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!

Leaving Your Mark

When I was little one of my favorite things to do with my Grandmother was to explore the finds in her attic. 

I always felt like a modern day archaeologist, as there was always something amazing to discover.

She had the neatest things, from old lunch tins to pretty sewing thimbles, to letters tied with strings. 

When I encountered these handcrafted Heirloom Boxes I knew I had to add them to my product offerings if only to honor my Grandmother!

I know she would be so thrilled to discover this in her attic.  (And really, who wouldn't?)

This box is gorgeous, and the attention to detail is amazingly exquisite.

From the dovetail corners to the oil rubbed finish, and the logo etched into the smooth planed wood just begs to be touched. 

(The rest of the finishes are stained and sealed and are equally stunning from Black Northern Ash to Traditional Cherry.)

I altered my logo just a tad so it showed well on the box, it looks so much more amazing in person! 

I have an option for families to have their name engraved on the box if they wish.

Perhaps their married name and wedding date? Or baby's name and birthdate?

The beauty doesn't stop on the outside, for when you open it you notice treasures just begging to be discovered!

Including five little glass vials, perfect for a lock of hair, a bit of sand, dried flowers, or even some of your favorite perfume.
(This one has lavender in it, and smells so sweet.)

 Nestled on the bottom of the box is a leather satchel full of images, a peacock feather from my wedding bouquet, a secret skeleton key, and what's in the corner?

 A collection of letters on handcrafted paper, wrapped in a lovely little piece of lace.

This lace happens to be from my wedding gown! :-)

The skeleton key says Memory, and reminds me of the ones we used at my grandmother's house.  

(I know she'd approve!)

As you open the leather satchel you realize that they contain pretty little cloth packages.

(They remind me of the remnants we kept for quilt squares...)

As you unwrap these remnants, your eyes are suddenly drawn to the images.

These are of my other grandmother, the one that I never got to meet.

They are the only things I have of her, and are truly precious beyond words.

Although this box starts with two cloth pieces, it can hold oh so much more!
I have found some amazing fine-art printers that will print your photos on cloth rag just like the artists did years ago.  The paper is thick and substantial, and looks so amazing as photographs, they are the perfect complement to this heirloom box.

(Of course I was too excited to wait for it to arrive, so instead you're seeing images of my past instead.)

I have to admit, I enjoyed selecting the treasures for this box as much as I loved unwrapping it, and I look forward to helping my clients select their special images to include in their very own nostalgia box! I love the thought that a little something I helped create will be stored in such a lovely container for future generations to discover and enjoy. It makes the archeologist deep within me happy at the thought, and I know my Grandmother would be proud that I'm passing along such a wonderful tradition to the next generation.

Trying Something New

I've been taking a class online and the instructor mentioned using V-flats as backgrounds and she said you could always make your own out of insulation boards.

I decided this sounded like it would be a fun project to try for my Mother/Daughter session that weekend, so I did a bit of shopping.

I purchased some pretty paints including some pretty faux finish ones.

And then I choose some polystyrene boards.

I liked the concept of the 3/4" board, but found that with any bit of breeze it wanted to get away from us, and the 1" ones ended up being my favorites.

I had to remove the foil on one side, and will have to do another coat of paint on it, as some of the metal flecks were still visible after my first coat.

(Even with the all-in-one paint/primer combo.)

I painted right over the plastic and blue wording on the other side without any problem.

The black paint was some milk paint I found in our shed. I loved the deep coal black color it produced.

Here are the colors before I put the green faux finish on the tan board and used a stipple brush and metallic finish on the rose one. The other sides are now a lovely winter's day blue, tadpole green, and popcorn white. They even managed to dry before my session! ~ Stay tuned to see them in action. ~