Ten Things You May Not Realize About Professional Photography

I've fallen behind in my posting lately, but my focus has been elsewhere. :-)  In front of the camera to be more exact.  I recently celebrated my second anniversary in business, and  over the past year, I have learned that there are quite a few misconceptions about photography and photographers, and I thought I'd list my current Top 10.

1. It's not all about the gear.  Don't get me wrong, professional gear is designed to capture the best images possible, and does help with creating a quality product and print.  But if you don't know how to use it, and how to pose the people in front of it, or you leave your camera on Auto all of the time, all of the latest gear in the world isn't going to help you capture great images.  At the end of the day it's the person behind the camera that makes the difference.
2. Some studio photographers are just paid to push a button!  Did you know that quite a few of the Mall and Chain Studio photographers aren't allowed to change the settings on the camera?  True Story! The settings, distance, lighting, and poses are all pre-set beforehand.  I learned this recently, and was quite surprised.  Most of these studios don't require any special training to use the equipment, instead all of their training is focused getting people in and out quickly, and selling as many packages as possible. 
3. Consumer Print Labs aren't always consistent or archival.  If you want your photos to look their best and last a lifetime, ask your photographer to print the photos with their professional print lab.  Be sure to do your research, as you could still find your photographer picking up your prints at your local discount warehouse store. And their "too good to be true" print price, probably was just that.
4. Hobby Photographers are a bargain for a reason.  Taxes, business licences, and overhead usually mean your photographer is in this for the long haul.  Yes, their prices reflect this, but they're also usually there for you a year down the line when you want to capture more photos, or want something reprinted for Great Gram.  If the hobbyist is still around, their prices have likely raised to reflect their actual cost of doing business.
5. Digital is cheap.  Not necessarily, I just spent another $400 on back-up equipment to store my client's files, and I have a redundant system in case something happens to one of the hard drives.  The editing software used to "Develop" the RAW files is also a cost many don't consider.   While it seems in theory that all one need to do is "snap a picture and burn it to CD". Editing, storing, and printing these images is actually rather time consuming and can get expensive quick.  Not to mention most professional lenses are about $1,000 or more each! There's actually a lot more that goes on behind the scenes to create your images than you may realize.
6. The photos on their Website aren't always theirs.  This is a new one but has happened more often than I realized.  New photographers "save" images from the websites of photographers they like, and then put them on their website as "representations" of what they can do!  The other time this happens is a little less sneaky. Many larger photo studios have multiple photographers working for them, so if you see an image or style you like, ask which photographer in the studio took it, so you're sure to get the person who captured the look you're going for.
7. A good photographer is always learning.  Fashion, styles, technology and products are changing constantly, and a good photographer evolves with the market.  From classes, to magazines and books, your photographer is likely spending a good deal of their time (and budget) behind the scenes preparing for your session.  In today's market, albums aren't just for weddings, and prints are making a huge comeback, as customers are tired of loosing their images on the "cloud" and want something tangible. Another interesting "development" is that 5x7's and 8x10 sized images are falling away to custom sized prints and products! 
8. Your files aren't always safe on the cloud. (or your hard-drive, or USB, or SD Card)  It's easy to loose data, or have the technology expire. Will your children have access to the passwords and information you've lovingly stored on the cloud or on your phone?  Or will those images be lost in a hard-drive crash, data breach, or technology update?  Printed images are often the only things that get passed down to future generations.
9. Cookies aren't currency.  While some photographers may work in exchange for cookies, or trade for services, they can't do it all of the time! (and stay in business)  Trading and bartering is great, but it must be something of value to both parties.   
10. We might not be the best person for the job. Our goal is to make you look and feel beautiful, but we need your help.  If you have a style you like, or a certain look you are going for let us know.  A good photographer will tell you if this is something they can do, and if not they can often refer you to someone that can. Some photographers specialize in one area, or they may have a personality trait that clashes with your family.  Finding a photographer that you feel comfortable with is just as important as the images you wish to capture.  

