Amarillo Portraits

I started photographing clients in Amarillo just this year! For many, choosing the right photographer can be a daunting task. But the outfit choices for your special shoot can be equally as daunting. Let me help to make the decision a little easier!

What to Wear for a Portrait Photo Shoot

Planning a family, engagement, or graduation shoot? Making you look good is easy.

Making you look good when every person in the shoot is dressed in black from head to toe is going to be much more difficult.

Here are some simple tips to help you shine during your session:

Comfort is Key

Pick clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident. If you're not comfortable, it will absolutely show in the photos. Choose soft fabrics and well-fitting clothes that you love to work and know you look good in!

Stick to Classic Colors

Solid colors work best, as they help you stand out without distraction. Neutral tones like beige, blue, or pastels always photograph beautifully. Avoid bright neon or busy patterns—they tend to draw attention away from you.

Coordinate, Don’t Match

If it's a group or family shoot, coordinate your outfits without matching identically.

Choose a color palette and let everyone pick outfits within that scheme. It creates a cohesive look without being too uniform.

A Personal Touch

Accessories can elevate your look and add personality. Simple jewelry, a favorite scarf, or a stylish hat can bring out your character.

Just avoid anything too flashy that might overpower your features.

Consider the Location

Dress appropriately for the setting. Amarillo’s natural landscapes are perfect for earthy tones and casual styles.

But if you walk out into a thorn patch with flip-flops it’s going to be a painful walk back to the car!

If you’re going for an urban backdrop, think jeans, casual jackets, or stylish boots to blend in with the city vibe.

But really, don’t stress too much about your portrait attire!

I don’t want you to focus so heavily on clothing choices when planning for your upcoming session.

My ultimate goal is to make sure your session is timeless, classy, and beautiful.

What you’re wearing will be the least important part of the puzzle!

Ready To Book?

Let’s Do This!

3 Essential Lenses Every Photographer Needs to Elevate Their Game

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet in the world of photography, one thing’s for sure: the right lens can make all the difference. If you’re looking to step up your photography game, there are three must-have lenses that should be in your camera bag. Let’s dive into the magic of these glass wonders, starting with the legendary “Nifty Fifty.”

1. Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM (The “Nifty Fifty”)

Ah, the Canon 50mm f/1.8, affectionately known as the “Nifty Fifty.” This lens is like the Swiss Army knife of photography. It’s versatile, lightweight, and won’t break the bank. Whether you’re shooting portraits, street photography, or food pics for Instagram, the Nifty Fifty delivers sharp, vibrant images with that beautiful background blur (or bokeh) that everyone loves!

Why is this lens a must-have? Well, for starters, the 50mm focal length is incredibly close to what the human eye sees, making your shots look natural and well-composed. Plus, with an aperture of f/1.8, you can shoot in low light and still get bright, crisp photos. It’s the perfect lens to have when you want to keep things simple but stunning.

2. Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM (The Wide-Angle Wonder)

Next up is the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8, a wide-angle prime lens that’s perfect for those moments when you need a bit more in your frame. This lens is a dream for landscape photography, street scenes, and even close-up shots, thanks to its macro capabilities. Yes, you read that right—a wide-angle lens that also doubles as a macro lens. Talk about getting more bang for your buck!

The 35mm focal length gives you a wider perspective without the distortion you often get from ultra-wide lenses. And with an f/1.8 aperture, you can still achieve that beautiful bokeh while shooting in low light. Plus, the built-in image stabilization means you can say goodbye to blurry shots, even when your hands are a bit shaky after that third cup of coffee.

3. Canon RF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USM (The Telephoto Titan)

Last but certainly not least, we have the Canon RF 70-200mm f/4 L—a zoom lens that’s as mighty as it sounds. This telephoto lens is perfect for when you need to get up close and personal without physically moving an inch. Whether you’re shooting wildlife, sports, or even portraits, this lens delivers razor-sharp images with gorgeous compression that makes your subject pop.

One of the best things about the RF 70-200mm f/4 L is its size and weight. Unlike its heavier f/2.8 sibling, this lens is much more portable, making it easier to carry around all day. And with Canon’s L-series build quality, you know this lens is built to last, even in the toughest shooting conditions.

Let’s Wrap It Up: Lens Love

There you have it—three essential lenses that every photographer, whether pro or novice, needs to step up their game. The Nifty Fifty for everyday versatility, the 35mm wide-angle for creative compositions, and the 70-200mm for those times when you need to zoom in on the action! With these lenses in your kit, you’ll be ready to capture the world in all its glory, one click at a time.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to add some serious glass to your camera bag and watch your photography skills soar! Happy shooting!

