As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, fall offers a stunning backdrop for photography. But to make the most of the season's beauty, choosing the right color scheme for your photo shoot is as important as choosing a great location. The right colors can enhance the natural surroundings, complement your personal style, and make your photos timeless. Here’s a guide to help you pick the perfect palette for your fall session.

1. Embrace Earth Tones

Fall is all about earthy hues that reflect the changing landscape. Think deep browns, warm oranges, muted yellows, and rich greens. These colors blend seamlessly with the environment, allowing you to stand out while still looking cohesive with nature. Consider incorporating shades like:

• Mustard yellow: A warm, inviting color that pairs well with the season's golden light.
• Rust: A deep, burnt orange that echoes the changing leaves.
• Olive green: A versatile hue that complements both warm and cool tones.
• Chocolate brown: A rich, grounding color that adds depth to any outfit.

2. Layer Neutrals for a Timeless Look

Neutral tones are always a safe bet for fall photography. They’re classic, versatile, and work well with any background. Think shades of cream, beige, taupe, and gray. You can create a polished, timeless look by layering different neutrals. For example:

• Pair a cream sweater with a tan coat and taupe boots for a cozy, monochromatic look.
• Add texture with knit scarves or wool hats in neutral tones to keep the outfit interesting.

3. Add Pops of Jewel Tones

If you want to add a bit of color without overpowering the fall scenery, consider incorporating jewel tones. Deep, saturated colors like emerald green, burgundy, and navy blue can add richness and contrast to your photos. These tones look especially striking against fall foliage. Try these combinations:

• Emerald green dress with a camel coat for a sophisticated look.
• Burgundy sweater paired with dark denim and brown leather boots for a casual yet chic vibe.
• Navy blue jacket layered over neutral basics for a pop of color that doesn’t dominate the scene.

4. Consider the Location

Your color scheme should also complement your photo shoot location. If you’re shooting in a forest with lots of green and brown, go for colors that contrast, like mustard or burgundy. If your location has vibrant fall foliage, consider more neutral tones or jewel tones that won’t clash. For urban settings, muted tones and neutrals often work best to balance out the city backdrop.

 

 

5. Coordinate, Don’t Match

If you're taking photos with family or friends, coordination is key. You don’t all need to match exactly, but your outfits should complement each other. Choose a color palette with 2-3 main colors and have everyone wear different variations or shades within that palette. This approach keeps the group looking cohesive without being too matchy-matchy. For example:

• Palette: Mustard yellow, olive green, and cream.
• One person could wear a mustard sweater, another in olive pants, and another in a cream dress with mustard accessories.

6. Think About Texture and Patterns

Don’t forget about texture and patterns when planning your outfits. Cozy knits, plaid scarves, and denim jackets add visual interest and depth to your photos. Just be mindful of patterns—if one person is wearing a bold print, keep the rest of the group in solid colors to avoid clashing.

7. Stay True to Your Personal Style

While it’s important to consider seasonal colors, don’t forget to stay true to your personal style. You want to feel comfortable and confident during your photo shoot, and that starts with wearing something that feels like "you." If you love bold colors, find a way to incorporate them into your fall look. If you’re more of a minimalist, stick with neutrals and simple lines.

8. Don’t Forget Accessories

Accessories can tie your whole look together and add a touch of personality to your photos. Think scarves, hats, belts, and even boots that complement your chosen color scheme. Just remember, less is more—choose a few key pieces that enhance your outfit without overwhelming it.

 

Final Thoughts

 

We know that choosing the perfect outfits can be overwhelming, so we provide all our photography clients with a style guide that’s packed with even more tips and tricks. From advice on how to coordinate outfits for the whole family to suggestions for making the most of your chosen color scheme, our guide has you covered.

Choosing the right color scheme for your fall photo shoot can make all the difference in creating beautiful, cohesive images. By embracing earth tones, layering neutrals, adding pops of jewel tones, and considering your location, you’ll be well on your way to capturing stunning fall memories that will last a lifetime. Remember to coordinate with others in the shoot, incorporate textures and patterns, and most importantly, stay true to your style.

And don’t forget—our personalized Style Guide is here to help you every step of the way. Happy fall, and happy shooting!

Capture Back to School Magic: Tips on Taking Great First Day of School Photos

 

As a photographers, we've had the pleasure of capturing countless milestones, but there’s something uniquely special about the first day of school. It’s a day filled with excitement, nerves, and a sense of new beginnings. As a mom, you want to remember every detail, from their carefully chosen outfit to the way they nervously clutch their backpack. Here are some tips and tricks to help you capture these precious moments beautifully, even with just your phone!

