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lisa smith photography
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April 10, 2025
Your wedding day is filled with unforgettable moments, from the excitement of getting ready to the joy of the dance floor. With so much happening, having a well-thought-out wedding day shot list ensures that every important detail is beautifully captured. While an experienced photographer will know what to look for, communicating your must-have moments helps make sure nothing is missed. Here’s a guide to your must-have wedding photos.
Getting Ready Shots
The pre-ceremony moments are filled with anticipation and excitement. Key photos to include in your wedding day shot list:
- Details! The wedding dress, suit, shoes, and accessories.
- Bride and groom getting ready, including final touches.
- Candid moments with bridesmaids and groomsmen.
- Parents’ reactions as they see the bride or groom.
- A quiet, reflective moment before the ceremony.
The First Look (If You Choose to Have One)
A first look can be an incredibly emotional moment. If you’re planning one, consider capturing:
- The groom’s reaction as he sees the bride.
- A private moment for just the two of you before the ceremony.
- A first look with parents or the bridal party.
Ceremony Must-Haves
The ceremony is the heart of your wedding day. Be sure to include:
- The venue and décor before guests arrive.
- The processional: wedding party walking down the aisle.
- The bride’s grand entrance.
- Reactions from the groom, family, and guests.
- Exchange of vows and rings.
- The first kiss as a married couple.
- The recessional as you walk back down the aisle together.
For expert tips on making your ceremony photos even more stunning, check out 5 Secrets to a Picture-Perfect Wedding Ceremony!
Post-Ceremony Portraits
Once the ceremony is over, it’s time for formal portraits. This part of your wedding day shot list should include:
- Newlywed portraits.
- Full wedding party shots.
- Immediate family portraits (parents, siblings, grandparents).
- Extended family and special group shots.
- Candid moments between you and your partner.
Reception Moments to Capture
The reception is where the celebration truly begins! Be sure to capture:
- Venue and table details before guests arrive.
- The grand entrance of the newlyweds.
- First dance, parent dances, and special performances.
- Candid guest reactions and interactions.
- Toasts and speeches.
- Cake cutting and dessert moments.
- Dance party!
- A memorable send-off, like a sparkler exit or champagne spray.
Want to make your grand exit unforgettable? Check out 5 Tips for a Sparkler Send-Off + Fun Alternatives!
Special or Personalized Shots
Every wedding is unique, and your wedding day shot list should reflect that. Consider adding:
- A golden hour or sunset session for glowing, romantic portraits.
- Cultural or religious traditions unique to your celebration.
- Private last dance for just the two of you.
- Any surprise moments planned for the day.
Your wedding day will fly by, but your photos will last forever. Working with a photographer who understands your vision and captures every key moment is essential. By creating a thoughtful wedding day shot list, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your most cherished memories are preserved.
Looking for a photographer who will capture every detail beautifully? Let’s connect and make sure your wedding day is documented just the way you envision!
April 2, 2025
New Hampshire might be small, but its views are anything but! Home to some of the most stunning wedding venues in NH mountains, this little state has it all—from mountaintop estates to rustic barns with panoramic views. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, these five venues offer the perfect backdrop for your big day.
1. Cobb Hill Estate – A Private Mountain Get-Away
Why You’ll Love It: Set on a private 750-acre estate, Cobb Hill Estate offers 360-degree mountain views, providing couples with a secluded and peaceful setting to celebrate. The venue’s sunsets and panoramic landscapes create a truly memorable backdrop for your special day.
Best For: Couples looking for a secluded, DIY-friendly wedding venue with plenty of space for guests.
Visit Cobb Hill Estate or read more about the 5 Reasons Why Every Couple Should Say I Do Here!
2. Castle in the Clouds – A Dream Wedding Destination
Why You’ll Love It: Located high in the Ossipee Mountains, Castle in the Clouds is one of the most iconic wedding venues in NH mountains. This historic estate overlooks Lake Winnipesaukee and offers gorgeous views, elegant gardens, and timeless charm.
Best For: Couples who want a storybook wedding with a touch of vintage elegance.
3. Cranmore Mountain – Adventure Meets Romance
Why You’ll Love It: For couples who love adventure, Cranmore Mountain offers a one-of-a-kind wedding experience with stunning views of the White Mountains. Enjoy chairlift rides, cozy mountain lodges, and an atmosphere that’s both relaxed and refined. The venue is perfect for capturing epic sunsets, and the fall foliage season adds an extra layer of beauty to your day.
