Strike a pose!

---

So, I did a little thing the other day, I finally got professional photos taken for my i do Events website. I figured it was time to switch out that old selfie for a proper photo!

Part of the reason why it took me so long, as I was waiting for the right moment, you know the moment when you’ve lost all that weight and you are feeling sexy and you know it? Yeah well, I determined after 8 years, that moment was not coming anytime soon! So I just needed to “just do it!” Thanks, Nike for the motivational quote!

I think the hardest decision for me was who in the world was I going to get to do them? As a wedding planner, I work with numerous photographers, so how did I pick one with so many talented ones around? I was suddenly feeling a little overwhelmed and stressed about it, but I took a deep breath and I started my “research.” I ask other colleagues, I asked friends, I searched the internet, and went to my go-to…Instagram. Many people don’t realize that photographers have a certain style, some also have a certain market that they cater to. For instance, it wouldn’t be my first choice to hire a photographer who specializes in nature or landscape photos. I mean, I guess I could, but I would rather get someone whose niche is portraits and headshots.

I decided to hire Christina from Nonchalant View Photography. We had worked a small wedding this past summer together, and I clicked with her right away. I’ve always felt that when it comes to people, I usually have a good read on them when we first meet. There was just something very genuine about her. When I viewed her portfolio on her website I saw that she did quite a bit of portrait and family sessions, so it seemed like a perfect fit.

We had already discussed meeting up for coffee after the wedding season slowed down and this just gave us another reason to meet up. When we met, we discussed what I wanted to accomplish with this shoot. Christina gave me some great ideas for where we could do the shoot, the time of day that would work best in that location, and colors to wear, especially with it being Fall in Alaska. But I think the best advice I got from her was to start a Pinterest board and start pinning photos that I liked. Which is kind of interesting because I tell all my clients the same thing. Great minds think alike! 🙂

When I first started my board, I was very drawn to “lifestyle” type photos where you are in your element, posing over a computer or wearing that LBD at a wedding your working. But in the end, I just felt for me that was not authentic. I don’t work out of a fancy office, nor do I wear an LBD on wedding days, quite the opposite. From the time of our meeting to the day of the shoot, I pinned away as she instructed me to, and also went shopping for complementing colors to wear. I even decided that I would get my make up done professionally. I thought it would be a good confidence booster at my photo session. Because who doesn’t like to get all done up!?

The day of my shoot finally came and I have to admit, I was pretty nervous. You see, I’m always behind the camera…no, wait, I’m actually the person in the other room setting up your decor, getting dirty and sweaty! #weddingplannerlife LOL! We met at a nearby park by my house and I brought my gear (extra sweaters, shoes, hats, jackets, and props) and she brought her gear (camera, blanket, stools, and lighting equipment). I let her know that she was going to have to direct me, as I was completely lost in this space. And you know what? She was AWESOME!

Brace yourself because this is the part where I start singing her praises! I can’t tell you how much fun I had and how relaxed she made me feel. What blew me away, was when she pulled out her phone, so she could refer to the notes that she made on ideas for poses. That right there meant the world to me, because she didn’t just show up and take pictures. She took the time to listen to me, and wanted to help me accomplish my wishes for this shoot…me, just being me! She also directed me on the placement of my body/hands/head and made me aware of the smallest details. Like to make sure to have my left hand showing instead of my right, so my wedding ring would be seen or asking if I wanted my fitness tracker to show in the photos. I was completely blown away by her professionalism! And my only regret, why didn’t I book her sooner! I left that day feeling excited and accomplished!

If you are thinking of hiring a photographer whether it be for a wedding, senior shoot, family portraits or headshots, here are some thoughts to share from my experience:

1. Do your research and find a photographer that you like, and that you vibe with.
2. Meet with the photographer and discuss what your vision is, and what you want out of this shoot.
3. Ask questions, and seek advice for them. Such as what you should wear, colors, time of day. They know best, they do this all the time!
4. Start a board on Pinterest and pin the type of photos that you like.

Now, who’s ready to do a headshot session? I know you want to, and I can recommend a great photographer (wink wink)!