Hi everyone! I have some awesome news, I am officially booking into December! This means that all of my October and November spots have been filled. I am so thankful for the support and for all of my amazing clients. The downside of this is that I may not be taking your fall photos this year. That being said, I still want to help you get some awesome photos of your family, so check out these three tips for better cell phone photos!

1. Download Lightroom for mobile. This app is FREE and amazing. You can even find free presets that help you get the same look for all of your photos. Using the exposure and brightness slides can really change the look of your photos, rather than just slapping on a filter.
2. Learn to use natural light. I prefer to shoot at golden hour, which is the hour before sunset. This helps me get the golden hues that you see in my photos, and can make for some beautiful photos. If you can't use golden hour, try and find something to diffuse your light like a tree so that the sun isn't so harsh on your subjects.
3. Don't cut off limbs! No, I'm not talking about sticking your hands in a wood chipper (but don't do that either!), don't crop them out of your photos. When you cut off legs or arms, it can make your photos look unfinished. Another tip is to not crop at any joints, like knees or elbows, because it can make your subject look shorter.

Hopefully these tips help you get some great photos this fall. Tag me on Instagram when you use these tips (@gracefullycapturedimagery) and you may just win a special prize! Happy Fall!
​-Grace

Have you ever done a photo shoot with your best friend? Not counting the one you may have done with your tumblr-era digital camera, I'm guessing the answer is no. My next question is why the heck not?! There are a ton of reasons why you should, so let me lay them out for you if you're still not convinced.

1. They're fun as heck.   You're probably thinking "Well duh, Grace. You're paid to make them look like that." I'm not kidding, I have tons of giggly fun doing these. I'm not sure if it's getting to see you and your BFF do what you do best, or if it's that these are so much more carefree, but gosh they sure are fun!
2. They're easy to coordinate.   No more picking out outfits for your SO or kids. Just pick up the supplies for your next girls or guys night, and instead turn it into a photo shoot. Easy as that.
3. You can eat and drink during them.   Want to bring wine along? Sure why not! Cupcakes from your favorite bakery? Absolutely! We want to have fun and photograph you doing your favorite BFF things, so whether that's beer and pizza or scrabble and sweet tea, let's make it happen.
4. Quality time with your BFF.   This will be a girls or guys night you'll never forget! Unlike family photos where you pose and smile, these are more candid shots where I capture it all. Yes, even you laughing so hard that beer comes out your nose.
5. You're making memories you'll never forget.   Not only will you be able to hang up these photos and look at them for years to come, you'll look back on the actual session and laugh! They are absolutely the most fun you will have doing a photo session and there's a reason for that!

I hope by now I've convinced you to call up your BFF and schedule a session, because if not, you are missing out! I can't wait to see you and your best friend in action, giggling like little kids again!
​-Grace

You've booked a session, now you're faced with the task of picking out what to wear for your session. You may feel overwhelmed, especially if you're trying to coordinate outfits for your whole family or your significant other. Don't worry, I'm here to help you choose what outfit you wear for your session with some helpful tips.

1. Coordinate your outfits with the season.   This is crucial so that you're comfortable at your shoot, as well as having colors that go with the scenery. For example, fall shoots may include mustard, dark red, and navy pieces layered. This allows for a comfortable temperature and colors that will be complimented by the changing leaves.
2. Choose a color palette of 4 colors and use those colors to dress and layer family members.    Subtle pieces like scarves and bows can add the perfect pop of color to fit into the palette.
3. Don't all wear the same thing.    Do you remember those awkward family photos where all of the family members are wearing the same white shirt? Having all family members wear matching outfits may be easy, but it's not recommended for photos. You want all family members to use the same color palette individually.
4. Wear neutral accessories.    When taking family photos, its easy to be distracted by a large necklace or watch. That's why it is recommended to wear neutral, understated accessories that don't take away from the main focus: you.
5. Wear something you are confident in!    This is the most important tip when choosing an outfit. Choose something that you will feel good in. When you don't feel confident, it comes through in photos. I want to help you feel like the best version of yourself at your session, and it helps when you're confident in how you look and feel.

​-Grace