What to Wear for your Session

Ahh, the age-old question: 'How do I decide what my family should wear for our photo session?'

I am here to help. 

First of all, there is no right or wrong answer. You want to throw on some slashed, acid washed jeans, your B.U.M. sweatshirt, and tease your hair just like the old days--that's great. We can totally rock it out. 

But for those of you Pinterest photography-stalkers (guilty!), you might be in the market for a family portrait that's a bit more trendy and up-to-date. Now, I've come to terms with the fact that I am no fashionista, but I will declare to the world that I. LOVE. COLOR. Especially in photos. And I do know a thing or two about photos.

So here's my number one tip: Color. Lots of it. Long gone are the days of family uniforms in photos (White polo shirts and khakis--c'mon, admit it. Your family is as guilty as mine--circa 1996.). Today's family portraits are not so matchy-matchy, and instead show off a whole lotta colors that compliment each other. Choose to combine colors within the same color palette--you don't want to mix pastels with neon or jewel tones. But all pastel--you're gonna look smashing. All neon?? Sweet! Let's go for it! Jewel tones are always a safe, beautiful choice. Ask Aunt Beatrice if purple, green and orange go together, and she'll probably balk at my answer--"As long as they're in the same color family!" Don't want to mix and match colors? Pick one or two and sprinkle them throughout your wardrobes with more neutral colors like greys or browns as your base. 

Tip numero dos: Patterns are great in moderation. If you're going to have some patterns in your wardrobe, choose wisely, and use sparingly. Maybe your three-year old can wear the bold, striped dress while everyone else is in solid colors. Make that person your wild card! Tiny, subtle patterns are okay to mix and match a little--think pinstripes, little polka dots, or subtle plaids. 

Three: Accessorize! Layer! Wear those cute boots or heels you've been saving for a special occasion! Splurge on that cute little bow tie or hat for your son, let your daughter wear a fun scarf and her hot pink rain jacket! The more variety and textures you bring, the more interesting your photos will be. And the great thing about layers and accessories is that after a few photos, we can take them off and you've got a whole new look! Vests, cardigans, hats, leg warmers, costume jewelry, suspenders--it's all eye candy for your photos. 

Tip 4: Leave the logos and cartoon shirts at home. Yes, you. Back away. Put down the Lightning McQueen shirt for Bobby! Logos on t-shirts (or any type of wording on clothes for that matter) are distracting and are just not going to stand the test of time--and you want your investment in these photos to be worth it years down the road. Side Note: While we're at the 'what not to wear' list, let me pick on skinny strapped tank tops--ACK. They aren't going to do well in photos to hide bra straps, and aren't very flattering in photos, anyway. If you're going sleeveless, wider straps are your best friend. 

And now, throw everything I've said out the window. I mean it! Rules are meant to be broken, right?? And these aren't even rules! So grab that batman t-shirt, dress everyone in white, or throw lots of bold patterns into the mix! The most important part of deciding what to wear is that you've made sure it reflects your family and your style, and that you're comfortable. Find what you like and commit. 

Want a couple more resources? Follow my session outfit board on Pinterest, where there are a few ideas waiting for you in photographic form. Check out shops like zuilily, totsy, or VeryJane for reasonably-priced, adorable clothing and accessories!

Still struggling? If you've got a good photographer, he or she will help you figure out what will work best. Don't be afraid to give them a call or text with questions or pictures of what you're putting together. Bring a few options to your session and take the first few minutes to put together something fantastic with your photographer! You're paying them to make you look your best, and that's all part of it, if you ask me. Want to ask me, literally? Here ya go: beaver.shannon@gmail.com

Happy accessorizing! 

Shannon

Real life

Being a mom to three can pretty much guarantee that everyday things I love will need to take a backseat. Reading books? Forget it. Traveling? Can't even go to the bathroom by myself. So it's no surprise when there are months and months between blog posts--even here on my photography blog. In my dream world, my blog would feature every session from every client. Perhaps I'd write my entries from a little cafe in Rome, sitting next to my well-behaved children as they quietly read from some literary classic, sipping on little glasses of water. But something tells me that's never gonna happen. This mom is just thrilled when the kids take naps and sit still while I read to them before bed!

Sigh. Revamping my dreams might be in order. So bear with me as I set the goal of one blog per week. Right now, that seems a little overwhelming, since we're in the middle of potty training, on the brink of summer vacation, and don't forget there are pictures that won't edit themselves. I'm giving myself the grace to miss a week (or three), or even to schedule some posts ahead of time if I'm really on the ball one day.

So to kick off this little mid-May resolution, I'll invite you to meet the little Beavers who make it so much fun for me to neglect my blogging duties!

Here's my oldest, Trenton.

