This week after I dropped my kids off at school I had my usual coffee break at Starbucks. It is always fun to catch up with my friends for a few minutes after the hustle bustle of the morning rush.
The main topic of conversation was on holiday photo cards. If you live in LA or Orange County you must connect with our family portrait photographer Karen Ard.
If not for the upcoming holidays then be sure to bookmark her for Valentine’s Day, engagement shoots, weddings, Mitzvahs, portraits, head shots…or any thing at all!
*All of the photographs in this post are © Karen Ard Photography
I was very happy with the head shots Karen took and now I use them all over the web!
Always bring a few outfits so you can play around with colors and looks…
There are a few things you need to look for when choosing a photographer to shoot your event, headshot or family portraits.
You have to bond on many levels.
This is a fun…
Unique…
Smily…
Bright eyed…
Playful…
And often whiny experience.
… I’ll keep those images for myself.
When dealing with little kids there can be challenging moments. Also very sweet, touching ones.
That is why you need a photographer like Karen who had lots of patience and her own unique ways to re-direct their focus.
Here is a simple checklist for you. Make sure your photographer hits the marks on all of these details.
Karen Ard was a definite YES for me on all:
- Talent: Do you love the overall image quality + talent of the photographers portfolio?
- Personality: Find someone you can connect easily with. It will make your portraits much more fun and easy going.
- Communication: Does the photographer get back to you in a timely manner? Are the emails and phone conversations friendly and easy?
- Timing: Can you get your photos when you really need them. Delivery dates are important.
- Style: Does the photographer share your similar take on style, design and photo composition.
- Cost: Can you afford the sitting fee and the photos you wish to use?
- Location: Can the photographer provide studio & location ideas or work within the parameters of yours?
Are you looking to update your profile photos or family portraits?
I suggest you give Karen a call. She is filled with enthusiasm and passion for photography and life!
If I could take her with us on every single family vacation to capture the memories I would.
Ahhhh a girl can dream.
Karen Ard | Find Her Here
I so want to use her! Wow – everything you just wrote about her, the key points at the end – the definite Yes’es…and then the images themselves are stunning!! Marla these are some of the best portraits I’ve ever seen of your gorgeous family – she captured you all beautifully! And the headshot of you in the red print blouse is probably the best pic I’ve ever seen of you. GORGEOUS!!! You and Karen make a great team 🙂
Averie, thanks so much for all of your sweet compliments!! I hope you also get to work with Karen someday. You would love her 🙂
Such an amazing post. I love seeing you all. The pictures are wonderful and you all are so gorgeous and handsome! Candy for the eyes. Makes my heart happy! Great tips, love that too! xxoo, Andrea
Thanks so much Andrea. “Candy for the eyes?!” Love that + love you girl!! XO
These are absolutely beautiful. I so wish we were down there so I could use her!
Heather ~ your family would have so much fun with Karen. Maybe one day 🙂
gorgeous family, Marla!
Gorgeous photos!
Such beautiful family photos!
Great shots! I will have to check them out!