A Gift to Say, “I Love You”

Everyone has a different and specific type of gift that rings their bell. Some are material, but other “gifts” can be intangible, like an idea or a feeling. Gary Chapman, in his book, The 5 Love Languages, broke down five ideals on how we give and receive love.

Below is a sampling of his work, but his book is an excellent read and can be found here: https://www.5lovelanguages.com/5-love-languages/

  Words of Affirmation

The old saying, actions speak louder than words, isn’t always true. Letting a loved one know you are thinking about them and appreciate them with words of affirmation means more than any physical gift. A simple statement of “I love you,” and hearing the reasons why they are special to you feeds their soul.

  Acts of Service

Easing the burden of responsibilities can be the greatest gift of all to some. Whether it’s cooking a meal, mowing the lawn or merely hanging a picture on the wall, there are those of us who think an act of service is better than the most fabulously wrapped present.

For this type of person, words of affirmation hold no meaning and actions speak loudly. Let’s say  you vacuumed the living room. There’s a treasure chest of gratitude for the recipient of this gift of service.

  Receiving Gifts

Most of us love to receive gifts. Many like the joy of discovery. The anticipation of opening a wrapped package is something that has been instilled in many of us since childhood. Birthdays, Christmas, weddings and anniversaries, receiving gifts has become an expected and exciting part of life.

When considering a gift to someone who has this love language, it’s not just the gift, it’s the thought you put into it. Last-minute flowers from the local 7-11 may not float their boat, but a hand-picked rose from your garden would be mightily cherished.

  Quality Time

We all know that time is in limited supply. There are only so many hours in the day, days in the week and weeks in the year. Setting aside time to spend with someone special can seem like a trivial thing but is often the hardest gift to give.

Is this your special someone’s love language? Then turn off the TV and the iPhone and give them your full attention. You’ll make them very happy.

  Physical Touch

Physical touch is a very up close and personal gift. If this is your love language, the perfect gift would be hugs, a pat on the back or simply thoughtful touches. These can communicate safety, love and warmth.

For those who prefer physical closeness, diamond rings and “Attaboys” won’t communicate love more than a touch.

. . . . .

Arranging a Portrait Session with your loved one is a gift of service.  During your creative session you will have quality time together to say “I Love You.”  Each time you see your portraits, you will remember the experience and it will be a treasured gift for a lifetime!

I would be honored to create loving portraits for you.

I am a Southern California based Portrait, Commercial and Fine Art Photographer who sees the world a bit differently.

You can view more of my work here > Donna Edman Photography.
If you’d like to book a session, I’d be honored > Contact Me.

Together, we can Capture YOUR Life, One Image at a Time!

 

A True Love Story

“In one lifetime you will love many times but one soul you will love forever.”
~ Julie

During their engagement session, Julie told me her and Mike’s heart warming love story.

“It was summer in the 1960’s, my grammar school days.  The favorite annual trip was to our grandparent’s, Grandpa Herb and Mimi’s.   This was always a fun visit.  Life back then was not the typical way of life now.  When youngsters got restless or rambunctious, they were sent outside to play and that’s what happened when my brother, Charles, became summertime buddies with the neighbor, Mike.

My brother and Mike would swim in the pool at Mimi’s and Grandpa’s during the day and play hide-n-seek after dinner (really it was ring and ditch, but you couldn’t tell the parents that).  I often tagged along and eventually had a crush on Mike.

During one summer visit Mike stole a kiss from me, the first for each of us, that set off the spark of sparks.  Each summer that spark was rekindled, but life happens.  Mike and I were growing up.  As my mom decided that I shouldn’t be distracted in my young years by  romance she sent me to boarding school.  Mike and I were not able to keep in touch and consequentially went our separate ways.  We each married in the late 1970s and life went on except for one thing … that spark remained.

