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

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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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.

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.

Magic Smile

“Children see magic because they look for it.”

― Christopher Moore, Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff, Christ's Childhood Pal

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!

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!

Siblings

I shot this picture in ludignton while walking with the kids out to the Breakwater lighthouse.

It really is a beautful moment when a mother sees her children interact as siblings and freinds. This made me reflect on my own relationship I have had with my 5 siblings over the years. Did you know, only one third of siblings remain close into adulthood.  

I admit I only speak to 2 out of my 5 siblings. Some part of me hopes my kids somehow beat those odds. If there ever comes a point in the future when they are not speaking to eachother I will send them this picture to remind them of when they did.

"From the time that they are born, our brothers and sisters are our collaborators and co-conspirators, our roll models and cautionary tales.  They are our scolds, protectors, goads, tormentors, playmates, counselors, sources of envy, objects of pride. They teach us how to resolve conflicts and how not to; how to conduct friendships and when to walk away from them.  Sisters teach brothers about the mysteries of girls; brothers teach sisters about the puzzle of boys.  Our spouses arrive comparatively late in our lives; our parents eventually leave us. Our siblings may be the only people we ever know who truly qualify as partners for life.  Siblings are with us for the whole journey."

Katherine Conger - University of California, Davis