Glamour & Contemporary Portraits | Bina | 2016 | Santa Clara, CA

"A beautiful woman is someone who is wise, kind, classy, and whose eyes light up when she smiles..."

These are words directly from a lovely wife, mother, and woman named Bina. Her eyes twinkle with a ready smile. Her love for her daughter, husband, and life itself is evident in the way she describes this season of her life and shares about who she is. We spent the afternoon in hair/makeup with the talented Kalani Brown Kalani Style and had a wonderful time capturing Bina's beautiful smile in these photographs.

It is my honor and privilege to share with you all the latest feature, story, and photoshoot along with a behind the scenes look into Bina's time with Heartbox Photography - check it out below!

Bina, thank you for trusting me to capturing that twinkling smile of yours and for sharing your story with me! Your daughter is fortunate to have a mother  and role model who embodies joy and pride in being who she is as a woman. Here's to continuing to empower your daughter, as well as future generations, of young girls that will shape this world. 

**

"I was born and raised in Bombay, India. I'm a textile designer by profession, but have been a stay-at-home mom looking after my beautiful daughter for the last 10 years. I've loved every bit of being a hands-on parent. The bond we share is priceless."

"It's an interesting time for me. My daughter just finished elementary school and is getting to the point where she is more independent. I'm looking to get back to designing. I'm a foodie and love experimenting and cooking wholesome food for my family and friends. I've also been assisting with Ayurvedic cooking classes. "

What is one thing you wish you could tell yourself back when you were 18 years old?

"I wish I would have told myself to be fearless!"

"Over the years, my focus has been on simplifying my loving husband and daughter's life and on just being happy. Traveling is something we like doing as a family and we've been fortunate enough to travel to many places around the world, experiencing different cultures. No matter what my week looks like I always make time for hiking and reading, my two favorite activities."

What would you tell young girls with regards to beauty, self-confidence, and growing up?

"I would tell my daughter and other young girls to not let the world tell you what perfect is! Just be yourself.

Speak your mind, be uninhibited, be authentic and in the moment. And keep smiling!"

What you appreciate most about your life now?

"I am comfortable in my own skin, I'm following my heart and loving the journey!"

Sisters | Amy, Julie & Kristina | Glamour and Contemporary Portraits | Santa Clara, CA

My own sisters and I like to joke that we all share one brain. A little weird to picture, but I think that joke originated from the fact that we simply shared our lives together, that there was this special bond between us that only sisters could understand.

When I met Julie, Kristina, and Amy, I could immediately tell I would just love working with these awesome ladies. There are four sisters altogether, but only the three of them live in California, with their fourth sister living in Florida. Their closeness and love for one another was obvious in the abundance of laughter, smiles, and jokes shared during their photo shoot with me on a Saturday morning.

To be a part of helping celebrate these beautiful ladies and their sisterhood was a great honor and I am so excited to share with you all a few images as well as a full slideshow/video of their day with Heartbox Photography, so be sure to check it out below!

Kristina, Julie, and Amy -                                                  

Thank you for allowing me the privilege to not only capture the essence of who each of you are as beautiful individuals, but also what you are together as sisters and women who support and love one another. May these images and experience forever be a treasured reminder of how beautiful it is to be a woman - and what a blessing it is to be a part of this gift of sisterhood. 

"We are extremely close. We grew up going to school together, shared a room, as well as shared all of our clothes - yes, we all wore the same size! Kristina and I were only a year apart in school so we had the same friends, shared the same first car, attended the same college, and were even college roommates."

"We all listen to the same types of music, all enjoy shopping and love to eat the same types of food. You could say that we have A LOT in common. We still share our clothes and talk to each other on a daily basis."   - Amy

What is something you wish you could tell yourself back when you were 18 years old?

"Happiness comes from experiencing things you love surrounded by people you love. Don't worry so much about what others would say or think of you because in the end, time will continue to move and you don't want to waste your lifetime living for others. Use your lifetime to create memories experiences that you want to look back on and fall in love with the story of your life." - Amy

"Your body is beautiful, embrace yourself. Education is beautiful, because no one can take that away from you. You and only you, control your destiny." - Kristina

What do you appreciate most about your life now?

