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May 21, 2024

Style Tips | Anchorage Travel Family Photographer

5 Style Tips to Look AMAZING for your Alaska Travel Family Session!

Alaska is a unique environment, and the weather is ever-changing! You could be adventuring in the mountains, hiking a trail in the rainforest, tide pooling at the ocean during low tide, trekking across a glacier, or soaking up the sun lakeside. For your trip, you have to be prepared for everything!

Adding a session to your Alaskan travel experience is the perfect way to document an amazing trip. I have a few style tips for your Alaska travel family session to keep your packing and session planning streamlined!

  1. Coordinate your outfits, but don’t match. Choose a simple color palette and go from there. This will give everyone the option to pick an outfit of their own, but still be subtle and fit the scene. If traveling and limited on luggage, pick something you can get more than one use out of!
  2. Avoid logos. This includes crazy prints and patterns! They will bring unwanted attention to the outfit and cause awful distortions to appear in the photograph that are not originally there.
  3. Tone down the bright colors. Vivid shades tend to reflect and bring attention away from the face. They also reflect a color cast on your skin and those around you. Darker clothing tends to blend better with backgrounds and slenderize the subject. Light or neutral colors can look appealing and fresh. Avoid wearing plain whites. Pair them with a jacket, cardigan, or scarf and you will be good to go! When white is worn alone on such a rich backdrop, it is distracting and hard to keep clean! I LOVE jewel tones and rich tones found in nature.

  4. Hair, makeup, and nails: Keep it simple. If you want your hair to be out of the way and not falling in your face, I recommend having it up and out of your eyes. For makeup, make sure it won’t rub off onto your outfit. Your nails should be nicely manicured with no chipped nail polish. Don’t experiment with something new for your session. Make sure you have tried it at home first!

  5. Accessorize! This brings visual interest to your look and adds texture. For jewelry, try a necklace to complement your neckline or bracelets to accentuate your outfit. You could think outside the box and try a hat or suspenders to bring the extra wow factor! Also, if a necklace is always sliding into the wrong spot, twisting around, or just uncomfortable, don’t wear it! Comfort is very important, and if you are constantly having to fuss with an accessory, you won’t be able to relax for your session 😀
  6. Plan on layers! If you are visiting from a warmer climate, I recommend pants, jeans, capris, or a long dress. Shorter dresses limit movement and thus posing options. You could do a long-sleeve button-up for guys and add a cardigan for the ladies. It could be warm! It does happen, but if you are watching the weather and it looks like it might be chilly, then plan for a cooler session and layer your outfits accordingly. The layers also help if you are mosquito sensitive. These critters can be annoying!
  7. Shoes! Last but certainly not least, don’t forget the shoes. Hiking boots are perfectly fine as they tend to be in neutral colors and something you might already be likely to pack. No need to pack an extra pair of shoes; save the space for souvenirs  😉 Loafers and calf-height boots are also a stylish choice! If you are planning on wearing something with a heel, then I recommend having an extra pair of shoes for walking around the location.

One final tip! Be yourself! I love my Chaco sandals, and it would be really unusual for me to be photographed in my family session wearing high heels. Don’t be afraid to be true to your personal style. At the end of the day, I am here to photograph your family in this gorgeous scenery, as you are, in this season of your life. These are just tips and not hard rules, and most importantly, I want everyone relaxed and comfortable 😀

Travel Session Style Tips for families adventuring in Alaska while they travel.

Travel Session Style Tips

May 21, 2024

Maternity What to Wear | Anchorage Photographer

If you’re like a lot of the soon-to-be-mothers I meet, you may be a little camera shy right now. Especially when you’re seven to nine months pregnant. And who can blame you! After all, your body has changed over the last several months, your baby is sitting low and you probably feel uncomfortable even walking from the kitchen to the living room sofa. Believe me, I can absolutely relate. You are likely considering getting photo’s done, but not sure what to wear to your maternity session with your ever changing body.

Let me tell you something, though. You are gorgeous. You are stunning. In this moment, you are glowing and radiating natural beauty.  I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: there is an unparalleled luminescence that radiates from a pregnant woman. A glow so unique to pregnancy that it’s impossible to replicate under any other circumstance. These images during this time will be treasured by you, your significant other, your friends and family and, yes, your unborn child, forever.

In your maternity shoot, I’ll take a variety of photographs of you in different poses. As long as you’re comfortable, we’ll get photographs of you laying down, sitting, standing and leaning. Some will hone in on that adorable baby bump, some may be silhouettes of your frame and others will capture the bond between you and your significant other and any other kiddos.

You are probably wondering what to wear to your maternity session. I’ll share my top tips below!

How many outfits should I bring to my maternity session?

Two outfits for your maternity session is a good number to bring. I like to always have at least two for variety’s sake, but whether you want to wear more than that is up to you. I always recommend bringing a backup outfit just in case you’re not “feeling” the outfit you’d planned to wear. One being a dress and the other a more casual outfit. If you are doing a flowy dress then I recommend something snug to show off the bump for the second.

What should I consider when deciding what to wear to my maternity session?

My biggest piece of advice is to wear something you feel both comfortable and beautiful in. My second piece of advice is for you to choose a non black or white top that is form-fitting enough to showcase your baby bump. Lastly, wear a supportive, well-fitting bra. Between us ladies, I know that breasts change a lot during pregnancy, so pick up a new bra that fits immaculately before our session to avoid discomfort and any lumps or bumps!

WHAT TO WEAR

Remember, the main purpose of this session is to show off your baby bump, so be sure to wear clingier clothing to your session. It doesn’t necessarily have to be tight, but you want it to be more form fitting so you can see the bump. Just be sure that it’s still comfortable for you.