Best For: Couples who love the outdoors and want a mix of adventure and relaxation.
4. Cold Spring Farm – A Cozy Barn with Mountain Views
Why You’ll Love It: For couples seeking rustic charm with stunning mountain views, Cold Spring Farm offers the perfect setting. This family-owned venue features a beautifully restored barn, open fields, and natural surroundings. For a special touch, capture photos with the beautiful horses on the property. Located in Alton, NH, the venue offers a perfect backdrop for capturing stunning sunsets.
Best For: Couples seeking a cozy, intimate barn wedding with beautiful surroundings.
5. Mountain View Stables – A Rustic Venue with Breathtaking Vistas
Why You’ll Love It: With rolling fields and panoramic views, Mountain View Stables provides a unique setting for your ceremony. The peaceful, relaxed atmosphere is perfect for couples looking for a charming and elegant barn venue.
Best For: Couples who love nature, rustic charm, and a unique wedding day experience.
Choosing the Perfect Wedding Venue in NH Mountains
Each of these stunning wedding venues in NH mountains offers a unique experience, from mountaintop estates to cozy barns and adventure-filled ski resorts. No matter your wedding style, New Hampshire provides the perfect backdrop for a day filled with love, happiness, and unforgettable moments.
Are you planning a mountain wedding? Let’s chat about capturing your special day with breathtaking photography that tells your love story!
March 27, 2025
Planning the perfect proposal is exciting, nerve-wracking, and filled with details—but one thing you won’t want to overlook is hiring a proposal photographer. This once-in-a-lifetime moment deserves to be captured in a way that lets you relive every emotion, from the surprise on your partner’s face to the joy that follows. But how do you find the right photographer to document this special occasion? Here are five tips to help you choose the perfect proposal photographer for your big moment.
1. Look for Experience with Surprise Proposals
Proposals are unlike any other type of photography session. They require stealth, quick reactions, and an understanding of how to capture the moment naturally. When researching photographers, check if they have experience with proposal photography. A seasoned photographer will know how to stay hidden when necessary, anticipate the right angles, and adjust for different lighting and locations—all without interrupting the moment.
2. Review Their Portfolio for Style & Quality
Every photographer has a unique style, whether it’s light and airy, dramatic and moody, or true-to-life colors. Take time to review their portfolio and ensure their aesthetic aligns with what you envision for your proposal photos. High-quality images, natural expressions, and beautifully framed shots are all signs of a great proposal photographer.
3. Consider Their Knowledge of the Location
If you’re proposing in a specific spot—whether it’s mountain views, a city park, or a meaningful location for you both—your proposal photographer should be familiar with it. Photographers who know the area can suggest the best angles, help with timing based on lighting conditions, and even recommend the perfect hiding spots to stay unnoticed until the big moment.
4. Ask About Their Approach to Capturing the Moment
Some photographers take a documentary-style approach, staying completely out of sight and letting everything unfold naturally. Others may give you some guidance, like where to stand for the best lighting. Talk to your proposal photographer about their approach and what will make you and your partner feel most comfortable.
5. Make Sure They Offer a Plan for What Happens Next
After the big “YES,” you’ll want to celebrate! A great proposal photographer will capture not only the moment itself but also the immediate excitement afterward. Some offer short engagement sessions following the proposal, while others help coordinate a second session later. Ask about what’s included and when you can expect your final images.
Ready to Book Your Proposal Photographer?
Your proposal is a moment you’ll never forget, and having the right photographer ensures you’ll have beautiful images to cherish forever. If you’re planning to pop the question and want a proposal photographer who will capture every emotion, I’d love to help! Reach out, and let’s make your vision a reality.
March 19, 2025
In today’s digital world, first impressions happen in seconds. Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or creative professional, your online presence needs to be strong, cohesive, and authentic. One of the best ways to achieve that? Branding photos and professional NH headshots that reflect who you are and what your business represents.
Why Authentic Headshots Work for Your Brand
We’ve all seen them—stiff, uninspired headshots that feel cold, outdated, or overly corporate. These generic images fail to communicate personality, professionalism, or authenticity. If your headshot could belong to just about anyone, it’s not doing its job.
A strong brand is all about connection and recognition. When potential clients visit your website, browse LinkedIn, or check out your social media, they should immediately feel like they’re meeting the real you. That’s where custom headshots and branding photography come in.
