the blog
In today’s competitive business world, first impressions are everything! Professional headshots and branding are crucial for establishing credibility. A well-taken headshot can reflect your professionalism and personality, setting you apart from competitors. When potential clients or business partners visit your website, they immediately look for signs of trust and authenticity!
Having consistent branding through professional photographs strengthens your business identity. It creates a cohesive message that clients can easily recognize and relate to. Moreover, professional headshots provide a personal connection, allowing clients to put a face to the name of your business. This human touch builds trust and fosters a sense of reliability.
Transitioning to the digital space, your online presence plays a critical role in how others perceive your business. In social media profiles, websites, and LinkedIn pages, professional headshots set the tone for your personal brand. High-quality photographs ensure that your first impression is both strong and lasting!
Investing in a professional branding session can save you time in the long run. Having a library of high-quality images allows you to consistently update your social media, website, and marketing materials without scrambling for content. This consistency not only helps your brand stay relevant but also reinforces your business’s professionalism.
For small businesses, the face behind the brand often plays a significant role in client decisions. A polished headshot reassures potential clients that they’re working with a professional who values quality. Furthermore, branding photographs can communicate your business’s core values and mission, making it easier to attract the right clients!
If you are looking to update your headshots or branding, I would love to chat with you about your business and vision!
Emily and Shawn’s dreamy vintage elopement at the Johnson County Court House in Olathe, KS was an intimate and elegant affair. The courthouse, with its historic charm and understated grandeur, provided the perfect backdrop for their special day.
Emily was a vision in her boat neck satin dress. Her stunning veil, outlined with vintage lace, added a touch of classic romance. The vintage pear-shaped engagement ring she wore sparkled beautifully, complementing her overall look. Emily’s choice of a pearl string necklace was a perfect finishing touch! Emily’s classic white and green bouquet was a perfect accent to her ensemble. The subtle pops of green complemented the white dress and added a fresh, natural touch to the overall look.
Shawn looked classy in a black suit paired with a crisp white button-up shirt. His attire was understated yet sophisticated, allowing Emily’s dress and accessories to take center stage.
The golden sunlight during their elopement created a dreamy and magical ambiance. The soft, warm light coming into the courthouse created a beautiful glow, making every moment feel special. The golden hour light added depth and warmth to the photographs!
Elopements at the courthouse offer a unique sense of intimacy. They allow couples to focus solely on each other, away from the larger scale of traditional weddings. The simplicity and personal nature of a courthouse ceremony create a deeply meaningful experience, filled with genuine emotions and treasured moments.
Emily and Shawn’s dreamy vintage elopement was a perfect blend of elegance and intimacy! The beautiful setting, combined with their classic attire and the golden sunlight, made their day truly memorable. Their photographs will serve as a timeless reminder of their love and the special, quiet moments they shared at the Johnson County Court House.
Spring in Kansas City is the perfect season for a wedding, and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art provided an idyllic setting for this intimate spring wedding. The couple chose a shaded tree as their ceremony spot, where the sunlight filtered through the branches, creating a soft, natural glow. The lush greenery and vibrant surroundings added to the beauty of their special day.
During the ceremony, the couple planted a small bonsai tree together, symbolizing the growth and beginning of their marriage. Family members attended the intimate ceremony, their outfits complemented the bride’s bouquet. The vibrant colors made the photographs even more personalized and beautiful!
The groom wore a black tuxedo paired with a forest green tie and pocket square. The bride was breathtaking in her A-line gown, featuring a hidden corset that added an elegant touch. The dress flowed gracefully as she moved, making the photographs even more enchanting.
After the ceremony, the couple and their guests enjoyed a small Nothing Bundt Cake. The simplicity of the cake mirrored the day’s focus on quality and intimacy. Every detail of the day, from the ceremony to the reception, was thoughtfully planned and beautifully executed.
The Nelson-Atkins Museum, with its stunning architecture and beautiful surroundings, provided the perfect backdrop for this intimate spring wedding. I had so much fun capturing this day for the happy couple, creating memories that will last a lifetime!
