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lisa smith photography
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August 5, 2024
As a professional photographer, I understand the importance of timing in outdoor photography. The right time of day can transform your photos from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re planning a family photoshoot, an engagement session, or senior portraits, choosing the perfect timing is crucial. So, what time of day is best for outdoor photos in New Hampshire? In this blog post, I’ll share the best times of day for different types of outdoor sessions and provide insights to help you make the most of your photoshoot.
What Time of Day is Best for Outdoor Photos: Sunrise and Sunset
Sunset Photos: Capturing the Golden Hour
What Time to Start for Sunset Photos
Sunset is one of the most popular times for outdoor photography, and for good reason. The hour before the sun dips below the horizon, known as the golden hour, gives everything in a warm, soft light that’s incredibly flattering for family photos, engagement sessions, and senior portraits.
Ideal Starting Time: We typically start about an hour before sunset. This timing allows us to capture the beautiful changing light and ensure a variety of stunning shots.
Sunrise Photos: Embracing the Morning Glow
What Time to Start for Sunrise Photos
Sunrise offers a magical light that’s often softer and cooler compared to sunset. Plus, you usually have the added bonus of fewer people around, making for more peaceful and intimate photos
Ideal Starting Time: We usually start about 20-30 minutes before sunrise. This allows us to capture the changing light from pre-dawn to the actual sunrise.
Overcast Days: Making the Most of Soft Light
What Time to Start if it’s Overcast
Overcast days can actually be a blessing for outdoor photography. The clouds act as a giant diffuser, creating even, soft light that’s perfect for photos.
Ideal Time of Day: We can shoot at any time during an overcast day, but mid-morning to late afternoon is often best to avoid the flat light of midday.
One disadvantage of doing a photo shoot on an overcast day is that the dull, gray skies can make colors in the photos appear muted and less vibrant. The lack of direct sunlight often results in lower contrast and saturation, giving the photos a flat and lifeless look. This can be especially challenging if you’re aiming for bright, vivid images. Choosing outfits with bold colors can really liven up your photos on an overcast day. Check out my blog post on transforming New Hampshire’s cloudy day photo sessions into stunning portraits for more tips and tricks.
Cloudy Days: Embracing the Dramatic Skies
What Time to Start if it’s Cloudy
Cloudy days, unlike fully overcast days, can provide dramatic lighting and interesting contrasts. The changing light and patterns can add a dynamic element to your photos.
Ideal Time of Day: Late afternoon to early evening is often best as the clouds can create striking effects with the setting sun.
What Time of Day is Best for Outdoor Photos at the Beach?
Best Time of Day for Photos on the Beach on the East Coast
Beaches on the East Coast are ideal for sunrise photos because the sun rises directly over the ocean, offering a breathtaking backdrop and a warm, golden glow that enhances your images. If you’re wondering what time of day is best for outdoor photos at the beach, then sunrise is what you want. Sunrise provides that soft, flattering illumination that makes photos look magical and beautiful.
In contrast, sunset sessions on the East Coast may not offer the same visual impact. Since the sun sets over the land rather than the ocean, it can be challenging to capture both a stunning backdrop and flattering light The light at sunset might not reflect as beautifully off the water, which can result in less dramatic lighting and a less vibrant background. This difference in timing and lighting can significantly affect the overall look of your beach photos.
Ideal Times:
- Sunrise: We’ll start right at sunrise or just before to capture the changing light and the sun rising over the ocean.
- Sunset: Best time to start your session is 1 hour before sunset.
Choosing the right time of day for your outdoor photoshoot can greatly impact the final results. Whether you’re aiming for the warm glow of the golden hour, the soft light of an overcast day, or the dramatic effects of a cloudy sky, timing is crucial. What time of day is best for outdoor photos? You must consider these factors when planing your family photoshoot, engagement session, or senior portraits.
Ready to capture stunning outdoor photos? Contact me today!
