Maternity Focused Studio Sessions

A studio photo session has several advantages over an outdoor photo shoot for your maternity photoshoot.

One of the main advantages of a studio photo session is that it allows for complete control over the lighting and environment. In a studio, I have the ability to create the exact lighting conditions that we want, which can be crucial for achieving the desired look and feel of the photos.

Another advantage of a studio photo session is that it allows for greater flexibility when it comes to props and backdrops. In a studio, I have access to a wide range of backgrounds and props, which can be used to create a variety of different looks and moods. This is especially useful for styled sessions with a theme or specific outcome in mind.

Additionally, a studio photo session can be more comfortable and convenient for the mother-to-be. In a studio, the temperature and lighting can be easily adjusted to suit the preferences of each client, making for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience. In Colorado, a studio session is a wonderful option during summer and winter months. In summer while you are pregnant, warmer temperatures may be difficult for you. Also in winter months, Colorado may offer beautiful snowy views but there can also be nothing but brown, a studio session offers a gorgeous set with various options, as well as keeping you out of the wind and cold.

And one of the best reasons for a studio session is the ability to create a cohesive look between a newborn and maternity session. Similar colors can be used, as well as having the same background and furniture available. Indoor newborn sessions are the best option to keep baby safe and comfortable as well as have the time to be flexible to attend to baby’s needs.

A studio session is a wonderful option for your maternity photoshoot for a wide variety of reasons. And don’t worry, you will still receive a wide variety of images to choose from! You can also have the best of both worlds in my Epic Package, where you will receive 2 sessions to create your full gallery - one studio and one outdoors.

Winter Mini-Sessions 2022

Limited Edition Winter Mini Sessions are here for 2022! Come on down to the studio for some cozy photos. After your 20-minute photo session enjoy your complimentary hot cocoa bomb from Alire Modern Bakehouse.

Two packages to choose from, each with digital images and photo gift options.

Why a studio maternity session?

Congratulations on your pregnancy and how exciting that you are looking to document your pregnancy with a maternity session! Maternity sessions easily fall into two main categories - outdoor and studio. Let’s dive into a studio session!

First of all, a studio session just means that your photoshoot will be happening indoors. A studio can be defined in many ways and not all studios are the same. Some photo studios are “natural light” studios which means that the majority of the light available for a session is provided by sunlight coming in from large windows. Natural light studios may also use reflectors and v-flats to direct light towards a subject. A photography studio may also use strobes, flashes, and other constant lighting to create light for a photoshoot. All options create beautiful results. If you are curious what kind of light a studio/ photographer offers, just ask!

This image was taken with studio lighting on a black paper backdrop.

This image was taken in a natural light studio on a fully styled set.

A studio session for maternity is a great option. Some benefits to consider are:

• Privacy! A studio session offers much more privacy than a typical outdoor session. A photographer and client can control who else is in the space. This is beneficial for reasons like modesty and comfort. Shooting a boudoir style maternity session is a wonderful option, so choosing nude, or implied nude, styling is usually a better fit in a studio setting. Also wardrobe options such as sheer mesh or lace gowns may be more comfortably worn indoors.

• Weather! Shooting indoors means you won’t need to reschedule because it decided to rain, or the clouds blocked the golden hour light you were hoping for. The temperature is easily adjustable, which in Colorado can be a huge bonus for women who are due in the winter months.

• Set Design! While Mother Nature has some spectacular options, it sometimes isn’t feasible to design the perfect set outdoors. Studio maternity can include chairs, couches, or beds. Photographers can also design more elaborate sets that include florals, chandeliers, or glitter.

• Simplicity! Shooting your photos in a studio is perfect for simple, classic, and clean photos. Backdrops can be a solid color, or at the very least, less busy than even the most basic outdoor option. A clean paper or muslin backdrop in white or black is a timeless and classic choice for photos. And simple doesn’t mean boring. Posing and wardrobe can bring a lot to a simple backdrop, your gallery of images will still have a lot of variety.