 

Trenton's a 7 year-old miracle man who still fits into size 3T pants, but has more life experience than every person I know combined into one. He was born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, and has had three open heart surgeries, spinal surgery last summer, and so many heart catheterizations we have lost count. Trenton's in Kindergarten, LOVES everything to do with sports, emergency vehicles, and Clifford (thanks to his amazing Kindergarten teacher!). Matt and I sit in awe listening to him read, and rejoice every time he leaps over a new milestone he's worked so hard to achieve. Every day with this little dude is a gift, and we are so thankful for his life. He's a bit on the shy side, so catching these smiles on camera is a great way to see the goofy, fun personality he likes to hide.

Next up is Everett. 

Oh, Everett. Where do I start? This 3 1/2 year-old goofball is a bundle of energy that cannot be contained! Ev is absolutely hilarious, smart as a whip (I'm totally not biased), and pronounces things in ways that I refuse to correct out of sheer love for the way he says them. 'Bessert' after dinner, anyone? Everett is full of love for his brother and sister, and full of questions we're not sure how to answer. If anyone knows whether the world shook when God made it, Ev wants to know. We have visions of him being the life of the party one day, since his laugh can fill a room, along with his grand entrances--"Heeyyyyy guys! I'm here!" His sweet little heart and insane amount of intelligence mixed with stubbornness keeps Matt and I on our toes, that is for sure.  

And finally, Delaney.

Little Miss Delaney is the girly girl Matt and I never knew we needed. She's a two year-old little finger-sucking snuggler who also has a clear vision of which articles of clothing she will be wearing each day. Put her in a room with a pair of shoes and she'll eventually make them fit somehow! Laney can often be found holding one of her babies along with the pair of pajamas she's trying to fit over her pants all on her own. Her independence is so much fun to watch, and don't let her sweetness fool you--she can hold her own against those big brothers! We love to listen to her string new words together and hear how her little girly mind works (What can I say? We've only learned about little boy things til now!).

And there you have it. If my husband would let me take photos of him, you could see the fourth and final piece of what keeps me busy! He's amazing in a whole-'nother-blog-post kinda way. This adorable bunch can create so much chaos and love all in the same moment, our heads feel like they could literally spin right off! So when next week's blog post is MIA, at least now you'll know why. 

2013-2014 Senior Reps

I am looking for several bright, outgoing seniors to help promote Lantern Tree Photography!

Requirements:

• You must currently be a 2013 junior, set to graduate in 2014.
• You must go to Eastern Hancock, Greenfield Central, New Palestine, Knightstown, Mount Vernon, Hamilton Southeastern, Noblesville, or Carmel Clay High School.
• You and your parents must agree to promote for ONLY Lantern Tree Photography for your senior portraits from the time of acceptance through the entire 2013/2014 school year.
• You will receive a minimum of 3 watermarked, web-sized images to use as your Facebook profile picture and will be required to use one of them for at least 4 months.
• You are responsible for sending Lantern Tree Photography a minimum of 2 referrals. These referrals must book, pay for, and complete their senior session by March 2014.
• If minimum of 2 referrals is not met, you will be responsible to pay the balance of your senior session fee ($150).

What you get:

• A FREE mini session this summer (2013) before school starts. The shoot will last 45 minutes and include two different outfits. You will be using the images (between 10-15) from this session to advertise throughout the year! With this session, you will be provided 50 customized referral cards with your name, photo & my contact information to pass out to your friends!
• A Senior Rep spotlight blog post, featuring you, your hobbies and interests.
• A standard senior portrait session: For FREE. This will provide you with an additional 30-40 images to go in your graduation announcements.
• 30% off any prints or senior announcements you order.

Need more incentive??

• If you send me between 5-9 referrals that book & pay for their session, you will receive a $25 gift card to your favorite clothing store.
• If you send me 10+ referrals that book & pay for their session, you will receive a $50 gift card to your favorite clothing store.
• PLUS, all of your referred friends will receive 24 free wallets from their session!

Interested?

Apply now by sending an email to beaver.shannon@gmail.com.

Holiday Mini-Sessions

It's that time of year again! Holiday mini-sessions are here! What's a mini-session? So glad you asked! Allow me to explain. 

6 DAYS ONLY at specific times and Indy area locations.

30 minute sessions (just enough time to capture those smiling, laughing faces on camera). 

10-15 images to proof (all presented in regular color, black and white, and urban/vintage options). 

Online password-protected proofing gallery.

$25 credit toward holiday cards, regular prints, or digital images. 

All for the low, low price of $50. Okay, now I'm just sounding like a used car salesman. But seriously, this is Lantern Tree's biggest deal of the year. If you're interested in family photos, or getting that Christmas card taken care of by someone else this year, this is your lucky day! 

How do you schedule your mini-session? Call me (317-752-9671)! Email me! Facebook me! Sessions are first come, first serve. 

