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lisa smith photography
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February 26, 2025
Planning your engagement session is such an exciting step in your wedding journey! Whether you’re envisioning a mountaintop moment, an urban downtown location, or a beachside sunset, your engagement photos in NH should feel like you. To help you feel prepared, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about engagement sessions.
Why Should We Take Engagement Photos in NH?
New Hampshire is a beautiful state—whether you love the White Mountains, the Seacoast, or charming New England towns, there’s no shortage of stunning locations. Engagement photos in NH give you the chance to celebrate your engagement, get comfortable in front of the camera, and even use the photos for save-the-dates or your wedding website!
Here are my favorite ways to use your engagement photos!
When Should We Schedule Our Engagement Session?
It’s best to schedule your session 6-9 months before your wedding, especially if you want to use your photos for announcements or invitations. Seasons play a big role in setting the mood—spring brings blooming flowers, summer offers golden light, fall showcases vibrant foliage, and winter can be dreamy with snow!
What Should We Wear for Our Engagement Photos in NH?
The key is to wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Solid colors, neutral tones, and soft patterns tend to photograph best. Avoid logos or busy prints, and consider how your outfits complement each other. Need help deciding what to wear for your engagement session? Check out these blog posts for expert tips on outfits, colors, and patterns to make your photos look amazing!
Tips for Choosing Clothing That Will Help Create Movement in Photos
Creating Stunning Color Schemes
Tips to Transform a New Hampshire Cloudy Day Photo Session Into Stunning Portraits
Choosing Patterns
Where Are the Best Locations for Engagement Photos in NH?
New Hampshire offers an incredible variety of engagement photo locations. Here are a few favorites:
White Mountains – Perfect for adventurous couples who love breathtaking views.
Portsmouth & the Seacoast – A mix of historic charm, ocean views, and cobblestone streets.
Lakes – A romantic waterfront setting with beautiful sunsets.
Local Parks & Trails – Quiet, intimate spots with natural beauty.
Can We Bring Our Dog to Our Engagement Session?
Absolutely! If your furry friend is part of your story, they can be part of your engagement session too. Just bring a leash, some treats, and maybe a friend to help out when your pup isn’t in the shot.
How Long Do Engagement Sessions Last?
Most engagement sessions last about an hour to an hour and a half. The goal is to keep it fun and relaxed while capturing a variety of moments.
What Happens if It Rains on Our Session Day?
New Hampshire weather can be unpredictable, but don’t worry! While rain isn’t ideal for camera gear and will require rescheduling, cloudy days are actually great for photos. Unless there’s heavy rain in the forecast, your session will go on as planned! Check out these Tips to Transform a New Hampshire Cloudy Day Photo Session Into Stunning Portraits to see why overcast skies can be a photographer’s best friend.
How Do We Prepare for Our Engagement Photos in NH?
- Pick 2-3 outfits ahead of time and try them on to make sure they feel great.
- Consider professional hair and makeup for an extra confidence boost.
- Bring small touch-ups like lip balm or powder.
- Plan a fun post-session date—whether it’s a coffee shop stop or a celebratory dinner!
How Soon Will We Get Our Engagement Photos Back?
Every photographer has different turnaround times, but you can typically expect to receive your engagement photos within 4 weeks. If you need a few images sooner for save-the-dates, just ask!
Engagement photos in NH are a beautiful way to celebrate your love and create lasting memories before your wedding day. No matter where or when you choose to take them, the most important thing is to relax, have fun, and let your personalities shine.
Ready to book your engagement session? Let’s chat about the perfect location and vibe for your session!
February 18, 2025
Your wedding day is one of the most photographed moments of your life, so having flawless wedding makeup is a must. Doing your own makeup or asking a friend for help might sound appealing. However, here are my top 5 reasons why i think you should trust a professional makeup artist (MUA) for your big day.
1. Expertise in Wedding Makeup
Professional MUAs specialize in creating stunning wedding looks tailored to different skin types, tones, and textures. They know how to enhance your natural beauty, highlight your best features, and create a look that photographs beautifully. With their expert techniques, you’ll feel radiant and confident all day.
2. Long-Lasting, Photo-Ready Wedding Makeup
A wedding day is filled with emotions and lasts for hours—from early morning prep to the final dance. A professional MUA ensures your makeup stays fresh and flawless through tears, hugs, and hours of celebrating. Their expertise guarantees your look will hold up in person and in photos, no touch-ups required.
