5 Dos and Don'ts on Dressing for Family Photos

You’ve picked the date, paid the deposit now - WHAT TO WEAR?!

I know personally what a struggle this can be! I lay it all out on the floor every year and swap items until it’s right! H&M, Old Navy, Target and Amazon are my favorites!!

Here are five DOs for dressing a family to look sharp for photos!

1. DO DRESS MOM FIRST. Mom is the hardest to dress in regards to finding something in the right fit, style, and price! So I always suggest clients start here. Moms, find something you love, that you can wear again, that fits well, and makes you feel great! Build everything else around your outfit.

2. DO MIX COLORS. You want colors that compliment each other, not be matchy-matchy. You’re going to end up with a lot of neutral pieces (navy, grey, brown, ivory, denim, black) with a few color pieces to pop.

3. DO LAYER IN TEXTURE and PATTERN. Always mix in some texture and pattern. Typically we only want one big pattern piece: floral, checked, plaid, etc. And then layer in some texture too: fringe boots, heathered fabrics, lace, fur vest, tulle skirt, cable knit, etc.

4. DO CONSIDER YOUR HOME DECOR. What colors do you love in your home? If you might be getting canvases or prints of these images, consider what might go with what’s already in your home.

5. DO INTENTIONAL SHOES. Making sure the shoes match the outfits is the final cherry on top that pulls it all together. They can’t wear their neon school shoes for this. Old Navy, Walmart, and Target never let me down on generic looking dressy sneakers or loafers for my boys. One of my favorite photos had our littlest in some Navy Converse he wore for a year afterwards. And moms, wear comfortable shoes we can walk around in! Wedges and flats are my go-tos.

Five Don’ts to Avoid for Family Photos:

1. DON’T DO ALL OR BRIGHT WHITES. Try even cream or ivory for the same idea.

2. DON’T DO NEON OR VERY SATURATED COLORS. These can cast colors onto skin and can be distracting. Try maroon instead of red, mustard instead of yellow, or navy instead of royal blue as examples.

3. DON’T DO BIG LOGOS and TEXT. Because of posing these often wont be seen in full and can be distracting.

4. DON’T WEAR TRANSITION LENSES. We want to see everyone’s eyes!

5. DON’T CHOOSE VERY THIN STRIPS OR SMALL CHECKS. These do not always translate well in camera and can cause an effect called Moire. Larger prints or solids are better.

Last, let me know if I can help!! Send me pictures and let’s solve it together!

Blessings,

Nicole

A Letter to Dads

Hey Dads,

We’ve all seen the meme and related to it….when your wife tells you she’s scheduled family photos.

Listen, I know it’s hard. The Cowboys are probably playing, your wife has made you wear stuff you don’t want to wear, the kids act crazy, it’s Texas so it’s probably hot and we’re all sweating. I know! You're doing it for three simple but BIG reasons:

1. It’s important to your wife. She is proud of the family you have created together. She wants to document and share beautiful photos of the people she loves most in this life. These photos are visual proof of her daily blood sweat and tears as a mama. It’s literally her heart in an image.

2. Your kids change so much so fast. You already know this. Every year it seems to go even faster. They’re only like this today - tomorrow a new change will sneak in. Slowly but surely, they’ll lose their baby teeth, their curls, the blonde streaks in their hair, the chub in their cheeks. And you won’t realize it until you look back at photos. It happens in a blink.

3. This is the most important part, guys. THIS IS YOUR LEGACY. You are a father and a husband above all else. One day when you’re gone, they’ll have only your memories and your photos. They’ll speak of you, your character, tell stories of you and share photos of you. But…what if we didn’t take an evening out of our busy lives to take them? Let us document the legacy of YOU as the leader of your family.

Last, you are the cornerstone of our session. Your wife has organized the date, the outfits, the haircuts….I’m going to show up and try and keep it light and fun and fast. But you can derail the entire thing by being grumpy about it. Be patient with your kids, tell your wife she’s gorgeous, and take everyone out for a meal or ice cream afterwards. Moods and memories will be attached to these photos forever. So let’s have fun!

Thanks!

Your Family Photographer

The Traveling Dress

I consider myself blessed beyond measure to be part of a small group of lady photographers, moms, career women, wives, creatives, and incredibly hard workers who inspire me daily in this craft. We recognize there’s room for each of our unique gifts and support each other in all ways. We learn, laugh and grow together. One of the fun things we did recently is a “traveling dress.”

While the concept is not new, the only other traveling dress I’ve seen before was an adult dress. Passed from one location and one photographer to the next, it gets a new creative take with each destination. This project was organized for the photographers with daughters about 4-6 years old. I, of course, have 3 boys but wanted to participate so badly that I vowed to find a girl!