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July 30, 2024
Essential Tips on What to Wear for Senior Photos: Hair and Makeup
If it fits your budget, I highly recommend that all my senior clients invest in professional hair and makeup. This investment will significantly enhance the quality of your photos and overall senior portrait experience. You’re already putting effort into what to wear for senior photos, so why not ensure they’re the best they can be!
SO WHY EXACTLY IS IT IMPORTANT?
1. THEY ARE PROFESSIONALS
Professional hair and makeup artists are trained to do hair and makeup that photographs well. While your makeup may look amazing in person, it could look completely different on-camera, and these professionals are trained to know the difference! They will conceal spots you don’t like, contour so your face looks the best in every light, use colors that compliment your skin tone, make your eyes pop, manicure your eyebrows to perfection, and more!
2. LESS STRESS
Your senior session can be full of decisions, including what you’re going to wear, who you’re going to bring, and more. Trying to do your own hair and makeup if you don’t know what you’re doing can make it harder. Hiring a professional hair and makeup artist takes all the stress away and lets you simply enjoy your big day!
3. WHO DOESN’T LIKE GETTING PAMPERED?
I don’t ever want my seniors to feel like their portrait session is simply taking photos, I want it to be a fun EXPERIENCE you can remember every time you look at your images. So, if you arrive at your senior session after an hour of pampering, the whole day has already started out on a fantastic note! After all, you’re only a high school senior once!
4. CONFIDENCE BOOST
Not everyone I work with is used to getting their photo taken, and I totally get how intimidating it can be! Getting your hair and makeup done will give you that extra boost of confidence you deserve to shine in your senior photos!
If Hair and Makeup is Not in your Budget!
THAT’S TOTALLY OKAY! HERE ARE JUST A FEW TIPS FOR FLAWLESS PHOTO-READY MAKEUP!
1. USE LIPSTICK/GLOSS
Cameras are designed to capture every detail, so make sure your lips are not chapped and flaky! Without lipstick or gloss, your lips could easily blend into the surrounding skin, which nobody wants. If you aren’t a lipstick kind of girl, put on some tinted chapstick so your lips are still smooth, glossy, and pink!
2. APPLY FOUNDATION EVENLY
Using foundation or concealer can make a world of difference in your photos! It can make your skin appear flawless, but only as long as it’s applied evenly and blended down your neck. Try using a makeup sponge or foundation brush to blend your foundation and concealer all over your skin!
3. FALSIES ARE YOUR FRIEND!
False eyelashes are a super fun way to add a little extra glam to your photos! While they may feel a bit odd if you don’t wear them often, they make your eyes POP in your images and look totally natural!
4. DON’T NEGLECT YOUR NAILS
Your hands will be incorporated into some of the poses, so pampered nails are a must. Neutral or pastel colors photograph best without drawing too much attention away from your face! If you don’t want to get your nails done at a salon, consider getting press on nails at Walmart or Target! They’re inexpensive and wicked easy to apply.
5. BOLD BROWS
If you wear foundation, make sure that it’s not covering your brows! Sometimes concealer or foundation can accidentally get onto your eyebrows, making them appear faded. Giving your brows a good comb-through with some tinted brow gel is a great idea. Your brows help frame your face, so bold brows are important!
Ready to elevate your senior portraits? Click here for the ultimate guide on what to wear for senior photos!
Would you like to discover more about the Lisa Smith Photography Senior Experience? Well, let me tell you, my approach goes beyond capturing stunning images; it’s about creating an unforgettable journey tailored specifically to you. Each step, from consultation to delivery, guarantees a personalized and exceptional experience.
Moreover, I prioritize understanding your unique personality, interests, and aspirations to craft a photo session that reflects your individuality and celebrates this significant milestone in your life. I promise an experience focused on genuine connections and authentic moments, cherished for years to come.
Contact me today to book your senior portrait session.
Congrats
You Made it! Your a Senior!