And there you have it, my current top Ten, I hope this helped you start thinking about questions to ask your photographer before booking a session.  As well as start thinking about getting some of your favorite pictures off the "cloud" and in print form!  

Planning a Session with My Girls

As many of you know I have two Senior (30-year-old) horses. A palomino Quarter Horse I've had since she was a day old and a little white Arab that I bought a few years before my Hubs and I were married.  (approx 17 years or so ago)

My girl, on Instagram.

Since horses usually live to be 25-30 I know that my time with them is growing shorter, I just don't like acknowledging it.  I mentioned before I needed to take some images with them but it has been way too easy to make excuses on not scheduling something... primarily that I should get in better shape, followed by I should use the $ for something else, to my girls need to shed out, to I know could take them myself with a self timer, etc...

There's a reason you usually only see feet shots of me, and it's called  my hips do lie.

Last week I really thought I was going to have to put my little Arab down, and it made me realize I needed to stop making excuses and just do it!  So I took advantage of the little bit of extra time I've been given, and on Mother's Day I met with another photographer, to have some images taken of me with my girls.

Despite many a lost toenail and bruised toe, the Iowa farm-girl in me still wears flip-flops on occasion to see the girls.
(Seriously not wise if you like your feet.)

Digging their tack out of storage, just in case I wanted to use it in a few shots, I spent Saturday giving it a good cleaning and conditioning.  My office now smells of Lexol and leather, and just makes me happy when I enter it, as it reminds me of show season and spring.

My favorite halter purchased when my palomino was just two years old.  (It still fits!)

Then there was the matter of picking out outfits for me, and finding the right accessories.  I pinned some inspiration on Pinterest, and then put together my story boards so I had a basic idea of what I'd like to accomplish.   Packing all of my outfits, and labeling my jewels so I'd be ready to go on the day, since I knew that it'd be a busy one!

Rough sketches of poses and outfit choices...

Sunday Morning (Mother's Day) I headed to Safeway in the hopes of picking up Daisies and Alstroemeria Lilies for their mane and tails.  Unfortunately I discovered most men were busy shopping for flowers on Mother's Day and it was a madhouse!  There were no daisies or lilies, only roses, orchids, and mums, and a bunch of confused looking "Dads"!  It ended up being a good thing as I resorted to using flowers from our yard, Pittosporum, Jasmine, Chamomile, Yarrow, dried Red Roses, Mexican Sage, Hearts & Flowers Ice Plants, and a few others.

Flower cuttings from our yard.

My white mare received the pink, purple, red and white flowers above as they just fit her princess personality so much.  My palomino received arrangements made of the pretty golden flowers below, as they reminded me of the goldenrod and daisies in the Iowa fields where she grew up..

Trailing Jasmine, Yarrow, Chamomile, and Heats & Flowers for their "hair".

With the exception of my WPPI adventure mentioned in my newsletter, the last time I was front of another photographer's camera was years ago!  I had forgotten how nerve-wrecking it is.  The getting ready, the hopes that the images will turn out,  the wishes for a good hair day, etc. It's especially nerve wrecking when you add two horses who weren't that interested in putting their ears forward, or posing for that matter.  It's pretty much the equivalent of trying to pose two 1000+ pound 2-year-olds!

Love the hoof outlines from the pretty polish we used.

The flowers looked so pretty in their tails, it is usually a pretty bright white when washed, but the Cali drought put a damper on that this year. :-S The spots of longer hair on her golden coat is from the Cushings Disease, I thought about cutting it all off, but it documents this stage of her life, and so I left it as is.

After 30 years, my Mares are used to almost anything!

These iPhone images of what went on before the session, as I made it a point to not take any during the it. So I didn't' get many of my little white Arab as once the photographer arrived, I was too busy reapplying my lipstick, doing yoga poses while attempting to change in a dusty barn, struggling to keep the wind from destroying my super fine hair, and striving to pose properly next to my girls, who were much more interested in pretty much anything but the camera. 

My little Arab, wondering out my Palomino and husband are up to.