"I appreciate the fact that I have a relationship with God. Through this relationship, I have found the true meaning of love and happiness. I realize how blessed I am with my family, the memories that we get to create together, and every single day is embraced in our household."  - Amy

"I appreciate my family more than anything. I appreciate our health, our time together, and our love for one another."   -Kristina

"I am the youngest of the 5 siblings. I just moved to California two months ago because my husband Robby accepted a job opportunity in Silicon Valley. I am 39 years old, married to my best friend, whom I have known since I was 14 years old, though we did not date until after I graduated college. We have 3 precious girls - Chloe, Audrey, and Leia. Yes, our daughter was named after Princess Leia in Star Wars. They are the center of our world! We love to spend time outside as a family hiking, beaching, and exploring new places." - Amy

"Beauty is definitely more on the inside for me. It is the beauty of someone's heart and soul. Her genuine character. The love that she shares with others." - Amy

"I have three young girls (4,6, and 8) and I tell them they are beautiful everyday. I tell them that God placed them here on this earth for a reason and each one is blessed with special gifts. Embrace the gifts you are given and use it to show love to others. That is how we can grow the love here on this earth and beyond. So if someone was mean to them, we talk about about we think they would act that way, pray for the individual, forgive him/her and move on." 

"I want them to know that people's actions and words reflects who that individual is and should not affect us. So they understand that everyone is supposed to be different with different looks of beauty, talents, gifts, and qualities."    -Amy

Julie and her husband, Bobby, met in high school. It was truly a match made in heaven, as they were inseparable after that. Julie moved to California with her husband and first son, Christian when she was in her late 20's. They had their daughter, Hayley, here in California. 

She has a career as a loan officer and her family is very much into fitness, food, and fashion.  Julie loves to shop...for everyone, according to her sister, Amy. They enjoy going out to eat as a family and loves the beach/warm weather so they spend their vacations either on the beaches of Hawaii or Florida. 

Kristina moved to California after graduating college in her early 20's. She met her prince charming in San Francisco and married him. Kristina and her husband, Howard, have two beautiful children, Lauren and Lance. Her family loves to travel around the world and experience new foods, culture, and scenery. They are also very involved in the community and what is best for their kids.

"I believe nothing makes a woman more beautiful than the belief that she IS beautiful." - Kristina

"Your body is not everything that defines you. Don't take everything so seriously - enjoy life! Most of the stuff that makes you anxious doesn't really matter when you're older." - Kristina

"We are truly blessed to have this sister bond and we all know it. I could go on and on about all the things we share. We've created so many memories together and now all of our kids are growing up together as loving cousins. What more could we ask for in life?" - Amy

I couldn't agree more. :)

Many thanks to Kat Tinney of A List Makeup for her help on styling hair/makeup for these lovely ladies!

Preview | Sonia | Glamour and Contemporary Portrait | Fremont, CA

As the years swirl by with a speed that seems to increase each passing year, there is something still so sweet and refreshing about reminders of childhood memories. From the wave of nostalgia that comes from passing by an old neighborhood to rehashing memories with old friends in the laughs that remind us of long summers, giggles over latest crushes, and grade school book reports.

I have known Sonia for more years than I can count. She is truly a beautiful person inside and out and I am so honored to have the opportunity to capture her in these photographs.

Below is a preview into Sonia's photoshoot that I am thrilled to share with you all. There is more to come as always, so be sure to stay tuned!

Many thanks to the wonderful Becky Lau of Beautiful One Makeup Artistry for her styling of Sonia's look for this shoot!

Bea | Glamour and Contemporary Portraits | Santa Clara, CA

I had the recent honor of photographing and getting to know a lovely woman named Beatrice ....or, as she's more known to her nearest and dearest, "Bea". This beautiful woman is not only a mommy, wife, daughter, sister, and friend but a yoga instructor, speech and language pathologist, home health therapist and Netflix marathoner. 