The dress started off in Puerto Rico and went on to friends in Arizona and Florida, and it went on family vacations to places like Hawaii. One thing that makes me stand out from the girls in the group is that I live in the country while they are all city girls. Not remote country, but I live in horse-country for sure. I wanted to make certain the dress portrayed this beautiful country life I’m privileged to live.

This is our sweet neighbor. Not only do they have a beautiful and willing daughter, they also have a very petite, sweet horse named SEVEN. They had also just built this gorgeous red barn. If you don’t live in the country, I’ll let you know we spend a lot of time and money admiring and constructing barns and pole buildings.

So we started off with Seven. It was very early in the morning and he’d just been let out of the barn so he set to the business of eating right away. He couldn’t be easily coaxed from this task.

We grabbed a few shots and let him out to pasture and did some dress shots in front of the barn. I had rented a fish eye lens for an event I was shooting that weekend and loved that I got to use it with the dress too. I love how the barn is just peeking out of the corner letting the girl be the focus but giving us more of the surrounding environment. That’s what the fish eye does so well! I’ll bet you that’s my next lens purchase.

And one last set of photos brought us back to our property where we HAD to get some Texas flag! This was not the only Texas session the dress had, but it still seemed appropriate and necessary!

So fun, right? I love things that push my creativity. Plus, I love working with anything girly! I’m so grateful to our sweet neighbors for being helpful and accommodating, as always. Now to be thinking about a little boy version of this project….

Meet the NSP Newbie Assistants

My first NSP newborn shoot was in 2014. Since then I’ve done over 100 newborn sessions and have learned so much both through continued education and practice. The biggest game changer to my Newborn hustle was realizing I needed an EXTRA SET OF HANDS! This extra resource is built into the cost of a newborn session and here’s why it’s worthwhile.

1. SAFETY, SAFETY, SAFETY. Newborns can be unpredictable and when you think they’re settled or are balanced, one quick sudden movement can change everything. You MUST have an extra set of eyes and hands to ensure safe posing. This is really the only reason we need to justify an assistant!

2. Soothing and positioning Baby - Especially when it comes to beanbag shots, I can sit in front and position the face/hands and the assistant can be at the back positioning the feet and legs. Applying a gentle touch to certain points of the body can help the baby to relax. It is not uncommon to see us with all 4 hands on the baby to help him relax into the position.

3. Efficiency - With an assistant I am more time efficient during the session, she helps me to tidy as I work, and my shots are cleaner leaving me with less work in post edit.

So who am I bringing into your home? I can assure you, only the best people in my life. All of these ladies, I’ve known them forever and I trust them infinitely - they’re also all regular babysitters for my own 3 kiddos. This past week we did 3 newborns and I got to shoot with all 3 of my ladies so it seemed timely for some car selfies and a few introductions!

MEET HONEY! She’s my mom - Honey is her Grandma name, so that’s what we all call her. She assists me most often because she’s retired and we love to sneak away from our stinky boys together for a little baby time. Since I don’t have any itty bitties left, I think she loves holding yours. And the babies sense her grandma-ness and behave extra well for her too.

MEET KELLIE! Kellie has her own business so I’m extra grateful when she’s able to help me. She’s a fellow #bluewife and our husbands work the same shift. I’ll never forget one of the first times she assisted me: I was nervous we’d hit traffic or be late so I picked her up at 6:15 in the morning ……and then we were an hour early. She loves me….

MEET KATY! Katy is a kindergarten teacher (i.e. earth-side angel) and so I only get to monopolize her time in the summer. Katy and I became friends in Middle School and were roommates in college. Life’s adventures have taken her all over but she’s come back home to me! She is the sweetest soul you’ll ever meet and the best at loving on your littles!

All About NicoleSun Photography!

Hi friends!! I saw a related article the other day about questions you should ask when choosing your photographer and I thought it would make a fun and quick blog post.

1. How long have you been in business? My business got its start back in the fall of 2014. I’ve been taking photos for friends and friends for as long as I can remember. I left teaching and went full time with NSP in 2017.

2. Do you have any professional certifications? There actually are certifications out there for photographers and it is a goal of mine. At this time I continue to participate in trainings both online and in person and stay connected in professional communities that help me to be inspired, motivated, and educated.

3. What kind of equipment or gear do you have/use? I’m a Nikon shooter and primarily use a Nikon D810 full frame camera. I have a d7100 as a back up body as well. I would say my favorite and most used lenses are the 24-70mm and 35mm prime. I also have an 85mm prime, 70-200mm, and a 10-24mm I use less often. I have some lighting equipment I use for wedding receptions but still prefer natural light for my work.

