Christina's Blog

I know it’s only March, but with the beautiful weather we’ve been having it’s the perfect time to start thinking about Spring portraits. As you may know, I do much of my work in the studio, and creating that “classical painting” look is definitely one of my favorites – but there is just something so magical about taking a child’s portrait outside in the Spring-time. They are free to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air, and that inevitably leads to genuine smiles and laughter – and a lovely image that really captures the spirit of childhood. If you’ve been putting off having a new portrait made of your children, now is the time! The bonus is that we have a new line of custom portrait jewelry in the studio, along with our well-loved Boutique Collection and Bucket Family handbags – these are truly fabulous gift ideas for Mother’s Day, both for Mom and Grandma. It’ll be here before you know it – Dads, are you listening?

I am scheduling outdoor sessions from now until the end of May throughout the Triangle, including locations at Duke Gardens. Please give me a call to schedule your session soon!

Take a peek at the new Jewelry line, as well as the Boutique Collection and the Bucket Family bags. If you have any questions, please feel free to give me a call – I’m happy to give you all the details and help you plan the perfect portrait session and gift!

I’ve been away for over a week, on vacation with my family at Myrtle Beach.  Laying on the beach, listening to the waves, basking in the sun – my favorite way to relax by far!  It’s so nice to get away from the daily grind, but I think most Moms would agree that family vacations can be full of a different type of stress though, if you’re not careful.  I decided to tempt fate by planning to shoot our family portrait out on the beach during this trip – and my goal was not just one great session, but two!

Now let me be clear that most portrait sessions are not really stressful – but there is something different (harder) about photographing your own family, especially when you are also trying to be in the image – I always end up looking like I just pushed a button, ran around the camera, plopped down in whatever position I could find, and smiled just as the shutter clicked – which is of course exactly what I *have* just done!  Even still, I was determined to make this work.

A few lessons learned:
1. Heavy Winds + Beach = Unhappy child with sand in his eyes.
2. Family portraits look better when no one is crying in them.
3. A beautiful family portrait can make the above lessons worth learning!

I am thankful to my patient and understanding family for being willing to endure the blown sand on Day 1, changing into their “portrait clothes” on 5 minutes notice on day 2, and being bribable with ice cream and chocolate on Day 3.  I am grateful for the beautiful portraits that emerged from the chaos and that no one has yet to accuse me of taking to many photographs of them!  I can’t wait to get these on my wall!  Here’s a preview of a few of my favorites so far… notice I’m not in any of these!