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lisa smith photography
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June 18, 2024
Welcome to your ultimate guide for what to wear for senior photos! Whether you’re looking to capture your unique style or this special chapter of your life, this guide is packed with helpful tips to ensure you look amazing for your session.
What to Wear for Senior Photos
Stuck on what to wear? I’m here to help! Here are some guidelines:
- Wear clothes that make you feel beautiful and confident
- Colors that complement your skin tone
- Layers that add visual interest and can be easily removed for some shots
- Outfits that celebrate your unique style and personality
- Accessories like rings, earrings, necklaces, hats, scarves, etc.
- Bring A variety of options from casual to dressy
- Clothing that is easy to move in and allows you to sit or stand comfortably
- Styles that fit well and complement your body type
What Not to Wear
When deciding what to wear for senior photos, there are some items you should avoid:
- Clothing that is wrinkled or full of lint
- Outfits in the same color
- Too many patterns; ensure some solids are included
- Items that are too trendy or not your style
- Styles that are too old-fashioned
- Clothing that is too tight or too big
- Colored/patterned undergarments that might show through
- The same type of clothing for every outfit—mix it up!
More Tips to Consider
Think About Movement
Tight-fitting clothes might seem flattering, but they can limit posing options. Opt for outfits that allow movement, like fit & flair or maxi dresses. If it’s too tight to sit in comfortably, it’s not the right choice when deciding what to wear for senior photos.
Layer Up
Layers add dimension and movement. Cardigans, scarves, and denim jackets are perfect. They give you more posing options and can be removed for variety. Extra points if your layer has pockets!
Avoid “Busy” Prints
Busy patterns can be distracting and clash with backgrounds. Stick to solid colors, two-toned patterns, or small prints. Polka dots, vertical stripes, and small floral patterns are great!
Be Creative
Shirts with lace, crochet, ties, buttons, or ruffles add interest without being distracting. Off-the-shoulder tops can be very flattering for photos.
Don’t Forget the Accessories
Necklaces, belts, headbands, hair scarves, bracelets, hats, and other unique accessories can add a lot of interest! Bring different accessories for each outfit and switch them halfway through for maximum variety.
Mix It Up
Have a variety of looks: casual, dressy, preppy, edgy, school-related, or sports-related. Many seniors bring their cheer uniform, dance leotard, or sports jersey. Aim for at least 3 different categories to create a wide range of images!
Dress for the Season
Your wardrobe should reflect both the season and your personality. Here’s a guide for each season when considering what to wear for senior photos:
- Fall: Love pumpkin spice lattes, cozy sweaters, jeans, boots, scarves, and hats? The rich fall colors are perfect for your senior photos.
- Winter: Sweaters, warm hats, scarves, and maybe a little snow. If you love winter, this season is for you.
- Spring: Pretty floral dresses, sandals, and spring colors. If you love the freshness of spring, it’s ideal for your photos.
- Summer: Beach vibes, cut-off shorts, tanks, sandals, and sunglasses. If summer is your thing, it’s the perfect season for your session.
Whatever season you love, it’s the perfect season for YOU! Your favorite clothes will help determine the best time for your senior photos
WHERE TO SHOP!
LOOKING TO GET A NEW OUTFIT FOR YOUR SESSION? HERE ARE SOME OF MY FAVORITE SHOPS FOR PHOTO-WORTHY CLOTHES:
Selfie Leslie: For cute mini dresses
Vici: For trendy staple pieces
Nuuly: For rentable designer pieces
Princess Polly: For cute trendy pieces
Forever 21: Inexpensive statement pieces
Pretty Little Things: For trendy pieces from a small business
Em and Elle – For cute staples from a small business
Dani Rae & Company: For cute staple pieces
Vestique: For trendy statement pieces
Free People: For trendy pieces
Urban Outfitters: For trendy statement pieces
H&M: Inexpensive statement pieces
Shein: Inexpensive statement pieces
A Few More Things to Think About
Barefoot Look
Some seniors find it fitting to go shoeless for one of their outfits! Whether it’s in a long dress or jean capris, the barefoot look can be super cute.
