Bella Blvd Studio Blog: Focus On Photography

Once a month, we will be posting a new feature, called Focus On Photography. We have asked Design Team member Jamie Harper, who has her own photography business, to share some tips and advice with us. This month, we know that so many of you are thinking about family photos, in preparation for Christmas cards and gifts for family. Which brings us to our first topic, holiday photo sessions.

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Hey everyone! It's Jamie Harper here, and today, I am going to give you some tips for your HOLIDAY PHOTO SESSIONS.

Tip #1

Look at advertisements for inspiration. Companies hire art directors and stylists to create an outfit that is exactly, precisely, perfect. So, copy them. Look at ads that are similar to your shoot. Kids in a shoot? Look at Gap ads, and children’s clothing brands.

Here is a great example. See how there is a great mix of colors and textures? This photo is a Gap ad, found on the internet. Try searching different companies.

Tip #2

Don’t match. The best photos are those that stay in the same color family and coordinate. Maybe a warm pallete, or different hues of grey. Keep in mind that pictures are flat to begin with, and only 2-dimensional. So by mixing up colors and textures you’re adding depth. But by having everyone wearing a green sweater, you’re really lying flat on film. Don't get me wrong. Sweaters are a great texture. But have 2 people in different sweaters and maybe one in a jacket, with a sweater-scarf. Mix and match textures.

Here is a great mix of texture and color in this photo. Notice how each person has something different on? There are two sisters that match, but with everyone else mixed in, it works.

Tip #3

Whatever anyone is wearing, be as comfortable in the outfit as possible! If you feel hot in it, you’re going to look hot in it! If your child really hates the sleeves on that shirt, but you force him to wear it, every picture of him will have him yanking on the sleeves and frowning, and then eventually crying. The best pictures are when everyone is having fun, so be comfortable.

Do you see in this photo, how the blacks blend together and it is hard to tell the two apart? That is why mixing and matching colors and textures is so important in choosing your clothing options.

This is an example to go with the flow and just have fun. If the baby won't sit still and wants to crawl, find a way to make that happen.

One last example. This one has great texture, but it has a bit too much black. However, it does showcase a great relaxed photo. Have your family all laugh together. It always makes for a great photo.

I hope that these tips have given you some ideas and inspiration for your own family photos!