Click below to grab Your Guide to Senior Photos. This guide is filled with lots of tips and info for your senior photos.
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July 25, 2024
We all know how fast time flies, especially on your wedding day. That’s why having a well-organized timeline is crucial to ensuring everything flows smoothly. To help you out, I’ve put together some amazing timeline samples that will guide you in mapping out exactly how much time to allocate for each part of your big day. With this all taken care of, you can kick back, relax, and enjoy every moment with your nearest and dearest, without worrying about delays or disruptions.
Ready to plan your perfect day? Download my wedding day timeline template and take the stress out of your wedding planning!
Example Wedding Day Timeline Template No. 1:
8 Hours of Coverage with a First Look
- 12:00 Getting Ready & Detail Photos
- 1:00 First Look & Couples Photos
- 2:00 Wedding Party Photos
- 3:00 Ceremony
- 3:30 Cocktail Hour / Family Photos
- 4:30 Grand Entrance to Reception/First Dance
- 5:00 Dinner
- 6:00 Speeches, Cake, Etc.
- 7:00 Dance Party!
- 7:30 Sunset Photos
- 8:00 Dance Party!
Example Wedding Day Timeline Template No. 2:
6 Hours of Coverage Without a First Look
- 1:30 Getting Ready & Detail Photos
- 3:00 Ceremony
- 3:30 Cocktail Hour / Family Photos / Wedding Party Photos
- 4:00 Couples Photos
- 4:30 Grand Entrance to Reception/First Dance
- 5:00 Dinner
- 6:30 Speeches, Cake, Etc.
- 7:00 Sunset Photos
- 7:30 Dance Party!
Example Wedding Day Timeline Template No. 3:
4 Hours of Coverage With a First Look
- 2:30 First Look & Couples Photos
- 3:00 Ceremony
- 3:30 Cocktail Hour / Family Photos / Wedding Party Photos
- 4:30 Grand Entrance to Reception/First Dance
- 5:00 Dinner
- 6:00 Speeches, Cake, Etc
- 6:30 Dance Party!
Lisa Smith Photography is New Hampshire’s premier wedding photographer, known for capturing timeless, unique, and candid connections that evoke emotions years after the wedding day!
Ready to plan your perfect day? Download my wedding day timeline template and take the stress out of your wedding planning!
NEED STYLING TIPS FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT SESSION?
DOWNLOAD MY 5 ENGAGEMENT STYLING TIPS TO LOVE THE WAY YOU LOOK!
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July 20, 2024
Planning a wedding involves a lot of decisions, from choosing the perfect venue to selecting the ideal menu. One significant choice you might face is whether to hire a second photographer. While having multiple photographers can capture your special day from every angle, it’s important to weigh these key factors. Let’s dive into five reasons why you might want a second photographer and three reasons why you might not.
Key Reasons to Answer ‘YES’ to the Most Common Wedding Photography Question: Do I need a second photographer at my wedding?
Comprehensive Coverage
A second photographer ensures that no moment goes unnoticed. While one photographer is capturing the bride’s preparations, the other can be with the groom. Documenting both sides of your story beautifully!
Different Angles and Perspectives
Two photographers mean more shots. One can focus on wide-angle venue shots, while the other captures close-ups of your emotional expressions. For example, during the ceremony, one photographer can take pictures of the vows, while the other captures the reactions of your guests. These different perspectives add depth to your wedding album.
More Candid Moments
While the primary photographer focuses on formal shots, the second photographer roams around to capture those candid moments of your guests enjoying the day.
Efficient Timeline Management
A second photographer ensures a more efficient timeline, making sure no part of your day is rushed or missed. Also, if you have a big family or many formal portraits planned, a second photographer helps organize and keeps the portrait session moving smoothly, allowing you and your guests to enjoy cocktail hour sooner.