Hair Change
Some outfits call for flowing locks, while others call for a high pony or a headband! Consider doing a hair change with each outfit for maximum variety.
Strapless Bra
If you choose to wear a tank top with thin straps or a shirt with a unique neckline, consider going strapless for your bra or using pasties. Bra straps can detract from close-up headshots and can be difficult to manage.
Apple Watch
Since your hands will be incorporated into many of the poses, it’s best to leave the Apple Watch at home or in the car. They can distract from your face in your photos and date your images when you look back at them years from now. Don’t worry, I’ll edit out your tan lines!
Go All Out
You only get your senior photos done once, so now is your time to go all out! Wear that extra cute top or pretty flowy dress, bring a basket full of flowers as a prop, or get a blowout. Whatever it is, make an occasion out of it to celebrate this time in your life.
Remember, when deciding what to wear for senior photos, these tips will help ensure your session is fun, stylish, and uniquely you!
Shoe Style for Your Senior Photos
Shoes can be the perfect accessory to make any outfit pop! The right pair can give you confidence, set the mood of your outfit, and even elongate your legs. Here’s a quick guide to choosing the perfect shoes for your senior session:
Heels
- Make you feel taller, stand straighter, and elongate your legs.
- Choose a heel height you’re comfortable wearing.
Boots
- Options include cowboy boots, knee-high boots, and booties.
- Pair with dresses, jeans, or skirts for a statement look.
- Mix it up with combat boots and girly outfits or over-the-knee boots with a short skirt.
Sneakers
- Add a fun, casual touch to a dressy outfit.
- Express your personality with bright colors, high-tops, sparkles, or retro styles.
Platforms and Wedges
- Offer added height while staying comfortable.
- Available in styles from boots to sandals, made of cork, jute, or wood.
- Balance is key; if your outfit is skinny jeans or a pencil skirt, heels might be a better choice.
Remember, when deciding what to wear for senior photos, your shoes can be the perfect finishing touch!
The Finishing Touch
When it comes to accessories, there are plenty of options to complete your look: belts, scarves, jewelry, sunglasses, hats, hair accessories, and shoes. Here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect finishing touches:
Minimal Accessories
If your outfit already makes a statement, keep accessories minimal to avoid overwhelming the look.
Matching Accessories
For outfits with prints or patterns, choose solid accessories that complement the design.
Style Consistency
Match accessories to the overall style of your outfit. Stick to traditional accessories for classic looks and trendy accessories for modern outfits.
Remember, accessories should enhance your outfit, not overpower it. Choose pieces that add to your look and highlight your personal style!
Would you like to discover more about the Lisa Smith Photography Senior Experience? My approach goes beyond capturing stunning images; it’s about creating an unforgettable journey specifically to you. Each step, guarantees a personalized and exceptional experience.
Also, 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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June 13, 2024
Your wedding day is a whirlwind of emotions, love, and unforgettable moments. When the sun sets and the stars begin to twinkle, a whole new world of photographic possibilities opens up. As a professional photographer with a deep passion for creative night photography, I specialize in capturing the romance and drama of the evening, adding a touch of magic to your wedding album with my NH Wedding Photography services.
The Beauty of NH Wedding Photography at Night
Night photography offers a unique canvas that is both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Unlike daytime shoots, night photography allows us to play with light in innovative ways. The contrast between shadows and highlights creates a depth that brings out the true romance of your day. By harnessing the beauty of both natural and artificial light, we can create images that are not only visually stunning but also emotionally powerful.
Creating Stunning, Artistic Photos
One of the most enchanting aspects of NH Wedding Photography at night is the ability to use natural light sources such as moonlight and stars to create a dreamy ambiance. Imagine a photo where the two of you are illuminated by the soft glow of the moon, with a starry sky as your backdrop. Additionally, incorporating artificial light sources like streetlights, fairy lights, or even sparklers can add an element of drama and whimsy to your photos. Techniques like long exposure and light painting further enhance the artistic quality of these images. Therefore, resulting in photos that are truly one-of-a-kind.
