How to dress for a Seattle Family Photoshoot

Photo day is coming up and you are wondering what the heck to wear! I get it, you have invested in family photography and you want to look your best. Here are some quick tips on how to select great outfits for your family photoshoot!

1. Make sure everyone feels comfortable. Even though it is fun to dress our kids up in fancy clothes, I have found that if a child feels uncomfortable in their outfits it will make the photoshoot more difficult. When selecting clothing for photo day make sure that there are no itchy tags, no stiff material, and that the child feels good in the outfit. This can easily be achieved by allowing kids to try on the outfits to be sure they are comfortable prior to the photoshoot. This goes for the adults in the family too. Make sure everyone tries on their outfits and that they can easily move in them!

2. Allow kids to be part of the clothing selection. The goal is for these photos to take you back to this moment in time! I really recommend allowing the kids to take part in the clothing selection. Give them a handful of options and let them be the one who decides that they will ultimately wear. This will really help them feel like they are part of the planning and help them to get excited about the photoshoot!

3. Don’t break the bank! I recommend starting to form the outfits based on what mom is going to wear. So, mom, pick out a outfit you love and then build the family around your choice. Chances are you have something you have been wanting to wear but you haven’t had to occasion to wear it yet! Start there! Zara & Amazon are my two favorite places to buy kids clothing that will not break the bank!

4. Accessorize! Hats, scarfs, and layers are a great way to add interest to an outfit and can be a fun way to get kids excited about the photoshoot!

Ultimately, make sure you feel comfortable and confident in what you are wearing for your photoshoot! I can’t wait to capture you!

What to Wear for School Photo Day: Tips from Your Seattle School Photographer

What to Wear for School Photo Day

Preparing for school photo day in Seattle? Weather you are working with us or another photographer, choosing the right outfit for your child can make a big difference in how their portrait turns out. As your Seattle school photographer, I'm here to help guide you through selecting the perfect attire that will ensure your child's photo looks timeless and beautiful.

Keep It Simple and Solid

For Fine Art School Portraits, solid colors are the way to go. These help in keeping the focus on your child’s face and expressions without any distractions. Solid colors create a classic look that won’t date the photo as trends change. Avoid loud, neon colors which can reflect oddly on skin tones and detract from the natural beauty of your child’s features. I can’t say this enough.. NO NEON or your kids face will be neon.

Choose Comfortable, Classic Tops

Since all shots are shoulder-up, the focus should really be on the upper part of your child’s outfit. Choose a top that is comfortable for your child, as a relaxed kid is more likely to show genuine expressions. Opt for classic collars or simple necklines that frame their face well. Think about textures too; a soft, knitted sweater or a smooth cotton shirt can add a nice touch without overpowering the photo. Also, make sure the child’s shirt fits well.

Avoid Distracting Accessories

Hats and large bows might look cute, but they can overshadow your child's face in a portrait. It's best to avoid these as they can also create shadows or obscure facial features. Similarly, keep hair accessories simple and functional rather than decorative.

Hair and Grooming

Make sure your child’s hair is neat and tidy, keeping it out of their eyes. This not only helps in capturing their full expressions but also ensures that their face is clearly visible, contributing to a polished and professional-looking portrait. A simple hairstyle will complement the classic nature of the portrait without causing distractions.

What to Avoid

It’s best to steer clear of tops with logos, graphics, or bold patterns. These elements can distract from the main focus of the portrait—your child’s expressions. Also, overly bright or neon colors can create unflattering shadows and highlights on the face, so it’s better to choose more subdued shades.

Final Thoughts

Remember, the goal is to capture the essence of your child’s personality through these portraits, so dressing them in something they feel good and comfortable in is key. If you have any doubts or need further advice on what to choose, don’t hesitate to contact us at Elena S. Blair Photography. We’re here to make sure your child’s school photo day is a success!

Looking forward to capturing beautiful, timeless portraits of your children this school year!

Fine Art School Portraits: Elevating Seattle School Photography

Seattle School Photography

Hello, Seattle parents and schools! If you're tired of the same old school photos, it’s time to experience something new and exciting with Fine Art School Portraits. As a leading Seattle school photographer, I'm thrilled to have brought a fresh, modern approach to capturing your child's school moments. Say goodbye to forced smiles and generic settings, and hello to authentic, timeless portraits.

The Fine Art Difference

Fine Art School Portraits are all about simplicity and authenticity. By using a minimalist black or white/cream background, we highlight your child's true personality without the distraction of vibrant colors or artificial elements. This approach focuses on the natural expressions and unique character of each student, rather than cookie-cutter poses and smiles.