3. Stress-Free Wedding Morning
Your wedding morning should be all about excitement and relaxation. A professional makeup artist brings peace of mind, allowing you to sit back, relax, and be pampered. With your makeup in expert hands, you can focus on enjoying the day while they handle every detail.
4. Customized Wedding Makeup to Suit Your Style
Every bride’s vision is unique, and a professional MUA can tailor your wedding makeup to fit your style perfectly. Whether you want a natural, glowing look or something bold and glamorous, they’ll work with you to create a look that complements your dress, wedding theme, and personality.
5. Avoiding Common Wedding Makeup Mistakes
DIY makeup or relying on an amateur can lead to issues like unblended foundation, uneven eyeliner, or makeup that fades too quickly. A professional ensures every detail is flawless, giving you peace of mind that your makeup will look perfect in person and on camera.
Flawless Wedding Makeup Starts with a Pro
Hiring a professional makeup artist for your wedding isn’t just a luxury—it’s a smart investment in looking and feeling your best. With their skills and experience, you can trust that your makeup will be long-lasting, perfectly tailored, and stress-free.
Ready to have the wedding makeup of your dreams? Reach out to a professional MUA and let them create a look that will have you glowing all day long!
Here are few Makeup Artist I love!
Makeup By Jill Tilton
Hair and Makeup by Sophia
Jennifer Boss Beauty
Head over to my blog for more wedding tips and inspiration
February 11, 2025
When it comes to capturing family memories, there’s something undeniably special about in-home family photography NH. Families often love the comfort and warmth of being photographed in their own spaces, where their personalities and connections feel natural and genuine. These sessions are not only relaxed and fun but also allow for unique, personalized moments that are hard to replicate anywhere else.
Why Choose In-Home Family Photography NH?
Your home, filled with memories, quirks, and little details that make it uniquely yours. Choosing an in-home session offers:
Weather-Proof Flexibility: No need to worry about rain or cold ruining the session. In-home sessions happen regardless of what’s happening outside.
Comfort and Familiarity: Everyone feels more at ease in their own space—even the little ones! No need to pack bags, manage nap schedules, or stress over forgetting something.
Authentic Backdrops: Your home tells your family’s story, from that cozy couch where you cuddle to the kitchen where countless meals are shared.
As a photographer, I love seeing how families interact in their natural environments. It’s where genuine smiles and connections come to life, making every image a true reflection of your family.
How to Make In-Home Sessions Fun and Memorable
One of the best parts about family photography sessions in your home is how creative and interactive they can be. Lifestyle sessions are all about showcasing your family’s everyday moments in a beautifully artistic way. Here are some ideas to make your in-home session truly unique:
1. Bake Cookies or Cook Together
There’s something so heartwarming about capturing a family baking session. Whether it’s rolling dough, sprinkling flour, or sneaking chocolate chips, these moments make for delightful, candid photos.
Personal Tip: I’ve had families bake their favorite holiday cookies during a session, and the photos were not only adorable but also full of personality. Plus, everyone gets a tasty treat afterward!
2. Read a Book Together
Gather on the couch or in your child’s favorite reading nook and share a story. These quieter moments often highlight the sweetest bonds, from a parent’s gentle touch on a child’s shoulder to the wide-eyed wonder of little ones.
3. Jump on the Bed
Who doesn’t love a little bit of chaos? Let the kids jump on the bed (with supervision, of course!) for some playful and energetic shots. These images exude joy and create a sense of fun that’s contagious.
4. Play Board Games or Build a Puzzle
Board games are a fantastic way to show off your family’s personality. From goofy faces to moments of triumph or defeat, these photos capture the essence of togetherness and laughter.
5. Have a Dance Party
Turn up the music and let loose! Whether it’s a toddler twirl or a dad busting out embarrassing moves, a family dance party is guaranteed to bring out the smiles and create unforgettable images.
6. Snuggle and Relax
Sometimes, the simplest moments are the most meaningful. Pile onto the bed with blankets, sip on hot cocoa, and enjoy the calm. These moments of connection are beautiful in their simplicity.
The Magic of Lifestyle Photography
Unlike traditional posed photos, lifestyle photography captures your family as they truly are—the laughter, the mess, and the love. It’s about documenting moments rather than creating them, resulting in images that feel real and timeless.
Ready to Book Your Family Photography Session?
In-home family photography sessions are about celebrating the love, laughter, and chaos that make your family unique. Whether you’re baking cookies, dancing in the living room, or just snuggling on the couch, these moments are worth capturing.