The Power of Branding in Your NH Headshots
Your brand isn’t just a logo or a color palette—it’s the feeling people get when they interact with you. Every detail, from your messaging to your visuals, plays a role in building trust and connection.
A well-crafted branding session isn’t just about taking a nice picture; it’s about creating images that represent your personality, business values, and brand aesthetic.
1. Show Your Brand’s Personality
People don’t just buy products or services—they buy stories, experiences, and relationships. Whether your brand is warm and inviting, modern and bold, or fun and creative, your headshot and branding images should visually communicate that.
A professional photographer helps capture the right expressions, body language, and style that align with your brand.
2. Create a Cohesive Brand Identity
Your NH headshots should seamlessly fit into your brand. Think about the colors, backgrounds, and outfits that reflect your business’s vibe. Do you want a polished studio look, an outdoor lifestyle feel, or a creative workspace setting? Every detail matters when shaping your brand identity.
3. Differentiate Yourself from the Competition
A strong brand sets you apart. If your headshots and branding photos look generic, you’re missing an opportunity to stand out in your industry.
Branded NH headshots are unique to you. Instead of using a plain background and stiff pose, a branding session allows for multiple looks, locations, and props that tell your story.
4. Build Trust with Your Audience
Your audience wants to know who they’re working with. High-quality branding images make you look professional, approachable, and trustworthy. Whether you’re a coach, real estate agent, designer, or small business owner, having strong NH headshots creates an instant sense of credibility.
5. Increase Engagement and Visibility
People connect with faces more than logos or text. When you incorporate NH headshots and branding photos across your website, social media, and marketing materials, you create a more personal and engaging brand presence. This leads to higher engagement, stronger connections, and ultimately, more clients.
Where to Use Your NH Headshots & Branding Photos for Maximum Impact
Once you have professional branding photos, make sure they’re working for you! Here are key places to use them:
- Website & About Page – Make a strong first impression with a polished, on-brand image.
- Social Media Profiles & Content – Consistent, high-quality images across LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook build brand recognition.
- Marketing Materials – Use them in email newsletters, lead magnets, and advertisements.
- Speaking Engagements & Press Features – Professional branding photos ensure you look polished in articles, podcasts, and conferences.
- Business Cards & Print Materials – A personalized touch makes a lasting impact.
Ready to Elevate Your Brand with NH Headshots?
If your current headshot and branding images don’t reflect who you are, it’s time for an upgrade! Investing in professional NH headshots and branding photography will elevate your business, strengthen your online presence, and help you stand out from the competition. Let’s create images that truly represent your brand and make an unforgettable first impression.
View pricing and packages.
March 12, 2025
When planning your wedding day, you’ve probably heard of a first look, but have you ever considered a first touch? This quiet moment is an alternative for couples who want to connect before the ceremony while still keeping the tradition of not seeing each other until they walk down the aisle.
What Is a First Touch at a Wedding?
A first touch is a private moment between the couple before the ceremony, where they hold hands, exchange sweet words, or even share a letter—without actually seeing each other. It allows couples to ease any wedding day nerves while maintaining the excitement of the big reveal at the altar.
Why Choose a First Touch Over a First Look?
While a first look involves seeing each other before the ceremony, a first touch keeps the surprise intact. It’s a perfect choice if you want to:
- Keep the anticipation of the walk down the aisle.
- Share an intimate moment without breaking tradition.
- Calm your nerves with a reassuring hand squeeze or a few whispered words.
- Exchange vows or letters privately before saying them in front of everyone.
5 Ways to Make Your First Touch Special
Exchange Small Gifts
Some couples use this time to exchange gifts, like a piece of jewelry, a custom handkerchief, or even a recording of a heartfelt message.
Find the Perfect Spot
Choose a private location where you can hold hands without the risk of seeing each other—like standing on opposite sides of a door, around a corner, or even back-to-back.
Exchange Personal Letters
Writing a note to read in this moment adds an extra layer of emotion and makes for a meaningful keepsake.
Say a Prayer or Share a Moment of Reflection
If faith is important to you, a first touch can be a wonderful time to pray together and reflect on the journey ahead.
Have Your Photographer Capture It
A first touch creates beautiful, emotional images. Your wedding photographer can document the moment from the perfect angle while ensuring you don’t accidentally see each other
Should You Do a First Touch at Your Wedding?
A first touch is a beautiful alternative for couples who want to share a moment of connection while still saving the big reveal for the ceremony. If you’re looking for a way to calm pre-ceremony jitters and add another heartfelt touch to your day, this might be the perfect choice for you.