Capturing the Romance of the Evening with NH Wedding Photography
There is something inherently romantic about the evening. The calmness of the night, the intimacy of soft lighting, and the quiet moments shared between you and your partner all contribute to creating photos that are rich with emotion. Night photography captures these fleeting moments and preserves them in a way that daytime photography simply cannot. From the tender glances to the spontaneous laughter, every emotion is amplified.
Adding a Dramatic and Memorable Touch
Dramatic photos are essential in telling the full story of your wedding day. They provide a striking contrast to the light and airy daytime photos, offering a complete narrative that reflects the depth and diversity of your experience. Night photos are particularly memorable because they stand out in your wedding album, creating a lasting impression. Couples who have chosen night photography often express how these images became their favorites, evoking the magical feeling of their special day.
Tips for Couples
To make the most of your NH Wedding Photography night photos, here are a few tips:
- What to Expect: Night photography sessions are typically more relaxed and intimate. We will work together to find the perfect locations and lighting conditions.
- Preparation: Consider the timing when putting together your wedding timeline. Don’t forget about props that might enhance the photos, such as lanterns or sparklers.
- Benefits: The evening setting allows for more creativity and artistic photos, resulting in images that truly reflect your unique love story.
Why Choose Me for Your NH Wedding Photography
With years of experience and a portfolio that showcases my expertise in night photography, I am dedicated to bringing your vision to life. My creative approach and commitment to capturing the essence of your relationship ensure that your photos will be as magical as your wedding day itself.
Creative night photography offers a unique opportunity to add a touch of magic to your wedding memories. If you’re looking for photos that are as dramatic and romantic as your love story, I would be honored to be part of your special day. Let’s discuss how we can bring your vision to life and create a wedding album that you will treasure forever.
Ready to plan your dream wedding? Visit my pricing page for more details!
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June 5, 2024
Are you ready to take your love story to the next level an capture your love story in photos? If you’re anything like me, you want every detail of your engagement to be just right – from the location to the light to the tiny moments captured in each frame. So, I’m here to tell you why Portsmouth NH engagement photos, might just be the perfect spot for your engagement photoshoot!
Why Portsmouth NH Engagement Photos? Let Me Count the Ways…
ONE
Historic Beauty
Let’s start with the obvious – Portsmouth is absolutely full of history, and that makes for some seriously stunning photos. Picture this: you and your partner, framed against a backdrop of centuries-old buildings covered with ivy. Of course, It’s like stepping into a fairytale, and trust me, the photos will reflect that timeless charm.
TWO
Pretty Parks
Now, let’s talk about Prescott Park – a hidden gem nestled along the waterfront. With its beautiful gardens and beautiful trees, it’s an intimate spot that’s perfect for capturing that special connection between you and your partner.
THREE
The Love Wall
Ah, the Love Wall – perhaps one of Portsmouth’s most iconic landmarks. This icon features a fence decorated with locks, each one with the initials or messages of couples in love. Adding your own lock to the Love Wall is not only a sweet way to celebrate your relationship but also creates a lasting memento of your love story.
FOUR
Coastal Vibes
Living by the ocean definitely has its perks, one of which is the undeniable coastal charm. Imagine strolling hand in hand along the waterfront, feeling the salty breeze in your hair, and hearing the distant cries of seagulls. It’s a scene that’s just begging to be captured on camera.
FIVE
Charming Streets
Downtown Portsmouth is like something out of a storybook – with its cobblestone streets, cozy cafes, and hidden alleyways just waiting to be discovered. It’s the perfect place to get lost with your partner, stumbling upon one picturesque scene after another.
SIX
Year-Round Beauty
Last but certainly not least, Portsmouth is beautiful no matter the season. Whether you’re surrounded by blooming flowers in the spring, fiery foliage in the fall, or softly falling snowflakes in the winter, there’s something magical about every time of year in this charming town.