Our Approach

In these sessions, we let kids be kids. There's no pressure to perform or pose a certain way. We encourage them to relax and just be themselves, whether they’re feeling playful, shy, or anything in between. This relaxed atmosphere helps capture genuine expressions that reflect the individuality of each child, making every portrait special and meaningful.

Why Choose Fine Art School Portraits?

• Authenticity: Capturing the real, spontaneous expressions of Seattle's students, these portraits bring out the personal charm of each child.

• Timelessness: The classic black backdrop ensures that each photo remains stylish and enduring, free from the dated looks that often plague traditional school photos.

• Individuality Celebrated: We pride ourselves on capturing the unique essence of each student, recognizing the distinct personality traits that make them who they are.

Bringing Fine Art School Portraits to Seattle Schools

As a Seattle school photographer, I am passionate about redefining the school photography experience. Fine Art School Portraits offer a boutique approach, ensuring that each child’s school photo is not just a routine picture, but a personal work of art.

If you're interested in bringing this innovative approach to your school, or just want to learn more about what makes Fine Art School Portraits stand out, contact us by filling out the form HERE. Let’s transform how we capture and cherish these school day memories in Seattle. Together, we can make school photography an exciting and rewarding experience for both students and parents.

How do I find the best Family Photographer for my family in Seattle? Seattle Family Photographer

Seattle, with its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture, offers an abundance of choices when it comes to family photographers. But how do you decide who's the best fit for capturing your cherished moments? Here are a few key considerations to help you make the right choice:

1. Style and Portfolio: Start by browsing through photographers' portfolios. Look for a style that resonates with you. Do you prefer candid shots or more posed portraits? Are you drawn to vibrant colors or a softer, more muted palette? Finding a photographer whose style aligns with your vision is crucial for capturing authentic and timeless family memories.

2. Experience and Expertise: Seek out photographers with experience in family photography specifically. They should have a knack for working with children and creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere during the shoot. Experienced photographers will also have the skills to handle different lighting conditions and settings, ensuring stunning results regardless of the location.

3. Reviews and Recommendations: Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations from friends, family, or online communities. Reading reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the photographer's professionalism, communication style, and the overall client experience.

   I believe that choosing a family photographer is a personal decision. I would love to capture your family this year! CLICK HERE to find out more about family photography with me.

How do I pick a maternity photographer in the Seattle area? Best Seattle Maternity Photographer.

How to Find the Best Maternity Photographer in Seattle

Welcoming a new addition to your family marks a significant chapter in your life, one that deserves to be captured beautifully with maternity photography. With numerous talented photographers offering their services in the Seattle area, finding the ideal match for your vision can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for discovering the top maternity photographer in Seattle:

1. Really Look At Their Online Portfolio

Begin your search by delving into the portfolios of Seattle-based photographers specializing in maternity photography. Really sit with their work to get to know their distinct styles, lighting techniques, and ability to capture raw emotions. Seek out photographers whose portfolios resonate with your personal aesthetic preferences and align with the atmosphere you envision for your maternity photos.

2. Prioritize Experience and Expertise

Maternity photography demands a skill set and an understanding of the intricacies of pregnancy capturing a pregnant woman. Prioritize photographers who truly have experience and expertise in this specialized field. Look for evidence of their proficiency in posing expectant mothers, highlighting the inherent beauty of pregnancy, and creating an atmosphere of comfort and confidence during the shoot.

3. Assess Client Feedback

Gauge the quality of a photographer's work by perusing client reviews and testimonials. Pay close attention to the feedback provided by previous clients on various platforms, including the photographer's website, social media channels, and third-party review sites. Insights from past clients can offer valuable perspectives on the photographer's professionalism, creativity, and ability to deliver exceptional results.

4. Explore Seattle-Specific References

Given the unique characteristics of Seattle's landscape and weather, consider photographers who demonstrate an understanding of and appreciation for the city's beauty. Look for subtle nods to Seattle's urban environment or natural scenery in their portfolio images, indicating their ability to incorporate local elements into your maternity photos seamlessly.

5. Trust Your Intuition

Ultimately, selecting the best maternity photographer in Seattle boils down to trusting your instincts. After conducting research, reviewing portfolios, and assessing client feedback, you'll likely have a gut feeling about which photographer resonates with you on a deeper level. Trust that intuition, as it often serves as a reliable guide in making significant decisions.

I have been photographing Seattle’s expectant mothers for fourteen years! As a former NICU and L&D nurse I know I am an expert in the speciality of Maternity Photography! Reach out any time during your pregnancy to start the conversation about booking your session with me!