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WNC Family Photography Panache Photography

Family Photography: Robyn and James Session in Franklin, NC

Robyn and James are a delightful couple! I thoroughly enjoyed getting to work with them for this very special family and couples portrait session in Franklin, North Carolina!   Franklin, North Carolina, is a stunning mountain town nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. Its picturesque surroundings boast lush forests, cascading waterfalls, beautiful meadows and fields, and panoramic mountain views.  Robyn and James chose a beautiful location for their session: a country road winding through a field, truly captivating.    Their story unfolds in hues of blue and white – Robyn and James selected coordinating white and blue outfits for their couples and family portrait session.   And for the family portion of their session, the girls both wore cute floral print dresses and the guys wore blue jeans and white button-up shirts.  The simplicity of white and blue outfits allow the individual to shine without distractions.  In the family portraits, the minimalist color pallet transcends trends and fads and never goes out of style! Family Portrait Session Against the backdrop of expansive open fields, we got lots of candid shots and had much fun during their session!  Capturing candid family shots during a photo session is like freezing genuine moments of joy, love, and connection in time.  For moms, these candid moments are often their favorite portraits from the session.  Candid moments capture the essence of the family’s bond and personality.  As the photographer, I strive to blend into the background, allowing the family to interact naturally without feeling overly posed or staged. Panache Couples Experience During the couples portion of their session, we captured images that celebrate Robyn and James’ love story and affection for each other.  These candid moments showcase their genuine emotions and chemistry.  I love the portraits of Robyn and James on this beautiful country road winding through fields. Getting Creative with Your Session For this session, Robyn and James prioritized  capturing some great family portraits, pictures of the kids, and each of the kids individually but wanted to spend half of the session with the Couples Panache Experience.  I encourage getting my clients to get creative with their Panache Experience: I think it’s great when two families go in together on a session so both can pay the mini session fee for half of a portrait session or a young couple wants to combine couple portrait session of them together as well as professional headshots of each of them, or like Robyn and James combining a couple and family session together is a great value for your time and money!

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Professional Headshots Panache Photography

Professional Headshots: Sierra’s Session in Sylva, North Carolina 

Sierra, an industrious and polished young professional!  She reached out to book a headshot session for professional quality portraits.  For this session we chose a very urban feeling backdrop in Sylva, North Carolina.  Nestled amidst the imposing architecture of urban brick buildings and sleek metal railings, we found the perfect backdrop to encapsulate her professional narrative. “Sierra’s professional portraits embody her dedication and perseverance, as well as her energy and enthusiasm!” For her headshot session she selected a sleek black suit.  Her ladies’ pantsuit exudes sophistication and empowerment, blending timeless elegance with contemporary flair.  Paired with the jacket is a pair of impeccably tailored trousers, with front crease, tailored to perfection to elongate her legs. The lines are clean and sharp, reflecting precision in craftsmanship and attention to detail.  With its timeless appeal and versatility, a well-tailored pantsuit is a wardrobe essential for any woman who seeks to make a statement with her professional style. “For her headshot session she selected a sleek black suit. Her ladies’ pantsuit exudes sophistication and empowerment, blending timeless elegance with contemporary flair. “ For Sierra, professional headshots were a strategic investment in her professional brand.  Her professional portraits embodied her dedication and perseverance, as well as her energy and enthusiasm!  Professional headshots offer a glimpse into one’s personality, professionalism, and competence. Headshots convey trustworthiness, credibility, and attention to detail – qualities indispensable in today’s competitive landscape. Importance of Professional Headshots Professional headshots transcend industries and professions. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned executive, or a creative freelancer, your headshot is your calling card. Your headshot  speaks volumes about you and your work.  Your headshot is often the first visual representation of yourself that people encounter online. A polished and professional headshot creates an immediate positive impression, conveying professionalism, reliability, and attention to detail.   In essence, professional headshots are not merely photographs; they are powerful instruments of storytelling, encapsulating the essence of one’s professional journey in a single frame. They bridge the gap between the virtual and the tangible, transforming aspirations into achievements and dreams into reality. For Sierra, her headshots were a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence.