Some forty years later, with the help of social media, Mike and Charles reconnected on Facebook.  Mike inquired as to my status and asked if Charles would let him know that he was interested in hearing from me.  It took about 30 seconds for Mike and I to get back in touch.   Since then, now both unattached, we haven’t looked anywhere but forward.

Mike and I have many common interests including horses and horseback riding, animal rescue and animals in general.

After forty years of foraging separate trails, Mike and I found that the spark never went out.  Today we are here not with a spark but with a flame, one that burns for each other fully.  Mike and I are alive as soul mates … forever.”

Julie and Mike, wishing you happiness together for the rest of your lives.

I am a Southern California based Portrait, Commercial and Fine Art Photographer who sees the world a bit differently.

You can view more of my work here > Donna Edman Photography.
If you’d like to book a session, I’d be honored > Contact Me.

Together, we can Capture YOUR Life, One Image at a Time!

What to Wear ~ Know Your Color Palette

Do You Shine Like a Diamond?

Not every color looks good on every person. Have you ever looked in the mirror when you’re trying on new clothes and your skin appeared green? The reason for your skin color transformation was due to wearing an unflattering color, according to your skin’s undertone.

So the next question is: Do you know your color palette? You may be a cool, a neutral or a warm. The first step to determining which of the three you are, is to discover your undertone.

While skin overtone can change based upon factors such as sun exposure, illness, or blood pressure, your undertone is defined by genetics and will never change. A simple test to determine if you’re a COOL or WARM is to put a dab of pink-based foundation on one cheek, and a dab of yellow-based foundation on the other. Spread the foundation evenly on each cheek, creating a thin layer. Check the mirror for which foundation blends in versus which one appears painted on. The one that blends is your match.

Pink means COOL and yellow means WARM. Easy peasy. If your husband or son won’t sit for this foundation test, read on to discover other ways to find undertones.

Hair Color

We are talking natural hair color, here.

If your hair is colored, let’s hope your stylist has helped to find a color that goes with your skin undertone.

You cools might rock very dark brown or black hair to sunny blonde. You have skin with a bluish undertone ranging from the fairest of the fair to very dark.

If your hair is dirty blonde, blonde with ashy streaks or warm-toned browns with highlights, these are all considered neutral. Skin tone for those of you who are true neutrals can be difficult to determine and is variable from warm to cool.

You’re probably a warm if your hair color is in the dark brown to dark blonde shades. Skin tones for warms range from greenish to yellow undertones and some have an olive complexion.

For those sporting red hair, the shade of red lets you move between color palettes, but you’ll typically roam within the Neutral Undertones.

What to Wear?

Cool Undertone

• Cool colors will include bright to royal and sapphire blues, emerald greens, and moderate to deep purples, like amethyst or shades of lavender.
• Warm colors might include ruddy hues, such as rose and reddish pinks to tomato.
• For neutrals, your best bet is pure white, navy and grays.
• Don’t you dare do oranges or yellows.

Neutral Undertone

• You look fabulous in peachy hues, and jade green to muted turquoise.
• Pinks, such as soft rose and blush-toned pinks are your BFFs.
• Icy blues should also be included in your fashion choices.
• Burgundy and fire engine red (don’t be shy) will look amazing on you.
• Taupe, grey, and off white, like eggshell and ivory, are super when you want to go neutral.
• Bright (red is the exception) and vibrant colors can overwhelm neutrals.

Warm Undertone

• Your best warm colors are oranges, reds, golden yellow, amber, and honey gold.
• Cool colors that work equally well on warm skin tones are greens and blues.
• Olives, deeper turquoise, green moss, fern, pesto, red purples like magenta and orchid are also good choices.
• If your chosen portrait scheme is more neutral, stick with taupe, light chocolates, off whites and wheat.
• Colors to avoid are light blues and jeweled tones.

Color is fun to consider in your wardrobe.  However, it is important to keep comfort first. If you are dressed comfortably, you will act more naturally during the photo session. By focusing on colors and styles that look best, you will confidently enjoy the process and the portraits will shine…like a diamond.