4. How would you describe your style of photography? This is such a hard question and I finally feel like I’m getting to the place I’m able to answer that. I want you to have both your candid and real moments and your “mantle” prints where everyone is looking and smiling. I prefer working outside with natural light and like my edits to have vibrant, true to life color. I am not “light and airy” or “moody” edit and will almost always prefer color images to black and white. I just like life in color - lots of color!

5. What exactly is included in your packages? Based on the package you select, I will share an online gallery with you for you to choose your images. All photos are high resolution, custom edited and shared digitally for your download.    I provide you a print release so that you can share/print these photos as you need without changing or altering them or you can print from your gallery using my print store.  Only chosen, edited images are provided - no raw or unedited images will be given.

6. How long will our session be? I price my sessions based on the number of images given. I’ve found time constraints (unless we’re tightly scheduled like in the fall season) are difficult to stick to. It depends entirely on the light, weather, location, and dispositions of those being photographed! Sometimes we can knock a session out quickly and sometimes things take more time. On average a mini session can be shot between 10-25 minutes, a full session 20-45 minutes, and a deluxe session 30-60 minutes. Newborn sessions can take anywhere between an hour and a half to 3 hours.

7. How long does it take to get our photos? Turn around time will be specified in your contract. Family sessions, for example, are expected within 3 weeks. The fall can be especially busy and the turn around time is not as fast. I personally like to have your gallery to you within a week if possible. That’s not something I can promise, but I try!

8. Why is it called NicoleSun? Okay, I included this for fun but I wanted to add something personal. Sun is my middle name - supposedly a nod to my Korean heritage but I joke my parents were just hippies. I include it in my business in two parts: first for the chase of beautiful light and second, to be a reminder to use my craft and talents to bless others. “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16

   Blessings!

   Nicole

4 {FREE} Things You Can Do To Help Grow My Small Business

Did you know that there are 28 million small business in the United States, and more than 22 million of those small businesses are individually operated without any employees. (El-Najjar, A. 2017, May 14. Retrieved from townsquared.com)

So this means YOU can, no doubt, list 5-10 friends you know who run and operate a small business. And that means that YOU can help out those friends today in just a few minutes.

Being a small business owner means wearing many hats. Aside from the skill/talent/ability that my business is built around, I also daily wear a customer service hat, an accounting hat, and a marketing hat. A lot of days I’m also wearing a receptionist, IT, legal, and tax prep hat to name just a few.

I’m going to talk briefly about the marketing part today because there’s no success in a secret business. With the ever changing Facebook algorithms, Google search returns, and complicated SEO (Search Engine Optimization)….I’m constantly learning and adapting.

But YOU, my friend, can help me (and all other small businesses) with a few easy tasks that will have a huge impact on the success of my business. And here’s the best news - you don’t even have to “buy” what I’m selling! What I’m asking today is all FREE. YAY FREE!

1. Leave a review - Anytime you do business with a small company, please take the time to leave a review on social media AND Google. Your local Chick-fil-A, your last rental car experience, your church, your family doctor, your hair dresser, (cough) your photographer! People never hesitate to leave a nasty review but so often we forget to take the time to say something nice. Words aren’t necessary, a 5 star review will speak for itself! Even if you haven’t used my service, you can hopefully speak to my character, the work you’ve seen, or my commitment to the job. Please take the time to do this for the small businesses you frequent and love - 5 star reviews matter deeply to our credibility and SEO.

2. Tell people about me - I depend on word of mouth SO much and know that people value a personal reference over a search return. In your neighborhood groups, social media groups, at work and with friends and family - when people ask for recommendations, tag my business! Tell them about me!

3. Comment on and like my posts - It’s all about algorithms. Facebook, for example, loves to “bump up” a post if it’s getting good feedback and interaction. Leave a comment or a heart on my posts - it only takes a second!

4. Share my posts! This gesture is above and beyond. It leaves me speechless with gratitude that someone believes in my business enough to vouch for me on their news feed to all of their friends. A quick click of that “share” button immediately improves the success of my post and gets my name out there to hundreds if not thousands more people who might not have otherwise seen it. And next time they need something, maybe they’ll think of me.

Finally, thank you to all of the family, friends, neighbors, and past clients who have done these things and more to help me get where I am today. Look to do the same for others and remember….

Printing Photos in an All Digital World

It's 2018.  Everything is digital and there are about a million different ways to store, catalog, collage, and share your photos.    But here is why and how I print and you should too.