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Keepsake Gift Ideas for Kids

Keepsake Gift Ideas for Children

This post is all about Keepsake Gift Ideas!  Being a parent involves continually adapting to change. Every few months, Moms find themselves swapping out their child’s clothes, just as they’ve grown accustomed to seeing a particular shirt in the drawer; it’s time for change!  Alongside physical growth, children’s interests evolve, leading to changes in toys, books, and room decor. As a Mom, I crave meaningful gifts that will hold enduring value, foster fond memories, and develop a sense of deep affection when my children reflect on these keepsake gifts in the future. While change is inevitable, choosing lasting gifts keepsake gifts  for your children can be testaments to their fond memories of their childhood many years from now!  This article is all about Keepsake Gift Ideas for your children.   This post is all about Keepsake Gift Ideas!  Being a parent involves continually adapting to change. Every few months, Moms find themselves swapping out their child’s clothes, just as they’ve grown accustomed to seeing a particular shirt in the drawer; it’s time for change!  Alongside physical growth, children’s interests evolve, leading to changes in toys, books, and room decor. As a Mom, I crave meaningful gifts that will hold enduring value, foster fond memories, and develop a sense of deep affection when my children reflect on these keepsake gifts in the future. While change is inevitable, choosing lasting gifts keepsake gifts  for your children can be testaments to their fond memories of their childhood many years from now!  This article is all about Keepsake Gift Ideas for your children.   Memories and Milestones: Keepsake gifts help capture precious moments and milestones in a child’s life, preserving memories that can be cherished for years to come. Whether it’s a baby’s first footprint or a child’s handwritten note, these items evoke nostalgia and allow families to reminisce about special times when your child is growing up. Family Heritage and Tradition: Keepsake gifts often carry family history and tradition. They can be passed down through generations, serving as a tangible link to the past and reinforcing familial bonds. These gifts can become heirlooms, connecting children to their roots and heritage.  In our family we have garments that were mine when I was a little girl that I love watching my own daughter wear.  My husband and I have saved toys from our childhood and delight in sharing them with both of our children.   Emotional Connection and Bonding: Giving and receiving keepsake gifts fosters emotional connections between gift-givers and recipients. These gifts are often imbued with love, thoughtfulness, and sentimentality, strengthening the bond between family members and loved ones. Celebrating Milestones and Achievements: Keepsake gifts often commemorate significant milestones and achievements in a child’s life, such as birthdays, graduations, or religious ceremonies. They serve as tangible representations of these important events and can be cherished as symbols of accomplishment. Encouraging Reflection and Gratitude: Keepsake gifts encourage reflection on the passage of time and the importance of gratitude. They remind both children and adults to appreciate the moments and people that shape their lives, fostering a sense of gratitude and mindfulness.  Keepsake gifts are not just material possessions; they are investments in memories. By choosing a keepsake gift with long-term value, you’re investing in the child’s future nostalgia. These items become touchstones for reminiscing about childhood experiences and milestones.  Keepsake gifts encourage reflection on the passage of time and the journey of life. As children grow older, they can look back on these gifts and gain perspective on their personal growth and development. Later on in life these keepsake gifts will serve as reminders for children of how far they’ve come and the experiences that have shaped them. Generational Connections: Keepsake gifts often have the power to connect generations. A gift passed down from a parent or grandparent carries with it the stories and memories of previous generations. As the child grows older, these connections to family history become increasingly important, fostering a sense of identity and belonging.  Keepsake gifts contribute to the continuity of family traditions. They serve as tangible reminders of shared values and experiences passed down through generations. As children grow into adults, they may continue these traditions by passing on keepsake gifts to their own children, thereby perpetuating a sense of family continuity.   Keepsake gifts are laden with symbolism and sentimentality. They represent more than just the object itself; they symbolize love, care, and the bonds between family members. As the child matures, these symbolic meanings deepen, reinforcing the emotional significance of the gift. Choosing keepsake gifts for children with long-term value and significance involves recognizing the enduring impact these gifts will have on the child’s life as they grow older. By selecting gifts that transcend material value and hold deep emotional meaning, you’re providing the child with enduring treasures that will enrich their journey through life and contribute to the tapestry of family history. 31 Life-Changing Keepsake Gift Ideas Treasured mementos crafted with utmost care and thoughtfulness await your child in the form of keepsake gifts. Each piece is imbued with personalized touches, meticulously handmade with love. As a devoted parent to two, I make it a yearly tradition to hand make a bespoke item for each of my children. There’s an indescribable joy that fills my heart when they unwrap these handcrafted treasures, knowing they are receiving not just a gift, but a piece of my affection and dedication. Seeking out these hand crafted creations isn’t just a preference—it’s a quest for gifts that resonate with sincerity and heartfelt sentiment, echoing a tender moment in time and hold sentimental value. Here I’ve broken up the resource guide with Keepsake Gift Ideas for Baby and Keepsake Gift Ideas for Children. These recommendations are items I’ve purchased and have enjoyed as a family. And I provide any helpful tips along with each keepsake gift. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases Keepsake Gift Ideas for Baby Personalized Keepsake Gifts for Baby Create a baby keepsake box is such a special