5 Must-Have Gadgets for the Aspiring Smartphone Photographer

So, you’ve decided to take your smartphone photography game to the next level. Awesome! But before you start calling yourself the Ansel Adams of Instagram, let’s make sure your gear is on point. After all, even the best photographers need a little help from their techie friends. Here are five must-have items that will take your phone photography from "meh" to "wow!" Trust me, your followers (and your ego) will thank you.

1.      Xenvo Pro Macro/Wide Angle Lens: The Little Lens That Could

First up, we have the hero of the tiny and the grand: the Xenvo Pro Lens Kit that attaches to your phone. Imagine being able to capture the tiniest details of a flower petal, or the grandeur of an entire skyline, all with the same device. This little lens is like the Swiss Army knife of smartphone photography—versatile, compact, and oh-so-easy to use.

Pop on the macro lens to capture the fine details that are invisible to the naked eye. That ladybug on your windowsill? It’s about to have its close-up, and it’s going to be epic. Or, switch to the wide-angle lens and turn that cramped living room into a spacious ballroom in your photos. The possibilities are endless, and the results? Always stunning.

2.    Lume Cube Panel Mini: Let There Be Light!

Next on the list is a gadget that’ll make you feel like a Hollywood lighting director. Meet the Lume Cube Panel Mini. This baby is small enough to slip into your bag but packs a punch when it comes to lighting your shots. Whether you’re shooting in the great outdoors at dusk or trying to capture the perfect moody indoor shot, this LED light panel has got your back.

And did I mention it’s multi-color? That’s right—pick from a rainbow of hues to add some serious drama to your shots. Want to give your photo a cool blue tint, or maybe warm it up with a soft amber glow? Done and done. It’s like having a whole studio lighting setup in your pocket, minus the hefty price tag and the need for a crew.

3.      SmallRig Phone Cage: Steady as She Goes

Ever tried to shoot a video only to end up with something that looks like it was filmed during an earthquake? Enter the SmallRig Universal Phone Cage, your new best friend for steady shots. This rig is a game-changer for anyone serious about capturing smooth, shake-free photos and videos. It’s like giving your phone a sturdy pair of training wheels.

With the SmallRig phone cage, you can easily mount your phone, attach accessories, and—most importantly—hold it steady. Whether you're chasing after your hyperactive dog or trying to film a smooth pan of a stunning sunset, this phone cage keeps things steady, so you can focus on getting the perfect shot. Plus, it looks super cool, like something a pro filmmaker would use. Instant street cred, anyone?

4.      RØDE VideoMic GO II : Because Audio Matters Too

Alright, so we’ve covered visuals, but what about the sounds that go with them? Enter the RØDE VideoMic GO II shotgun mic. Sure, your phone’s built-in mic is fine for a quick voice note, but if you’re looking to capture audio that’s crisp, clear, and free of background noise, you need this mic in your life.

The RØDE shotgun mic is designed to focus on the sounds you want to capture while blocking out the ones you don’t. It’s perfect for recording interviews, capturing the subtle sounds of nature, or making sure your vlog’s audio is top-notch. Think of it as the cherry on top of your perfectly composed sundae—why settle for less when you can have the best?

5.      DJI Osmo Mobile SE: The Smooth Operator

Last but certainly not least is the DJI Osmo Mobile SE intelligent gimbal. If you’re into shooting video (and who isn’t these days?), this is a must-have. The gimbal ensures that your footage is smooth as silk, even if you’re moving around. No more shaky footage, just buttery-smooth video that looks like it was shot on a professional rig.

Whether you’re filming a dance routine, chasing after your kids, or creating a cinematic masterpiece, the DJI gimbal keeps your shots steady and smooth. Plus, it’s portable enough to take anywhere, so you can always be ready to capture that perfect moment, no matter where you are.

Wrapping It Up: Gear Up and Get Shooting!

There you have it—the five best items to buy if you’re serious about smartphone photography. With these gadgets in your arsenal, you’ll be ready to capture stunning photos and videos that will leave your friends and followers in awe. So go ahead, gear up, and get shooting. Your inner photographer—and your Instagram feed—will thank you!