So there you have it – a glimpse into why Portsmouth NH engagement photos, might just be the perfect location for your photoshoot.
With its historic beauty, beautiful Prescott Park, and undeniable charm, it’s the ideal backdrop for capturing your story. So what are you waiting for, let’s make some memories in Portsmouth!
Ready to plan your dream wedding? Visit my pricing page for more details!
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May 28, 2024
From the cold, snowy winters to the vibrant blooms of spring, New Hampshire’s stunning backdrops offer something special in every season. In this post, we’ll explore the beauty of each season in the Granite State and how they create perfect settings for you and your NH Wedding Photographer.
Each season in New Hampshire has its unique charm. As a NH Wedding Photographer, I can capture your love story in any season. Let’s celebrate the four seasons of love in the Granite State together.
Winter Wonderland Weddings with a NH Wedding Photographer
Embracing the Chill
With picture-perfect snowy landscapes setting the stage for cozy ceremonies and intimate gatherings, winter weddings offer a unique charm. Additionally, as a NH Wedding photographer, capturing the quiet beauty of a winter wedding is an unparalleled experience.
Frosty Romance
I’ll never forget the winter wedding I photographed in the White Mountains. The ceremony took place outdoors at the rustic Barn at Whitney’s Farm in Jackson NH, and it was a beautiful ceremony at dusk. Lit by the warmth of candles and a light covering of snow, it had a dreamy New Hampshire feel. Despite the chilly temperatures, the love and warmth shared between the couple lit up the entire setting.
Springtime Bliss in NH
Blooming Love
As the snow melts away and nature comes to life, spring brings vibrant colors and new beginnings to New Hampshire. Moreover, springtime weddings are marked by lush greenery, budding flowers, and an invigorating sense of renewal in the air. Even the occasional spring rain adds a touch of romance and freshness to the celebration.
Rainy Days
Just this spring, I had the opportunity to photograph a beautiful wedding at The Farm House at Candia Woods. Like every couple getting married, they hoped for clear skies on their special day, but Mother Nature had other plans. It rained for most of the day and the ceremony had to be inside. The rain lighted a bit and gave us a chance to capture some stunning photos with the blooming trees as a backdrop.
So, embrace the unexpected and make the most of any weather on your big day. Check out my blog post “5 Tips to Make the Most of Rain on Your Wedding Day” for more advice on turning rain into a beautiful part of your celebration.
Create Summer Love Stories with a NH Wedding Photographer
Sun-Kissed Moments
Summer weddings in New Hampshire are all about soaking up the sunshine and relaxing in the warmth of love. From lakeside ceremonies to rustic barn receptions, the possibilities are endless during the long, sunny days of summer.
Backyard Romance
I had the pleasure of photographing a summer wedding in the couple’s own backyard! As the beautiful sun cast its glow upon them during their vows, the green mountains served as a stunning backdrop that resulted in some truly radiant photos.
Autumn Elegance
Romance of Autumn
As autumn arrives, New Hampshire bursts with reds, oranges, and golds. Fall weddings embody rustic charm and cozy vibes, creating a romantic ambiance.
Fall Foliage Romance
I absolutely love photographing weddings at Cold Spring Farm in Alton NH, especially during the fall season. The mountain view and vibrant autumn leaves make for a truly beautiful backdrop for the outdoor ceremony. It’s such a classic New England wedding setting. Read more about this Cold Spring Farm wedding.
Each season in New Hampshire brings its own unique charm and beauty to weddings, and as a NH wedding photographer, it’s an honor to capture these moments of love and joy. So, whether you’re exchanging vows in a winter wonderland, saying “I do” among spring blooms there’s something truly magical about getting married in the Granite State.
As always, here’s to love in all its seasons – may your wedding day be filled with laughter, joy, and countless memories to cherish for a lifetime.