3 Reasons to Say ‘No’ to the Common Wedding Question: Do I Need a Second Photographer at my wedding?
Smaller, Intimate Weddings
For smaller weddings with fewer guests, a single photographer can often cover all the important moments with ease. If your guest list is 60 or fewer, one photographer should be sufficient to capture the essential moments and details of your special day. This approach allows for a more personal and focused photography experience.
Budget Constraints
I get it! Weddings are expensive, and adding a second photographer can significantly increase costs. If you have budget constraints, it might be wise to invest in one excellent photographer.
Limited Venue Space
Some wedding venues are small or have specific restrictions that can make it challenging for multiple photographers to work effectively without getting in each other’s way. Limited space can make it difficult to maneuver around guests, decorations, and furniture, which can compromise the quality of the photographs. In these cases, a single, experienced photographer can navigate the venue more easily, ensuring that all important moments are captured seamlessly without any unnecessary interference.
Ultimately, the decision to hire a second photographer depends on your wedding’s size, budget, and personal preferences. If capturing every angle and moment is crucial to you and fits within your budget, a second photographer can provide added value and peace of mind. However, if your wedding is smaller or you have financial constraints, one experienced photographer can still beautifully document your special day.
Whatever you decide, make sure it aligns with your vision and helps create the unforgettable memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime!
Ready to make your decision? Contact me today for a personalized consultation and let me help you capture every beautiful moment of your wedding day.
NEED STYLING TIPS FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT SESSION?
DOWNLOAD MY 5 ENGAGEMENT STYLING TIPS TO LOVE THE WAY YOU LOOK!
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July 7, 2024
Hey there, fabulous bridesmaids! Being part of a wedding is such a special role, filled with memorable moments. As a photographer specializing in NH Wedding Photography, I’ve captured countless beautiful weddings and want to share some bridal party photography tips to ensure your photos are stunning!
Flattering Posing Tips
Laughing Poses
When laughing, tilt your chin slightly downward. This avoids unflattering angles and frames your face beautifully and naturally.
Standing Poses
To look relaxed, shift your weight to one foot and angle your body slightly sideways. This creates a slimming effect and avoids a stiff appearance.
Sitting Poses
Maintain an elegant posture by sitting up straight with shoulders back. Crossing your ankles adds grace and polish to sitting poses, ensuring a flattering look.
Remember, your presence and joy contribute so much to the wedding day.
Bouquet Positioning
Hold your bouquet so the blooms are right at your belly button. This positioning is flattering as it creates a natural focal point that complements your figure and frames your face beautifully in photos.
Hair and Makeup
Decide whether to have professional hair and makeup done or opt for DIY. Professional services can ensure a polished look that lasts throughout the day, while DIY can be cost-effective and personal. Choose what makes you feel most comfortable and beautiful.
Additional Helpful Tips
Keep Getting Ready Area Tidy
Maintain a clean and clutter-free getting ready area. This not only ensures your photos look neat but also makes for a smoother and more enjoyable preparation process.
Assistance with Bride’s Attire
Assign someone to help fluff the bride’s train and assist with any adjustments during portrait sessions. This ensures the bride looks flawless and helps speed up formal portraits so everyone can enjoy cocktail hour sooner.
Enjoy Every Moment
Above all, savor the day! Your presence and positivity contribute to the celebration. If you’re looking for NH Wedding Photography services, I’m here to help capture these special memories. With these bridal party photography tips you are sure to have photos as stunning as your smiles!
If you enjoyed these tips for capturing stunning bridal party photos, you’ll love these ideas for your bachelorette party!
Check out my blog post on 5 Unforgettable Bachelorette Party Ideas in New Hampshire for some amazing inspiration to make your bachelorette party as memorable as the wedding day.
Happy planning!
NEED STYLING TIPS FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT SESSION?
DOWNLOAD MY 5 ENGAGEMENT STYLING TIPS TO LOVE THE WAY YOU LOOK!
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June 28, 2024
Celebrate! You’re Getting Married!