So as you can see, studio sessions still provide a wide variety of options and all of them are beautiful! If a studio session is something you are interested in for your own maternity or motherhood portrait session, my Signature or Epic Sessions would be a perfect fit. Please reach out via my contact page with any questions or to start booking your date.

Sarah

3 reasons why cheaper isn't always better... when hiring a photographer

Hear me out! Cheaper doesn't always mean it's a deal! I have been seeing so many inexpensive sessions and sites like Snappr in my feed lately. Don't get me wrong, I price compare and look for deals all the time. But you may think that you are getting a deal for $150 session with all the digitals... but be sure to look, double check, and consider some things before snagging that "great buy". This post isn’t about photographers making a living wage or making more money. Photographers are available in every budget, as they should be. People shouldn’t be priced out of photo sessions but please be a smart consumer!

Having a budget is key when looking for any service, however a low price doesn't always equate to value. Consider what you get for your price point. Look beyond "digitals" when comparing photographers and their rates and packages. Be sure you really look at a photographer's portfolio. Is it consistent? Ask to see a full session... all the digitals can include 15 of the same pose with not much changing between shots. Is their editing consistent? Are they giving each image in both color and black & white? This might be an unpopular opinion, but getting 100 images from a portrait session is just overkill.

Do you want prints of any kind? Yes, mpix and Walmart offer prints for pennies. But how long is your to-do list? Have someone else do the ordering! Your time is valuable too! You are a busy woman, let your photographer handle some of those little details. Those include ordering the prints, designing the photo album and announcements, and selecting wardrobe. A full-service photographer takes items off of your plate so that you have more time to tackle your own to-do list. What are you going to wear? Dropping money on new clothes is fun but just added to the price tag of that inexpensive session. Finding a photographer that offers things like a wardrobe may save you money in the long run.

Modern photography isn't just about the digitals. Taking photos has become easy and an everyday occurrence. Cell phones and entry level digital cameras have made photography easy, fun, and accessible. But professional photography is about an experience, creating those treasured family heirlooms and memories. Those experiences run a wide range. Creating keepsakes and capturing memories should be available to everyone. I encourage you to be an educated consumer… know what your photographer offers, and by extension what they don’t.

But at the end of the day, make those memories. Life is short and seems to go by quickly. I blinked and my daughter is 7, I am no longer the new employee, my parents are in their 70s - when did all of these things happen? So whether you choose to take out your phone and snap a couple of quick pics or choose to find a professional photographer and create an heirloom album - make those memories last a little bit longer in a photograph.

Sarah

Starting a client closet (for less than $500)!

Congratulations!

This step of creating a client closet is so fun and exciting for you and your clients. Welcome to the club. I have had a client closet for about 5 years now and am excited to share my knowledge and ideas with you. Let’s get started!

In this post I am going to share some ideas on starting your client closet with wardrobe from Belly Baby Wear. Ana Brandt is the owner and designer for this line of maternity clothing and is the OG when it comes to outfitting her clients in stunning gowns, fabrics, and designs. I am going to share 4 basic pieces that will kickstart your client closet and allow you to get the most bang for your buck. And we will end with a bonus to consider depending on your budget.

Having a bodysuit in your closet is a must. Whether you are shooting in studio or outdoors, a bodysuit is a staple for a reason. Especially a black bodysuit such as this Marnie style. This can be worn on its own, as seen here, for a simple yet stunning result. This bodysuit can also be paired with a skirt, tutu, draping/ tossing fabric, or even jeans. The possibilities are endless. This option is $85.

Bodysuits also come in a wide variety of styles and colors so be sure to take a look at options that best fit your needs and style.

Gown #2 - this style of gown is a classic for a reason. The body-hugging design is flattering on a wide range of clients and shows off the bump to perfection. The off the shoulder sleeves and sweetheart neckline are beautiful and versatile. Having sleeves is a win for me in the cold fall and winter seasons in Colorado but I also find that a large number of my clients prefer to cover their arms. Sleeves also provide protection from the sun and bugs!

This Endearing Mama gown comes in a variety of colors. You could select a beautiful neutral like black or white or go with a pop of color like this gold (which has been popular with clients consistently). This gown is $110.