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May 20, 2024
Getting ready for family photos can be so exciting yet a tad stressful, especially when you don’t know what to wear for family photos. One of the best ways to elevate your family’s photo game is by incorporating patterns into your outfits. Patterns add visual interest, personality, and can even help tell your family’s unique story. So, let’s dive into some fun and practical tips on how to add patterns to your family photo wardrobe!
Choosing What to Wear for Family Photos can be stressful. Here are essential tips to add pattern into your outfit choices.
1. Start with a Solid Foundation
Before diving headfirst into patterns, choose a color palette for your family. Pick 2-3 colors that complement each other and stick with them. This will ensure that everyone looks cohesive, even with different patterns in play. Think soft blues, earthy greens, and warm neutrals for a classic, timeless look.
2. Mix and Match Thoughtfully
Mixing patterns can be a bit daunting, but here’s the secret: balance is key. Pair a bold pattern with a more subdued one. For example, if mom is wearing a vibrant floral dress, dad could opt for a subtle striped shirt. This creates harmony and prevents the patterns from clashing. I would only choose 2 – 3 patterns to incorporate into your families wardrobe.
3. Anchor with Neutrals
When in doubt, anchor your patterned pieces with neutrals. Neutral colors like beige, gray, and off white can ground your look and make the patterns pop without competing for attention. Plus, neutrals are timeless and photograph beautifully.
4. Coordinate, Don’t Match
Gone are the days of perfectly matching outfits. The goal is to coordinate, not match exactly. Let each family member’s personality shine through while still looking cohesive. A little coordination goes a long way in creating a polished yet natural look.
Patterns to Avoid
While adding patterns can make your photos pop, there are some you might want to steer clear of to ensure your photos are picture-perfect:
- Very Small Patterns: Tiny, intricate patterns can sometimes appear as a blur or create a moiré effect in photos, which can be distracting.
- Overly Busy Patterns: Patterns with too many elements or very bright, contrasting colors can be overwhelming and take the focus away from the faces.
- Dark + Light Patterns: High-contrast patterns, such as black against white, can be too stark and may create a jarring effect in photos, drawing attention away from your family’s faces.
- Logos and Graphics: Large logos or graphic tees can be distracting and take away from the timeless quality of your photos.
- Matching Identical Patterns: Avoid everyone wearing the exact same pattern. It can look too uniform and lack the dynamic quality you get from mixing different patterns.
Pattern Perfect Ideas
- Florals and Stripes: A classic combo! Try a floral dress for one member and a striped shirt for another.
- Subtle Shapes: Think soft, abstract shapes or minimalist designs that add a unique touch without overwhelming the overall look.
Need pattern inspiration? Check out my pattern Pinterest board to help coordinate your family!
Still unsure what to wear for your family photos? Here are some helpful posts.
WHAT COLORS TO WEAR FOR FAMILY PHOTOS
WHAT TO WEAR AT YOUR NH FAMILY PHOTOSHOOT
TIPS FOR CHOOSING CLOTHING THAT WILL HELP CREATE MOVEMENT IN PHOTOS
TIPS TO TRANSFORM A NEW HAMPSHIRE CLOUDY DAY PHOTO SESSIONS INTO STUNNING PORTRAITS
Adding patterns to your family photo outfits can be a great way to showcase your family’s personality and style. Just remember to balance, coordinate, and have fun with it. Your family’s unique vibe will shine through, creating beautiful memories to cherish forever.
Now, go ahead and get your pattern on! Can’t wait to see those stunning family photos.
Ready to plan your session with a NH family photographer? Contact me today to schedule your session and start creating stunning portraits that you’ll treasure forever!
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May 13, 2024
As a NH family photographer and a parent myself, I understand the challenges of coordinating outfits with a growing family. I vividly recall the chaos of trying to match everyone’s clothes for my own family photoshoots—wrestling with different personalities, preferences, and sizes. However, even in the chaos there was always a sense of excitement and anticipation, knowing that these photos would capture our family as we were in that very moment. It’s times like these that remind me of the importance of color in family portraits, and I’m thrilled to share some color scheme ideas to help make your photoshoot planning a little easier and a lot more fun!
