm ideas for our editorial shoot. We came up with some great ideas but the Roller Rink was by far the best! As soon as the theme was set in stone I knew exactly where we would be doing the shoot, the Sunrise Rollerland of course. This place held so many memories of my childhood from birthday parties to couple skating with my then crush. I was so happy to bring all those memories back.
There is quite a bit that goes into planning a stylized shoot like this. Me and the girls created a Pinterest board to keep it all organized. We had a group text where we sent our ideas back and forth to make sure our outfits all matched. Once the girls found what they could, I went out and did some shopping at a thrift store. I also sent our hair and makeup lady different hair and makeup ideas for each girl.
The day of the shoot we had our hair and makeup done with Lea Beauler and then headed to the rink. We ended up being super later and thankfully the staff stayed open longer for us! Which meant we had the rink to ourselves but I was also limited on my shots! I’m so glad we were able to get such amazing portraits of these seniors.
With all the planning and research the girls did beforehand they knew exactly what look I was going for and absolutely rocked the attitude and 70’s vibe.
Skating around the carpet was easy for them but once they had to get on the rink it took some time to catch their balance. I guess skating isn’t as popular as it used to be! These girls where wobbling all over! Thankfully nobody wiped out!
As we got toward the end of the shoot it was time for the classic- ICEES!! I don’t think anybody has ever looked better drinking an Icee!
I’m so proud of these seniors and am excited to do more themed shoots throughout the year. They have started to create a beautiful bond!
I used two off cameras flashes and edited in post to create this 70’s style feel.
Tops, vests and skirt- Crossroads Trading Post
Pants and shirts- Forever 21
by mphotoadmin | Jul 10, 2018
I try to get to know my seniors before their senior session. First I have a initial consultation with them and then we will chat off and on on the phone about what they want for their session. It is important to me to understand their vibe. I also will fiercely stalk their Instagram feed in order to get to know them better and know their style. When I searched through Negeen’s feed I could tell she was a free spirit. Someone who could hangout on a hammock listening to old rock music or go sit on the beach and meditate for hours. She also is a jack of all trades. She is amazing at yoga, rides horses, plays the ukulele and loves music plus much more. I loved getting a chance to feature many of these talents in her session.
We started our session out in Dimple Records, which brought me back to when I was a kid in the 90’s! The 90’s were the best! I am so glad I grew up in that decade.
This girl, doing this yoga pose on a rock in the middle of the water- thank god she didn’t fall in!!!
Negeen your eyebrows are so on point I cant even handle this. I seriously have to draw in my eyebrows and still you can barely see them.
How cute are Ukuleles? They are tiny little guitars and i just love them! I want to learn to play.
Girl I want to be when you grow up! Can you teach me how to be this talented!!
by mphotoadmin | Jul 2, 2018
Growing up I always loved sunflowers. So much so that when I grew out of my Minnie mouse stage and the pink walls and decals came down I opted for a border of sunflower wallpaper. My grandmother made me a sunflower quilt and I always chomped on sunflower seeds during softball games. I LOVED SUNFLOWERS and still do to this day. With it being sunflower season in California I decided I needed to do a passion shoot. A shoot just for me and my creativity. Something to feed my soul and to spend sometime with some awesome seniors.
We piled in the car and started driving down highway 50 until we saw sunflowers on the side of the road. Which brought us to Davis by the soccer fields. We pulled up and of course we weren’t the only ones their. Every photographer within a 50 mile radius is eager to photograph these beautiful flowers, they are only at their best for a few weeks out of the year! We waited our turn and then shot a way. By this point the delta breeze was hitting and the sun was starting to dip. Perfect setting for what I wanted to convey in these portraits. The girls were such good sports with the wind and the temperature dropping pretty fast. When I was photographing one girl the other would be holding my big oval reflector and that thing could catch some air. At one point I thought it was going to take us out!
These fields made these girls radiate happiness!
At the end of the shoot we pulled out the American flag and got a little patriotic. What isn’t more American than an American flag, sunflowers and some colorful bandannas. We were all freezing at this point but we got some beautiful shots.
After I treated these girls to some yummy Pizza. Thank you ladies for being the perfect models!
DISCLAIMER: WE made sure to stay on the outside of the fields and were cautious not to damage any flowers. we all need to remember that this is someones property and their livelihood and to be very respectful of it! Asking permission is always good also!
by mphotoadmin | Jun 7, 2018
One of the best feelings in life is seeing the people closest to you happy and in love. Seeing is one thing but getting to be part of these intimate moments I get to selfishly feel just a little bit of their bliss. I have said it before but telling a story for someone through my lens is like tapping into that person’s soul for just a little while. These moments inevitably change me as person. I learn something new about myself after every session. Spending a few hours with a person getting to know them and capturing the most raw parts of them… that is my CHURCH.
This beautiful afternoon in Redwood City I was able to capture my thoughtful and beautiful friend Laurel, her attentive and goofy husband, Bob and their sweet, precious baby girl Avery Jane. They welcomed Avery on April 9th and they have been swooning over her ever since. Avery already loves going on adventures with mom and dad to the redwoods and even wine tasting. She especially loves watching her favorite sports teams, Sixers and Phillies with daddy. I think she loves cuddling with mom and dad the most out of all these things.
It was such a gift getting to photographing my friends and their new adventure.
Cannot wait to come visit again and get all the cuddles!
Love auntie,
Mel
by mphotoadmin | Jun 1, 2018
Boy Oh Boy what a crazy and amazing year it has been. This wraps up my first year focusing on High School Seniors. A decision I came to after finding myself spending way to much time on the teenage girls during family photoshoots. I just love everything about their vibe. I am so eager to tell their story and be a mentor to these wonderful young women.
I have learned a great deal about myself and my business through them. It has really helped me to define my brand and remind myself why I started photographing in the first place. I hope that I can show these young adults what it is like to be a powerful young women that has created a business and is thriving. I want them to know that they can create their own destiny and find what they are passionate about and make their dreams come true!
To my sweet, courageous and beautiful Reps. Thank you for taking a risk on me and being my first ever MGP Reps! I have loved getting to know each one of you and cannot wait to see what you do with this beautiful life!
This group of seniors are so unique, so kind and so focused on all the right things in life. I am so proud of each one of them and I WANT UPDATES ON ALL YOUR LIVES!! Do not forget about me because I will never forget you. I am always here to give advice, chat and live vicariously through you! THANK YOU FOR LOVE AND ENERGY!!
HUGE SHOUT OUT TO THE PARENTS OF THIS GROUP! THEY TRUSTED MY VISION EVERY STEP OF THE WAY AND ALWAYS LET ME DO MY THING AND EMBRACED MY CREATIVITY. THANK YOU FOR TRUSTING ME AND TURNING YOUR CHILDREN INTO THE WORKS OF ART!
I also really enjoy photographing boys! Once they warm up they are so fun to pose and get those smoldering looks!
Now go out there and be brave, fearless and just a little bit WILD!!! LIVE in every moment!
Your Friend and Photographer,
Mel