While some mamas love the body hugging styles, others prefer the empire flowing style seen here. These styles of gowns flare out from under the bust line and generally have a circle skirt. This particular gown has slits in the sleeves and one in the skirt. These add visual interest and variety in posing but can easily be hidden during posing if needed. Some gowns in this style open over the belly but can be kept closed with your client’s hands if they prefer. The flowy gown is perfect for more modest mamas but regardless, the results with this style of gown are just as beautiful. Your client can pull the fabric over the bump or can toss it for fun images to have in their final gallery. This Lolita gown is $175.

Gown #4 - this is the last building block for your starter client closet. I recommend adding a statement piece to your wardrobe options. This can be interpreted a couple of different ways. This stunning gown from Belly Baby Wear features a gorgeous red color and one shoulder style top. Another interpretation of a statement piece could be with the style of your gown. You might select a gown with extended sleeves or a tossing train. Something that when seen a perspective client says “WOW!” and wants to book a session. Be sure to pick something that blends with your style yet is something unique to you. This Lady gown is $150.

So there you have my recommendations for your client closet starter pack. If you have been keeping track of prices, your total would be $520. But Sarah, you said this was for under $500, what’s the deal? Yes, retail cost is over $500 - but if you join my exclusive Facebook group I have a coupon for you to bring your total to $442!!! Bam - a stunning client closet perfect for studio or outdoor images for less than $500.

And I did promise a BONUS gown… this one is a stunner!

Here is my bonus - get a must-have, fairy-tale, over-the-top gown. Something that is unique in your area - that only you can offer. This Jazmine II gown fits the bill perfectly. This gorgeous two-piece gown features beading on the gown as well as the detachable train. The soft mauve color compliments every mama. It is the gown that leaves clients dreaming of what they would look like in this gown. Other ideas might include a sequined gown or one with layers of lace. You might select a gown with tulle and ruffles. Comment below with what your MUST-HAVE gown would be! This gown from BellyBabyWear is $490.

Some links on this page are affiliate links and I may make a small commission, this does not affect your cost.

Moments of Motherhood: Generations

Moments make memories, isn’t that the understanding? I am going to reframe and say that intentional moments make memories. And sometimes we have to make some time to do that. I remember my grandparents 50th wedding anniversary. It was a big celebration. My family flew to Minnesota that October and celebrated with the whole family. Someone had the idea of a large family photo session. We chose one of their favorite places, set a dress code, and made the plans. I still remember it was a cold, overcast day and we we struggling a bit as such a large group. But once we got started we walked around, reminisced and shared stories, and enjoyed the time together. Childhood pictures were recreated with my mom and her siblings and laughter was present. It has been 21 years since those photos were taken and I treasure the intentional time we made to make those memories. And the best part, we captured the essence of that day in photographs. Those prints have been shared over the years and I am so glad we have them. As time has passed and the generations have shifted, I continue to be reminded over the years how important it is to capture these moments. The generational torch has been passed, so to speak, and now my mom is the grandmother and I am a mother.

It is memories and experiences like that example that remind me that in these busy lives we lead, we do need to be intentional sometimes about making memories. And if that intentionality means hiring a photographer and setting up a photo session, I am here for it! And if it just happens that a photo session provides that, please take advantage of the time.

I had an opportunity recently with one of my lovely clients. I had a blast with her during her maternity session and her newborn session was so touching. I reached out to her when I had a custom gown made to see if she would be interested in a mommy & me session. As our date approached she asked if her mom could be included in some of the sets. Yes please! All 3 generations arrived and it was such a pleasure seeing them all together. My client as mom and daughter, her mom as mother and grandmother, and baby as daughter and granddaughter. Each bond so special.

Both women were styled using elements from the SHP Client Closet. Mom is wearing an Eternity gown in Mocha from Chicaboo with a coordinating sweater from ThredUp to add some texture. Grandmother is wearing a custom gown from Picture Perfect Bowtique with a belt.