Fall minis are a wonderful way to capture the season’s beauty in a short and sweet session. With the crisp air, vibrant leaves, and cozy sweaters, it’s the perfect time to update family photographs or celebrate a special moment. Here’s how to prepare for your fall mini session to ensure you get the most out of your time.
First, choose your outfits wisely. Fall is all about rich, warm tones, so consider colors like deep reds, oranges, browns, and mustard yellows. Layers work great too—think cardigans, scarves, or hats that add texture and depth to your photographs. Coordinate your family’s outfits, but don’t feel like everyone has to match. Instead, choose a color palette and mix and match within that range.
Next, timing is key! Fall days are shorter, and the best light is during the golden hour, right before sunset. This soft, warm light is perfect for creating beautiful, glowing images. Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes early to ensure you’re ready to start on time. Mini sessions move quickly, so being punctual helps maximize your time in front of the camera.
It’s also important to be well-rested and relaxed. A good night’s sleep can make a big difference in how you look and feel during your session. Try to schedule your session at a time when everyone is usually in a good mood, whether that’s morning or afternoon.
Consider bringing a few simple props to to your fall mini sessions can enhance the fall feel of your photos. A cozy blanket, a basket of apples, or a pumpkin can add a fun, seasonal touch. Just make sure the props don’t overpower the main focus—you and your loved ones.
Preparing for your fall mini session doesn’t have to be stressful! With a little planning and a positive attitude, you’ll have a wonderful experience and beautiful photographs to cherish. Enjoy the season and the memories you’re about to make!
A beautiful spring day set the perfect stage for a stunning wedding at The Everly in Kansas City, Missouri. The venue’s industrial charm, with its exposed brick and modern touches, created a unique backdrop for this unforgettable celebration.
The bridesmaids wore elegant champagne satin dresses that beautifully complemented the bride’s lace gown. The soft, shimmering fabric added a touch of sophistication, perfectly matching the season’s warm tones. The groomsmen, dressed in traditional black tuxes, added a timeless, classic feel to the wedding party. The contrast between the light, airy dresses and the sharp black tuxedos made for striking, memorable photographs.
One of the bride’s favorite parts of the day was dancing at the reception with family and friends. After the ceremony, the couple felt a sense of relief and joy, knowing the formalities were over. The reception turned into a celebration, filled with laughter, dancing, and pure happiness. The couple’s first dance, to “Lover” by Taylor Swift, was a highlight. The song choice was meaningful, as both the bride and groom are big Taylor Swift fans. They felt completely at ease dancing to a song that held special significance for them.
The florals and candles at the reception were another favorite detail. The soft glow of the candles and the lush floral arrangements added a romantic atmosphere to the evening. As the night continued, the newlyweds took in the moment when it all felt real—on the party bus, realizing they were officially married.
The entire day felt surreal for the couple. Despite the typical wedding day stress, they felt remarkably relaxed and were able to fully enjoy each moment. When they look through their wedding gallery, they feel a rush of happiness, reliving the day through their favorite images. The sunset photos at The Everly stand out as a particularly cherished memory, capturing the love and joy of their special day.
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, especially when choosing the right vendors. However, the couple was thrilled with their choices, each contributing to making their day perfect. The Everly’s team was a joy to work with, helping to create a wedding that was as stress-free as it was beautiful. In the end, the day was everything they had hoped for and more, filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
An engagement session at Liberty Memorial in Kansas City is always a breathtaking experience, especially during golden hour. This magical time, just before sunset, bathes everything in a warm, bright glow, creating a romantic atmosphere!
I recently photographed James and Stacy, a couple whose fun personalities shown through during our session. James wore khakis with a crisp white short-sleeve button-up shirt, creating a classic, timeless look. Stacy’s stunning two-piece outfit, with white and cream lace, added an elegant touch to the session.
Their neutral outfits perfectly complemented the golden hour’s soft light. The warm tones played beautifully off their clothing, enhancing the overall mood. The neutral palette allowed the golden hues to take center stage, highlighting both the couple and the location.
At Liberty Memorial, the golden hour light adds warmth and depth to every photograph. The setting sun’s glow, combined with the city’s skyline, creates a captivating backdrop. Choosing this location during golden hour ensures timeless, breathtaking moments.