I don't think any of us don't print our photos on purpose.   We take special photos or have a session done and we love them, share them and make Christmas cards...but then life gets away from us and printing photos gets pushed further down the priority and budget lists.  But I want my kids to see and be surrounded by their history! I want everything I hang in my home to be special and personal to our family.   They enjoy walking past our photos and seeing their faces and memories as much as I do.  So here are some of the ways I preserve our lives in print:

1.  Canvases - My favorite place to print is Canvas On Demand.  We are a Dave Ramsey family and that means we live on a budget.  If I wait for the right sale, I can get a handful of canvases for a really good price.  So far, they've worked out for us in size, color, and durability.

2. Prints - I personally print my 4x6s and 8x10s from the lab connected to my client galleries -  ProDPI and it is the only place I can professionally ensure my product.    For these sizes, I like their pricing and product.   For my 5x7s I love Artifact Uprising  if you're ordering 25 or 50 prints they're $1 each! ONE DOLLAR!  They're printed on a gorgeous matte cardstock too.  I've used these personally and for clients and they turn out beautifully.  They have other fabulous products I've yet to try out.

3. Year Books - Yearly I print one album of our family (mostly the kids of course) and call it "Scott Brudders" and I order 3 copies of this same album from Shutterfly. In January, I devote a couple late nights to making the album.   I've tried a couple different consumer companies and find Shutterfly to have the most variety of designs and the easiest interface as well as beautiful products.   My boys love looking through their books and I love that making one book makes three so no one is left out.  PHEW.   I also wait for a good 50% off sale and can usually find a free shipping code.  Never ever pay full price for their stuff....just be patient.

4. Monthly Books - Throughout the month, I dump all of the photos I've taken of the kids/family onto an iCloud drive I share with my hubby.  At the end of the month I dump it into the Groovebook app and it sends a 4x6 perforated book of prints (up to 100) of the photos to me, my step mom, and both of the great grandmas.   Each book is only around $3.50 so this is their Christmas present received monthly.   They love it and if I ever stopped, I'd surely hear about it.   The prints, to be really honest, are NOT great.  But it gets them printed and into the hands of those who love us.   I know there are books like chatbooks which I think are much better in quality, but for $3.50 all the grandmas are happy with Groovebook and my wallet is too.

This is of course not a complete list of options.  Here are a few more consumer companies I'm personally interested in trying or have heard enough good things about to recommend to you:

• Artsy Couture
• Nations Photo Lab
• Miller's Lab
• MPIX 

And also this really interesting article from Clickin Moms compares some of your box labs like Walgreens and Target.  Check it out to see why it's worth skipping your local 1 HR Photo Lab. 

5 Tips to Taking Better Photos

If you're behind the camera or in the frame, I hope you find these 5 quick tips helpful!

1. Face away from the sun or find shade.  I was sitting at a restaurant watching two friends document their time together staring straight into the sun silently coaching them from afar.  You want the light behind you or you want shade.  Facing the sun causes harsh shadows on your face and squinty eyes!  Nobody wants that!

2. Stand, don't sit.  "Oh hey a bench!"  No no.  It is generally more flattering for people to stand- standing leads to a more natural posture.  There are ways to position you sitting that are more flattering but it's not usually a natural way to sit for most people.   Sitting also makes it difficult to...

3. SQUISH!  I joke that I need a shirt with this on it.  If I'm posing a family, especially extended or grown kids, everyone gets in close...but never close enough!  That darn personal space bubble we all have - get over it and get in there!   No air or light between you, get your faces as close together as possible!

4. Don't put your armpits on anyone you love.   Men are especially predictable on this go-to-pose.   We swing our arms around our family and friends and CHEESE.   It squishes your lovely friend's hair, it gives you broad and bulky shoulders, and it keeps people from getting in closer (see SQUISH above) ....and it leaves stinky shoulders.  Kidding...maybe...It's Texas Summer after all.

5.  Let kids be kids.  I have the kid that as soon as you try, "say cheese!" his eyes go immediately off to the side somewhere in the distance and he plasters on a huge fake smile and all I end up with everyone frustrated.  So I gave up on that and take photos of him with his head down pushing trucks, hunched over a lego build, or riding his bike.  Talk to them, ask questions, be silly, try funny words, but really - in the truth of the matter, photograph them being them.  You'll treasure the real moment even more than you know now.  

Happy Clicking!

-Nicole

Why I Do In Home Newborn Sessions

I think when you start off in photography the first big dream is to be busy/successful enough to be able to do it full time.  The next big dream is to own your own studio.  And for many of my colleagues that is either a dream and an exciting realization!  Never say never, but it is not something I plan to do.

Sure it would be convenient for me to have all of my props in one place, to have consistency of the setting and studio lighting, to have ample, clean and quiet space.   But for newborns especially, I'm willing to sacrifice these things to bring my craft to you.