And when I found out that she loves avocados as well, let's just say I knew we were going to get along just fine. =) 

Her smile and sense of humor was an absolute joy to be around, making the hours just fly by during the fun we had during her makeover and photoshoot. Below are a few of my favorites that I am proud to share with you all along with a full on video of our time together with the lovely Bea. 

Bea, it was an honor getting to know you and to have you become a part of the message that all women are indeed beautiful as they are today. May you look back at your own smile in each of these photographs and continue to remember that for yourself as well. 

 Many thanks to the talented Kat Tinney for Bea's hair/makeup!

"A beautiful woman is comfortable in her own skin and in her perfect imperfection. She does not take herself too seriously and knows  how to enjoy life to its fullest. Someone who, despite what life hands them, is overflowing with joie de vivre."

"A beautiful woman doesn't rely on what's in her make-up bag."

What do you wish you could tell yourself back when you were 18 years old?

"Wear your SPF! Hahaha! Wise words from my mom.  I would tell myself "Babyguuurl, accept yourself as God made you because he does not make mistakes!"

"Look up (from your screen), life is going on around you! Explore the world around you, go for a hike, hydrate!"

"Speak up for yourself, and do not be afraid to make decisions because nobody really knows where they are trying to reach. Breathe, really BREATHE, and enjoy just being because you will be ok." 

Preview | Ruchi | Glamour and Contemporary Portrait | Santa Clara, CA

It was like the fall colors of the leaves that surrounded the park beckoned the gold of the afternoon sunlight into a perfectly choreographed dance for us to witness. And needless to say this breathtaking background was perfect for a photoshoot with a lovely woman named Ruchi. 

Ruchi has been a long supporter of Heartbox Photography , standing behind the message that every woman is beautiful and has a story to tell. I am so very excited and honored that she took that step to grace my camera with her presence. Below is just a sneak peak into her photoshoot with more to come -  stay tuned!

Many thanks to the talented Keziah Dauz of Beauty by Keziah for making Ruchi's hair and makeup look absolutely stunning for this photoshoot! 

PREVIEW | Elissa | Glamour and Contemporary Portrait | Santa Clara, CA

It is always so much fun to meet the friends of past clients. I recently had the privilege of having the beautiful Elissa come in for a photoshoot and am thrilled to share a little preview shot with you all!

I absolutely love everything about this photograph - the natural light, the perfect tone of blue that compliments her style, the way this picture captures the loveliness, the fun, the sweetness of her smile...the essence of Elissa as a woman, wife, and mother. 

There is more to share so be sure to stay tuned!  

Many thanks to Kat Tinney of A-List Makeup for her styling of Elissa's look!

PREVIEW | Bina | Glamour & Contemporary Portrait | Santa Clara, CA

Smiles and laughter is wonderfully contagious and the afternoon was filled with it the day I got to photograph this beautiful woman, wife, and mother named Bina. 

I absolutely love how Bina's default expression in her eyes is one that is filled with a genuine happiness and sense of humor - and it is my honor to have been given the opportunity to capture that loveliness in the timelessness of a portrait photograph. 

Below is just a little glimpse into Bina's photoshoot - be sure to stay tuned for more to come!

Many thanks to the awesome Kalani Brown of Kalani Style for her lovely work on Bina's hair and makeup!

PREVIEW | Julie, Kristina, & Amy | Glamour & Contemporary Portrait | Santa Clara, CA

Celebrate the the life you have been given, for it is a precious gift filled with peaks and valleys as well as the grace of love and growth intertwined in every step, every minute, every day. And even better than that, celebrate this life with the others who were given to you to lean on, to laugh with, to love with, to cry with, and to grow with. 

Photographing sisters holds a special place in my heart for a myriad of reasons, but mostly because I also have sisters myself. There's something mysterious and beautiful about that unique bond that women have between each other, especially as siblings.

I recently had the opportunity to photograph the lovely sisters, Julie, Kristina, and Amy. It was an afternoon of filled with the girly fun of hair, makeup, styling, outfit changes, and most importantly, a lot of beautiful smiling and laughter. An afternoon to help them celebrate their individuality and their sisterhood. An afternoon to create yet another precious memory for them to share.