I am a Southern California based Portrait, Commercial and Fine Art Photographer who sees the world a bit differently.

You can view more of my work here > Donna Edman Photography.
If you’d like to book a session, I’d be honored > Contact Me.

Together, we can Capture YOUR Life, One Image at a Time!

Street Photography ~ A Lovely Moment

 

I started a pleasant conversation with this lady as she stood smoking on the sidewalk in downtown Los Angeles. She saw my camera and asked if I’d like to see the lobby of her apartment building. She wanted to show me its beautiful Art Deco decor.

She then agreed for me to create a portrait of her. A lovely moment.

This image was recognized at the Top Image of the Week in an international contest, Street Photo Showoff.

I am a Southern California based Portrait, Commercial and Fine Art Photographer who sees the world a bit differently.

You can view more of my work here > Donna Edman Photography.
If you’d like to book a session, I’d be honored > Contact Me.

Together, we can Capture YOUR Life, One Image at a Time!

Street Photography … It’s Kind of Scary

Usually, I am creating images for portrait and commercial clients.  When I take my camera out to play, I typically photograph nature, travel locations and architecture.

I’ve been experimenting with Street Photography, photographing strangers.  For me, the unpredictability is kind of scary and seems a bit voyeuristic.  Bottom line, it’s uncomfortable.

My son is doing absolutely awesome street photography and he is an encouragement for me to stretch beyond what’s comfortable.

When I was in China, I began photographing people on the sidewalks.  For some images, I asked permission. For others, the images were created from a distance.  Now I’m actively looking for photo opportunities, even though my tummy does a little flip.

There is an exhilaration and freedom in creating images “on the fly.”  No usual lighting setup or posing or lugging around gear.  Just me and my camera, walking around looking for people who catch my eye.

These images are recent award winners.  How about that!

“Next Move” Chinese chess played on the sidewalk in Chendu, China.

This image won Best of Photo Journalism at Professional Photographers of America, Orange County.

 

“Sorrow”  This is our granddaughter comforting our grandson.  As their mom held them both, I stepped away to capture their love for each other.
This image won Best Photo of the Day in an on-line international competition.

“Serious Bowling”  I grabbed the opportunity to capture this image while scouting out locations for a client session in Laguna Beach.  These guys were serious bowlers!
This image won Best B&W Photo of the Day in an on-line international competition.

I would love to hear your thoughts about these images, and what you think of Street Photography.  Leave me some comments!

I am a Southern California based Portrait, Commercial and Fine Art Photographer who sees the world a bit differently.

You can view more of my work here > Donna Edman Photography.
If you’d like to book a session, I’d be honored > Contact Me.

Together, we can Capture YOUR Life, One Image at a Time!

The Importance of a Professional Business Portrait

People Do Business with People.

You are the face of your business. That’s why having a professional business portrait is essential.  To a prospective client, a high quality image means a high quality experience.

Most professionals schedule a business portrait session once a year.  They want to ensure their image is consistent with their current brand.

Consider hiring a clothing & hair stylist and and makeup artist.  They can help you create the right look to match your brand.  The clothing stylist can put together your professional look from items in your closet or accompany you on a shopping trip.  The hair stylist and makeup artist will tidy up an existing style or suggest one that more closely matches your industry and brand.

Make it Easy for the Media.

In addition to getting that perfect headshot, also consider full body shots and family pictures that can be use for media interviews. Often times when magazines do feature articles, they request at least 4 photos other than a headshot. This may include a spouse, children or pet; in the studio or on location.

You may also want 3/4 or full body images for banners and signs.  All of these images should capture who you are and what you do.

Tell Your Story.

Think outside the box.  What clients do you want to reach?  What story do you want to tell?  How will you use images to accomplish your goals?