Did they all take pictures during her visit? I am sure they did. Did they capture memories and moments? I am sure they did. But there is something about the intentionality of a professional photo session that adds that special element. And everyone got to be in the moment, no one was running around trying to capture and be included. I hope they look back on these images and remember the moments, the connection, and the time they spent together. And that over the years they recreate some of these and make new memories. I know each generation will value these images in their own special way.

And that is why I include “generations” as a moment of motherhood. Women fill so many roles within their lifetime and each role holds unique and powerful elements. To create memories in those roles is so special. I know I look back at the photos of my grandparents wedding anniversary and am able to connect with my role as granddaughter, daughter, sister, niece, and cousin.

If you are interested in a generational session, let’s chat! Feel free to contact me via website or social media. I would love to help you set aside some intentional time to make some memories with your family.

Yours behind the lens,

Sarah w/ Seen & Hurd Photography

A little editing magic.

Shhh… don’t tell my dress designer friends this, but I don’t have a gown in every color! Wait, what? Yep, while I love having options and do have a wide variety of gowns in a rainbow of colors, it is not financial practical to have every gown in multiple colors. So what is a photographer to do?

Change the Color!!!

Do you remember the scene in the Wizard of Oz at the Emerald City with the Horse of a Different Color? When the horse changes from red to green to purple? Well, I do the same thing! Through a bit of editing magic, changing the color of a gown is totally an option!

Which is the original color of the gown? The yellow gold on the left or the mauve pink on the right?

The original wine color of the gown is on the far left, but royal blue, dark green, and burgundy are also an option!

I love this gown but peach isn’t always a client favorite… but blue was her favorite!

This gown by @MissMadisonCouture is a favorite. I love the skirt!!! But when the client tells you while shooting that she is into all things pink and is expecting a baby girl… pink it is!

So… why is this a big deal? I love being able to give clients what they want! The first image with the gold and pink options? The gown is pink, and many love the style. But the mama had done family photos before her pregnancy with the family in navy and gold, she wanted to include a maternity photo on her family gallery wall. So we were able to make it blend into her existing décor. Gowns are also an investment, average around $200 each. While I love investing in options for clients, as much as I would love to have both the green and pink versions of the last gown, when I can make the adjustment digitally, I don’t have to have both in my closet.

During a client consultation, while we do discuss colors, I also ask clients to look at the silhouette and style of gowns. While I can’t guarantee a specific hue, and some colors change to others easier, we can plan for a color change before the session. It also adds variety in a gallery without having to put on yet another gown during the session itself.

The gist?

• Knowing the editing skills of your photographer is important! Not every photographer can do this.

• You can select gowns based on style and not color.

• Don’t be afraid of trying something new or asking for something different!

Yours behind the lens,

Sarah

My Covid-19 Newborn Session

Little did I think this is where we would be at the beginning of May at the onset of 2020. Nearing the end of stay-at-home orders as a deadly little virus with foreign RNA decimates the world as we knew it a few short months ago. My life as a photographer has been very different being a non-essential business, and I am grateful that I had my full time job as an educator during this economic crisis. However, my creative outlet was essentially shut down, and I also struggled with a need to create. And I had a handful of clients that I desperately wanted to create something for. I had a cake smash and a newborn session scheduled right as things hit the fan at the end of March. These were milestones that couldn’t really be recreated in the same way. Mamas approach that first birthday with so many bittersweet feelings and it was heartbreaking to send the message that we couldn’t celebrate that milestone on the day. And the newborn session… those first weeks are so fleeting and they change so fast. I knew we had to try to do something to capture those or they would be lost. I know that when orders lift and we can shoot again, both of these clients are going to get the full SHP experience and love the images and memories we captured, but I also know it’s not going to be quite the same.

I first talked with Trianna and Erin when they reached out last year inquiring about a maternity session for their first pregnancy with baby Dexter. It was not to be, and their sweet boy went on with his angel wings. I was so happy to hear that they were pregnant again and wanted to capture this moment and honor their angel baby as well. We met for two amazing maternity sessions and it was such a pleasure getting to know them. When they selected their maternity images they excitedly showed me their nursery of hand-painted butterflies and we planned their newborn session.