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WNC Senior Graduate Photography Session Panache Photography

WNC Graduation Photographer: Arielle’s Session at Lake Junaluska

“Arielle’s golden hour Senior Session at Lake Junaluska and Haywood Community College was absolutely magical, with the warm, ethereal light casting a golden glow over the picturesque mountains and lake in the background.” Arielle’s golden hour Senior Session at Haywood Community College and Lake Junaluska was absolutely magical, with the warm, ethereal light casting a golden glow over the picturesque mountains and lake in the background. Against the backdrop of the serene lake, the session captured the perfect blend of natural beauty, architectural charm, and manicured gardens.  Arielle is a high school senior that loves Jesus, playing piano, and singing.  Arielle will graduate this spring with her high school diploma and 19 hours of college transfer courses already completed!  This Fall, she will pursue a marketing and communications degree. “Arielle is a high school senior that loves Jesus, playing piano, and singing. This Fall, she will pursue a marketing and communications degree.” Lake Junaluska is a beloved destination for Arielle, who has many happy memories of her time spent at the lake over the years.  Lake Junaluska, nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina, is a serene and picturesque retreat destination. Lake Junaluska is a stunning 200-acre lake surrounded by rolling hills, lush forests, and charming mountain vistas. The area exudes a sense of tranquility and natural beauty, a perfect match for Arielle’s senior portraits! For the session, she chose a classic little black dress and full length green velvet dress in the exact color as her cap and gown, certainly elevating the traditional cap and gown portraits. . “For the session, she chose a classic little black dress and full length green velvet dress in the exact color as her cap and gown, certainly elevating the traditional cap and gown portraits.” Adding to the charm of the setting is the historic architecture of Lake Junaluska. Whether it’s the grandeur of the historic buildings lining the North lakeshore or the quaint charm of cottages nestled among the trees, the architectural elements add depth and character to Arielle’s portraits. The timeless beauty of these structures provides a sense of elegance and sophistication to the session, echoing Arielle’s own grace and poise. The colonnade at Lake Junaluska, is a picturesque architectural feature that adds charm and character to the beautiful surroundings of Lake Junaluska lakeshore and gardens. The colonnade provided a captivating focal point for Arielle’s portraits. The neutral and earthy tones contrast beautifully with the softness of the surrounding gardens and beautiful lake, creating a visually dynamic setting. Against the backdrop of the serene lake, the session captured the perfect blend of natural beauty, architectural charm, and manicured gardens.  Lake Junaluska’s manicured green spaces offer a stunning array of colors and textures. From vibrant flower beds bursting with blooms to neatly trimmed hedges and verdant lawns, the gardens provide a vibrant backdrop for Arielle’s senior portraits. Against this lush backdrop, Arielle’s radiant smile and vibrant personality shined!