Below is just a sneak peak into their photoshoot. There is more to come so stay tuned!

As always, many thanks to the talented Kat Tinney  of A List Makeup for her work on styling these lovely ladies on hair and makeup!

PREVIEW | Bea | Glamour and Contemporary Portraits | Santa Clara, CA

Even in this digital age, I am still a huge advocate and fan of having pictures printed out, whether it's treasured in a special folio box, an album you can touch, or a beautiful frame to display. And in this era of blinding speed and fleeting moments, I am still a huge advocate for stopping time in a special way for a woman through a timeless portrait of just herself.

Yes, I know it seems odd to take some time out of an incredibly hectic and busy life to have your portrait taken. I know it seems odd to have your hair done, to go beyond just the two second application of eyeliner and instead have a professional do your makeup in a way that makes you feel your best, polished self. However, many years down the road, it won't seem so odd anymore. Because that portrait of you that you hold in your hands is now part of the legacy of your family. Your children will treasure it, your grandchildren will have a glimpse into generations before them. It will serve as a reminder to you, that every year of your life is important and that there is something wonderful about reflecting back on a photograph of yourself from years ago. It will bring a smile to your face as you recall just where you were at in life when it was captured. And as a woman, I hope it resonates something deep inside you and reminds you that you are valued and wonderfully made.

Exist in photographs for yourself. Exist in photographs for your loved ones. 

Exist in photographs. 

I am incredibly excited and honored share with you all the latest celebration of women who have chosen to exist in photographs, a lovely mother and wife named Bea.

Bea not only a mother and wife, but a daughter, a sister, a friend, yoga instructor, speech and language pathologist, a homehealth therapist, a Netflix marathoner. Having spent an afternoon with her in the studio was more like hanging out with a familiar friend as her easygoing personality and laughter filled our conversations. 

As always, this is just a sneak peak, so stay tuned for more!

Happy Thursday!

Many thanks to Kat Tinney  of A List Makeup for Bea's hair and makeup!

PREVIEW | Nicole | Glamour and Contemporary Portraits | Santa Clara, CA

A writer, DIY'er, editor, tutor, and yoga instructor.

A soon-to-be adventure finder in Spain.

A woman with talents she uses and generously shares with others.

All these things are just a few ways to describe the lovely Melissa, whom I had the privilege to recently photograph.

It was an afternoon of smiles and laughs as we experienced the fun of capturing just the right amount of fan breeze to highlight her gorgeous red hair. I am so proud and excited to share with you all the sneak peak into Melissa's photo shoot below. As always, stay tuned as there are more images to come!

Many thanks to Kat Tinney for her styling of Nicole's hair and makeup!

PREVIEW: Melissa | Glamour & Contemporary Portrait | Santa Clara, CA

One of my sisters once referred to my other sister and me as her "wombmates". I thought it was the funniest term and it's the first thing that comes to mind as I write this post. As sisters, we were each others first friends, arch rivals, and partners in crime growing up. I could go on and on, but my point is that as different as my sisters and me are from each other, I wouldn't trade them for the world. 

As I've grown into an adult, I have found that even more special than the bond of siblings is the bond of sisters. As women, we need other women in our corner. To laugh with, cry with, cheer on, encourage, and simply be with. We women GET each other in a unique way and there is something so life-giving about that fact. 

Recently, I had the privilege to photograph the beautiful Melissa. Her sister, Sandy, had been a client of mine a few years back and wanted to give her little sister the same experience she had of celebrating her life through a portrait session with me, complete with being pampered with hair/make up styling!

Below is just a sneak peak into the photo shoot of this lovely lady - more to come so be sure to stay tuned!

Many thanks to the talented Kat Tinney for Melissa's beautiful hair and makeup!

PREVIEW: Kelly | Beauty & Glamour Maternity | Santa Clara, California

There is something so magical about bright and natural light weaving it's way into the photographs of a woman celebrating an important moment in her life. And the bright afternoon sunshine that softened it's glow through the white curtains made for the perfect backdrop for an afternoon beauty and glamour maternity photo session. 

