Fireweed season! I love finding these fields of flowers! Such a special flower for Alaska! This family was full of smiles and brought grandma and grandpa too! I absolutely LOVE when grandparents are involved in the session! It adds extra meaning that is close to my heart <3
I met this family at Eklutna Lake on one of our very gorgeous days last summer! They had been traveling around the US in their RV! I loved hearing about their adventures and their favorites places. Eklutna was the perfect backdrop with its stunning scenery and ease of access for their little guy! Alaska is full of these gem locations that are perfect for vacationing families as well as local Alaskan’s!
You know we’re ready for a nice summer, but are you? We’ve had some rainy wet summers and long winters. So bring on the sunshine!
Here are seven ways you can make sure your summer portrait session goes off without a hitch! Especially since we may have forgotten what summers actually look like 😉
1. Dress appropriately. Summer still means a variety of weather, which means layers are great! Adding a cardigan to a sleeveless dress or top is a great choice. For boys pairing pants with a short sleeve or also bringing a light top to layer is also a good option.
2. Think about your hair. If you or a family member’s hair reacts to humidity or moisture in a negative way, opt for a hairstyle that won’t leave you feeling insecure. For example, a pretty braid or an updo is a good choice. Or use a little extra product to keep frizz at bay.
3.Pack necessities. When packing your photo shoot necessities, I recommend bringing the following items: Lots of water for all, a snack for any grumps, bug spray, bear spray if you are concerned about bears (I usually have some as well just in case), nail trimmer, and makeup touchup.
4. Get creative with session ideas. Summer offers a host of activities that lend themselves to amazing photo sessions. For example, adding bubbles for the littles. They love the whimsy of bubbles, honestly who doesn’t!? A fun quilt or lace blanket to sit on or even have the kids run under as you and your partner hold it up. If we are doing a session with water, rain boots are always a solid choice.
5. Think about head to toe details. For example, if you’re wearing flip-flops or open toed shoes, you want to have manicured feet. I also recommend easy slide on shoes if we are doing some walking and you want to keep your shoes nice while we roam around the location.
6. I mentioned bug spray above as a necessity to pack. The wipes are amazing. The mosquito’s here can be quite a nuisance. I will edit out those pesky photo bombers but it’s good to prepared mentally as well!
7. Land of the midnight sun. Remember that our summers are full of longer days so make sure to keep that in mind when scheduling your session. We may have to adjust naps/sleep schedules to accommodate sessions. So just ensure everyone has had plenty of rest!
Remember to have FUN! I love summer sessions with the sun, the flowers, mountains, and lakes or streams. I can’t wait to adventure with you!
Alaska Adventure Anchorage Family photography
Class of 2023! Congratulations! I’ll spare you all the inspiration quotes because I’m sure your head is spinning as you go into your first summer post high school either with or without big plans. Both are ok! Remember, the good stuff is in the journey-not always in the destination. I couldn’t not give you some kiiiind of cheesy quote 😉 I  enjoyed working with you all and look forward to hearing about your adventures!
One thing I love about photograph people visiting Alaska is getting to know them! I had the honor of photographing this lovely woman while she was visiting Anchorage for the Midnight Mayor’s Sun Marathon! She is part of a group that travels all over the United State running marathon’s. We spent a little over an hour visiting a few of my favorite locations and capturing her stunning beauty <3