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Bob Ross Birthday Party

Creating an Artistic Bob Ross Party for Kids

Bob Ross is a wonderfully creative and fun party theme!  The theme started as an idea for my husband’s birthday, but as soon as my three year old heard about the idea –  it had to be their party theme too!  My three year old loves to get out acrylic paints and spend hours making beautifully painted art projects. Bob Ross was known for his distinctive painting style, which often featured vibrant landscapes and soothing color palettes.  His show, “The Joy of Painting” was a beloved television show hosted by the iconic artist Bob Ross. It aired on PBS, Public Broadcasting Service, in the United States from 1983 to 1994, and it continues to be popular today through reruns and online platforms.  “The Joy of Painting” has a lasting impact on viewers around the world. Bob Ross’s calm demeanor, inspirational words, and artistic talent have made him a beloved figure, and the show remains popular among artists, hobbyists, and fans of all ages; including my husband and three year old!   As a family, we have watched many episodes of the Joy of Painting and enjoy Bob Ross’s casual, “there are no mistakes, only happy accidents” approach to painting.  This Bob Ross happy accidents mantra “encourages viewers to embrace mistakes and find joy in the creative process! Top 27 Recommendations for a Creative Bob Ross Party Bob Ross once said, “Look around. Look at what we have. Beauty is everywhere—you only have to look to see it. Hope you enjoy these food, decor, and gift ideas for your own Bob Ross Party! Bob Ross Party – Food Ideas Welcome to the Bob Ross party, where every bite is a brushstroke of flavor and every dish is a masterpiece waiting to be devoured. Inspired by the serene landscapes and joyful creativity of Bob Ross’s paintings these five items are sure to fill your dessert buffet with the creative spirit. In the world of Bob Ross, there are no mistakes, only happy accidents – and delicious food waiting to be enjoyed. 1. Wooden Paint Palette Paint Tray Macaron Paint Palette – We created tags with the colors Bob Ross uses in the Joy of Painting show as labels for each macaron flavor.  For the party we used the Walmart great value macarons; they are made in France and are as delicious as homemade or more expensive brands! Titanium White:  Vanilla macaron Phthalo Green: Pistachio macaron Dark Sienna: Chocolate macaron Alizarin Crimson: Raspberry macaron Yellow Ochre. Coffee macaron Indian Yellow: Lemon macaron Learn more… 2. 3D Christmas Tree Cookie Cutter Set To fully deck out your dessert buffet – Happy Trees sugar cookies! As Bob Ross has said, “We don’t make mistakes, just happy little accidents. And we’ll put in a happy little tree here.” Learn more… 3. Evergreen Trees for Cake and Cupcake Decorating (24-Pack) Topping cupcakes with a little tree pick for a fun Bob Ross party adds a delightful and whimsical touch to your dessert spread, perfectly capturing the essence of Bob’s iconic landscapes. You can do it in advance or let each of your guests treat it like a blank canvas waiting to be adorned with a touch of Bob Ross magic! Have a station with supplies: frosting in vibrant colors reminiscent of nature’s palette, piping bags ready to bring your vision to life, bright colored sprinkles and, of course, the pièce de résistance – little tree picks! Learn more… 4. Paint Brush Cupcake Toppers Painting Cupcake Picks Toothpicks for Art Theme Cake Decorations These paint brush picks are the embodiment of Bob Ross’s tools of the trade, in miniature form. Each one has paint dipped bristles so fine they seem to have been dipped in paint just moments ago. They’re a whimsical nod to Bob’s passion for painting and his iconic technique of creating happy little landscapes. Learn more… Bob Ross Party – Party Decor Step into the world of Bob Ross as you enter the enchanting realm of our Bob Ross-themed party, where every corner is adorned with whimsical decor inspired by the beloved artist himself. As you approach the entrance, you’re greeted by a life-sized cutout of Bob Ross, his warm smile welcoming you into the festivities. With his iconic afro and gentle demeanor, he sets the tone for the party.   Inside, your eyes are immediately drawn to the vibrant rainbow balloon garland that stretches across the room, weaving its way through the space like a river of color. Each balloon is a brilliant hue, from deep blues and rich purples to sunny yellows and grassy greens, evoking the palette of Bob Ross’s paintings. Dotted throughout the room are clusters of balloons tied to miniature painters’ palettes, their circular shapes reminiscent of the sunlit skies and tranquil lakes that Bob Ross so famously painted. 5. Lunar Bliss 16 ft Balloon Arch & Garland Kit | 102 Balloons A rainbow balloon garland can serve as a vibrant and eye-catching centerpiece for an artistic party theme.  We used the balloon garland kit to frame a painting in our dining room which then served as the backdrop to take photos of the birthday honoree with each of the guests.  A rainbow balloon garland incorporates a wide range of colors, mirroring the palette of an artist’s paintbox. Just like a painter uses various colors to create a masterpiece, the rainbow garland brings together different hues to create a visually stunning display! Learn more… 6. Bob Ross Party Supplies Classic Happy Birthday Set the stage for a Happy Little Art Party: Our Bob Ross Deluxe set has all the Bob Ross birthday party supplies you need to paint the celebration canvas. This pack comes with;  8 –  9″ square paper dinner plates  8 – Scenic 7″ square dessert plates 16 –  Water Bottle Labels (Bottles not included) 20 – 3 ply. silver embellished lunch napkins 20 – 3 ply. “Happy Little Trees” beverage napkins 1 – jointed “HAPPY BIRTHDAY” banner 1 – plastic table cover featuring Bob Ross paintings