James and Stacy’s session is a perfect example of how thoughtful outfit choices and timing can make all the difference. Their session was not only about capturing their love but also about showcasing the beauty of Liberty Memorial.
The result was a series of stunning images that perfectly captured the essence of their relationship. Liberty Memorial, especially during golden hour, offers a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty. It’s an ideal location for capturing an unforgettable engagement session.
Courtney and David’s spring wedding at The Jayhawk Club in Kansas City was a day full of love and joy. Their special day was truly magical, set against a venue that combined elegance with natural charm.
Firstly, the couple’s favorite part was their first look. They both felt a mix of anxiety and excitement beforehand. However, seeing each other privately calmed their nerves, reminding them they were in it together. Reflecting on the day, they agree it was the best moment.
Courtney and David described their wedding as the best day of their lives. Surrounded by their favorite people, they felt incredibly loved. Additionally, the hard work they put into planning paid off, with every detail noticed and appreciated. They didn’t want the day to end, feeling rewarded by their vision coming to life.
The Jayhawk Club was the perfect venue for their wedding. They loved the tall ceilings with exposed beams and the windows. The windows welcomed natural light and offered stunning views of the golf course. The indoor/outdoor cocktail hour was a hit, fitting everything perfectly into the space.
Their first dance was to “Another” by Adam Doleac. This song was important to them from the start of their relationship. The lyrics told a story they connected with deeply, making it the perfect choice for their first dance as a married couple.
Additionally, the wedding was filled with personal details Courtney and David will cherish. Their dogs were used as cake toppers and napkin icons. The memorial display included a ladder from a late loved one. They honored the groom’s parents by choosing their wedding date, which was his parents’ anniversary. Other highlights included marquee letters with their last name, the groom’s personalized socks, sunflowers in the sunflower room, a mariachi band, and a family heirloom vehicle for their sendoff.
For David, the moment it felt real was when he saw all their family and friends at the altar. He felt supported and knew it was right. Similarly, for Courtney, the reality hit when she entered the sanctuary with her dad. She felt relieved and at ease seeing familiar faces.
Courtney and David’s wedding was a beautiful blend of love, personal touches, and cherished moments. It was a day to remember for everyone involved.
When planning a wedding, photography is a major consideration. Traditional posed shots are no longer the go-to for many couples. Instead, there’s a growing trend towards documentary style wedding photography. This approach captures real, unscripted moments, making it a popular choice for modern weddings.
What is Documentary Style Wedding Photography?
Documentary style wedding photography is all about capturing the day as it naturally unfolds. The photographer takes a step back and observes, aiming to catch candid moments. These might be a laugh between friends, a tear during the vows, or a spontaneous dance move. This style focuses on storytelling, preserving the genuine emotions and events of the day.
The Growth in Popularity
In recent years, documentary style wedding photography has seen a significant rise in popularity. Couples today want their wedding photos to reflect their unique love story. They prefer images that capture genuine emotions over posed portraits. Social media has also played a big role in this shift. Authentic, candid photos resonate more with people scrolling through their feeds. They feel more personal and relatable.
The Value of Documentary Style Wedding Photography
Documentary wedding photography offers several unique advantages. Here are a few reasons why it’s valued by so many couples:
- Authenticity: This style captures real, unfiltered moments, preserving the true essence of the day.
- Emotional Depth: Candid shots often carry more emotional weight than posed ones, showing real joy, tears, and laughter.
- Storytelling: A series of candid photos can tell a complete story, from getting ready to the final dance.
- Comfort: Without the pressure to pose, couples and guests can relax and be themselves, resulting in more natural photos.
- Timelessness: Authentic moments never go out of style. They provide a timeless record of the day.
Different Styles Within Documentary Wedding Photography
Within the documentary style, there are several sub-styles, each with its own unique approach:
Photojournalistic Style
Photojournalistic wedding photography is all about capturing the event as a journalist would. The focus is on telling a story through images. The photographer remains unobtrusive, capturing moments as they happen without interference. This style results in a collection of images that together narrate the wedding day.