If you’re ready to book a session or have questions about how it all works, reach out to me today! Let’s create images that you’ll love forever, right in the comfort of your own home.
February 5, 2025
There’s something about the perfect set of lashes that takes a bride’s look to a whole new level! I absolutely love when brides opt for false lashes on their wedding day! They add a touch of glamour and really make your eyes pop in photos. Lashes have a way of enhancing your overall makeup, giving you that bright-eyed, radiant look from morning until night.
Why I Love False Lashes on Brides:
- They Make Eyes Pop
False lashes add instant drama and definition to your eyes. Whether you go for a natural look or full-on glam, they give that extra ‘wow’ factor in photos. - They Complete the Bridal Look
The right set of lashes can pull your whole bridal look together, complementing your makeup and adding that final touch of elegance. - They Last All Day
With a good set of false lashes, you can count on your eyes looking fabulous from the first look to the last dance.
Wouldn’t it be amazing to have long, luscious lashes all year round? If you’re like me, you might have noticed your lashes thinning over time. Without mascara, mine were practically invisible! I even tried a few budget-friendly lash serums I found on Amazon, but they didn’t deliver any results.
Then, I discovered the secret to growing long, thick lashes: Rodan + Fields Lash Boost! With this incredible lash serum, you don’t have to wait for special occasions or rely on false lashes to enjoy stunning lashes every day. Imagine waking up with lashes that look like you’ve just stepped out of a makeup chair—no extensions or glue required!
Lash Goals Year-Round with Rodan + Fields Lash Boost
If you’re ready to ditch the hassle of false lashes and extensions, this serum is your answer. Designed to condition and enhance your lashes, Lash Boost helps you achieve fuller, longer-looking lashes in just a few weeks.
Tips for Using Lash Boost:
1. Apply at Night
Incorporate Lash Boost into your nightly routine. After cleansing your face, apply a thin line of serum along your lash line—just like eyeliner. One swipe is all you need!
(Pro tip: Don’t overdo it like I did on my first night. I applied way too much, and my eyes weren’t happy the next day—they were dry, itchy, and uncomfortable!)
2. Be Consistent
Consistency is key! Use Lash Boost every night to see the best results. Follow the directions on the label, and trust the process—it’s worth it.
3. Be Patient
Great things take time, and Lash Boost is no exception. You’ll start noticing fuller, longer lashes in 4-8 weeks. Stick with it, and you’ll love the transformation!
4. A Little Goes a Long Way
One thin line of serum is all it takes. Avoid applying too much—it’s designed to work with just a small amount.
If you’re ready to achieve gorgeous lashes without the glue or extensions, Rodan + Fields Lash Boost might just become your new favorite beauty product!
Ready to Enhance Your Lashes?
I highly recommend Rodan + Fields Lash Boost if you’re looking to get those dreamy, beautiful lashes without the hassle of extensions or false lashes. You can check it out Check out Lash Boost by Rodan + Fields and start your journey to longer, thicker lashes today!
Whether it’s your wedding day or just a regular Tuesday, you deserve to feel fabulous with stunning lashes all year long!
Check out more tips for your wedding on my blog.
Head over to my blog for more wedding tips and inspiration
January 23, 2025
When Becca and Michael began planning their wedding, they knew they wanted a day that blended elegance, fun, and a connection to their family and friends. Although they live in California, their decision to tie the knot at Cranmore Mountain Resort in North Conway, NH, was a tribute to their loved ones from the area. This unforgettable fall wedding perfectly highlighted why Cranmore Mountain Resort is one of the most breathtaking North Conway wedding venues.
Becca + Michael’s Multicultural Celebration at Cranmore Mountain Resort
Becca and Michael’s wedding day was full of personal touches and meaningful traditions. Their ceremony was a beautiful blend of cultures, with a close friend from Israel leading Jewish wedding traditions, and Michael’s sister incorporating Baha’i traditions into the ceremony. The couple’s vows were a mix of sentimental, funny, and emotional moments that had everyone laughing and tearing up.
The reception was nothing short of spectacular. Guests were treated to heartfelt speeches from the Maid of Honor and Best Man, a first dance that Becca and Michael had choreographed to perfection and put a smile on everyone’s face. The evening reached its peak with the Hora, as family and friends joined in the joyful celebration.
Breathtaking Views and a Golden Hour Ceremony
Fall in North Conway is nothing short of magical, and Cranmore Mountain Resort delivered an incredible backdrop of vibrant orange, yellow and red foliage. The couple and their guests took a chairlift up to the mountain summit for a ceremony that showcased views of the town below.