I am glad I used flowers from our yard instead of purchased ones, as it will make the images even more special.  These needed to be arranged a bit more, but she was so interested in what was happening, I had to take a quick picture. It's so rare to have my Tim at the ranch, who was there to help hold the "toddlers", run for carrots and cookies, and try to remind me to bring my chin forward.  He refers to himself as the "Minion" on photo shoot days.

My girl and my hubs.

My little girl is wondering what's so interesting about her tail!  She's so sweet, and just a few weeks from her 30th birthday.  It's hard to believe so much time has gone by, as it seems like just yesterday I was able to throw on a saddle and head off into the hills, or over a few jumps. They have it pretty good, lounging in the pasture, and enjoying treats and an occasional flower in their hair, although I do wonder sometimes if they miss our adventures through the hills as much as I do.

As I wait for the photographer to process the images, I am again in my client's shoes, hoping that my "toddlers" behaved just long enough to obtain some images that I can cherish for generations.  (and that she managed to capture my good side as well) :-)

All Sessions Should Begin with a Spa Day!

Easter is right around the corner, which means summer isn't far behind. As I get ready for the “busy season” of photography, I thought I’d share with you some of the most common questions regarding “Getting ready for a session”, and help you start preparing now.

What to wear is a huge one, but it’s one of the most easy to address. We discuss wardrobe during the pre-consultation, I often get texts or videos of outfits prior to the session, and some clients and I even share a Pinterest board. It’s a great way to start planning your day, and the right outfit can help accentuate your best features!

Many of my clients state they wish to loose a few pounds, quite often this can be addressed with proper posing and clothing choices, so I won't get into that here.

Instead I’m going to address pampering yourself, because worries about wrinkles, age spots, and frizzy hair are often the largest area of concern.  What worked a few years ago, suddenly isn't working, and many of my clients mention they could use a bit of a pick-me up but they just don't know where to begin.  If you feel you could be in this category as well, read on:

1. Give your hair some TLC—this can be a huge one. If you have frizzy flyaway hair from the dryer than normal winter, start using a hair mask Your hairstylist should be able to tell you what product your hair needs most. Start early, so you can find the one that works best with your hair before the summer wind, and chlorine starts taking their toll. If you haven't changed your hair since the 90's (or earlier) it's likely time to look into some new styles!
• Session Tips
• If you’re planning on getting extensions, color, or a new cut; be sure to do so two weeks before your session so that you have time to get used to it. 
• Guys or women with shorter hairstyles should get their hair cut one week before so if there’s any tan lines, they have a chance to blend in. 
2. Pamper Your Skin!  If you have no idea where to start, visit with a licensed esthetician to discuss your skin care regimen and to address any problem areas you may have.  If you're on a budget, there are some great over the counter treatments you can get that will help make your skin look youthful. 
• Exfoliate - Treat yourself to an at home spa day and exfoliate your entire body at least once a week. Look for products with a grain to them. (sea salt, sugar, ground nuts, small seeds, etc.) 
• Worried about wrinkles? Look for a product with Retinol in it, or try Acupuncture to help reduce the worry lines. Better yet, schedule a massage and disconnect from technology for an hour our so, it does wonders for your worry lines!
• Moisturize Morning, Noon, & Night. 
• Morning -- Have you discovered BB Cream?  These amazing creams are tinted moisturizers that even out your skin tones are packed with anti-oxidants and usually contain sunblock. Use it on your neck and face as well. I put it on in the morning, and either use it as a base prior to my foundation, or just as a protective coverage if I’m going to be working in the yard, because sometimes quick and easy is a good thing.
• Noon -- During the day, remember to re-apply your sunscreen, and be sure to put on lotion or oil after your shower, bathe, or swim to lock in the extra moisture.  
• Night --  Is the perfect time to use a moisturizer with something containing Retinol A, and Vitamin C, it works while you sleep and helps repair the damage caused by your activities during the day.
• Cleanse -- Take your make-up off at night. If you’re too exhausted for a full blown regimen, invest in some make-up removal wipes.  
• Get in the habit of cleaning your make-up brushes too.  Even if you only use them for one blusher, etc, they still absorb dirt and oils, and could be the reason for break-outs.
• Facial Treatment -- There are some great facial products you can make at home using things you likely already have in the refrigerator and kitchen cupboard.
• Session Tips
• If you're planning on having  a professional facial done prior to your session, be sure to schedule it the day before your session.
• If you are planing on having any lash extensions, hair removal, or brow shaping done, schedule this one week before your session.
• Please don't use self tanning creams prior to your session.  If you spray tan, do so a week before.
3. Nails -- Pamper your nails and feet too.  This should be considered a habit not a luxury,as your feet and hands work hard to get you where you need to go, and deserve a little "me time". 
• Session Tip
• Make sure to schedule a pedicure/and manicure the day before your session to make sure your nails look their best. And unless it's a fashion themed shoot, stick with something that's timeless for your nails, so the focus will be on you. 
4. Hydrate. Remember to drink water, or other replenishing juices.  (Wine is not considered a replenishing juice.)  If you hate water, add some fresh fruit, veggies, or herbs to flavor it, vs processed sugars.  (Cucumber/Mint, Lavender/Lemon, Orange/Rosemary are all great combinations.)