Consider using your images on

• Business Card
• Print Marketing: brochures, banners, signs, promotions, mailers, newsletters
• Digital Marketing: Profile image, website Home & About pages, email signature
• Promotions: Speaking engagements, conferences & art shows
• Bio descriptions and art catalogs
• Blogs and Magazine Articles
• Book Covers: Print and Digital

5 Steps to a Superior Image.

Whether you are ready for a full image session or a simple head-shot, consider these steps:

1. Hire a professional photographer, hair stylist and makeup artist.
2. If you need to tweak your style, hire a professional clothing stylist to go shopping with you to pick out a few outfits that would be flattering and represents your brand.
3. Select at least two looks to be photographed.  Color can be good if it doesn’t distract from your face.  Click here for tips on What to Wear.
4. Plan on spending at least $200 for a head-shot session and $500 for a full session.
5. Be sure to receive high and low resolution files so you can use them in print and online.

It’s important to have a visual brand that presents you at your best with expert lighting, artful editing and re-touching, with an up-to-date look.  It will do wonders for your business!

Ready to invest in your professional business image?  Let’s talk!

Some of these ideas were found in a Huffington Post article by Melinda Emerson.

I am a Southern California based Portrait, Fine Art and Commercial Photographer who sees the world a bit differently.

You can view more of my work here > Donna Edman Photography.
If you’d like to book a session, I’d be honored > Contact Me.

Together, we can Capture YOUR Life, One Image at a Time!

What to Wear for Your Photo Session

Getting ready for your photo session?  Here are some helpful ideas!

• Coordinate and Compliment.
• Accessorize.
• Layers & Textures.
• Subtle Props.
• On Your Feet.
• How Will the Images be Used?
• Don’t Date Yourself.
• Movement.
• Get Comfortable.
• Patterns are Good.
• Think About Location.
• A Few More Tips.

Coordinate and Compliment
… but no Mini-Me

 When styling a photo session, let’s start out with a basic color palette.  For group sessions no patterns are best.  If there is a “Center Stage” person who is to stand out, it helps to have just that one person in a pattern of which the rest in the group can pull from with complimentary colors and accessories, keeping their outfits more simple.  Another idea is to have all folks in your group wear different colors but all within the same tone.  This means for all colors to be bright, dull, or neutral.  For pants, jeans or dark colors are best.

Accessorize
… add color & interest

Think outside the box.  Scarves, hats, jewelry, sweaters, vests, jackets, flowers in the hair for girls – All of these things can make an image look interesting and feel complete.  However, don’t overwhelm the subject, as the viewer’s attention should remain on the subject’s face.  See how in this photo, her blue headband is accessorizing his blue shirt, and his tie is accessorizing her nail polish? The location colors also compliment the subjects!

Layers and Texture
… add detail and depth

Tweed, crochet and embroidery details, lace, hand knit items, smocking, ribbons and ruffles can add interest to a photo creating layers and textures.  Also adding different layers of clothing and accessories can add another dimension to the overall texture of the image.  These are especially important in black and white images.

Subtle Props
… add meaning

The absolute best prop is something that is meaningful to you.  This can be grandpa’s vintage camera, a child’s favorite stuffed animal, a vintage magazine, mom’s handmade quilt or the family’s pet.   Without distraction, props add meaning to, and compliment  your image.

On Your Feet
… shoes matter

The choice of shoes can make or break an outfit.  Slipping on a pair of hip distressed boots, colorful stylish flats or funky colorful Converse can tie everything together. Pick a color or texture to accent your clothing. Sometimes wearing no shoes at all look best, especially if you’ll be posing where the bottoms of shoes can be seen.  And don’t forget to add another splash of color with some funky socks if your overall look is fun and bright.

How Will They be Used?
… where will they be displayed?