**reserved sessions will be crossed off the list after times are arranged and session fees are paid.

Friday, November 16th at Beck Farm in Greenfield (ask me for details, as this is a private location) 

2:30

3:10

3:50

4:30

Sunday, November 18th at the Indianapolis Arts Center in Indianapolis

2:30

3:10

3:50

4:30

Tuesday, November 27th at Dillon Park in Noblesville

3:10

3:50

4:30

Wednesday, November 28th at Falls Park in Pendleton

3:10

3:50

4:30

Wednesday, December 5th at downtown Fortville

3:10

3:50

4:30

Friday, December 7th at Southeastway Park in Indianapolis

2:30

3:10

3:50

4:30

And now for your viewing pleasure, I present to you LTP's completely customizable 2012 Holiday Card selection. Some are old, some are new. Some are red, some are blue. Aaaaand now I'm reciting Dr. Seuss. 

On with the cards...

beaver.shannon@gmail.com

August Sessions for Izzy

As you hopefully have read here, Lantern Tree will be donating ALL Portrait Session fees in the month of August to the Mattocks Family as their daughter, Izzy undergoes 15 long months of treatment for cancer. I am determined to raise at least $1000 for them, which translates to 10 full sessions booked in August! To be honest, I am actually hoping to run out of room on the schedule, find sitters for my children so I can add more sessions, and blow that $1000 out of the water! I can't raise the money without your help, and I am so excited to donate my time and resources to give you all the gift of some fabulous pictures in return for your generosity. So let's get started!


Here are dates available for sessions (see pricing below):

Saturday, August 4th, 6:30-8:30

Sunday, August 5th, 6:30-8:30

**Friday, August 10th, 6:30-7, 7:15-7:45, 8-8:30, Location: Coxhall Gardens, Carmel

Sunday, August 12th, 6:30-8:30

Monday, August 13th 6:30-8:30

Friday, August 17th, 6:30-8:30

Saturday, August 18th, 6:30-8:30

**Wednesday, August 22nd, 6:30-7, 7:15-7:45, 8-8:30, Location: Falls Park, Pendleton

Saturday, August 25th, 6:30-8:30

**Sunday, August 26th, 6:30-7, 7:15-7:45, 8-8:30, Location: Indy Arts Center, Indianapolis

Friday, August 31st, 6:30-8:30

Two-hour sessions are $100. You choose the location anywhere in the Indy and surrounding areas (I'm happy to help with location ideas!). Your two hours include unlimited wardrobe changes & unlimited props. This session applies to families, children, engagement, and newborn sessions for up to 4 people. Each additional person is $15. You'll receive a minimum of 30 proofs to view in regular, black and white, and urban/vintage formats on a password-protected proofing and ordering site.

**Denotes Mini-session dates, cost is $50 per 1/2 hour time slot. You'll receive a minimum of 15 proofs to view in regular, black and white, and urban/vintage formats on a password-protected proofing and ordering site. Location is already determined for your session.

___________________

To reserve your session, please email or call me (317-752-9671). Your scheduled session will be crossed off the list above after your session fee is received (you'll pay the fee DIRECTLY to Molly and Kendrick via PayPal). Because of the nature of this fundraiser, session fees cannot be refunded. However, if unforeseen events occur, you may certainly reschedule your session for another date. :)

Please spread the word about this fundraiser for Izzy!! I can't do it without your help. Follow Lantern Tree Photography on facebook (www.facebook.com/lanterntree) to receive updates on progress toward my $1000 goal! I am so excited to see God at work for the Mattocks family! Thank you for helping me make it happen!


-Shannon

Fighting for Izzy

Isn't this just the most beautiful photo ever? I adore how it shows how a father's love can make children so happy. I can't take credit for this photo, though--it was taken by a post-college roommate of mine, Molly Mattocks.  Pictured here are her husband, Kendrick, and daughter, Izzy. You may have heard of Izzy recently, especially if you're a Lantern Tree Photography facebook fan, or someone lucky enough to know the Mattocks family.  If you need caught up, Izzy is a 4 year-old, beautiful, princess-loving little girl, and little sister to Carter. She's also a cancer survivor. Diagnosed with a neuroblastoma just days before Christmas last year, Izzy quickly underwent surgery to remove the large cancerous mass. The doctors removed it all, and one month later, her scans were still clear. Two months after that, clear  again! Things were looking good. Until three months later, just six months after the neuroblastoma was removed, Molly and Kendrick were horrified to hear that the neuroblastoma had returned--this time, surrounding her kidney, doubling her kidney in size, and even more alarmingly, had spread to her bone.  It's back, and this time, it is Stage 4.  