There are quite a few over the counter products that do a great job of helping you look your best, or you can even make your own.  I'm always adding to my Pinterest DIY Board if you'd like some ideas.  By putting a little extra time into your routine, you'll be ready for whatever comes your way this summer!  (Including the camera!)

SWP Spotlight ~ MUA of the Month ~ Ruby Red Make-up

New Year, new features!  Since I've started offering make-up and hair services to my Suzi Worley Photography (SWP) clients, I thought I'd feature one a month so you could get to know them a bit better!  Since January is almost over, that means  I needed to get on the ball!   So without further adieu, I introduce you to my first featured Make-up Artist (MUA), Ruby of Ruby Red Make-up.  

Ruby and her dog Fify.

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself. Hello! My name is Ruby Lopez Batres, I am Mexican and live with a dog named Fify. When I'm not doing makeup, I love to decorate my room. I spend most of my time online as well as finding other creative outlets. Someday I would love to learn how to decorate cakes, design flower arrangements and a bit of photography. My favorite food is Pizza, I can seriously have it for breakfast.



Ruby Red MUA

2. Why did you become a MUA? The reason that I became a Makeup Artist is because, I honestly got bored with doing my own makeup. After awhile, you start to figure out what compliments your skin-tone and what doesn't. I still enjoyed doing makeup so I just simply found more canvases and after that I was hooked with doing makeup on others. 
3. How long have you been in busin
   ess? I have been in business for almost three years! Surprising, I know. Ruby Red is still quite new but I feel very confident in our team and I know that we'll do great this wedding season. 
4. What’s your favorite make-up style? My absolutely favorite makeup style is the simple winged liner with light eye-shadow, contoured cheekbones with a beautiful highlight. A bit of peachy blush with the choice of a beautiful nude lip or a bright lip-color. I love this both on myself and on my clients. 
5. What’s your specialty?  I specialize in On-location Makeup and Hair for Weddings and Quinceañeras. I also teach makeup classes to anyone who is interested in improving their makeup skills. 



SWP Mother / Daughter Session





6. Where do you find inspiration? Most of my inspiration comes from the work of other artists, Pinterest, Google and random items. I take the quote: "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder" and use it to see beauty in small things. I feel that once someone is inspired, it's hard to become uninspired. Open your mind and see the beauty in colors, nature and people you'll be surprised.
7. What’s something people might not know about you? I started doing makeup when I was 15, I joined a makeup team and I've been doing it ever since. I am also quite shy and a bit self-conscious, but all of that is gone when I get into my "zone". I am actually pretty talkative! 
8. What’s your favorite thing to do when not working? I really like to spend time with my family, we're all really close and we get together every so often. I'm an indoors type of girl, I love to read books on my iPad, wrapped up in a blanket with all of my candles lit. I also enjoy watching a good movie or my favorite shows, the only problem is I'm an avid talker and the only one that can deal with it is my boyfriend. Thank you hun. 