How to Master Smartphone Photography: Tips and Tricks for Stunning Photos

In today’s digital age, where everyone’s a photographer thanks to the powerful cameras packed into our smartphones, you might be wondering how to stand out from the sea of selfies and food pics. Fear not! Mastering smartphone photography is not only achievable but can be incredibly fun and rewarding. Whether you're looking to up your Instagram game, create content for your blog, or even monetize your photography skills, we've got some handy tips and tricks to help you take stunning photos right from your phone.

1. Understand Your Camera’s Capabilities

Before you start snapping away, take a moment to get to know your phone’s camera features. Most smartphones come with a range of settings and modes designed to help you capture different types of shots. From portrait mode to night mode, each setting has its own strengths. For instance, portrait mode can make your subject stand out against a beautifully blurred background, while night mode is perfect for those low-light situations.

Additionally, familiarize yourself with manual settings if your phone has them. This could include adjusting exposure, white balance, and ISO. Though it might seem daunting at first, playing around with these settings can give you more creative control and elevate the quality of your shots. If you're interested in selling your photos online, mastering these settings can be a game-changer. Don’t worry if you don’t get it right every time; practice makes perfect!

2. Master the Art of Composition

Composition is key to any great photograph, and this is where the rule of thirds comes in handy. Imagine your screen divided into nine equal parts by two equally spaced horizontal lines and two equally spaced vertical lines. Placing your subject along these lines or at their intersections can create a more balanced and engaging photo.

Also, pay attention to leading lines—these are natural lines in your environment that draw the viewer’s eye towards the subject of your photo. Whether it’s a path, a bridge, or even a line of trees, using leading lines can add depth and perspective to your images. And don’t forget about framing; using elements in your environment to frame your subject can make your photos feel more intentional and polished. If you're creating content for social media, mastering these techniques can help you attract more followers and even potential brand partnerships.

3. Light It Up

Lighting can make or break a photo, so it’s crucial to understand how to use it to your advantage. Natural light is often the best choice for smartphone photography. Aim to shoot during the golden hour—the hour after sunrise or before sunset—when the light is soft and warm. This can add a magical quality to your photos and make them look more professional, which is a huge plus if you're looking to monetize your photography through platforms like Instagram or stock photo websites.

Avoid harsh midday sunlight, as it can create strong shadows and overexposed highlights. Instead, look for shaded areas or use diffusers to soften the light. If you're shooting indoors, position your subject near a window to take advantage of natural light. And if you're in a pinch and need to use artificial light, try to use a light source that’s diffused to avoid unflattering shadows. Proper lighting is key if you’re considering selling prints of your photos or creating a photography course.

4. Get Creative with Angles and Perspectives

One of the joys of smartphone photography is its versatility. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different angles and perspectives to find the most interesting shot. Try getting low to the ground for a dramatic effect, or shoot from above for a unique bird’s-eye view. Changing your perspective can make even the most mundane subjects look extraordinary.

Consider using reflections to add a creative twist to your photos. Water surfaces, mirrors, and even glass can provide interesting reflective elements. Another fun trick is to use props or foreground elements to add depth and context to your photos. A simple leaf or flower in the foreground can make a huge difference in the composition and overall feel of your shot. Creative shots like these are more likely to catch the eye of potential clients if you're offering photography services or looking to grow your personal brand.

5. Edit Like a Pro

Editing can turn a good photo into a great one, so don't skip this step. Fortunately, there are numerous apps available that make editing easy and fun. Apps like Snapseed, VSCO, and Adobe Lightroom offer powerful editing tools that can enhance colors, adjust exposure, and add filters. Consider creating a tutorial or eBook on how to use these apps effectively, which can be another way to monetize your photography skills.

When editing, aim to enhance your photo rather than completely alter it. Adjusting brightness and contrast, cropping out distractions, and fine-tuning colors can help your photo look its best without losing its natural charm. And remember, less is often more—over-editing can make your photo look unnatural, so use editing tools sparingly to maintain the authenticity of your shot. High-quality edited photos are more likely to sell on platforms like Etsy or Shutterstock.

Closing Thoughts

Mastering smartphone photography doesn’t require a fancy camera or years of experience. With a bit of practice and these simple tips, you can start capturing stunning photos right from your phone. Remember, the best part about photography is experimenting and having fun, so don’t be afraid to try new techniques and find your own style. And who knows, with these skills in your toolkit, you could even turn your passion into a profitable side hustle by selling prints, offering editing services, or teaching others through online courses.

So, grab your smartphone, get out there, and start snapping away. With these tips, you'll be well on your way to creating photos that stand out and capture your world in a whole new light. Happy shooting—and happy earning!