Molly and Kendrick have pursued treatment for Izzy at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, which is approximately 2 hours from their home in the Indy area. Izzy's 15-month treatment plan is about as horrifying as the diagnosis itself.  Six rounds of 5-day doses of chemo, with 2-3 weeks in between. Next is a stem cell harvest, tumor removal, then two more rounds of chemo. Then more chemo, this time with radiation. A stem cell transplant.  More radiation, and finally Immunotherapy chemo. I am told by Molly that the survival rate, even after all of this painful, extensive treatment is 60 percent. Izzy's first round of chemo starts tomorrow. 


Needless to say, Izzy and her family are spinning. They're hurting. They are certainly not looking forward to tomorrow, or the 15 months ahead of them. I am sure they feel like they're holding on by a thread, and want nothing more than to wrap their arms around Izzy and make everything right again. But instead, they are forced to fight. They will fight for Izzy's life through the dark, painful times ahead. And this is a battle they can't fight alone. 


If you're anything like me, you're feeling pretty helpless right now! I want to swoop in and rescue them from all this pain, slay the cancer, dry Molly's tears, and help them get back to the life they knew a few weeks ago. But I can't, and neither can you. So instead, we can fight with them. Give them whatever they need to make it through this, help take care of all of the other seemingly meaningless details of life, so they can focus on Izzy. We can be shoulders to cry on, ears to listen, warriors to pray. We can unite to Fight for Izzy. 


In a few days, while Izzy is undergoing her first round of chemo, I will launch a facebook site that will serve as our way to unite us all. It is OUR page, an open forum where we can announce how we are fighting, where we can call others to action to help the Mattocks family. If you know a need, ask someone to fill it. If you've created a resource for them and need to recruit help, tell us. If you're raising financial support for the family, announce it. Spread the word. We can all help! Even if it's just sharing the page with friends and family who may want to help--you are needed. I believe that we are all united already--united with the desire to help. Let's surround Izzy, Molly, Kendrick, and Carter with our love and support, so much that they will feel wrapped in their Father's arms, and can feel the joy that only He can bring in the darkness ahead. 

(picture courtesy of Molly's facebook page) 

To start us off, Lantern Tree Photography will be donating ALL session fees from the month of August to the Mattocks family. My goal is to raise $1000, but I know we can blow right past this amount! Sign up for a photo session, and I'll tell you how to reserve your spot by paying the session fee DIRECTLY to Molly and Kendrick's account.  Details on available session dates and times will be announced shortly. Thank you for joining me in this fight with the Mattocks family. If you haven't already, please begin thinking of ways you can fill a need, raise money, or create a resource! Use the upcoming facebook page to announce what you're doing. Share this blog post, get the army together. We're all united to be the Lord's hands and feet throughout these next 15 months, so let's get started! 

-Shannon Beaver

Lantern Tree Photography

317.752.9671

www.facebook.com/lanterntree

MaternityLand: Stop Two!

Alright, here we are on the second half of our MaternityLand trip, and we'll be making this stop with another couple near and dear to my heart--none other than my brother and sister-in-law! Ryan and Stephanie are expecting their first child VERY soon--in fact, their due date is tomorrow! I am choosing to calm my excitement and impatience by blogging, rather than pacing and repeatedly calling the two of them to get a baby update like I feel the urge to every single minute of the day! Ha. But enough about how much I want my new niece to hurry up and get here (more on that later!), back to the photos! 

So not long ago, the three of us ventured out to Coxhall Gardens in Carmel for their Maternity Session. We brought along the infamous Lantern Tree Pink Vintage Chair, a fun frame, and of course, our sister, Karie! Karie's unofficial job was to occupy Ryan while Steph and I got down to some posing and shooting business--that is, until we'd beckon Ryan over for a shot or two and then send him on his way again. Stephanie and I had a great time capturing some gorgeous shots of her ridiculously cute baby belly. And then we'd hear a bunch of giddy laughter coming from Karie, which typically meant Ryan was doing something cheesy. Iphone snapshots, Instagram formatting, and Facebook posting ensued, and before I knew it, my sister was attempting to put me out of a job! Man, those iphones can be great little cameras, and my sister has quite the eye for photography to boot. I'll include some of their craziness and iphone shots for you to check out, too.

Now, I'd like to make you a deal: I'll only reveal these photos to you if you all stop reading right now, call my brother and Stephanie, and ask if the baby is coming yet. And when they tell you no, please do not let them hang up until you get some details about the baby's name! No amount of begging or pleading has worked for me so far. Maybe they'll tell you. So go ahead, and good luck!

Yeah, they wouldn't tell me either. Sigh. Thanks for trying. You can also await the arrival of my named-but-you-can't-know-it-yet niece by checking out the fun we had at our maternity shoot! And you can bet your biscuits that we'll have some newborn shots for you soon, too! AHEM. Hopefully VERY soon, little baby. Aunt Shannon's running out of distractions! ;)

Enjoy!

And now for the Instagram Photos: