There is such a variety of ways we can display our portraits in our homes. It is so important to not have them hidden somewhere on a flash drive, but to have them displayed for you to enjoy daily.

If you’re like me... your home is your sanctuary. The place you go to escape the world outside. The place where you spend time with those you love most. The place where you can unwind and just be yourself... YOUR space. It is important to surround yourself with beauty and with things that matter and not clutter.

There are so many benefits to displaying your family portraits on your walls and around your home. Here are a few:

1. Family photos make a statement of what is important to you.

2. They boost your children’s confidence and self value.

3. They tell a story of a place in time.

4. Family photos comfort you.

5. They give a sense of family togetherness.

6. Family portraits become a heirloom that can be passed down.

No matter if you have a small space or large wall, let me help you with some ideas to put together the perfect display in your home to enjoy every day.

1- THE GALLERY WALL

This is probably my favorite way to display photos. Curate the perfect collection of photos and things that inspire you and hang them together for a unique and personal collection. Here are some great options when thinking of putting together your gallery wall:

- Choose an eclectic mix of frames for a fun variety or go with the same frame for a clean look.

- Mix it up with color and b&w for more depth, or just go with all of the same finish for a cohesive feel.

- Put together traditional poses with lifestyle looks, professional images with your own for a more authentic look into your world.

- Mix in quotes, findings and children’s drawings for a more personal touch.

- Create a themed display around a specific color, event or timeline.

- Have fun with your gallery as this is something unique to your family story.

2- SHELF LIFE

Creating a more 3D gallery on your wall with shelves gives you more options to display more items that are important to you. These are a fun way to step out of the ordinary.

Use the same options as the gallery wall but with the option to incorporate more items such as special heirlooms, things from travels, books and other decorative items that cannot be hung. Frames can be leaned against the wall and stacked for a modern look.

3- FLEXIBLE PHOTO DISPLAYS

Utilizing shelves, ledges, pianos and side tables, these are perfect smaller spaces to display your favorite framed photos. These frames can be moved and changed out often as your family changes and you create new memories. Highlighting a recent event or upcoming holiday is easy peasy. You can incorporate decor pieces around your frames to a completed look.

4- GO BIG OR GO HOME

Maximize the impact of one large photo instead of several small ones. There is nothing that says “wow” as much as a huge, bigger than life photo! Choosing just the right image for this space is crucial to its success as it needs to fit the space without over powering it. Choose a bold color that compliments your decor, or go neutral and b&w for a modern artful look.

5- NO ROOM IS OUT OF BOUNDS

That’s what I said! Every space in your home is an opportunity to showcase art... and your portraits ARE art. So think of entryways, hallways, staircases, bedrooms and yes... even the bathroom! (when displaying a portrait in the bathroom, make sure to choose a finish that can withstand moisture such as acrylic or metal prints).

6- SIZE DOESN’T MATTER

When it comes to displaying your family portraits, don’t forget those small spaces. You can get creative with smaller frames or vertical orientations to fit those spaces and make them not feel left out.

7- FAMILY HISTORY GALLERIES

I feel like everyone has that box of old photos handed down from generations. One of my favorite displays I ever did was when I went through all of those old photos and chose some of my grandparents, my parents and my children’s dads family generations, then I had them printed larger and framed. I mixed in photos of my kids, myself as a child and a few recent of us. It was such a wonderful look into the past and reminded us every day of where we came from.

8- DIY & UP-CYCLED FRAMES

If you are thrifty and creative, repurposing and old frame into something new will not only give you the satisfaction of being a super human, but you will know you have something one of a kind to display.

We can always feel good when we can do something good for the planet and re-using something old gives it another life and story. Finding frames and decorating elements in thrift shops and craft stores is your first stop. Have fun with it and if you have kids, get them involved too!

9- SHADOW BOXES AND MEMORY BOXES

This is a wonderful way to highlight a special person or event. Incorporating meaningful momentos and souvenirs then layering them around the photos, you can create an artful collection to display that tells a story. Display the boxes on a shelf or wall.

10- THINK OUTSIDE THE FRAME

Get creative with unconventional ways to display photos.

- Using cork boards with pins or ribbons allows you to create a fun display of photos, findings and momentos.

- Use some string or a wire across a space and use small clothespins or decorative binder clips to hang loose photos. You can layer rows of these along a wall or inside an empty frame for a fun display.

- Clip photos onto a clipboard and hang several together on a wall for something unique.

- Display some of your favorite photos on your fridge.

- Have fun finding unique ways to display your photos for a great conversation starter.

11- ALBUMS AND BOXES

When you don’t have much wall space left, displaying images in albums and folio boxes are a great way to keep all of your favorites in one place to visit often.

Make collections of albums for different milestones, vacations, or timelines in your families life. These can be displayed, guarded with your life or handed down generations if you can give them up.

Albums and boxes are one of the biggest sellers in my studio for the variety and ease of viewing you get.