1. Plan Ahead

The morning of the first day of school can be chaotic, so a little planning goes a long way. Decide the night before where you’ll take the photos—whether it’s in front of the house, by the front door, or at the bus stop. Make sure the area is clutter-free and well-lit. If possible, try a few test shots to see how the light looks at that time of day.

2. Capture the Details

It’s the little things that tell the story. Before your child heads out the door, take some close-up shots of their new backpack, shoes, or any special accessories they’re excited about. These detail shots will complement the wider, posed shots and help create a fuller memory of the day.

3. Use Natural Light

Lighting is everything in photography! For the best results, try to take your photos in natural light. Early morning light is soft and flattering, so take advantage of it. If you’re shooting indoors, position your child near a window for the most natural light. Avoid using the flash, as it can create harsh shadows and unnatural colors.

4. Get Creative with Poses

Sure, the classic “standing in front of the house” pose is a must, but don’t be afraid to mix it up! Have your child hold a sign with their grade level or year, or snap a candid shot of them walking down the driveway with their backpack on. Try capturing their reactions when they see their friends at the bus stop or that last wave goodbye before they head off to class.

 

5. Focus on the Emotions

The first day of school is an emotional rollercoaster, and those emotions are what make the photos truly special. Whether it’s the nervous excitement in their eyes or the pride in their smile, focus on capturing those feelings. Don’t worry if the shot isn’t perfectly posed—sometimes the best photos are the ones that capture real, raw emotions.

6. Involve Siblings

If you have more than one child, take some photos of them together. Sibling photos are always a hit, and they can help ease any first-day jitters. Have them walk hand-in-hand, give each other a hug, or just stand side by side. These moments will be treasures as they grow older.

7. Don’t Forget the Parents

It’s a big day for you too! Hand the camera (or phone) to your partner or a neighbor and get in the shot. Whether it’s a quick selfie or a more posed shot, make sure you’re part of the memories too. Years from now, you’ll be glad you did.

8. Capture the Morning Routine

Before the hustle and bustle of getting out the door begins, take some photos of your child's morning routine. Whether they’re eating breakfast, brushing their teeth, or packing their backpack, these candid moments will tell the story of how they started their big day. Capture the excitement in their eyes as they get ready, or the quiet concentration as they tie their shoes. These shots are a great way to document the whole experience of the first day of school, not just the final posed picture.

9. Edit for Impact

After you’ve taken your photos, take a few minutes to edit them. Adjust the brightness, contrast, and crop the image if needed. There are plenty of free editing apps that can help you enhance your photos quickly and easily. Just a few tweaks can make a big difference!

10. Have Fun!

Most importantly, have fun with it! The first day of school is a milestone worth celebrating, and your photos should reflect that. Let your child’s personality shine through, and don’t stress too much about getting the “perfect” shot. The best photos are the ones that capture the joy and excitement of the day.

 

As a mom and a photographer, I know how quickly these moments pass. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to capture beautiful, lasting memories of your child’s first day of school. Happy shooting! 📸

Share this blog post with your fellow moms, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help capturing any of your family’s special moments. Here’s to a great school year ahead!

Capturing Authentic Moments During a Photoshoot

In the world of family photography, capturing authentic moments can turn a simple photo into a cherished memory. While posed pictures have their place, it’s the candid, genuine moments that truly tell a family’s story. Here’s why authentic pictures hold such power and how families can help ensure these precious moments are captured during their photoshoots.

 

Why Authentic Pictures Tell a Better Story

Authentic pictures capture the essence of a family’s dynamic, their love, and their unique quirks. Unlike posed photos, which can sometimes feel stiff and contrived, candid shots reveal real emotions and interactions. These genuine moments create a narrative, allowing viewers to feel the connection and joy shared between family members. When people look back on these photos, they can relive those feelings and memories, making the images more meaningful and lasting.

 

Tips for Families to Get Authentic Pictures

1. Be Yourselves: The most important thing is to relax and be yourselves. Don’t worry too much about being perfect. Authenticity comes from genuine interactions and emotions, so let your personality shine through.

2. Interact Naturally: Engage with each other in a way that feels natural to you. Talk, laugh, and play together as you would if the camera wasn’t there. These interactions often result in the best candid shots.

3. Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose outfits that are comfortable and reflect your personal style. When you’re comfortable in what you’re wearing, it’s easier to move around and interact naturally.

