Stopped in Amana, Iowa – Childrens’ Portraits

Posted: August 6th, 2009 | Author: Lara | Filed under: Client Sessions, Uncategorized, on-location, siblings, travel | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , | No Comments »

I love these kids to death. I got to hang out with them for a few hours last weekend in Iowa, and what a treat! They had loads of fun and Mom even dressed them up in their formal clothes from a wedding they were in last month, which means I had as much fun playing as they did! It’s amazing how much these two kids have changed – and stayed the same.

playful

princess

prince

bouquet

speed racer


How to Dress for Portraits

Posted: July 5th, 2009 | Author: Lara | Filed under: Client Sessions, Composition, Uncategorized, on-location, portrait | Tags: , , , , , , , , | No Comments »

This little guy was dressed so well for portraits! He looks stylish, coordinated, and clean. But what I like most is that he’s comfortable so he can relax and focus on being himself. There’s enough distraction with a camera around; who needs uncomfortable clothes on top of it? I always aim to reflect the moment, and the subject for who/what it is. These parents knew that to have a comfortable portrait that reflects their son’s real essence, he needed to be relaxed and comfortable.

What to Wear

And while we’re here . . . there’s a lot to ponder about the composition in this photograph; especially the use of lines.


Character Study: Cam

Posted: May 12th, 2009 | Author: Lara | Filed under: Client Sessions, babies, character study, on-location, portrait | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | No Comments »

My artistic training is rooted in theatre. I am a thespian at heart; a three-dimensional storyteller. One of the things I love about theatre and photography is that they both dig in and truly explore the ins and outs that make a person who s/he is. Photography brings me in touch with so many real-life characters, and each portrait session is a chance to study them and deliver my interpretation.

Happy Cam Fun Cam Thoughtful Cam

Here is Cam, about 6 months old. If you look at these images closely enough, you’ll start to notice the soul that resides in his little growing body. He’s like an old friend: inquisitive, good natured, and full of humor.

We tend to think of babies as cute and cuddly, almost the way we see our pets. They are adorable – don’t get me wrong – but so often we’re taken aback by the human qualities within them. Why? They’re human, after all!

Teaser Cam [singlepic id="198" w="320" h="252" mode="" float="left" ]Cam’s inquisitive nature has already emerged – it sparkles in his eyes. It’s obvious that his discoveries bring him joy, and energize his drive to learn more. This is human nature at its best!

In each of these photographs you see a flash of a cute baby boy. With the entire image collection, however, you know Cam without having to meet him. He’s had wonderful adventures in his young life, and he has loved every one of them. Yes, he will change over time. He’ll grow, he’ll learn, and he’ll flourish. But for now, this is his story. It has been told.

Morning Cam Party Cam


Birthday Girl

Posted: April 1st, 2009 | Author: Lara | Filed under: General, Uncategorized, portrait | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | No Comments »

Yesterday was a big day in our house – Molly’s 6th birthday! It’s amazing how fast they grow, the things they can learn, and the wit that abounds at such a young age! We’ve been through Elmo, Dora, princesses, and now Pokemon. birthday girl We’ve been to many museums, beaches, parks, field trips, and parties. The adventure will continue and we look forward to many joys and challenges to come. I have loved watching her grow, and it’s through pictures that I am able to savor the memories.

You might recognize this cute face; I used to get a whole lot of personality from her, but things have changed. I love this expression – it’s very natural, and what I see in her. But it’s not so easy to get the variety and the exuberance that exploded from her as a toddler. We’ve reached the frozen grin stage. I knew it would come – and it will come to your family if it hasn’t already! It wouldn’t bother me much, except that it means she’s a big kid now!!! NOOOO!!!! I think one of my challenges for April will be to get a big expression from her and post it for all to see.

What I love so much about my job is that I’m going through the stages of parenting myself. I really relate to my clients because I know what it’s all about. I understand the joy and the frustrations. Most of all, I understand what a precious thing it is to capture that beautiful essence that we see in our children every day.


Happy New Year!

Posted: January 13th, 2009 | Author: Lara | Filed under: General | Tags: , , , , , , , | No Comments »

‘09 is here, and with it comes a fabulous new web site! I have some lofty plans to make this a fun place to visit, as well as a good resource for information. January is a great time for those of us in the photo business to make plans for the coming year. Stay tuned for this year’s travel plans, SPPA updates, portrait events, and glimpses into my world of photography. Happy New Year! Thank you for a wonderful 2008!