Think about the primary reason you are doing the session and dress accordingly.  For a business or actor’s head shot, consider your industry standard.  Then decide to match or deviate from it.  What message do you want to portray – conservative, artistic, trustworthy?  Will the image be displayed on a business card, website, brochures? Will the family or children’s image be displayed in the drawing room, family room, bedroom?  Is the image to say, “conservative”, “fun”, “funky”?

Don’t Date Yourself
… A timeless look extends the life of photos

Considering Who You Are Today, choose clothing that is timeless, perhaps a little vintage in style. Use soft neutral tones with a pop of color then add interesting accessories, layers and textures.  I do love color so consider bright and funky as long as it’s not distracting from your face or personality.  Of course, this is a personal choice and many folks will go all out in the latest trends, thinking of their clothing choice as a time stamp.

Movement
… clothing that flows and moves

In both the studio and in wide open locations, I love movement and flow.  Nothing better than a twirly, whirly dress or scarf or hat that moves when dancing, spinning, jumping.

Get Comfortable
… to be You

Make sure clothing and accessories are comfortable, without the pull or scratch of some new items, especially with children.  Allowing children help to pick out their outfit can make them much happier during the session and  allows their beautiful personality shine through in images.  Think of layers instead of changing outfits.  For both children and adults, make sure you select an outfit that makes you feel stunning and relaxed.

Patterns are Good
… in moderation

Patterns can add visual interest and texture as well as a good does of personality.  Just make sure that either just one person is in a pattern with the rest of the folks in simple, more solid color pieces or the patterns are subtle and complementary.  A patterned dress can actually be the secondary focus  and part of the story as long as it doesn’t distract from the face.

Think About Location
… dress to compliment

Make sure your wardrobe complements the surroundings.  In a park, a little girl can be dressed in a simple, vintage style dress with boots.  That same look might be out of place in an urban setting in front of a harsh graffiti wall.

A Few More Tips
… things to do & not to do

• Avoid anything with logos, graphics characters, labels, etc. They distract from the face and take the professional portrait down a few notches.
• Wait two weeks after a hair cut for the most natural look.
• Don’t make everyone wear the same color. Matching is boring and dated.  Let everyone have a their own spin on the same color palette.
• While staying current, avoid obvious fashion trends that will be dated soon.
• No bright white socks and no sneakers unless we’re talking about something fashionable like funky Converse. Remove watches or jewelry not complementary to the session’s look.
• Clothing should cover your arms to at least the elbows. All that extra skin can distract from your face.  With that said this depends on the purpose of the portrait.
• Nails should be trimmed and clean. Gals, newly applied nail polish or none at all.
• Guys, make sure your neck and any facial hair is trimmed of those pesky little hairs.

Check out Pinterest for some great examples at “Paint the Moon” and other fashion pages.

These ideas were gathered from Annie at Paint the Moon.  The best  collection of What to Wear tips I’ve found.

Images are selected from my work, Annie’s and a few others. 

I am a Southern California based Portrait, Fine Art and Commercial Photographer who sees the world a bit differently.

You can view more of my work here > Donna Edman Photography.
If you’d like to book a session, I’d be honored > Contact Me.

Together, we can Capture YOUR Life, One Image at a Time!

How to Choose a Professional Photographer: Family & Children Photography

Many people think of hiring a professional photographer for baby portraits and weddings. However, a professional can help you in almost every event and time of your life.

All professional photographers have special areas of interest, their own personality and artistic style.  Areas of expertise can include one or more of these:

• Family & Children Portrait Photographers
• Senior Portrait Photographers
• Commercial Photographers
• Photo Restoration and Retouching
• Wedding Photographers

Let’s start with Selecting a Family & Children Portrait Photographer.

 

The images created by professional photographers touch every aspect of your life and give you a beautiful way to preserve those memories. A portrait can be enjoyed in many ways, whether you incorporate it as a wall portrait in your home décor, create an album or purchase copies of the final print for the entire family.