In 2012, a dear friend (and sought after photographer) gifted us a newborn session.  And she offered to come to us but since she had gifted us the session I felt it was right to go to her.   This was of course my choice but I will tell you it stressed me out!  I was a brand new mom, about a week post c-section, and I had a tiny little 5lb baby. Except for our first pediatrician appointment we hadn't ventured out the house.  I called my mom in tears the night before.   How could we possibly all get packed up, dressed presentably for photos, and out of the house the next morning?  I could barely shower, never mind do my hair and make up and wear real clothes.    I was a first time mom and the 3 hour routine of breastfeeding a premie was brand new to me.   Per usual, my mom put on her angel wings and came to help us get out of the house and the photos turned out amazing and I'll be forever grateful.  It was worth all the hard work obviously.   But I won't forget that feeling the night before.

So I come to you.  In your space, where all of baby's things are.   Where you can shower, dress, do your make up in the comfort of your home often while I'm taking baby's individual photos.  Where big siblings can eat their cereal and watch their cartoons until it's their turn.  Often, it's where grandma is to lend a hand.  

I've been in all kinds of home with all kinds of light.  I've worked in dining rooms, offices, living rooms, kitchens, foyers, family rooms and even garages and patios on a hot day.   I bring enough in from my car it appears I'm moving in permanently.  I rearrange and return furniture and personal belongings and work amongst sibling toys or life in general.  Usually I have an ever vigilant four legged supporter and curious and adorable siblings look on too. 

I know the transition of a new baby is enough all on it's own. That you've planned ahead and value photographing these early days means the world to me.   I have so much gratitude to the families who trust me with their littlest blessing and welcome me warmly into their homes.  I'm grateful to the countless dads who offer water or coffee and help me with the car load full of props and equipment.    And to the moms, tired and sore, who make all of it possible, you have my heart!    I am even more blessed by you and your family as I hope you are by me.

Congratulations! And God bless!

Dear Bride, Consider the Small Moments Too

Dear Bride,  Your wedding day will be filled with many memories and special moments.  As I close out my 2017 photos and look back on the weddings, the small and often private moments stand out.  I hope you find a photographer you feel close to, comfortable with, and who honors these moments with respect and gratitude.

The big moments:  the first look, the kiss, the first dance, the cake, the grand exit.   These moments are on the checklist, I'm sure.  Don't want to miss those.  Click. Click. Click. 

But the small moments matter more than you think.  The quiet and private moments.  You see, we're there to document all of those precious, small moments.  To do so we're physically there experiencing these moments next to you. 

We're there in the room with tears behind the camera when your daddy sees you and that big old softie cries.  We're there when the veil goes on and the look is finished and all of your girls are speechless.    We're there when everyone puts their hands on you and prays over you and we say, Amen.   And we're there in that final empty moment when your bridal party has already begun the procession and you wait in your quiet hidden space.  It's just you - maybe your daddy - and your photographer.    When the ceremony is over and you walk out and have your first moment to breathe and look into each other's eyes and embrace, we're there.  There isn't a wedding photographer who doesn't understand with great respect the weight of this privilege.   

I pray before every wedding.  HARD.  I pray a lot for you and your soon to be spouse and your future.  I pray for your family.  I pray for the event to go smoothly and for people to be full of love and joy for you.   But I also pray that I will have a calming, peaceful, and joyful presence for you.  I pray that when I'm in those small moments with you that I have a warm smile and an encouraging heart.  I pray that if unexpected changes occur, rain comes, or nerves surface that I will be able help resolve those with a calm and loving demeanor.    And obviously I pray that God will allow me to use the talents he's given me to give you beautiful memories you can cherish for generations to come.

More than spiritually, I will also remind you to take a moment to pray, eat or drink something, and use the restroom before you walk down the aisle, I'll remind you not to lock your knees and to remember to breathe.   I'll insist you take your time, take in each moment, and not be rushed in anything your vendors, family, guests or planners expect of you. 

Being a part of your day is a huge responsibility.  I dance between sliding along the perimeter quietly capturing every moment to being fully present with you in these precious moments.    But truly I am grateful that you have trusted me with these moments, allowed my presence, and trusted that I can provide you with beautiful memories.  Thank you.   

Photographing Quints

Episode 4 // TLC's Hodges Half Dozen Featured Photographer

As I mentioned in my last  blog post  about my five favorite babies, the Hodges have been in front of my camera as long as I've had one.   So when Liz and Daniel found out they were pregnant with quints they asked if I'd take their photos.  Let's do a brief run down of a few of my anxieties on this topic:

1) FIVE BABIES
2) five babies
3) 5 babies
4) plus a toddler...
5) FIVE BABIES! 

