Tuesday, March 5, 2013

WPPI 2013 Las Vegas

So I'm in the process of gearing up for my annual track to Las Vegas. I'm going to WPPI which stands for Wedding & portrait photographers international. Now, that's a mouth full. I'm glad they abbreviated it.
What is WPPI all about?
It's a week long event, of all things photography held in Las Vegas at the MGM hotel & convention center. They have classes for just about anything a photographer would like or need to learn. You want to learn lighting, posing, billing, copyright info, branding or pricing. They have classes for you and then some.
 If you would like a good laugh and maybe some booty shaking? Then I would encourage you to check out any thing "DOUG GORDON". That guy is great, he gets a smile out of me every time I see him.


 They have group shoots where newbie photographers (and some seasoned photogs) can sign up to join a group going out on a shoot. Check with vendors that are sponsoring events or will be at the trade-show for joining shoots. There are usually models hired and a location appointed. Going on a shoot gives you some useful images you can use to buff up your portfolio.

Then there are the parties. There are many of them, it is Vegas after-all. So, one might expect to get their party on. There's a page on facebook dedicated just to keep you informed on the parties. It's a good way to stay in the loop.

I have saved the best for last. The best thing about WPPI is the friends you will make. Each year I come away with at least 200 business cards, 100 new facebook friends, 50 new pin-pals, 25 phone or skype buddies, 10 new friends that I visit during the year and 4 or 5 really good friends. Now I think one good friend is worth their weight in gold. But to have a really good friend who doesn't mind me blabbering on about photography and how much I love it, now that's something special. This will be my fourth year going and the thing I'm most excited about is seeing all of the really cool people I met in the prior years. So Cheers to everyone, You know who you are!!!! Love you guys.

*If we haven't met yet, thats okay Cheers to you as well. If you see a six foot red head with a stupid smile all over her face laughing and having a good time, that's me. Come say HI!!!!
Much Love, Whitney

Thursday, February 28, 2013

Newborn Pictures


What makes a baby photogenic? Simple, babies are adorable so the camera loves them. 

They have tiny toes and tiny fingers and even when they cry they have cute little crying faces.
So one might ask, what makes a good baby picture then?
I've learned it's the simple things that make my newborn sessions successful.

My formula is: good lighting, cute outfits and simple back drops.
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Thursday, February 21, 2013

How to get the best maternity pictures

I wanted to share some wordrobe tips I've learned over the years while photographing maternity pictures.

1. Wear something fitted, it helps to show off your beautiful baby bump!

2. Bring two outfits one formal and one casual.

3. Dress in layers. This helps you transition between looks easily during the portrait session.

4. Don't forget the accessories! Earrings, neclaces, shrug and scarves are a great way to add some drama to your look.







Thursday, February 14, 2013

Kick Ball Game


 “The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra.” - Jimmy Johnson

Children play with all their might. Why? Because they have no reason not to.
~This Image was taken at the annual YMCA camp reunion in Ann Arbor Michigan.

Thursday, February 7, 2013

Magic Smile


“Children see magic because they look for it.”

I took this image at a recent baby shower. There were children of the guests just playing in a side room, while the adults attended to the festivities. The sun was reflecting off the back of the house spilling into the room, lighting up the kids faces. This little girl had a particularly angelic look and smiled quite naturally. Children have a graceful ease about them. They smile because they can, because they still believe in the possibility of anything!

Friday, February 1, 2013

How to properly beach comb

 I thought this would be a cute way to share some iPhone pictures from my vacation.


Step 1. Find a relaxing coastal place, such as Miami. 
Step 2. Make your way down to the beach early in the morning (after a few caramel lattes)
Step 3. During low-tide, walk gingerly along the shore

Step 4. Survey the spoils of the hunt.
Step 5. Choose your favorite shell. Perhaps one that resembles the Cheetos you ate for breakfast.
Step 6. Find a hammock and take a nap, because your on vacation!