Fine Art Documentary Style
The fine art documentary style combines the candid nature of documentary photography with an artistic approach. Photographers in this style focus on composition, lighting, and framing to create visually stunning images. The result is a blend of genuine moments and artistic beauty.
Black and White Documentary Style
Some photographers specialize in black and white documentary wedding photography. This style emphasizes the raw emotions of the day, stripping away distractions caused by color. Black and white images often feel timeless and classic, highlighting the emotional moments of the day.
Lifestyle Documentary Style
Lifestyle documentary wedding photography captures candid moments but also involves some direction. The photographer might gently guide couples or guests into natural interactions. This style balances spontaneity with a bit of artistic direction, resulting in relaxed yet beautifully composed images.
Why Choose Documentary Style for Your Wedding?
Choosing documentary style wedding photography ensures you get a true reflection of your day. It captures the small, meaningful moments that might otherwise be missed. These photos will bring back memories and emotions every time you look at them. If you value authenticity and storytelling, this style is perfect for you.
It’s a movement towards capturing weddings in a way that feels real and meaningful. By choosing this style, you’re investing in photos that will tell the story of your day for years to come. Whether you prefer the straightforward approach of photojournalism or the artistic touch of fine art, there’s a documentary style that will perfectly capture your wedding. So, embrace the candid, the genuine, and the beautiful moments of your big day with documentary wedding photography.
I recently had the pleasure of capturing a beautiful spring proposal session at Loose Park. It was a bright, sunny spring day. Katie wore a lovely baby blue dress, while Zach looked sharp in dark slacks and a white button-up shirt. I hid in the trees as they arrived and I waited in place for Zach to lead Katie to the bridge where he popped the question!
The bridge provided a perfect, rustic backdrop for the proposal. Katie had no idea what was coming, making it even more special. Zach got down on one knee, and Katie’s reaction was priceless. I was thrilled to capture this heartfelt moment.
When they were done sharing their special moment, we moved to the park’s beautiful fountains. The fountains certainly added a touch of elegance to the session. Zach and Katie’s happiness was infectious, they both couldn’t stop smiling! The sound of the water from the fountains made everything feel even more magical. .
During the session we explored most of Loose Park. The blooming flowers and lush greenery were specifically perfect for springtime photographs. Katie and Zach’s love for each other shone through in every photograph. The chemistry between the two of them made my job easy! I loved how relaxed and natural they were together.
To finish the session, Katie and Zach had a little picnic. They brought a couple of their favorite drinks and relaxed on a cozy blanket. It was undoubtedly a perfect ending to a perfect day. They toasted to their future, and I captured the moment. The casual picnic style added a personal touch to their proposal story.
Overall, this spring proposal session at Loose Park was truly memorable. Katie and Zach were so much fun to work with! Their love and excitement made the session special. Capturing these moments is why I love being a wedding photographer. I can’t wait to see Katie and Zach’s journey continue. Congratulations to the happy couple!
I had the pleasure of capturing a beautiful pregnancy announcement session with Kelsey and Ben in downtown Kansas City. We began our session on a stunning rooftop, overlooking the iconic city skyline. The vibrant energy of the city created a perfect backdrop for their exciting news.
Kelsey looked radiant in a striking red dress, paired with a chic black leather jacket. Her matching boots added the perfect touch of style. Ben complemented her perfectly, wearing classic jeans and a stylish green top.
As we started our session on the rooftop, the setting sun cast a golden glow over the city. The soft light enhanced the joy and excitement on their faces. Each photograph captured their genuine happiness and love for each other.
After capturing some rooftop photographs, we headed down to the streets below. We found charming alleys, colorful murals, and historic architecture that perfectly complemented Kelsey and Ben’s style! Each photograph reflected their personalities and the excitement of their baby announcement.
One of my favorite moments was when Kelsey and Ben posed in front of a vibrant mural. The bold colors and intricate designs provided a stunning backdrop for their announcement. The mural’s artistry and the couple’s excitement combined to create a truly magical moment!
Kelsey and Ben’s pregnancy announcement session was a wonderful experience, filled with love, laughter, and beautiful downtown Kansas City moments. It was an honor to capture their special news and create lasting memories for their growing family. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for this wonderful couple and their little one on the way!