Kidding aside, let's be real for a second.  I am a family photographer and I LOVE taking newborn photos but it is not something I do it as often as someone who has dedicated themselves to that industry alone.   I have never even taken photos of newborn twins never mind QUINTS.   We knew that these babies would likely be born preterm and have a long NICU stay which complicated the typical 2 week window you'd use photographing newborns.  Oh also, they have a TV show and will be filming this special occasion.   No pressure!  

I finally came to the peace-filled realization that God did not bring me to this point in my photography business to let me fall on my face on national TV.  The Hodges believed in me and were insistant that I do this for them and so I did.   I prayed mightily that God would bless this gift and talent He's given me to give my dear friends treasured photos of their amazing miracles.    Ultimately that's all that really matters.  

So here was the game plan: We prioritized shots and went for the quints, siblings with Rowan, each baby individually and then the family of 8.  To play it safe we planned swaddled basket shots.  To keep it simple we used only one set of wraps to minimize transitions and the same set up for the boys and a very similar set up for Teagan.  With Kelley, Donna, Daniel and Liz all there I knew we had plenty of capable hands and helpers.  And then we just prayed it would all come together! 

Just For Fun // How to Tell the Quints Apart

The Hodges get asked all the time if there are any twins in the mix.  Which is funny to me because they all look so different!   But there are still FIVE and it can be overwhelming just to remember their names.  After guessing and failing an embarrassing number of times...here are the memory tricks I use to tell the babies apart. 

TEAGAN >>>>

Too easy.  She's the only girl.   And always dressed girly-girl which makes it even easier.  She is the most petite in the group and to me has the most feminine features.

LIAM >>>>

"The Brows."  If you've got the whole bunch together, Teagan and Liam are the easiest to pick out.  Liam has a Long face (Liam-Long) and the eyebrows.   Also BROW has four letters and so does LIAM.

<<<< CONNELL

I think of the boys in pairs and to me, Connell and Liam go together because they both have long faces.  Connell - long name - long face.   But not the strong brow like Liam.  So long face but faint brows - that's Connell. 

DILLON  >>>>

Dillon I nicknamed Dilly-Bear.  Which I did long before I noticed his teddy bear like features.  Dillon has a round head, big sparkly eyes and ears that stick out just a little.  Like a teddy bear! 

<<<< NOLAN

If I'm going to get two mixed up it will be Nolan and Dillon because to me they look the most alike.  When they are not side by side or I don't get a good straight on view of them, it's 50/50 if I'll get it right.  Nolan looks a lot like Dillon because of his round head.  Like a baseball.  Nolan Ryan = Baseball. 

You can follow these sweet miracles on Facebook and Instagram  and I hope you'll watch their show on TLC on Tuesday at 10/9c   -   it replays on TLC's show page  or their app TLC Go. 

5 Things You Do To Make Your Photographer Love You

Were you the brown noser, teacher's pet, mommy's favorite child?  Do you want to be your photographer's ideal client?  I bet you already do some of these but here are five things you can do to make your photographer love you:

1. Be flexible and have fun!  It is such a compliment to have a family that trusts their photographer enough to go with the flow and do the location/poses/set ups guided by the photographer.   We love when you let us show your family as we see them because we know you'll love our vision too.  And when you relax and have fun and let the kids be silly and have fun it feels like a big party and we could do that ALL day.   We leave with a total high and a big smile because it really WAS a great time!

2. Gush Immediately!  I'm not sure there's a photographer anywhere that delivers a gallery and doesn't wait with bated breath to hear if you love the images.  Even if we're super confident it is a beautiful gallery and you'll love them - 3 and 4 days go by without word from you and we start to panic that you hate them and haven't found the words to tell us.   So when we send a gallery off and immediately get a reply back telling us that you love them - we love you for that!   

3. Pick and Pay quickly!  Maybe this one is just me but I'm doubtful I'm alone.  I love to check things off "the list".  So when I finish the edits and then send off the gallery...there are just two more little check boxes before your session is "done" in my mind - pick and pay.  When a client chooses their images and pays the invoice quickly - CHECK! CHECK!  I love you for letting me mark something off my list!  

4. Spread the word!   We love when you share your images and tag us! When we get an inquiry from someone who saw your images or who you referred, it is the ultimate compliment!  This business is built on word of mouth more than anything and we LOVE your support and help in that area!

5. Come back to us!  I recognize that people can "hop around" with photographers and follow mini-session set ups, special pricing deals, or special interests.  So when you come back to us time after time and invest in a relationship with us, it is hands down our favorite thing.   We love watching your children grow and counting their missing teeth and we love catching up with you during the sessions and hearing about what's new, and we love knowing that you value us the same way we value you! 

Hodges Half Dozen

TLC's Hodges Half Dozen // Family Photographer

Trust me, when I started taking this family's photos I never, ever dreamed I'd take their pictures as a family of 8!  

