Capturing life’s moments in a bottle isn’t really possible-- but we wish it were, right? That way we could always lift the lid and memories would simply spill out! OR- we can hire a family photographer to capture those moments—at least for a day!
Fall is certainly a very popular time to take those much anticipated family pictures. However, for photographer, Ashley Wright, she much prefers snow AND Fall session—where colors can really come to life within the backgrounds. Wright recently decided to make a big prop purchase towards her ‘tool bag of accessories’ as a photographer—and buy a school bus! She says, “I love back to school pictures. The trick to capturing the smiles on the kids is to get to know them and bring out something they like.” Wright, who resides in East Garland, Utah, keeps a busy schedule but is sure to accommodate her client’s needs. She also helps her clients feel at ease during the session --because we all know family pictures can sometimes feel stressful in the moment!
Photographer Keli Anderson from Davis County got her niche back in high school when she took a photography class and really excelled. Years ago, while living in Florida with her husband and young daughter, she took a part-time job with a small photography company. “It was then that I realized I wanted to work for myself. I wanted to be in control of my creative product. So, I quit and never looked back!”
Every photographer wants to have something that sets them apart from so many others out there that are vying for our attention and business. Anderson believes her sensitivity to lighting, in her photography, does just that. “I love backlit images. Wherever I go, I try to find pockets of light and use them to my advantage. When I first started, I used to be afraid of shooting in full sun. Now, I welcome it! I know it gives me a chance to challenge myself and be creative with light.”
A couple of tips Anderson would like to share before getting family pictures: “Ask your friends for referrals (of other photographers) and look up websites to see which style of photography suits you. It’s best to do the research and get the photographer that fits your style.” Also, Anderson is quick to point out, “Before the session, it’s best to coordinate. Don’t be all matchy-matchy, but you need to look like you belong together. “
After having her first son, photographer Tiffanie Packer of North Ogden says, “I remember looking at his little face, fingers and toes and wanting to never forget this stage in his life. My most treasured ‘things’ are those people that I love and the memories I share with them. I believe this is what sparked my interest and love for photography.”
Having been drawn to the composition, lighting and colors in a professional photograph, Packer, expressed to her husband that she would like to try photography herself. That Christmas, he surprised her with her first entry-level DSLR camera. And from there her desire for photography took off. “I am constantly seeing other’s work and wondering how they did what they did. That’s the wonderful thing about community over competition.” Now, into her 3rd year of photography, Packer is constantly learning and enhancing her creative skills.
One thing Packer has found through exploring photography is, “Capturing an image where you cannot only see the relationship between a parent and child or husband and wife, but you can FEEL it. Capturing the connection between people that love each other is what brings me joy. It’s not the camera that makes a picture it’s the photographer.”
After getting posed shots at the beginning of a session, Packer will then “let the family hang out” and allow them talk to each other, play, and tickle, which she says, “That’s when the magic happens. Real moments are what life is made up of.”
If you’re looking to get your family pictures taken this year (or next) consider one of these talented photographers to meet your needs. No doubt, you’ll want to do your ‘research’ first and check out their websites as Anderson recommended!
Connect with Ashley Wright Photography through Facebook or www.wrightphotos4ever.com.
Keli Anderson can be reached at keliandersonphotography.com or on Facebook at Keli Anderson Photography or on Instagram at keli_anderson_photography. Also you may call Keli at 801-663-6128.
Visit Tiffanie’s website at www.tiffaniepacker.com and also on Instagram @tiffaniepacker or Facebook: Tiffanie Packer Photography https://www.facebook.com/TiffaniePackerPhotography/.