Choosing the right colors for your NH family photos can make a significant difference in the overall look and feel of your portraits.
From coordinating outfits to selecting complementary hues, finding the perfect color scheme can enhance the visual appeal and cohesiveness of your photos. In this guide, we’ll explore color scheme ideas for family photos, with a focus on incorporating neutrals and adding pops of color to create stunning and timeless portraits.
Why Neutrals?
Neutrals serve as the foundation for any color scheme and provide a timeless and versatile backdrop for family photos. Opting for neutrals such as beige, tan, gray, or ivory creates a cohesive and harmonious look that allows the focus to remain on your family’s expressions and interactions.
Check out these neutrals and earth tones for inspiration! Outfits using only neutrals look fantastic, but adding a splash of color is also beautiful!
Sticking to Neutrals
Sticking to all or mostly neutrals is the easiest route to take because all neutrals go together, so you can’t mess it up! Neutrals provide a cohesive and timeless look that ensures everyone looks coordinated without being too matchy-matchy. Plus, neutrals create a versatile backdrop that allows the focus to remain on your family’s expressions and interactions, resulting in stunning and timeless portraits. So, when in doubt, go neutral!
Adding Pops of Color
While neutrals form the base of your color palette, adding one or two pops of color can inject personality and visual interest into your photos. Choose colors that complement each other and reflect your family’s style and personality. Consider incorporating pops of color through accessories like scarves, hats, or statement jewelry, or through selecting clothing with patterns.
Color Scheme Ideas
- Soft Pastels: Soft pastel shades such as blush pink, baby blue, or mint green create a delicate and dreamy atmosphere for your family photos. Pair pastel colors with neutral tones like ivory or light gray for a soft and elegant look.
- Earthy Tones: Earthy tones like olive green, mustard yellow, or terracotta add warmth and depth to your portraits, especially for outdoor sessions. These colors evoke a sense of nature and are perfect for capturing the beauty of the outdoors.
Need inspiration? Check out these fabulous color schemes!
What Not to Wear
Avoiding certain colors can help ensure that your family photos look cohesive and visually appealing. Steer clear of black, dark blues, bright reds, neons, bright whites, and bright blues, as these colors can be distracting and overpowering in photos.
Where to Shop
When it comes to finding the perfect outfits for your family photoshoot, there are plenty of options to explore. Consider browsing through your favorite clothing stores, both online and in-person, to find pieces that match your desired color scheme. Here are a few of my favorite stores:
WHOLE FAMILY:
Target | H&M | Old Navy | Shein
BABIES & KIDS:
Joyfolie | Bailey’s Blossoms | Lenny Lemons
WOMEN:
Joyfolie | Free People | Forever 21 | Baltic Born | Shein
MEN:
Banana Republic | Gap | Old Navy
Here are more helpful tips to style your family by a NH family photographer
WHAT TO WEAR AT YOUR NH FAMILY PHOTOSHOOT
WHAT TO WEAR FOR FAMILY PHOTOS – CHOOSING PATTERNS
TIPS FOR CHOOSING CLOTHING THAT WILL HELP CREATE MOVEMENT IN PHOTOS
TIPS TO TRANSFORM A NEW HAMPSHIRE CLOUDY DAY PHOTO SESSIONS INTO STUNNING PORTRAITS
Choosing the right colors for your family photos can elevate your portraits from ordinary to extraordinary. By incorporating neutrals as the base of your color palette and adding one or two pops of color, you can create stunning and timeless portraits that you’ll cherish for years to come. Experiment with different color combinations, and don’t be afraid to showcase your family’s unique style and personality through your clothing choices. With the right color scheme, you can capture beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to plan your session with a NH family photographer? Contact me today to schedule your session and start creating stunning portraits that you’ll treasure forever!
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TIPS TO LOVE THE WAY YOU LOOK!
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5 engagement styling tips to love the way you look
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