21 Photography Truths (According to Me)

1. The best poses? Oh, those come to me on the drive home when it’s too late. Every. Single. Time.

2. I have a full-blown panic attack on the way home, convinced every single shot is out of focus. Cue me checking photos at stoplights like a maniac.

3. Playing music during shoots? Total game changer. ADHD taught me that. Now it’s basically a mini dance party.

4. Can’t get the kids to cooperate? Make them move. Have them race, jump, or do superhero poses (99% of the time, it’s Spiderman). Give them sticks if you’re outside—they love sticks.

5.  John Hughes rule: Treat kids like they matter. Ask them if they want to sit or kneel, or which spot looks cool. Just don’t let them run the whole show. Balance is key.

6. Troubleshooting is 40% of photography. Whether it’s emotions, mechanical failures, unpredictable weather, or settings—stay cool and figure it out.

7. Photography is like skiing: the more you do it, the faster you improve. Daily practice = exponential growth

8. You are an artist. Don’t let this world of instant gratification water down your creativity.

9. Slow. The. Hell. Down. No one cares if you check the back of your camera. Breathe.

10. If I say, “This is the last shot,” just know I’m lying. Every time.

11. Execution is success. If you thought it, planned it, and shot it—you’re already winning. Even if it’s not perfect, you did it.

12. Marketing is the secret sauce between being a working photographer and a struggling one. Sorry, but you gotta hustle.

13. Your local camera store is a goldmine. Go touch, test, and try the gear. Trust me—weight and feel matter.

14. Rent before you buy. Seriously, RENT. It’s like test-driving a car but more fun. Treat yourself to a weekend with a dreamy lens.

15. Light matters. Learn how it shapes your image—just as much as camera settings.

16. If a two-year-old doesn’t want their picture taken, they win. Every time. Accept it.

17. Forgetting your SD card is a rite of passage. It’ll happen once… and hopefully never again

18. Just start. Kids, plants, flowers, bugs—whatever catches your eye. Your phone + YouTube = photography at any age, with no limits.

19. Don’t promise to “fix it in Photoshop.” Just don’t. Future you will thank you.

20. Get it right in camera. Seriously.

21. The client almost never picks the same favorite shot as you. It’s a mystery we’ll never solve.

Bonus:

22. Photography is equal parts chaos, art, and troubleshooting. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Fun in the Sun: A High School Senior Session at Folsom Lake

Last week, I had a blast photographing an amazing high school senior at the lively Folsom Lake during golden hour. The session was filled with laughter, beautiful scenery, and some fantastic shots that captured her personality perfectly.

As we arrived at Folsom Lake, it was buzzing with people enjoying the sunny afternoon, lounging by the water, and soaking up the last rays of the day. Despite the bustling environment, we found some great spots to work our magic and make the most of the beautiful golden light.

For 45 minutes, we explored different areas around the lake, with her graduation sash adding a celebratory touch to the session. The golden hour light was simply perfect, giving every photo a warm and dreamy vibe. Whether she was flashing a radiant smile or striking a serious pose, the light highlighted her features beautifully.

One of the highlights of the session was getting some really cool close-up shots. The golden light made her eyes sparkle, and we captured a variety of expressions, from joyful and bubbly to thoughtful and serene. These close-ups not only showed off her natural beauty but also added a fun, personal touch to the photos.

We kept things relaxed and enjoyable throughout the session. With the backdrop of the bustling lake and the golden sunset, we shared plenty of laughs and captured some candid moments that truly reflected her fun-loving spirit. It was great seeing her so at ease, which made for some genuinely beautiful photos.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, we wrapped up the session with smiles on our faces and a camera full of fantastic shots. The busy atmosphere at Folsom Lake added an unexpected energy to the shoot, making it a memorable and enjoyable experience for both of us.

If you’re a high school senior looking for a fun and memorable photo session, let’s connect! We can create stunning portraits that capture your unique personality and make your senior year truly unforgettable.

Book your high school senior session today and let’s create beautiful memories together! Reach out to schedule your golden hour shoot at Folsom Lake or any of your favorite locations.

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### 10 Wins in Portrait Photography: Celebrating the Small Victories 

 As a portrait photographer, there are countless moments that make this job incredibly rewarding. While capturing beautiful images is the ultimate goal, there are many small victories along the way that bring immense satisfaction. Here are ten wins that make my heart sing: 

 1. **Weather Cooperates**:
Nothing feels better than not having to cancel a shoot due to weather. Planning and preparing for a session only to have it disrupted by rain or extreme conditions can be disheartening. So, when the skies are clear, it’s a definite win! 

 2. **Perfect Light**:
There’s something magical about that perfect blend of cloudy and sunny conditions, creating soft, diffused light. It’s like nature’s own studio lighting, and it helps me capture stunning, flattering photos. 

 3. **Making Toddlers Laugh**:
Getting toddlers to smile can be a challenge, but when they think I’m funny, it’s a huge victory. Their genuine laughter and joy make for the most heartwarming and authentic photos. 

 4. **Dads Singing Along**:
Music can set the tone for a shoot, and seeing dads mouthing the words to the playlist, especially when they’ve had input on the song choices, is a delightful sight. It shows they’re engaged and enjoying the experience. 

 5. **Teenagers Enjoying the Shoot**:
Teenagers can sometimes be a bit reluctant during photo sessions. Hearing them say, “Is that it? We are done? That wasn’t bad at all,” at the end of the shoot is a win. It means they had a good time and felt comfortable. 

 6. **Capturing Outtakes**:
Sometimes, the best shots are the unplanned ones. Capturing outtakes like kids sticking out their tongues or making funny faces adds a genuine, playful touch to the collection and often ends up being cherished by the family. 

 7. **Jumping Shots**:
Why not? Jumping shots are fun, dynamic, and full of energy. They break the monotony and bring a lively element to the photos. Plus, clients love the spontaneity and joy these shots convey. 

 8. **Laughter and Fun**:
Seeing people laughing and having fun together during my shoots is a major win. It means they’re relaxed, enjoying the moment, and their true personalities shine through, resulting in more natural and heartfelt photographs. 

 9. **Repeat Clients**:
When clients come back for more sessions, it’s a testament to the trust and rapport we’ve built. Repeat clients are a sign that they value my work and the experience I provide. 

 10. **Referrals**:
Word-of-mouth referrals are golden in this industry. When clients recommend me to their friends and family, it’s the highest compliment I can receive. It means they’re happy with my work and want to share it with others. 

 These wins might seem small, but they are the moments that make portrait photography so fulfilling. Each one is a reminder of why I love what I do and motivates me to keep creating memorable experiences and beautiful images for my clients.