I suggest wearing shirts with some kind of sleeve on them – they are more flattering for photos. Things like a dress with 3/4 length sleeves, or a form fitting tank top with a sweater/cardigan over it are always a good idea.

Maxi dresses and tunics with cinched waists are perfect for any season and are a fan favorite when it comes to maternity sessions.

Dress in layers – this will help to give you several clothing ‘looks’ without having to fully change your outfit every time.

Belts can really help accentuate your bump. We suggest trying to add one to your wardrobe for this session.

Dresses with rushing at the sides also help give your bump more definition and are a great option!

Be comfortable! Above all else, your comfort is the most important thing. If you’re uncomfortable, it will show on camera. Find an outfit that feels good and that you know you look good in. This will help you to relax for the best photos.

Bonus tip: Accessories!!! I LOVE adding statement pieces like necklaces, earrings, and chunky bracelet’s. Choose pieces that you love and reflect your style, not necessarily what is trendy at the moment. In fall/winter adding scarves also gives versatility and texture.

anchorage maternity photographer

May 21, 2024

Alaska Travel Photography| Eagle River Alaska

Family sessions don’t have to be boring! This family traveled to Alaska on a cruise and booked a photo session like they do on all of their vacations. Which I love! They said they always do one silly one and asked if I could photoshop a giant bear in the background. I had a blast and was happy to fulfill their request!

My three tips from this family session are:

  • Be you! This family was relaxed and a lot of fun!
  • They wanted some fun poses but wanted a lot looking at the camera. Together, when planning, we will figure out what your needs are from your session!
  • Enjoy your time at the session! All the hard work is done in the pre-session planning to get here, now relax and let’s have fun together! When you are relaxed and having fun, it shows!

Fun family alaska travel session

May 21, 2024

Anchorage Maternity Photographer | Why you should book a maternity session!

Nine months goes by so soon, trust me. I know from my own experience. When I was pregnant with my first it was just becoming popular to get maternity and newborn photography done, there was really no such thing as maternity photos. I might dig out just one or two from an old album, but that is it. I wish I had more taken!  Let me convince you why you need this session done.

You will want to look back on yourself carrying your sweet little one. Your body is so strong and accomplished a lot in a small time frame. Your body changes so much through the course of your pregnancy!

Your child will ask to see these photographs of your pregnant with them. When you show them, watch their sweet expressions come across their faces.

Spoil yourself. You look amazing, you are truly glowing. Have your hair and makeup done and feel how beautiful being pregnant really is. Your body is telling a story right now, and you should capture it.

Sometimes, it is hard to remember pregnancy. Some pregnant women are sick most of the time, some are exhausted, all while the months are counting down. You will want to look back and see just how incredible you truly are. It does go by in a blur and with all the focus on baby and preparations, it’s good to celebrate you as well! You did this! You are growing a human and it is an incredible feat worthy of documenting!

I know you might be on the fence about booking a session. It might be the last thing on your mind right now with preparing for a big arrival. I get it, I really do. This is a beautiful time in your life that you will want to remember. With my maternity/newborn package it is easy to add on the maternity to your newborn package! I will give you tips on how to look and feel your best for your maternity session.  I also have a studio closet with dresses you can wear perfect for your session and easy to coordinate with family members 😀

I LOVED this maternity session. Beluga point is stunning all year long and in the spring when everything is coming to life, this is the perfect Alaskan backdrop!

For more maternity sessions view the portfolio here: Maternity Sessions

 

Beluga point alaska maternity and newborn photographer

May 4, 2024

Anchorage Alaska Newborn Photographer | What Actually Happens At A Newborn Session

What actually happens during a newborn session?

Whether you’re thinking about booking a newborn session or already have a date on the books, I’m sure you’re a bit curious about what, exactly, goes on during a newborn session. How do you get those peaceful looking images? How involved are the parents for the shoot itself? Is it actually possible to “pose” an infant? Below I’m pulling back the curtain about what actually happens during a newborn photography session.

The Heat is Turned Up
It sounds bizarre, but I prefer to set the temperature much higher during a newborn than what you’d normally have it. This helps baby feel warm, comfortable, and — most importantly, sleepy. I also have a space heater so that I can turn the studio down if mom and dad are too warm and just baby can feel the warmth 😀 

I Take Care of All the Poses and Props
You don’t have to come up with poses or image ideas. I’ve got all that covered and know exactly how to set up an image to get great shots. l also take care of all the prop setup and wrapping.

Mom & Dad Help Spot Baby
Though I do most of the work, I definitely need parents’ help during some of the poses to ensure safety.

Safety is ALWAYS My First Priority
No matter what, I place your child’s safety above all else. If we need to take a break, we will. If a pose isn’t working, there’s always another one to try. I will never put your baby in an unsafe position or prop.

I Have Tricks for Helping Keep Baby Calm
I’ve done hundreds of newborn sessions with over 14 years experience and  I  have a few tricks up my sleeve to help calm fussy babies. However, in the case of a baby who is very upset, I am more than happy to reschedule.

Sibling Photos Are Done First or Last
We know that having your kids at the shoot for the entire session may be a bit much for them. For that reason, we suggest having sibling poses done either at the beginning or the end of the session, that way they don’t have to say throughout. I typically start with family, sibling, and then move to just baby. Or we can go in reverse!

palmer family child newborn photographer

May 4, 2024

Anchorage Alaska Newborn Photographer | Newborn Studio Session

Newborn sessions are one of my favorite types of sessions to do. I love bringing newly expanded families into the studio and watch as the love on their precious little one. All those tiny little details that are going to change so quickly are captured <3 palmer family child vacation photographer