We’re so spoiled over here in California (winter: 70 degrees! are you kidding me?). I grew up in the Midwest where winters were a major pain in the butt. I just don’t appreciate the 3-4 months of snow like I use to when I was a little kid. Back then I couldn’t wait for a big snowfall so my brothers could build tunnels for us to crawl through, those were the days! Anyhow, we shot a quick photo session of Sue (before we head out for a Vegas trip!) We walked up a nearby trail (I was hurting the next day, sad I know) and found a nice spot for some photos. The grass was green and shrubs were starting to come to life, better than 3feet of snow?! Here are a few photos, hope you enjoy them. Read on for a few tips and a BTS shot.
Below is the BTS shot taken of us shortly before we left (coyotes were howling! eeek); never mind the crack too. =p Here are also a few tips to improve your photos.
Don’t be afraid to get dirty: For some creative angles, get on the same level as your subject. Unless you are purposely going for that bird’s eye view or worm’s eye view… getting on the same level of your subject will avoid distortion in your photos. This tip is especially important for baby portraits. Since babies are always on the ground… you should be too. If you are afraid of getting dirty, you can set a blanket or sheet on the ground first.
Ask your subject to get dirty: If they are willing to work with the surrounding elements, you may be able to grab more interesting shots. Kids don’t mind getting dirty, but adults may need a little convincing. =)
Get knee pads: Do yourself a favor and head over to Home Depot or Lowes and grab a pair of cheap styro foam knee pads. You will thank me later.



Was this on Monday?
Lol. I like the pose book! [:
oh & not to mention, the photos look like it was painted.
The post-processing is nice. What texture did you use?
California is so beautiful; I may just move there some day.
I envy you Californians!! While I am walking around layering up trying to stay warm, you guys are outside, wearing dresses, not even a sweater, and taking pictures!!!! UGH !!! lol.
your photos look like a painting! pretty.
Beautiful pictures! Remember being scared of dogs? Coyotes are another thing!
We’ve been experiencing 4 seasons in a week down here in Texas. It’s crazy… we even had a record snowfall of 10 inches one day last week!!
sue is such a model.. luv the pictures
You are so mistaken! This is southern California weather ONLY! I live in feet of snow in northern Cali winters. Been following your posts recently and totally enjoy! Thanks for sharing.
I love it! The lighting is beautiful! I love the “golden hours!”