Kelly is a lovely wife, mother of one little boy, and soon to be mother of a second boy in August. I was recently given the honor of photographing this beautiful woman for her maternity session and I am so excited to share with you all a little sneak preview image from her photoshoot. There is definitely more to share, so stay tuned!

Many thanks to the talented Kat Tinney for Kelly's hair and makeup!

PREVIEW: Rina | Glamour & Contemporary Portraits | Santa Clara, CA

One of the things that I am finding as a photographer is that the last time almost all of these women had their portrait taken was either when they were seniors in high school, during their wedding, or during some other "formal" event in their life years ago. I love and appreciate every opportunity I am given to remind them, through these photographs they allow me to create, that they are just as every bit as beautiful now as they were then. 

Meet the lovely Rina. This beautiful mom came in recently for a portrait session and we had a fun time getting to know each other and of course capturing her sweet smile in these photographs. Below is just a little sneak peak into her photo session with more to come soon, so stay tuned!

Many thanks to the talented Kat Tinney for Rina's hair and makeup!

Sukhdeep | Glamour and Contemporary Portraiture | Alameda, CA

There is something so exciting and fun about discovering new places to photograph in the Bay Area.  Perfect and natural afternoon light along with the vastness of the Alameda Naval Base made for an awesome photoshoot with the lovely Sukhdeep.

As we chatted and got to know each other, I learned that Sukhdeep is an attorney, loves to dance, and has a close relationship with her family. Her joyous enthusiasm and zeal for life was immediately obvious in her laughter and that beautiful smile of hers. And.....can I just say that I absolutely LOVED her shoe collection? Let's be honest - there's always something so fun about women who get together and oooh and ahh over the endless variety of cute shoes from one's closet. =) #proudtobeawoman 

Sukhdeep is a beautiful person inside and out and I am so thrilled to share with you all just a few of my favorite images from her photo shoot with me. Be sure to check out the slideshow below as well!

Sukhdeep, thank you for being so fun to work with, for your contributions as a woman in the legal field, for having an enthusiasm for life that is so fun to be around. May these images be a forever reminder to celebrate each day and each year of your life.

Many thanks to Jessica Quintal for Sukhdeep's gorgeous hair and makeup!

A gift of....lists??

I like lists. Most days. Helps me stay on track, remember stuff, blah, blah, blah. Necessary, but not always fun. Like that one time you stuck a peanut up your nose and had to get it removed by the doctor.

Necessary, but not fun.

BUT...this book may change my mind. Lists might actually rate a 10 on the meter-o-fun....who knew?

Here goes! #52listsproject

List 1: 

List your favorite characters from books, movies, etc.

1. Mary Poppins
2. The Cat in The Hat
3. Punky Brewster
4. Strawberry Shortcake
5. Ramona Quimby
6. Claudia Kishi
7. Jem
8. Corey Matthews and Topanga Lawrence
9. Eric Matthews
10. Steve Urkel
11. DJ Tanner
12. Katniss Everdeen
13. Mickey Mouse
14. Cinderella
15. Big Bird
16. Wakko
17. Scooby-Doo
18. Sadness
19. She-Ra
20. Pinky
21. Buttons and Mindy
22. Slappy Squirrel
23. Rainbow Brite
24. Carlton Banks
25. Agnes Gru

Life, Hope, and Beauty

"Cause I've been waiting my turn
Pressure's on
Now your heart is beating
To the sound of my name,
Come on out and find me..."

-Christina Grimmie

As I sit here staring at a blank screen, the haunting and beautiful voice of Christina Grimmie flows in soulful melody through the speakers. I couldn't really think of much to really say except that this weekend's tragic events in Florida occupy the space of my thoughts. Though far in distance, I find that as I get older, these events don't seem so far anymore and the people? Not strangers, but fellow humans that I wish did not have to suffer through this. 

It's often said that though artists have various mediums, various channels by which to express their art, we can still glean inspiration from each other. The potter to the dancer, the sketch artist to the musician, the painter to the photographer. It's quite beautiful actually, this connection. 