Consider the following tips on selecting and working with a photographer for your family’s portrait needs:

• Interview several photographers.
  They should be willing to take the time to listen to what you want and ask questions about you and/or your family. A photographer needs this information to create images that tell the story of who you are, or who you would like to be. Keep in mind that you are not hiring someone to simply take a picture, but to tell your story.
• Ask about style.
  Do you like photo-journalistic images? Or is your style more classical, whimsical, vintage or romantic? Let the photographer know what you have in mind, and ask if he or she has experience in that area. You want them to use the style that best captures your personality.
• Look at samples.
  Ask to see some of the photographer’s work. This will give you an idea of both the style and quality each photographer provides.
• Additional services.
  Some professional photographers may provide specialized services in addition to photography. These services may include retouching, for removing blemishes or otherwise altering images; photograph restoration, which can help preserve memories from past generations; and custom framing, to make your portrait look its best. While your photographer may not offer all of these services, he or she can refer you to a quality vendor.
• Communicate.
  Make sure the photographer has a clear understanding of your expectations. Take the time to discuss the services and fees involved. This helps avoid any future misunderstandings. The conversation can include asking what you receive for the fee, how you will see and choose from your proofs, amount of editing and retouching, the digital and printing options and how long it takes to receive your final images.
• Ask about credentials.
  Membership in a professional association, certification or a photography degree shows a certain level of commitment to the profession. Ask for proof of insurance.  These types of credentials can help you determine which photographer is right for you.
• Check references.
  A friend’s recommendation, the Better Business Bureau and professional associations are excellent sources of information.

The photographer should take time to talk to you about your family and their favorite activities, as well as offer suggestions on location and coordinating clothing and colors. The photographer will use this information to create a photograph that tells your family’s unique story.

In fact, many families make their portraits more memorable by turning them into an event. One way of accomplishing this is traveling to your favorite location, like local parks, your family’s place of worship, or at a family member’s home.

Now ask yourself …

While chatting with each photographer, how did you feel?  Which photographer understood your vision/story, will help you prepare, make you feel at ease and look your best?

After reviewing images from each website, which photographer has the skill needed and the style you desire?

Are you ready?

Call me.  I’d sure enjoy hearing about your vision and telling your story!

Check out my website.  As you browse through the Galleries, you will see samples of my artistic style.

Information for this blog was gathered from the Professional Photographers of America.

I am a Southern California based Portrait, Fine Art and Commercial Photographer who sees the world a bit differently.

You can view more of my work here > Donna Edman Photography.
If you’d like to book a session, I’d be honored > Contact Me.

Together, we can Capture YOUR Life, One Image at a Time!

Skid Row Community, Los Angeles

When you see people sitting next to a tent on the street, have you spoken to them?  Have you looked into their eyes and smiled?

These are things most of us do without thinking about it … when we meet someone who looks like us.

Recently I went to the Skid Row area of Los Angeles with a friend who knows these streets.  He is Alan Pinel, the President of The Burrito Project.  With donations, he and dozens of volunteers make and take hundreds of burritos to the homeless each month.

Alan has a heart bigger than anyone I know – A humble man who lives to give.  He gave his time to come with me asking nothing in return.

Please take a few minutes to view a video or two of Alan’s Burrito Project.  Learn how you can help by donating food or funds, or by joining the volunteer “party!”  The Burrito Project, Los Angeles

Thanks to all who came to visit my Facebook page & website to look at and comment on the photos I captured of folks I met.  If you haven’t seen them yet, come on over!  Skid Row Community, Los Angeles.  Here are a few …

      

The next time you see someone who is living on the street, stop for a moment. Just for a moment.  Look into their eyes. Smile.  Both your heart and theirs will be touched.

I am a Southern California based Portrait, Event and Fine Art Photographer who sees the world a bit differently.

You can view more of my work here > Donna Edman Photography.
If you’d like to book a session, I’d be honored > Contact Me.

Together, we can Capture YOUR Life, One Image at a Time!