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WNC Senior Session Panache Photography Biltmore Estate

WNC Graduation Photography: Ariel’s Senior Session

Ariel, is a vibrant and creative senior!  Her passions lie at the intersection of artistry and culinary exploration. With a keen eye for detail and a creative flair, she finds joy in expressing herself through drawing and art, whether it’s sketching intricate designs or capturing the essence of her surroundings in vibrant colors.  For her senior portraits, Ariel stands amidst the breathtaking beauty of Biltmore Gardens in Asheville, North Carolina.  Biltmore Gardens are surrounded by lush greenery, tons of vibrant Spring blooms, and ornate sculptures.  In the portraits, she exudes an aura of artistic inspiration!  In her Senior Portraits, Ariel exudes an aura of artistic inspiration! Dressed in an ensemble that reflects her unique style and personality, Ariel’s attire is a fusion of classic elegance and modern flair. She wore a flowing Joyfolie dress in a bold red, followed by a  cute yellow floral romper with bow detail in the front that adds a touch of whimsy to her look. The Biltmore Gardens provide a captivating backdrop for Ariel’s senior portraits, offering a blend of natural beauty and artistic sophistication that perfectly complements her spirit. As we explore the meticulously manicured gardens, Ariel’s passion for art and beauty is evident. We capture lots of portraits with Ariel pausing to admire the intricate details of the botanical wonders around her, drawing inspiration from the vibrant colors, delicate textures, and graceful forms that surround her.  The portraits of Ariel with the gorgeous yellow, pink, and white flame azaleas at the Biltmore are some of my favorite portraits from the session!  These flame azaleas look like fireworks with her adorable botanical romper!   The Biltmore Gardens provide a captivating backdrop for Ariel’s senior portraits, offering a blend of natural beauty and artistic sophistication that perfectly complements her spirit. Ariel is a graduating senior from the early college this Spring and will graduate from high school with her college transfer classes already completed.  Arielle’s Early College graduation, earning both a high school diploma and college transfer courses is a remarkable achievement that reflects her dedication and diligence! Arielle’s Early College graduation, earning both a high school diploma and college transfer courses is a remarkable achievement that reflects her dedication and diligence!