I went back and forth for days when I saw that the stay-at-home order was coming and that pregnant women and newborns were on the list as highly vulnerable to the virus. With a heavy heart, we all decided it was for the best to wait. Little miss AdaJane came into the world her own way and into a time that we didn’t have to consider when planning for her arrival just weeks before. Trianna and Erin handled the changes with grace and strength, I am always in awe of motherhood. They even tolerated their photographer butting in and offering ideas and ways to capture those first days. Trianna was a trooper and captured some super cute memories in their first few days home. We became a team and this collaboration brought a smile to my face. She would send me images and I would do some editing.

I had provided some ideas and suggestions to try… take pictures through the rails of her crib and wrap tight.

The three of them did a great job, but my photographer heart really wanted them to have that one, showstopper piece of artwork. We agreed to meet for a quick hand-off of outfits, headbands, and other props. All were clean, disinfected, and no touching occurred. I was dying for baby snuggles, because hey, they are a perk of newborn sessions. Trianna sent me another round of images and there was one that was perfect for a vision I had.

I knew a couple of things about my client at this point… butterfly nursery, rainbow baby, and loved pretty florals and colors. I went searching for digital backgrounds and fell in love with several from Luisa Dunn Photography. And when I found the rainbow butterfly I was ecstatic. I was able to create a digital portrait using the image from Trianna, taken safely at their home, and the backdrop I had found.

I was able to use my editing and photoshop knowledge to create a couple of options for them. I did a fine art style, a watercolor style, and then some black and white options. Usually my newborn clients have about 25-30 images to select from but this was a different session all together. I was pleased could create one and was so happy that Trianna and Erin loved it as well.

Which style do you prefer? Fine Art on the left and Watercolor on the right.

While this was not the newborn session we had all planned for and envisioned, I was content that we were all able to find a way to safely capture these first few weeks of little Miss AdaJane being earth-side. I cannot wait to see their final canvas hanging in their house the next time I see them. I know that the album we put together that includes their maternity sessions, some of their newborn images, this composite, and their first family session once we can safely shoot together again, will be beautiful. The album, and these memories, will be something treasured and shared with friends and family for years to come.

As a global community, we are in an uncertain time and I know that photography sessions and keepsakes might be something that will be considered a luxury. I hope that memories and keepsakes are something that as humans, we consider essential, however those get captured. Stay tuned for an update on Evan’s Cake Smash and 1st Birthday Celebration!

A little bit about my basic photo editing process...

I have a confession to make - I love to edit! Some photographers choose to outsource their editing to other editors but I actually like the process of editing. Way back when I was a teenager using a darkroom to develop film and prints, I learned out to edit using tools - the old school dodge and burn method of blocking and focusing light with timers and cardboard cutouts. And it was fun to see that little bit of magic take place. But it was a lot of trial and error, as well as time consuming. I much prefer the current ways of digital editing - to me there is still that magic taking place but much more efficiently and creatively!

For the last several years, the majority of my editing takes place in Photoshop Elements. I do use other Adobe Photoshop programs but I just prefer the set-up and tools in Elements. I have taken a few online classes but am mostly self-taught. I began with actions - which are preprogrammed files that automate all of the steps you need to take, so that you can add the effect with just a few clicks. It helps with consistency and also speeds up the editing process. Over time however I have learned to modify those action files and have moved towards more hand editing where I control the individual steps. Both are good sets of skills for a photographer to have in their arsenal.

For my basic edits - I don’t usually have to do much. It is really me bringing to life what I saw when I looked through my lens. Adding light, softening harsh lines, fixing flyaway hair, and smoothing out the gowns.

Before on the left and final edited image on the right… don’t you just love this skirt?!?!?

Before on the left and final edited image on the right… I loved this light blue gown in the snow and she was just stunning!

Rainbows after the storm...

