About a month ago, I received an email from a local photographer looking for some photos of herself. I’ve mentioned it before, but I feel like I have to say it again. I love shooting other photographers. Not only is it flattering, but it’s just a lot of fun. It’s a chance for me to learn and observe someone else who does what I do. And in the end, I hope to make a new friend! (Andrea, those drinks are calling!)

What I loved most though, was that Andrea brought along not only her husband, but her adorable dog Sydney. Since we decided to meet in the hills of Livermore – I couldn’t have been more excited for ANYTHING on four legs that could sniff out snakes. ((shudder)) I don’t do snakes.

Andrea, thank you again for spending the afternoon with me. You are fabulous.

Seriously, aren’t they cute!?

“What should we wear?”

The truth is, there is no right answer!  Wear what you feel comfortable in.  The goal of custom photography is to tell a story.  Your story, as you are right now.  In this moment.  I would never ask your husband to take off his plaid shirt if that’s what he loves.  Don’t want to wear matching white shirts?  GREAT!  Because I don’t plan on asking you to.

I love variety in my photos.  Your clothes should show who you are.  If you’re a t-shirt and jeans kind of person, by all means, wear them!  If you feel more comfortable in a cowboy hat and heels next to a man in a chicken suit, then that’s your thing and I won’t judge you.  I only ask that you don’t show up in matching shirts.  Be yourself.  Add accessories, I love layers.  Layer your colors and patterns and textures.  I love breaking the rules, and I love irony.   (Think cocktail dress and stilettos at the barn.)  So challenge yourself to be you.

Here are just a couple of ideas to help spur your creativity:

And yes my friends, there is a photographer out there lucky enough to have clients that dressed up in a chicken suit.  If you’d like to see them, check out Tanja Lippert’s blog.  Just know they have been dubbed “The Chicken Suit and the Naked Chick” for a reason!

And the last lovely shot of the day.  Thank you M&M for letting me hang out with you and your fabulously adorable baby girl.

It is so busy around here!  So stay tuned for good things to come!