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Panache Photography Waynesville, North Carolina

WNC Photographer: Waynesvillas Boutique Accommodation

The scene was straight out of a postcard!  The beauty of the Waynesvilla cottages and the cherry blossoms was a dream. The Villas looked gorgeous as the evening sun filtered through the delicate branches of cherry blossoms, casting a soft, golden hue.  Each Villa stood gracefully amidst the sea of blossoms, their quaint architecture complementing the natural surrounding beauty. The scene was straight out of a postcard! The beauty of the Waynesvilla cottages and the cherry blossoms was a dream. The Villas looked gorgeous as the evening sun filtered through the delicate branches of cherry blossoms. The Villas are a revitalized 1935 Motor Court, which has been exquisitely renovated with craftsmanship and elegance.  The Villas  are designed to blend seamlessly with local architecture, contributing to the preservation of Waynesville’s historic cultural identity.  As you explore each villa, you’re struck by the diversity of styles and the meticulous attention to detail that sets them apart. From traditional to contemporary, from rustic to luxurious, every decor scheme is a testament to the craftsmanship and creativity of its designers who create a custom unique experience in each Villa.  The Villas are a revitalized 1935 Motor Court, which has been exquisitely renovated with craftsmanship and elegance. The Waynesvillas are the  perfect accommodation for a retreat in the scenic mountains of Waynesville, North Carolina. In this boutique, small business, each villa has its own distinct theme, decorating style, and historic charm.  The villas are located in the heart of Waynesville,  a private cul de sac right off of North Main Street, with charming park in the center of the property. The villas are located in the heart of Waynesville, a private cul de sac right off of North Main Street, with charming park in the center of the property. Waynesvillas excels at creating a personalized experience.  Each Villa has such attention to detail with a Hazelwood Soap pump in each kitchen and local pottery kitchen accessories from Muddappers.  Each villa has a full kitchen complete with stove, microwave and coffeemaker; as well as a table, sitting area, and bathroom with walk in shower.  Staying at Waynesvilla is like having your own private cottage for your mountain getaway! Waynesville, North Carolina  is a picturesque mountain town, with its historic downtown area, quaint shops, and local eateries. Whether you’re in town taking a leisurely stroll  or embarking on outdoor adventures in the mountains, it’s the ideal setting for a memorable getaway.  Guests can truly immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Waynesville while enjoying the comforts of a cozy villa and experiencing something truly unique and memorable! To book your stay with Waynesvilla contact: https://www.waynesvilla.com/ Visit the Waynesvillas and enjoy the comforts of a cozy villa and experience something truly unique and memorable!

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Panache Photography VIP Client Experience