Congratulations on your engagement! The journey to your dream wedding starts now, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. With my step-by-step wedding planning checklist printable, you’ll have everything you need to stay organized and enjoy every moment leading up to the aisle. Let’s dive into the exciting and sometimes overwhelming process of planning your big day.
Soon After Engagement
- Celebrate! Take a moment to enjoy this special time with your fiancé.
- Determine a Budget: Establish a budget that fits your vision and financial situation.
- Guest List: Start drafting your guest list to get an idea of the size of your celebration .
- Venue Research: Explore potential venues and discuss possible dates.
- Wedding Website: Design a wedding website to keep your guests informed and excited.
12+ Months Before
- Finalize Venue and Date: Lock in your venue and confirm your wedding date.
- Dress Shopping: Begin the exciting journey of finding your perfect wedding dress.
- Photographer: Research and book a photographer to capture your special moments.
- Hotel Blocks: Reserve hotel rooms for out-of-town guests.
- Bridal Party: Choose your bridal party who will stand by your side on the big day.
Download your wedding planning checklist printable PDF and keep your wedding planning on track!
9-12 Months Before
- Pinterest Board: Start a Pinterest board for ceremony and reception decor inspiration.
- Florist: Meet with florists and book the one who will bring your vision to life.
- Caterer: Secure a caterer to delight your guests with delicious food.
6-9 Months Before
- Guest List: Finalize your guest list.
- Gift Registry: Set up your gift registry to guide your guests on gift choices.
- Officiant: Research and book your officiant.
- DJ/Band: Find and book a DJ or band to keep the party going.
- Music Selection: Discuss your music preferences for the ceremony and reception.
6 Months Before
- Wedding Gown: Order your wedding gown and schedule fittings.
- Date Night: Take a break from planning and enjoy a date night with your fiancé.
5 Months Before
- Accessories: Order hair accessories and jewelry.
- Honeymoon Planning: If you’re planning a destination or international honeymoon, start booking flights and accommodations.
4 Months Before
- Catch Up: Review your planning list and catch up on any missed tasks.
- Save the Dates: Design and order your save the date cards.
- Hair and Makeup Trial: Schedule a trial to perfect your look.
3 Months Before
- Rental Items: Schedule rentals for any needed items like chairs, tables, tents, and linens.
- Groom’s Attire: Finalize the groom’s attire and make any necessary alterations.
- Bridal Accessories: Purchase any remaining bridal accessories.
- Honeymoon Booking: If planning a domestic honeymoon, start booking your accommodations.
- Save the Date Mailing: Mail out your save the date cards.
- Cake Vendor: Book your cake vendor.
2 Months Before
- Wedding Night: Book accommodations for your wedding night.
- Invitations: Mail out your wedding invitations.
- Food and Drink: Finalize food and drink details with your caterer.
1 Month Before
- Wedding Bands: Purchase your wedding bands.
- Floral Confirmations: Confirm bouquets, centerpieces, and boutonnieres with your florist.
- DIY Projects: Finish up any DIY projects.
- Date Night: Enjoy another date night with your fiancé.
2 Weeks Before
- Marriage License: Obtain your marriage license.
- Schedule: Finalize your wedding day schedule and share it with your family and bridal party.
- Head Count: Provide the final head count to your venue and/or caterer.
- Seating Chart: Finalize your seating chart.
- Vendor Confirmations: Confirm the wedding day itinerary with all vendors.
Book a consultation with Lisa today to capture life’s sweet and candid moments. Lisa Smith Photography is New Hampshire’s premier wedding photographer, known for capturing timeless, unique, and candid connections that evoke emotions years after the wedding day!
Ready to get started on your dream wedding? Let’s make your journey to the aisle unforgettable!
Click here to download your wedding planning checklist printable PDF and keep your wedding planning on track!
NEED STYLING TIPS FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT SESSION?
DOWNLOAD MY 5 ENGAGEMENT STYLING TIPS TO LOVE THE WAY YOU LOOK!
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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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