The Hodges moved in 3 houses down from us back in 2012.  Daniel was overseas before they got married and Liz had us picked out as potential new friends and began stalking us with their dog, Tyson.   We finally met, found out Daniel and Aaron were both Marines, and the rest is history.   Our friendship revolves around a love of all food, especially late night tacos, the mutual acceptance of our sweatpants, the sharing of inappropriate memes, and the  shared struggles and triumphs of infertility, pregnancy, and parenthood.     In 2016 we moved and then they moved and so now we find ourselves separated by a long drive down I-35 further complicated by our now combined 9 children (8 boys) under 5. But when we are together it's like no time has passed.   When you find the kind of friends that will shoulder the burden of grief, give sound counsel, pray with and for you, wash your laundry, and laugh with you when you could probably rather cry...hang on tight! These are our Hodges. 

Filling up the NV to go see the babies

So the Hodges were always willing guinea pigs as I began my photography business and I've taken their pregnancy announcements, maternity, birth, and newborn photos as well as family pics here and there.  While I've never photographed quints, they insisted I take their photos as I always have.    So you'll see me from time to time on their new TLC show Hodges Half Dozen - sometimes with my friend hat on and sometimes with my photographer's hat on.   

On Hodges Half Dozen // First Episode

If you caught the first episode (click the link to watch!) we did maternity photos, and the images during the birth were mine as well.   Some past images from their pregnancy/birth of Rowan were also mine.  It's pretty bizarre and neat to see my work on the TV.    Their show image is even one of my photos.  My images were also featured on this article   detailing their birth.

Hodges Half Dozen Quints are Born!

Just for fun I'll share some Hodges fun stories:

1. Their dog Tyson used to escape out their front door but we soon discovered he'd just run right to our house.  And we'd bring him back or just let him in.  He thinks he is best friends with our dog Gigi.  She does not reciprocate his adoration. 

2. Sharing our love of food we always have what we call a "Hodge Podge." We merge whatever is in our fridges to make a meal.   We are gold level experts at a big fatty breakfast.  Biscuits and gravy, hash browns, bacon and Liz's egg-grits.  

3. In our group text I'm known for texting too many messages, my husband is known for sharing videos/articles no one will watch or read, Daniel is always ready with his arsenal of memes, and thank goodness Liz finally did the update because the reaction button is her life right now since her hands are full of babies.

Our big boys enjoying a batman movie night

You can follow my dear friends on Facebook and Instagram  and I hope you'll watch their show on TLC on Tuesday at 10/9c   -   it replays on TLC's show page  24 hours later. 

Niche, please.

At the beginning of my journey in photography just starting my brand and business, I ran across a blog written by a wedding photographer.  I don't remember what the specific content was but one statement stood out and has stuck with me ever since:

If you're doing everything, you're not good at anything. 

It was akin to  "Jack of all trades = Master of none."  So I gracefully decided to allow myself a few years to try all kinds of photography and then I'd pursue the "niche" that I felt the most drawn to at that point. 

So, here I am a few years later and guess what....I don't want to!   Here's why I've decided that statement up there is bunk and why I will not be declaring a "niche" for my business or brand anytime soon:

1. "Your Family's Photographer" was built on a deep commitment to build a relationship with your family.  I want to be there to photograph whatever is important to you in whatever moment you're living ....  your milestones, celebrations, and adventures.  That means if  wedding clients gets pregnant, I'd be honored to take their maternity photos and newborns too.  If a newborn I photographed is starting kindergarten, I'd love to take their school photos.  If a family I've photographed is starting a business and needs product photos, it would be my pleasure to support them in that endeavor.  If someone needs a headshot for work, let's bust one out. If you're selling your home and need real estate photos, I'd love to be there for you to ensure your quick sale.   I suppose if I poured all of my training, equipment, advertising, and expertise into just one of these areas I could be a lot more profitable but that's not why I'm doing this.   My hope is that every time you think "I need a photographer!" you know exactly who to call.  

2.  But how can I do all these things well?  This is the crux of the original statement.   Can I do all of these things as well as someone who does only one thing?   Perhaps not.   But that's the challenge I love.  I love the excitement (and fear) of doing something I don't do that often.  I love reading, learning, watching tutorials, and trying new things.   I love pushing myself and getting out there into new territory.  This feeds my creative outlets but it's also for you.  I want to be a well rounded photographer who can fulfill your visions, hopes, and requests.  You'll won't likely hear me say, "No".   I'm your family photographer.   Bring it on.

"Why Do Photographers Charge So Much?"

"Why do photographers charges SO much?"

"If you charge more than $100 for Minis, you're crazy!" 