SWP Mother/Daughter Session





9. Do you have any make-up tips you’d like to share? Of course I do! Ladies! Tip #1 Stop pumping your mascara, by pumping your mascara your inserting air into it which causes it to dry out faster and grow bacteria. Tip 2# Do you ladies ever put on mascara on your lashes and
   when you look down to do your lower lashes, you find that the mascara got on your skin or eyeshadow? A quick fix actually doing your lower lashes first then your top lashes or rubbing off the excess mascara with a Q-Tip. 

   
   

   
   

10. What’s the #1 thing women should be doing to help them look youthful (or age gracefully) that they aren't? I absolutely insist that everyone starts to wear sunscreen! So many people overlook it, I used to until I figured out what UVA abd UVB meant. UVA stands for Ultra-Violet Aging Rays which cause you to age. UVB stands for Ultra-Violet Burning Rays which gives you a sunburn. Both rays penetrate your windshield, so imagine myself driving and aging while doing it. Get a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 but no more than 50. 
11. How can people get a hold of you? It's sure been nice talking to you all, if anyone needs to get a hold of me you can find me through: My Website   |  Email | Facebook  or you can call me: 408.641.8661

Thanks so much Ruby for taking the time to speak with us at Suzi Worley Photography.  It's always a pleasure working with you and I'm looking forward to more fun sessions in 2014!  

Clients, if you want to book Ruby during your session with SWP be sure to let me know!  Ruby is currently available on weekends and her calender tends to fill up quickly!

Happy Birthday to SWP!!!

A year ago on August 25th I officially launched my photography business.

I can't believe how much has changed since then.

I've met some wonderful people, and have enjoyed watching the families grow in this year alone.
So starting  today through Tuesday, September 3 you can enter to win one of two grand prize Gift Vouchers valued at $350*.
(Which covers not only your session fee but includes a $100 credit that can be used towards your print purchase.)
Each winner will also receive the slimline tote bag shown above.
The 13" x 5" x 13" Chocolate Tote is perfect for carrying your images, a mini market run, or a picnic with a French baguette and bottle of wine.
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*For clients that have just had a session, and would rather win a prize, they may substitute the Gift Voucher for a 12" x 18" wrapped canvas print using one of their session images!
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Five runner's up will receive one of the tote bags with a little something special inside.
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Thanks to all of my clients that have helped make the year an amazing one, and I'm looking forward to seeing what next year has in store.

I look forward to working with you soon.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Looking Your Best for the Camera

Do you have a portrait session coming up and want to look your best? I thought I would spend today talking a bit about what to wear and include a "primer" on make-up as well.  You fill find your session will go much smoother when you take a bit of time to prepare and pamper yourself beforehand.

Let's first start with the non-make up portion, these rules go well for men and women, as well as children.  (Except instead of eye-drops, just make sure your child is well rested.)

1. Eyes: If your eyes look the least bit tired or red, consider using eye drops.  (But be sure its a brand you've used before!) Visine or Clear Eyes seem to work well for most.
2. Hands: Make sure your nails are clean, trim, and polished.  (Kids nails should be trim and clean too.)
• If you polish your nails, stay away from themed nails (polka dots, Zig-zags, etc.) if you're doing a professional session.  
• A neutral color, sports, or french manicure looks the best and won't detract from the focal point. (YOU!)
3. Hair: Have your hair styled and make sure if it needs color touch-up you have it done a few days before the session so it has time to settle. Healthy hair looks amazing in-camera!
• For shorter hair cuts make sure your hair is trimmed about a week before so if you have tan lines, they have a chance to soften.
4. Skin: Moisturize your hands, arms, neck, face, and legs before your session, dry skin will show up on camera, and elbows and knees are notoriously dry. (Stay away from oily moisturizers to prevent too much shine, and allow enough time for your skin to absorb the lotion prior to your session.)  
5. Clothes: Select an outfit that is comfortable and something that you know you look good in!  
• This includes starting with proper fitting undergarments too.  Nothing ruins a session more than a muffin-top or a bra that's too tight and you have to keep "readjusting" or squirming.  
• Get fitted if needed to ensure you are comfortable.
• If you need help on selecting an outfit let me know!  Or head on over to my Pinterest boards and get some ideas from one of my "What to Wear" and "My Style" boards to find some inspiration!