12- COLLAGES

When wall space is at a minimum, but you want to showcase more images... a collage might just be your solution. Several images are printed in one large print and framed for a still classic look. Perfect solution to optimizing a smaller space.

13- THE DIGITAL APPROACH

When all you have are the digital files, you can still create a display in a digital frame. Collect all of your favorite images, upload and enjoy a constant slideshow.

Modern televisions often allow you to upload images for a slideshow or screen display. Upload your favorites as screensavers on your computers and cellphone wallpaper.

As you can see, there are so many ways to display your photos in your homes and offices. Find what works for your space.

It’s proven that we are happier when we see images of our families, friends and loved ones (present and past) daily.

Don’t just settle for that flash drive. There is no joy in that as it sits in a drawer or photos held up in some folder on your computer.

THE BLOG IS BACK!!! 

And I am so excited to share more amazing stories, inspirations and tid bits with you!!! 

I am going to start off with a little bts of a children's photo session and what goes into planning a successful session with kiddos!! It is my goal to ensure that not only my clients end up with wonderful, timeless images to hang on their walls and enjoy for many years, but it is important for me to make sure that their whole experience with me is seamless, stress free and fun.

And that all starts with helping to educate and prepare the clients for their session so much that on the day of the session, they can just show up knowing I will take care of the rest!

Here is how we get there!

I chat with my clients by phone, zoom or in person about their vision for the session. What style and vibe they are looking for.

Will it be more traditional or more casual and fun?

Who will be in the portraits... family, kids, pets.

I get an idea of where they will display the portraits so we can talk about decor colors. It's important that the images match the style of the room where they will be displayed.

We talk about locations. Studio, home, parks or other locations that will match the vibe they are going for.

I get an idea of each of the kids that will be photographed, their personalities and anything I should know about each. That information helps me know if they are shy, or outgoing, silly or quiet so I can tailor the session to them.

Then comes my work of choosing backdrops, floors and clothing suggestions. For the clothing, sometimes clients have the right outfits and sometimes they need more guidance. I put together some inspiration outfits and sources so they can get them together before the session. 

In this case... we are going for a muted color palette of greens and creams. The vibe is modern industrial yet classic. This is the backdrop set up and clothing suggestions I gave for the 3 kids.

Session day is the fun day!!

I LOVE working with kids... maybe because I am just a big one myself. 

First thing I do is invite them in and get comfortable. I make sure they grab something to drink if they want, hang up any clothes and get relaxed. 

I take a moment to get down and chat with the kids. It's important that they get to know me a little so I can gain their trust. It's usually not long before they are giggling and jumping around. The shy ones take a little longer but I allow time for that.

I chat with mom about the clothing and she starts getting them dressed. I like to have the backdrop and lights all set up and ready to go, so I can give all my attention to my clients.

If the whole family is going to be in the photos... I will start with that so the kids get used to the lights... and me. Then I start to breakdown the group to all kids, then singles of each. I like to make sure kids are having fun and being themselves. If that means mom & dad have to hide so I can get their personalities out.. then that's what I do.

The important thing here is to capture your family or the kids as they are now... so that when they change, you have these memories for life. I don't force them to be what they are not. If they are quiet... I love a soft expression that shows that. If they are silly... then giggling photos are perfect. The only expectation I have, is that they are to be themselves. Once parents understand that I don't expect kids to be perfect... then they are allowed to relax too.

And I don't stop until I KNOW I have captured it all! 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Kids change so darn fast.

It is so important to take and save photos and videos of them often... we live with a camera in our hands called a cellphone. There is no reason not to document their lives and growing up. It's also important to download those photos from your phones and organize them in an online storage such as dropbox so that you can have them safe for anytime you want to access them. Those photos and videos will be more priceless the older they get.

And every year or two... think about hiring a professional to really capture those high quality moments. I don't think anyone has ever said they regretted taking portraits of their kids and family.... but I HAVE heard people regret NOT doing it.

You know where to find me when it's time!

xo
annie

It was all about the animals!

I was honored and thrilled to be chosen as a speaker a few weeks ago at The Animal Image Makers Conference. It is a national specialty conference for animal photographers started by a local photographer friend. This year unfortunately had to be virtual but that did not stop them and their crew from putting together the most amazing experience for their attendees. It was fun to be "behind" the scenes and watch the conference unfold.

The miles and miles of cables and cords were mind blowing. There was a plethora of tv screens and monitors in each of the 3 uniquely designed sets. My hats off and standing ovation for Lisa and her amazing crew for creating this amazing experience for so many. 

My program was all about creating fine art images with your pets. Talking about how to level up your images and adding that storytelling and painterly look to your portraits. I talked about how to get inspirations, styling sessions, working with clients and pets, session prep, equipment, lighting and then I did an actual live shoot. I invited the lovely Mackenzie and her dog Koda to join me for a live shoot. I had worked with her several years ago for her senior photos and she came in a few months ago so we could capture some images in preparation for this presentation. It was fun having them there for my program so I could show first hand some of the tips of an actual session.