4. Focus on Each Other, Not the Camera: Instead of looking at the camera, focus on each other. This could mean looking into each other’s eyes, sharing a joke, or just enjoying the moment. This will help create more genuine expressions and connections.

5. Embrace Imperfections: Don’t stress over every little detail. Sometimes the most authentic moments are the imperfect ones, like a child’s spontaneous laugh or a windblown hair. These details add character to your photos.

How to Display Authentic Pictures

Displaying your authentic family photos in a meaningful way can further enhance their storytelling power. Here are a few ideas:

1. Photo Albums or Books: Create a custom photo album that tells the story of the photoshoot from start to finish. Include a mix of wide shots, close-ups, and detail shots to create a comprehensive narrative. Or create a moreo budget friendly photo book with captions and short stories about each moment. This can be a beautiful keepsake that your family can cherish for years to come.

2. Gallery Walls: Design a gallery wall in your home with a collection of framed photos. Mix and match frame styles and sizes to create an eye-catching display that captures the essence of your family’s story.

3. Canvas Prints: Select a few standout images and have them printed on canvas. Large canvas prints can make a dramatic statement and bring the emotions of the photos to life in your home.

4. Memory Boxes: Include printed photos in a memory box along with small mementos from the day of the photoshoot, such as tickets, notes, or small trinkets that hold significance.

Authentic moments in photography capture the true essence of a family’s relationships and emotions. These genuine interactions tell a story that posed pictures often cannot, creating lasting memories that will be cherished for generations. By being yourselves, staying relaxed, and focusing on your natural interactions, you can help ensure these precious moments are captured and displayed in ways that continue to tell your family’s unique story.

We are excited to introduce ourselves (again), Tyler and Lorna Waters, the team behind the lens! As a married couple and partners in photography, we bring a unique blend of skills, passion, and creativity to every photoshoot. Here's a little more about us, our family, our faith, our hobbies, and our photography backgrounds.

We are not just partners in photography but also in life. We are happily married and proud parents to four beautiful girls: Lillian (10), Sawer (8), Gail (3), and Hazel (2). Our home is a lively hub of creativity and joy, with our energetic dog, Honey, adding an extra dose of fun to the mix. Faith is at the center of our lives, and we are very involved in our church community. Our relationship with Christ guides us in everything we do, from our family life to our photography business. We believe in capturing the beauty of God's creation and the love He instills in families.

When we're not behind the camera or serving our church, we each have our own hobbies that keep us busy and fulfilled. Tyler's Hobbies: Hunting and Fishing: I love the thrill of the hunt and the serenity of fishing. These outdoor activities give me a chance to connect with nature and find inspiration for my photography. All Things Outdoors: From hiking to camping, I'm happiest when I'm exploring the great outdoors and appreciating God's creation. Lorna's Hobbies: Gardening: I find peace and joy in nurturing my garden, where I grow everything from flowers to vegetables. Baking and Preserving: Our kitchen is always filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked goods and homemade preserves. Running: I enjoy the physical and mental benefits of running, often taking to local trails to stay fit and clear my mind. Together, we share a love for adventure, and our ideal vacation is camping and hiking in new, exciting locations where we can marvel at the wonders of God's world.

Our diverse educational backgrounds and experiences shape our unique photography style. Tyler's Background: I attended photography school, specializing in photojournalism. My training has honed my ability to capture candid moments and tell compelling stories through my images. My photojournalistic approach ensures that each photograph reflects genuine emotion and authenticity. Lorna's Background: I hold a minor in art, with a focus on photography. My artistic training allows me to bring a creative and aesthetic perspective to our work. My attention to detail and artistic vision help to create beautifully composed and visually stunning photographs.

Why Choose Us? Experience: With Tyler's photojournalism expertise and Lorna's artistic eye, we bring a wealth of experience to every project. Passion: Our love for photography is evident in every shot we take. We are dedicated to capturing the essence of each moment and telling your unique story. Faith and Personal Touch: As a family-oriented team with Christ at the center of our lives, we understand the importance of capturing the special moments that matter most to you and your loved ones. Whether it's a family portrait session, a wedding, or a special event, we are committed to providing you with beautiful, timeless photographs that you'll treasure for years to come. Book Your Session Today! Ready to capture your precious moments with us? Contact us today to book your photography session and experience the magic of our work firsthand. We can't wait to create stunning memories with you!

Barbee Wedding

Venue: Trumpet in the Land

Reception: Emmerson Hall