After exchanging their vows, Becca and Michael hosted a cocktail hour during golden hour at the summit. My favorite shot of the day was capturing their epic kiss atop a rock, framed by the radiant fall colors. For a mid-October day, the weather was surprisingly warm and clear, making it the perfect setting to soak in the stunning scenery.
Why Cranmore Mountain is a Top Choice for North Conway Wedding Venues
Cranmore Mountain’s versatility makes it a standout among North Conway wedding venues. Above all, the newly built ski lodge seamlessly transitions into a reception space, offering a cozy yet elegant atmosphere. Guests enjoyed an incredible meal catered by Cranmore Mountain and danced the night away to live music from @coverstoryentertainment.
From the unparalleled mountain views to the warm, inviting vibe of the venue, Cranmore Mountain provided the perfect setting for Becca and Michael’s celebration.
Shoutout to the Amazing Vendor Team
Creating this unforgettable day took a talented team of vendors:
- Venue & Caterer: @cranmoremountain
- Band: @coverstoryentertainment
- Hair & Makeup: @marissaannartistry
- Photographer: @lisasmith.photography
In conclusion, Becca and Michael’s Cranmore Mountain wedding truly showcased the beauty and charm of this incredible location. If you’re planning your big day and looking at North Conway wedding venues, Cranmore Mountain is a must-see.
Ready to plan your perfect wedding day? Explore my wedding photography packages to see how I can capture your love story!
January 9, 2025
Some weddings just feel like everything clicks into place, and Julianna and Jeffery’s day was exactly that. From the gorgeous Pembroke Pines Country Club to all the thoughtful details, their wedding was full of love, joy, and them.
A Love Story That Began with Music
Julianna and Jeffery’s story started back in college when they met singing a cappella together. Their love of music became a key part of their wedding day, especially during their duet at the reception—a moment that left everyone in smiling!
The Perfect Venue: Pembroke Pines Country Club
The newly renovated Pembroke Pines Country Club was the perfect backdrop for their fall celebration. With beautiful indoor spaces and breathtaking views of the golf course, it gave them the elegant yet comfortable vibe they wanted. The sunny, breezy weather added a touch of movement to their photos, making them even more vibrant and dynamic.
Personal Touches That Made It Their Own
Julianna and Jeffery put their stamp on every detail of their wedding. Instead of a traditional cake, they treated their guests to an ice cream sundae bar—how fun is that? Guests also loved the floral wall by Love, Emmie, which doubled as a photo backdrop. And the late-night coffee from Espresso Dave kept everyone fueled for dancing into the night. The flowers by Chalifour’s Florist tied everything together with their pops of color and elegance.
Memories That Stood Out at Pembroke Pines Country Club
Their first look on the golf course was such a sweet and emotional moment—just the two of them soaking in the day before all the fun began. During the ceremony, they incorporated a sand unity ritual that symbolized their bond. And their duet? It was the kind of moment people will talk about for years.
Golden Hour Magic & an Unforgettable Dance Floor
As the sun set over the course, we captured some of the dreamiest portraits of the day! This venue is perfect for that golden hour light I love. Once the reception kicked off, DJ Manolo from ECF Entertainment kept the party alive, and the dance floor stayed packed all night long.
A Day Full of Heart and Joy
Julianna and Jeffery’s wedding wasn’t just beautiful—it was a celebration of who they are as a couple. Every detail reflected their love story and personality, making it such a joy to photograph.
If you’re planning your wedding and want photos that capture your unique connection and all the moments that matter most, let’s chat!
Working with Lisa was truly a wonderful experience! From the engagement photos to the pre/post ceremony family/bridal party photos to the reception, Lisa was there to capture all the special moments. My family spoke so highly of her too and we agreed that Lisa’s calm energy made us all feel more comfortable and grounded through the whole process! Her assistant Micaela was also lovely to work with! The engagement photos came out amazing and the sneak peak of our wedding photos is stunning!!! She clearly has an eye for this and was great at directing us to create beautiful moments! I definitely plan to seek out Lisa for future moments to photograph such as maternity shoots or family photos!
Vendors:
Pembroke Pines Country Club: @pembrokepinescc
Flowers: @chalifoursflowers
DJ: @ecfdjs
Caterer: @pembrokepinescc
Photo Booth: @loveemmie.co
Hair and Makeup: @parlorsalonnh
Photographer: @lisasmith.photography
Espresso Cart: @espresso_dave
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