Summer Photo Shoot with Allie and Amy - Downtown Lynchburg, Va

Recently I met Amy and Allie in downtown Lynchburg, Va for a special photo shoot. This shoot was a secret because the photos were a birthday present for Amy's sister, Stephanie. Stephanie bought Allie this beautiful dress before Allie was even born. And what a perfect dress it is. Allie wore it well. Allie was such a joy to photograph. This little one-year-old was all smiles and happy to pose for me. After taking several shots downtown, we moved on to the Old City Cemetery which has a pond, tree swing and beautiful landscape. I hope you enjoy viewing some of my favorite pictures from the photo shoot.

Pet Photo Tip: Get Close and Get Light

When photographing your pet, get close and get light. Fill the frame with your pet, and leave out the clutter of the house in the background. Use natural light outside, or use the light from large windows or an open door.

Some examples:

Advice for Taking Unique Birthday Photos

Have a birthday coming up? Here's a Tip: Focus on the Details. When you zoom in close on the party details you add interest to your photographs. Fill the frame with the birthday cake, balloons, candles, ribbons, and other decorative elements of the party. When you put your party album together, these shots look perfect mixed with photos of partygoers.

Here are some examples:

Photo Tip: Stand on a Chair

When photographing babies and young children shoot from a variety of angles. Capturing different angles will add interest to your photos. You can photograph from above, below, the side of your subject. The possibilities are endless.

Here are some examples:

Photo Tip: Turn It To the Side

Oftentimes, subjects look better from a vertical standpoint. While taking photos, make an effort to turn your camera sideways and take some vertical shots.

Here are some examples:

Photo Tip: Get Down on the Ground

Want to take better photos? Here's a tip: Get down on the subject's level. Whether photographing kids, dogs or flowers, try getting down to a lower position while photographing instead of shooting from above.

Here's some examples:

A Day at the Beach (Myrtle Beach, SC)