Portrait Photography Gear for a VIP Client Experience

Being meticulously prepared for a photoshoot is akin to laying out a welcoming red carpet for my clients. It not only showcases professionalism but also demonstrates a deep level of care and consideration for their experience.  Here’s how being prepared can make clients feel cared for and served well.   Showing up as prepared as possible helps me to anticipate challenges for my clients. Despite careful planning, unforeseen issues can arise during photoshoots. Being prepared to handle unexpected challenges calmly and efficiently reassures my clients that their session is in capable hands by someone who really cares for them and their needs.   Also bringing this gear along to portrait sessions helps me to create a comfortable environment for my clients. Setting up and being prepared helps to create a comfortable and welcoming environment, whether it’s through providing mini-fans or refreshments, this helps my clients relax and enjoy the experience. A relaxed atmosphere leads to more natural and authentic photographs.   Here are 10 items of quintessential gear we suggest to anyone wanting to create a VIP experience for their photography clients.  These are tried and true products that I take along to photoshoots to be as prepared as possible. 1. ForPro Professional Collection Premium Hand Mirror with Handle When shooting outdoors the options for the last minute teeth and hair check are limited.  This hand held mirror gives my clients the opportunity to make any last minute adjustments. Learn more… 2. TriPole Mini Handheld Fan Battery Operated Small Personal Portable Speed Adjustable USB Rechargeable If you are in the South and deal with heat and humidity, these little fans feel like a VIP treatment. Learn more… 3. NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Matte Blotting Paper Again, the heat!  These blotting sheets are so helpful for having a delicate way to remove excess oil during a portrait session. Learn more… 4. Tide Stain Remover for Clothes, Tide To Go Pen, Instant Stain & Spot Remover for Clothes Yes, accidents happen to all of us and we all seemingly take a turn!  This stain remover can be a lifesaver in a pinch.  Learn more… 5. Sewing Kit for Adults and Kids, Needle and Thread Kit with Sewing Supplies Granted if you know how to sew on a button or sew a simple lock stitch seam this sewing kit can be a lifesaver.  Learn more… 6. Johnson & Johnson All-Purpose Portable Compact First Aid Kit Say no more, we just like to be prepared. Just having this little first aid kit on hand is peace of mind! Learn more… 7. Basics Clear Bubble Umbrella If you get caught in a quick shower during your session this super durable clear umbrella offers the VIP treatment for your clients! Learn more… 8. Foldable Step Stool We take this foldable steep stool along for outdoor photo sessions just to help get that additional height when needed or offer a small seat for our clients to set on for cropped-in headshots. Learn more… 9. Treasure Chest Treats for Kids We know from experience chocolate has a powerful sway over most kids and they will listen for a chocolate reward. We have mistakenly brought Starburst to a session as a reward before, but there are so many allergies and issues with food dyes it’s also nice to have little toys and wind up cars as rewards in your arsenal. Learn more… 10. Bottled Water Take along a bottle of water for each person participating in your portrait session, just to help make sure your clients are comfortable.  This is an inexpensive way to care for your clients. Learn more….

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Senior Graduate Photography

WNC Graduation Photographer Keira’s Senior Session

 It was a pleasure capturing Keira’s senior portraits amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Biltmore Estate gardens.  Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Biltmore Estate boasts enchanting gardens full of colors and scents.  Spring azaleas, dogwoods, tulips, wisteria, buckeyes, snowball bushes, and iris were in full bloom. It was clear from the start that this session that this would be nothing short of extraordinary.  Keira is a high-school senior that loves drawing, art and gourmet food.  She wants to pursue studying culinary arts. Against the backdrop of the estate’s timeless architecture, Keira radiated confidence and beauty! The stunning one hundred year old, manicured gardens were designed by landscape architect, Fredrick Law Olmstead, who also designed New York’s Central Park. During her session, we certainly wanted to highlight the high-end, European inspired, anticultural backdrops in her senior portraits. From vibrant blooms to lush greenery, every corner of this iconic estate provided a stunning setting for Keira’s memorable session. Keira’s senior session at the Biltmore Estate gardens was more than just a photoshoot—it was a celebration of her journey and the remarkable young woman she has become! Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and historic charm, making it the perfect backdrop for senior portrait sessions. The Biltmore Estate, America’s Largest Privately Owned House in the United States and is a Chateauesque-style mansion built for George Vanderbilt in 1889. For the session, Keira selected two flowing Joyfolie gowns.  She exuded grace and poise.  And these dresses were the perfect complement to the garden’s elegance. Against the backdrop of the estate’s timeless architecture, she radiated confidence and beauty! From the vibrant azaleas to the serene water features, every corner of the estate provided an opportunity to capture Keira’s sweet demeanor and personality. Throughout the session, we explored the various nooks and crannies of the estate, each offering its own unique charm. From the vibrant azaleas to the serene water features, every corner of the estate provided an opportunity to capture Keira’s sweet demeanor and personality. With the sun casting a golden hue over the landscape, this was truly a beautiful senior session!   Keira’s senior session at the Biltmore Estate gardens was more than just a photoshoot—it was a celebration of her journey and the remarkable young woman she has become!