I first came across Christina Grimmie's music when I was looking up various performances by the incredibly talented dancers, Keone and Mari Madrid. Maybe it's the loss-for-words, graceful movement, maybe it's the heart and soul of Christina's voice, maybe it's the beautiful notes of every key struck on the piano. Her song, "Find Me" immediately pulled at my heart in for a listen. Whatever it is, the joining of these artists produced something beautiful and worth sharing. Maybe, in the wake of all of these tragedies, it's tiny glimmer of a reminder that there's still beauty, there's still life, there's still hope. 

#prayfororlando 

Motherhood or Not *insert freak out here*

I just recently returned from visiting my new nephew. And it's only been a day or so since my return - and already the withdrawals are kicking in bad. These chipmunk cheeks have that "I'll-steal-your-heart" kind of effect on this auntie. 

I get asked when my husband and I are going to have kids. Like, a lot now. It gets asked more than what we do for a living, I think. And if I'm being totally honest, the question has started to make me more and more uncomfortable with each passing year - you can practically see the neon-flashing sign across my forehead that brightly lights "AWKWARD" for all to see when this subject comes up. My skills at operating in avoidance mode have reached pro-status - I really should get award for it. 

I write this openly not because I'm anywhere closer to the answer, but more so as perhaps a therapy of some sort, to at least get used to talking about it openly without being paralyzed by fear that I'll never know what to decide. I am very career-driven, still have a lot I wish to do and accomplish, love a neat house, and quite frankly, internally freak out at the thought of driving a mini-van. 

I even fear what it will look like when my beloved dog won't get as much attention the baby. #let'skeepitreal #don'tjudgeme

I often talk to God about everything because I know He loves me entirely, but even on this subject, I have skillfully left it out of my prayers. Is it because I'm afraid of the answer? Or afraid of not even hearing the answer? Yes and heck yes. And yet, even in this cloud of confusion/don't-know yet state, I cling desperately to the small glimmer of hope that God is God and He is good and yes, His plan for me isn't horrible and I need to stop worrying. And sometimes a small glimmer of hope in God is all I need to start the journey of at least being able to openly discuss it. 

To be continued...

PREVIEW: Sukhdeep | Glamour and Contemporary Portraits | Alameda, CA

When I was younger, I used to wonder about that whole idea about a woman never revealing her age. And when I say I "wondered" about it, I really mean that I thought it was strange and well, actually, disagreed with it. I don't know who came up with that idea, but shouldn't a woman be proud of her age? Shouldn't she be able to walk around with a sense of joy, instead of hesitation, knowing that every year in her age represents life she is continually blessed with? 

On a sunny and cool afternoon, I had the privilege to meet a lovely woman named Sukhdeep. In addition to her sweet and friendly smile, what stood out to me even more in our conversations as I got to know her was how she laughed and shared how proud she was to be a woman in her 40's.

And that declaration right there? Well, that deserved a you-go-girl kind of high-five in my book! Needless to say, Sukhdeep is all kinds of beautiful, inside and out. 

Below is just a sneak peak in to her photo session with Heartbox Photography. There are more images to come and more to share about Sukhdeep, so be sure to stay tuned!

Many thanks to the awesome Jessica Quintal for Sukhdeep's hair/makeup!

FAQ & Tips: How to Prepare for Your Portrait Session with Heartbox Photography

Having your portrait taken is absolutely an exciting and huge deal. It's a chance for you to celebrate where you are right now in this moment in life, a chance to #existinphotos for your loved ones and even more so, a rare opportunity to encourage other women by stepping out in front of the lens to share your story and definition of beautiful.

As with any special occasions, there are preparations to be made and I highly encourage my clients to approach this in the same fashion. Below are some of the questions I am asked the most and by sharing them here, I hope they serve as a helpful guide to every woman preparing for her portrait session with me!

And of course, the biggest tip I can give? Don't forget to book a night out afterwards with your best friends, your special someone, your loved ones - because you will look fabulous!

When does the session begin?

The session begins promptly at the time that we agree upon in your contract. I am a natural light photographer, so please be sure to arrive promptly to ensure we capture a ton of beautiful images for you!