Another fun addition to speaking about my craft was their image awards competition. I was blown away at all the amazing images entered from all over the nation (and probably world) It made me want to go on a safari and go bird watching. They were incredible.

I was honored to have 3 images place in the top ten of the "animals with their people" category. You may recognize Mackenzie and Koda

Ok.  So I will be the first to admit that I am horrible about blogging.  I always WANT to.  Does that count?

Well I know it doesn't.  I won't make excuses other than I don't take the time.  I keep myself too busy keeping up with my clients and my business and when I do have a few moments to spare... the computer is the last place I want to be.  I want to be with my family, or outdoors, or reading a good book...  you get the point.  Not that I don't love you...  but hopefully you are busy doing those things too!

But once in a while...  I DO want to catch you up on what's happening in my world...  so here goes!

You would think this year would seem like it has gone on forever...  but I feel like it has flown by!  This pandemic has certainly thrown the world for a loop.  Stepping into such a scary unknown was a challenge.  People either went down a path of fear and concentrating on what they were missing while others decided to be positive and thinking what we were gaining and being proactive in getting through it.  Me?  I am an optimist and chose to have a positive outlook on it all and look for the good things.  Obviously keeping safe was number one.  Covid aside...  I actually had one of the best years with my business.  I cannot complain.  Here are some of the highlights:

In March, I rolled out my FAB50 Campaign (link here) to photograph 50 women over the age of 50.  I realized that our demographic often gets overlooked and pigeon holed in society for being irrelevant.  Well I am here to tell you that we are NOT.  We are strong, sexy and fabulous!  I wanted to celebrate us by photographing these women who all deserve it and in the end, celebrate with a fun gallery display to share with everyone who loves and supports us.  I had an overwhelming response and had over 40 women sign up from the start.  I had over 20 sessions already booked complete with hair & make up when BOOM... shut down.  So I had to postpone everyone till after my summer senior season in the fall.  By the time I was going to start rebooking everyone... the numbers started going up again and I decided that we will wait until next year to resume.  Everyones safety is my number one priority... and we are only getting better with age... so it's all good!

I had a very busy summer with some of the most amazing high school seniors!  My calendar filled up and I enjoyed every session.  We didn't let Covid stop us! Luckily most of these sessions are outdoors so the distancing thing wasn't really an issue.  But these kids are going through so much this year losing most of the best part of their senior year... so I wanted these sessions to be fun and to create some amazing images for them.  I am honored to be a part of their senior year!

2020 awards & competition season has come to a close and I have to tell you... I am SO honored to have won several great titles and awards.  I have worked very hard the past few years to start creating more artful images (link here) and to really grow as an artist.  I feel I have so far to go...  but I have a great start.  Thank you to all of my clients and models who helped me gain these accomplishments by letting me photograph you and try out my crazy ideas.

Here is my 2020 awards & accomplishments

JANUARY 2020

The Portrait Masters (international awards and accreditation)

Received 3 silver awards

Earned my Masters

FEBRUARY 2020

SYNC (Senior & Youth National Conference)

Photographer of the Year

1st Place Senior Girl/Studio Image

1st Place Senior Guy/Location Image

JULY 2020

THE PORTRAIT MASTERS (international awards & accreditation)

10 Silvers

OCTOBER 2020

THE RISE PHOTO AWARDS (international)

Peoples Choice Award

7 Silvers

DECEMBER 2020

TCPPA (Twin Cities Professional Photographers Association)

Photographer of the Year (non master)

Senior Photographer of the Year

Beauty/Boudoir Photographer of the Year

Pet Photographer of the Year

2 Judges Choice Awards

MN Top 10 Photographer

As if that all wasn't exciting enough, I had several images appear in national and international magazines:

SHUTTER MAGAZINE - January, April, September, October, December

SENIOR YEAR MAGAZINE - Best of the year

SENIOR STYLE GUIDE - Hot 100

SENIOR INSPIRE MAGAZINE

MODERN TEEN STYLE - 25 Most Influential Teen Photographers

TEEN YEARS MAGAZINE

SENIOR SZN MAGAZINE



Oh... and I have a new grandson! Being a grandma to these two cuties is the best ever!

I don't think it can get any better than that!

I wish you all a wonderful and safe holiday season! I hope you enjoy whomever you get to spend the holidays with. I wish you many blessings for the new year and lets rock 2021!

xo

annie

Oh, how I love this post every year!!!

This is when I get to honor these babies I photographed what seemed like yesterday and with a blink of the eye... they turned into seniors! They are now wonderful young ladies and men and ready to go out into the world. Some of them I got to photograph almost every year and watch grow up... some of them went into hiding for several years and came out a new person... but either way... I feel blessed to have gotten to work with them for their senior photos.

I always hope this is not the end of the road with these kids. Their families have become like my family. Maybe I will be here long enough to photograph their kids senior photos one day! You just never know!

I wish the best for you all in your life's adventures. May they be many!

xo

annie