Would you consider a first touch on your wedding day?
Ready to capture every moment of your big day? Let’s make magic together—reach out today!
March 6, 2025
One of the biggest questions couples ask before their session is: What should we wear for engagement photos? If you’re wondering the same thing, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! From outfit choices to colors, textures, and accessories, this guide will help you look and feel amazing in front of the camera.
How Many Outfits Should You Plan?
When planning what to wear for engagement photos, keep in mind that changing outfits takes more time than you’d expect. To maximize shooting time and get the most photos possible, I recommend sticking to one to two outfits for engagement sessions. This allows us to capture a variety of looks while keeping the session flowing smoothly.
Styling Tips for Her
The Power of a Flowing Dress
There’s nothing more flattering than a long, flowy dress! Dresses and skirts photograph beautifully because they bring movement, elegance, and dimension to your images. Maxi or floor-length dresses add a touch of romance and create stunning movement in walking shots.
If you prefer a shorter option, cocktail-length dresses and midi skirts also look fantastic. The key is choosing a silhouette that flatters your shape and makes you feel confident. Check out these tips on dressing for your body type.
Choosing Colors
When selecting what to wear for engagement photos, color plays a big role in how your images will turn out. I recommend:
Muted, earthy tones like olive green, rust, mustard, dusty pink, navy, and browns
Soft neutrals like cream, gray, or taupe instead of stark black or white
One warm tone (rust, burgundy, mustard) if we’re shooting in a green outdoor setting to add contrast
Struggling to pick the perfect colors? Check out this guide for tips and inspiration!
Bright neon colors? Hard NO! Our eyes are naturally drawn to the brightest part of an image, and we want the focus to be on you, not your outfit.
Patterns, Textures & Logos
If you love patterns, keep them subtle. A floral dress or a small, delicate print can add personality, but avoid bold stripes, big polka dots, or graphic logos, as they can be distracting. To add depth without overpowering the image, consider textures like linen, denim, or knits instead.
Shoes & Accessories
Heels elongate your legs and create a flattering silhouette, but bring a pair of flats or flip-flops for walking between locations.
Accessories
Accessories add personality—think earrings, a delicate necklace, or a statement bracelet. Just keep it balanced; if you wear bold earrings, go light on the necklace.
Fresh Florals
A flower crown or a small bouquet—can add a romantic touch.
Styling Tips for Him
The Best Outfit Choices
For men, layers are key! A well-fitted blazer, sport coat, or jacket instantly elevates your look and creates a flattering silhouette. A dress shirt with slacks is always a great choice, but avoid polos or t-shirts—long sleeves are much more flattering.
For pants, make sure they’re tailored well to avoid bunching at the bottom, which can make you look shorter.
Best Colors for Men
When choosing what to wear for engagement photos, stick to neutral and soft colors for a timeless look. I recommend pairing a darker shade on the bottom (like navy slacks) with a lighter shade on top (like a gray blazer).
Avoid pinstripes, bold plaid, or large logos, as these can be distracting in photos.
Fall & Winter Engagement Sessions
Colder weather means layering up, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing style! Here are a few seasonal outfit ideas:
Fall Engagement Photos
Warm neutrals like camel, taupe, and gray look amazing. Jewel tones (burgundy, emerald, mustard) also photograph beautifully against autumn landscapes.
Winter Engagement Photos
A statement coat paired with a cozy scarf, beanie, and gloves creates a stylish winter look. For snowy sessions, soft pastels or muted tones like blush pink and powder blue can add a dreamy touch.
What to Avoid in Your Engagement Photos
Matching White Shirts & Jeans
We’ve moved on from the ‘90s! Instead, mix and match coordinating colors for a natural, stylish look.
Fake Tan
It often looks orange in photos and can be patchy. Natural skin tones always look better!
Bulky Watches & Phones in Pockets
Keep distractions out of your shots by leaving these items in your bag.
Need Help Choosing Your Outfit?
If you’re still unsure what to wear for engagement photos, I’m happy to help! Lay out a few outfit options, snap a quick photo, and send it my way—I’d love to give you feedback.
Most importantly, wear something that makes you feel like YOU! When you feel confident and comfortable, your photos will reflect that.
Ready to book your session? Let’s create something beautiful together!
TIPS TO LOVE THE WAY YOU LOOK!
free guide: 5 engagement styling
5 engagement styling tips to love the way you look
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