What should I expect when I arrive?

Please be ready and on time, dressed in a comfortable outfit (you can change into your photo shoot clothes later on) with no makeup applied and your hair clean and dry, free form any hair product. I will take a few “before” photos of you then your stylist will begin your makeup and hairstyling.

What should I wear?

I highly suggest bringing at least 2-3 different looks.

• Avoid patterns, baggy/boxy styles or “office-wear” type collared dress shirts.
• Fitted outfits in solid colors work best and is most flattering for all body types.
• Try to think of an outfits that you would wear if you were going out for the night, something fun, and most importantly, outfits that make you feel at your best and most beautiful! This could be a gorgeous dress or some pants with a chic and fun top.
• Make sure that the tops you choose have the most flattering neckline for you. (This could mean a v-neck, scoop, etc.)

Can I wear accessories for my photo session?

Yes. Earrings, bracelets or necklaces are welcome. However, I would recommend that they are kept to a minimum as the most classic and timeless beauty shots that come out the best are the ones that focus on you and not the accessories you are wearing.

I don’t wear a lot of makeup. Can I still do this type of shoot?

Absolutely! The stylists I work with are very familiar with varying degrees of makeup looks that can range from a more classic/natural look to something heavier and dramatic. We can provide suggestions, but also can tailor it to your preferences.

Do I need to get my hair dyed/manicure/pedicure/waxing done?

The more prepared you are for the shoot, the better you will feel while being photographed and the more you will love the final product. This is a special occasion and the more effort you put into it, the better the outcome.

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Any other tips on how to prepare for my session?

To feel your best, get enough sleep the night before. Do not try any new beauty products outside of your regular skin or hair care routine the day before your photo session. Do not attempt any crash diets in the months leading up to your photo session. My goal is photograph you as you are today – fabulous and beautiful!

I’d like to book a photo session now but I need to get into shape.

Time doesn’t stand still – I definitely encourage you to celebrate who you are today. As a professional, I specialize in being able to pose my clients in the most flattering ways no matter what the body type.

Will you direct me on how to pose?

Absolutely! I will guide you through every single pose, position, and direction. You will never be left in front of my camera not knowing what to expect. As a professional photographer and as a woman, you can be assured I will guide you into the most flattering poses for the best photographs!

What is required to book a session?

All appointments are on a first come, first serve basis and are considered fully booked when the signed contract and non-refundable retainer has been received by my studio.

How long is the photo session and makeover?

Please allow approximately 4 hours for this experience.

Can I do a photo shoot outdoors instead?

Yes. These arrangements can be made at the time you book your appointment.

Do you have just females on your team?

Yes. I am the only photographer and any assistant or stylists I work with are women as well. My business is run purely by women and for women. I believe this makes my clients more comfortable during the photo session.

I don’t have any idea regarding how I’d like to be photographed – I just want nice photos.

We can chat over coffee, over the phone or on email and work out the feel and style of the shoot during that preliminary conversation.

How will I view my photos?

We will schedule an in-person viewing session to view your photos within 3 weeks of your session. 

If I refer a friend or family member, will I get anything?

Absolutely!

If your referral books a photo session with me, you automatically a number of credits towards any prints or products on the current Product Menu. The person you refer ALSO receives a certain amount of credits towards her prints and products. There is no expiration on these credits and you may earn as many credits as you wish! Certain restrictions and rules apply. Please see me for details.

Are there any other rewards programs available?

Yes! Ask about our Birthday Rewards for special drawings exclusively for clients. 

Why Are Photos Important?

...because of moments like this.

I'm a day late on the #nationalsiblingday festivities. However, this has been one of my favorite photos of my siblings and I on a rare moment in Arizona when we were able to spend some time together. And I couldn't pass up another chance to share it. It's a photo I never get tired of looking at or posting because it captures everything of my siblings that I love. 

And when we're 100 years old with five teeth left, having prune juice slurpies on a hot afternoon, I hope the essence of what we share in these photos still exists even stronger than the day it was captured.

#nationalsiblingday