Now for the fun part... make-up.  This is one area that you need to do a tad differently so that the camera sees you in a "good light".  I've compiled a few tips here, but feel free to search online to find "how to's" for your facial shape and features.

1. Go pro!  Getting a professional make-up application not only helps you look your best, but they will know how to apply your make-up for the camera.  
• They are great at accentuating your features, and helping you look your best.  If you didn't select the make-up option with your package, don't worry, most make-up counters will be happy to help.  
• Communication is key!  Let them know that your getting ready for a natural-light photography session, and have them stay away from mineral based make up which often doesn't translate well in the camera.
• A pro is great at finding the right shade of color for your skin tone, as well as helping hide flaws and showcase your best features!
• They are also great if you don't wear make-up often and could use some help or coaching.
• Best of all, who doesn't like to be pampered?
2. Most make-up artists for fashion photography use MAC, however the MAC professional line can only be found in the actual MAC store, and not at the MAC counter of your local department store. 
• So don't be surprised if like me, you go in with a list of "photo grade" make-up requests only to learn the department store counter doesn't have them. 
• I still haven't made it to the official MAC store and have found their other products work quite well for natural light photography
3. If you don't have the time or the desire to "go pro" be sure to apply your make-up in natural light or the light similar to where your session will be.  
• This will ensure your coverage works for the location, vs looks good under the blue florescent lighting but not flattering in daylight. 
• Also the older you are, keep in mind that less make-up will actually be more flattering!
4. Be sure to moisturize and use a good primer.  MAC, Benefit, L'Oreal, and Smashbox all have great photo flattering options.  (Don't forget to moisturize your neck and elbows too!)

5. For lips, keep them natural but not nude, a bit of color really helps.   If you go bold be prepared to do touch-ups on site. (If you went to the department store counter, ask for a sample so you can reapply it during the session.)  
• Blended lip liner is your friend!  You can even use it instead of lipstick if you have a color you love!  
• A dab of gloss is fine too, and will make your lips look more full.

6. Be sure to use natural colors, and stick to matte or satin finishes, and stay away from mineral based products that can create too much of a glow and shine in-camera.
7. Find a blush that compliments your skin and blend it in so it looks natural.  (This is where a pro can come in handy!)
8. For eyes, remember to highlight the brow area and stick to matte colors.  Be sure to blend any harsh lines as they'll be picked up by the camera otherwise.
• Don't wear frosted or shiny shadows since they often crease.
• If possible stay away from dark brown and charcoal shadows as well.  
• For under eyes, don't go too light with the concealer, or it will shine through.  Lemon Aid by Benefit works wonders on dark circles!  (Just be sure to apply it before your foundation.)

9. Fill your brows with a pencil or powder that matches your hair color. Even if you don't normally, it will make for a more polished look.  (Also be sure to trim any stray hairs if needed.) A trip to the salon a day or two before is even better.  Please DON'T pluck or wax anything the day of your session to avoid redness.
10. Keep eye liner to a minimum (Brown or black) for a more natural look that emphasizes your eyes.
• A pro knows tricks in using liner to make your eyes look larger (or smaller) or more even, ask them to show you how!
11. Be sure to remember your mascara, if you're worried about clumping use a new brush, or fresh tube to ensure it's not dried out.  Waterproof is best so you don't have to worry about it running or smearing during your session.

12. Once you're done, be sure to "set" everything with a translucent powder.  If it's hot out, bring along some extra just in case.

It's really not as hard as it sounds, and a bit of pampering beforehand helps make your session even better.  So go ahead, schedule an hour or two of pampering before your session, either at a make up counter, or at a salon.  You'll not only arrive for your session looking great, but you will be more relaxed too, and the camera will love you for it!

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NOTE: This is not a review for products, and I was not paid to mention the brands/types listed, they just happen to be some of my current favorites.