These are two real comments(not directed towards me) that I've heard in the past few weeks as we gear up for fall/holiday photos.  Everyone is looking for a photographer and everyone is looking for a great deal.

I get it.  My family lives on one income, supplemented by my photography.  We live on a budget.  Shout out to the man, Dave Ramsey, we live debt free.   And photography is a luxury item.  It is not a need, for sure.   But why is it SO expensive?   I'm writing this post in hopes of shedding some light on the subject.  This is not something I understood before I got into the world of photography and started my own business.  

It is called the "CODB" or cost of doing business.  And it varies tremendously for each photographer related to the size and scale of his/her business.  But the cost of doing business might include:

• Taxes (self employment, income, sales, preparation, state registration)
• Equipment (cameras, lenses, computer, lighting, gear)
• Software (editing software, presets, actions, overlays)
• Storage (external hard drive, back up, memory cards, internal storage)
• Web Subscriptions (online viewing gallery, website membership and hosting, scheduling management system)
• Advertising (sponsored posts, digital and print ads, SEO marketing)
• Financial (transaction fees, bank fees, invoicing systems)
• Continuing Education (workshops, trainings, webinars)
• Location Expenses (studio rentals, location photography fees)
• Props (furniture, backdrops, costumes, gowns, newborn props, cute extras)
• Support (assistants, second shooters, editing/culling, hair and make up, lawyers, accountants, insurance)

Time and Travel also has to be valued.  It includes gas, time away from family, time spent editing, and childcare. They arehuge factors for all of us as we set our prices and step out the door for your session.

Especially in the higher end market, the following might impact pricing:  expertise, customer service, unique/tailored images, one one one consultations, and product hard costs, packaging, and delivery.

We take these costs into consideration,  we judge our own photos against our past photos and those of others in our same price point, we look for trends in our recent sessions/sales, and we consider the market and our clientele.   What is the value of what we provide you?  How many images? How much time? Products? Print releases?  Session fees?   It is no simple equation.  Pricing is a very personal and an ever-changing element of doing business.

I will have to post another day about my feelings on the value of family photos and affordability.   For now, I just encourage you to find YOUR photographer.  "There is a client for everyone" reverses to "There is a photographer for everyone."  Know your family's budget and be straight forward about it, ask for what you're looking for, and if it's not the right fit, then ask for a referral.  

The Value of Familiarity

Hi friends!  So this is my first blog post EVER.  And I always said I'd never have a blog because I didn't have anything interesting to say.  But this came to me the other day and it is something I feel passionately about so I'd love to share it.  

I began my photographer's journey in 2014.  A couple of families have been with me the whole way and in trusting me with their family images, have helped me to grow.   But now 3 years later I have noticed 3 reasons why it's worthwhile to build and maintain a relationship with your photographer:

1.  It matters to your kids!  I think especially for small children you cannot discount the importance of familiarity.   Kids know they are going to come for pictures with "Miss Nicole" and it's going to be a FUN time!  They already know me so there's no warm up period, they run up to me with hugs and smiles ready to see what adventure we're on this time.  They know I probably have candy too!   They are not scared to leave mom and dad's safe arms and sometimes hold my hand as we walk.   Obviously this is precious and warms my heart but it turns into great, natural, REAL, joyful images too.  I remember they love Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, I know their real smiles from their cheesey ones, I know that one face she made last time with the pursed lips/crinkled nose/cocked eyebrow and I just caught it again.  

Rowan 6 months - 2 Years

 2. Adults care too!  I see moms and dads are more relaxed.  I always joke that dads are harder to win over than kids.  They know me, my work and the routine, I know mom's "favored side," and we've learned things about each other and we can have fun while we shoot.  

3. I value you!  From a photographer's prospective let me tell you that if you are an "established client" there is little I won't do for you.  I value our relationship, your trust, and the fact that you value me in return!  So if we go way back, I will go above and beyond to find "that location," childcare for my kids on  "that date,"  a special prop, etc.  Because I value you being a ongoing part of MY journey.

To be clear, I can meet a family for the first (and maybe only) time and have a very successful session.   That definitely happens too!    And do still work very hard to accommodate new clients.  But I can tell you there is tremendous value from building a long term relationship with your photographer.    

"Your Family's Photographer" is my business tag line.   It popped into my head clear as day after many days of prayer, thought, conversation, and numerous loser tag lines.    I love it because it speaks to the fact that I want and desire that relationship with your family.  I would be HONORED to document big and small milestones, homecomings, birthdays, graduations, first days of school, engagements, weddings, new babies, new grand babies, or whatever is going on in your life!   As they say, "the days are long but the years are short" and after the years pass, you will reminisce over your old photos in awe of what used to be.

Addison 2 years - 4 years