Ever wonder how photographers get such awesome photos in ways that seem impossible? The truth is, they really aren't that impossible after all. Many times, a photographer has to be very innovative to get the shot he/she wants. The trick is being creative and picturing the image you want in your head before you snap the camera. I have often times used whatever I had on hand to get the image I want.

Yes, this includes using an assistant's back pocket to hold up the backdrop. However, you would have never been able to tell by just looking at the image I took of the baby, would you? 

Taking pictures doesn't have to be a dream out of reach. And it definitely doesn't have to done in a fancy studio with expensive materials. Here, we shot in the client's doorway simply because it offered the best lighting. I used materials I had at home (colorful bead necklaces, a play crown, a simple scarf, and a fluffy blanket) to make this image a true and original composition. 

To make this shoot even more personal I asked the client if they had any props they would like to add or use. She happened to have this sweet girl's first stuffed bunny, which you see in the image. It helps to make the photographs unique to that particular client. Plus, the clients like the personal touches that go into their photo shoot with you! 

Don't be afraid to get on a personal level with your clients. Chances are they're more nervous than you are! If your client seems stiff, take a moment to simply talk to your client. Discuss things that are personal and specific to them ("I love this jacket you are wearing! Where did you get it?") Anything to help them take their mind off of being in front of the camera for a moment. 

Now I'm not saying you have to find out their life story and every intimate detail, but many clients just want to know you are more than just a person behind this camera clicking away. With children, this can be very important. Some can be very shy at first. As a teacher, I know that many times children feel awkward around strange adults until you show interest in something they're interested in. Don't be afraid of acting a little silly just to get them to smile. Your smile will probably make them smile! And don't forget an important asset you have at your finger-tips: the parents! Parents are usually more than willing to help you in any way. All you need to do is ask!

I hope this helps any photographer, novice or otherwise. And just remember, you can become a great photographer with a little creativity and a lot of practice! Good luck and if you have any questions, shoot me an email under the 'contact me' tab at the top. 
                                                              
 -Amy

Borrowed this wonderful article from Magdalena D Photography @ 
https://www.facebook.com/notes/magdalena-d-photography/photography-tip-of-the-day/399889316727554  and simply added in a few of my own bits of photography..just because reading is so much better with pictures!

Tips For Your Outdoor Couples Shoot

Indoor- well you can do whatever you want as long as you have the ultimate package...

but for engagement shoots, anniversary, or darn we need good pics done to send to Gradma here are some tips...

STYLE

• Color coordinate your outfits. Ok, for this one, don't be nerds and dress exactly the same. But keep in in the same family of colors. Blues, greys, blacks and whites go well. Browns, beige, white, and blues go well. Also a pop of color looks good on her. Something really pink, red or yellow as long as the rest is neutral. For more ideas look at magazines. Art directors get paid a lot of money to coordinate outfits on shoots. 

• DO NOT WEAR BUSY PATTERNS! yes I am shouting this one. Keep it simple.
• Wear something that you've tried and tested. I has to be comfortable, it has to fit, it has to boost your confidence. It shows in the picture.

POSING
We are aiming for natural and casual but have some things in consideration.

When kissing ( I will bark a: now kiss! often, you've been warned) church tongue. Just a bit. Do not squash your face against each other, keep it light and playful. Who ever has the best profile gets to have their nose on the camera side. This will make sense in the pictures, trust me.

Also a good one, leaning into each other, one person looking at the camera, the other smelling the temple. Sounds so weird but it works. Keep it touchy-feely, look into each other, remove strands of hair... all the corny stuff :) And the most important one smile ! smile tons!