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Beauty products to rock your photo session

11 Beauty Products You Need to ROCK your Photo Session

To ROCK your photoshoot, you’ll want to choose beauty products that provide a flawless finish, and ensure your makeup lasts throughout the session. I’m not a beautician by trade.  These recommendations are all based on my personal experience and high level of satisfaction with these products both as a photographer and for my own beauty regime.  As a photographer in the South, I often deal with humidity and heat at photo sessions; which makes your make-up, hair, and skin care dissipate.  These product recommendations offer a very polished finish for your daily beauty routine, hold-up well to hot and humid outdoor conditions, and are perfect to Rock Your Photo Session!!!  This article is all about the eleven beauty products you need to rock your photo session. Hair Care Products to ROCK your Photo Session 1. Paul Mitchell Hair Serum Again heat and humidity during photoshoots are not always kind to your hair.  This Paul Mitchell Hair Serum is perfect for reducing flyaways!  And a little really goes a long way!  This product will last you several months. Learn more… 2. Joico Power Spray Fast-Dry Finishing Spray Protect Against Heat & Humidity While hairsprays in general don’t smell good, this Joico brand has made me a fan!  My hairdresser of over 20 years recommended this product to me.  You apply hair sparingly to your “bangs” or “fringe” and your center part; it’s great for helping you maintain your style and shape the entire photo session. Learn more… Skin Care Products to Rock Your Photo Session 3. SimplyVital Face Moisturizer Collagen Cream – Anti Aging Neck and Décolleté – Made in USA Day & Night Face Cream – Moisturizing, Lifting & Recovery – 1.7oz Several clients ask me if I could recommend a foundation or use a skin smoother in post processing on their skin.  For men and women, I’d recommend using a moisturizer.  What goes on your skin to prep your skin is equally important to any make-up selections you make. Learn more… 4. Revlon Face Primer, PhotoReady Primer, Mattifying & Pore Reducing, 1 Oz This primer helps you create a smooth canvas for your makeup, helps your foundation adhere better, and minimizes the appearance of pores. Learn more… 5. NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Matte Blotting Paper We keep a box of these in our camera bag.  During photo sessions these matte blotting papers are great for touching-up any oils or perspiration on skin. Learn more… Make-up Products to ROCK Your Photo Shoot 6. e.l.f., Matte Magic Mist & Set – Lightweight, Long Lasting, Controls Shine, All-Day Wear This setting spray locks in your makeup and ensures it stays fresh throughout the photoshoot. This E.I.F setting spray is so economical and really holds it on even compared to more expensive brands.  You’ll love how this spray helps your make-up to last longer without feeling heavy or sticky and has a matte finish. Learn more… 7. Lancôme Cils Booster XL Enhancing Lash & Mascara Primer This Lacome primer does not disappoint! It helps your mascara adhere better to your lashes and has amazing volumizing and lengthening effects!  Learn more… 8. Milani Baked Blush Milani Baked Blush, is a long-lasting blush formula is perfect for adding a pop of color to your cheeks with a rosy pink for a healthy, youthful glow. Learn more… 9. essence Lash Without Limits Extreme Lengthening & Volume Mascara Essence Lash Without Limits Mascara is the perfect finish for your eye makeup with a volumizing or lengthening mascara to make your lashes appear fuller and more defined in photos. Learn more… 10. bareMinerals Mineral Veil Setting Powder, Weightless Talc-Free Finishing Powder Makeup, Extends Makeup Wear Set your foundation and concealer with a translucent setting powder to prevent shine and ensure your makeup stays in place throughout your entire photoshoot. Learn more… Nail Care Products to ROCK Your Photo Shoot 11. Opi Manicure Set Fingernails can be often overlooked prior to photo sessions however, your hands will end up in many of the portraits in your final gallery.  I love the OPI Manicure set, even as a busy Mom this is something I can do before bed applying the cuticle oil. And using the base coat and top coat polishes really adds to the longevity of your at nail care.  Learn more…

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