Hoshana Rabbah is one of the few holidays on the Jewish calendar that one can photograph in an orthodox synagogue.  So I got myself up early to be ready for the procession winding around the shul.  Waving palm branches, etrogs in special boxes, adults and children beating willow branches on the ground--it's an energetic and unforgettable spectacle.  As a Seattle event photographer, I shoot many religious and cultural gatherings and this holiday is one of my favorites.  

In addition to my commercial photography, I am working towards a Certificate of Fine Art Photography at the Photo Center Northwest.

For the past few months, I have been photographing for a personal project, a series of narratives about the grace and the challenges of girls growing into young women.  I have chosen a simple palette to create a timeless look and feel to the images.  

I draw from my personal history, integrating memories of my experiences and emotions.   I have been encouraged to start showing this work, so I’m putting a small sample here on my blog and on Facebook.

As an event photographer in Seattle, I often have an opportunity to hear speakers and to participate in compelling events around the Pacific Northwest that I would otherwise miss.

Today I had the privilege of photographing the Holocaust Center for Humanity’s annual Writing, Art and Film contest.  This year’s theme:  How can the lessons of the Holocaust inspire you to help make the world a better place?  Over 700 students from more than 60 schools participated in this year’s contest.  

The winners included students from Oregon and Washington private and public schools as well as homeschooled students from 5th grade through high school.  I’m pleased to support the Holocaust Center’s important work of inspiring teaching and learning for humanity through study of the Holocaust. 

As a portrait photographer, one of the first questions I am asked is, "do you have any suggestions for how we should dress for our session?"  So I have developed a few tips that I share with all of my clients. For this portrait, the family decided to dress in jewel tones.  

5 Tips for Getting the Most out of Your

Family Portrait Session:

1.  Clothing.  For a more formal look, dress everyone alike.  Cream or white top, blue  skirt or pants.  Or choose a range of colors, like pastels or jewel tones.  It’s best to  stick with solids, as prints can be distracting.  Avoid very bright colors worn near the face, as the skin can take on an unflattering tone.

2.  Style.  What type of photos are you hoping to get out of this session?  Let me know how you envision your final images.  Tell me a little about your family and how you all interact.  Do you like a casual, fun feel to your photos or would you prefer a more posed, formal portrait?  Or---we can do both! 

3.  Timing.  Try to schedule the family session at a time when everyone is at their best and no one needs to rush off.  Work around the youngest child’s nap schedule.  If the photo session is planned for outdoors, avoid mid day, as overhead sun casts unflattering shadows.  Make sure that everyone is well-rested and hydrated.  Will hair and makeup be included?  If so, allow extra time.

4.  Organization.  Make a list of all combinations you would like in your images.  For example, for an extended family:  grandparents and all grandchildren.  Or, all the cousins in one image.  Think about your unique family relationships.  

5.  Enjoy.  Try to relax and enjoy your session.  I’m hoping for natural smiles and beautiful interactions among the group members.  A family portrait session should be fun--and that will be reflected in the final images!