Capturing memories of your pregnancy is always a special moment, but when I get to capture a rainbow session, it is doubly special. A rainbow baby is a baby that comes after a miscarriage or infant loss. All of life is precious and should be celebrated, but there is something about a rainbow session that is just a touch bittersweet. I feel like I get to celebrate three lives in my mama images - mama, the baby waiting to make its arrival, and the sweet angel baby as well. My own daughter is a rainbow baby, I had a miscarriage just 2 days after we had positive pregnancy test. It was a devastating event and an emotional pain I wish I could take away for every mother who has experienced a loss. My niece and nephew are also rainbow babies. So between my personal experiences with loss, as well as empathy for others in the same situation, I always strive to make rainbow sessions extra special.

There are several ways that I have incorporated rainbows into sessions. One of those is with fabric. I have a few options that I use, and sometimes even my clients bring a little rainbow with them. The left image uses several pieces of tulle while the right image incorporates a rainbow baby wrap that mama will use in her newborn session.

Another fun way for me to add rainbows is during post processing. I love editing, almost as much as taking the actual photo. This is where I love the digital in digital photography. It allows me to be creative, express emotion, and add little details. In these photos I added a subtle rainbow effect around mama and in the other image I added a rainbow effect to the bottom of her white gown. If we want to add effects such as the effect on the gown, it is best to think about that during the consultation and wardrobe selection. Some colors and styles of gowns work better for these effects than others.

Any of these are options to consider as you think about your rainbow session. We can also add effects, fabric, and favorite colors to other maternity sessions. Ask me about effects at our consultation! I am excited to create and design your session and make your images a special tribute to your motherhood journey.

Yours behind the lens,

Sarah

Gowns in this post are from Picture Perfect Bowtique (Red Kelly - click here for their Partner Spotlight), Miss Madison Couture (Black Blake and Hunter Trinity - click here for their Partner Spotlight, and Sew Trendy Accessories (White Carmelle - click here for a 20% off coupon for their site). All gowns pictured are available in my client closet, which can be seen here.

I felt like a princess!

“My older daughter and I definitely felt like a princess and queen in the gorgeous gowns that we got to wear and the crowns that went with them.” -Megan

I love this quote from a client! It makes me so excited when I read things like this because of what I offer to those who work with me. When thinking about how I wanted to structure my photography sessions and what I wanted to include, a client closet was at the top of the list. Especially for my maternity clients and mamas. I know how hard it is to fit the bump towards the end of pregnancy, as well as finding the perfect coordinating outfits for the family. It can be stressful and a mama can end up feeling defeated, unattractive, or just plain frazzled. That won’t make for a fun session with beautiful images they will treasure.

Offering a client closet has had its own unique rewards and challenges since I added it to my sessions a little over a year ago. I have a weakness for pretty clothes and I love having an excuse to buy gorgeous gowns, accessories, hats, and jewelry on a regular basis. I have even been known to snag something to wear to work (no, not a gown!). But a challenge I often run into is the perceived value and price objections I encounter. Maintaining a client closet is an investment in my clients - and one that I do not take lightly. I only order gowns from women-owned companies that have impeccable records for quality. I do not order gowns that are knock-offs from China. I want the highest quality design, fabric, and construction for my clients. I value intellectual property and a product that will last. Does this investment make my sessions more expensive than other photographers? Yes, in some cases. But I hope that clients see the value in the experience and outcome that I offer.

With that said, I would like to share what a client gets from this experience I offer. In a typical session that utilizes my closet, a client will wear between 2 and 4 gowns and 2 to 4 accessories such as floral crowns, wraps, or a jewelry piece. The goal is to truly feel like a princess - beautiful, unique, empowered, and special. All a client needs to do is be present, extend a little bit of trust, and have a fabulous time. Because who doesn’t love to play dress up? I guide all of my clients through the process from the time we sign a contract to the time we depart the parking lot after the final shots are taken.

I love offering this full experience to the gorgeous women, girls, and families that choose to work with me. I have clothing options that start at 6 months old and go through a full range of sizes for young women and adults from size 2 to 22. I love trying new trends and highlighting the beauty of each and every woman who gets in front of my lens. This is my way of making sure that each person feels truly and deeply seen during a session with Seen & Hurd Photography.

Yours behind the lens, Sarah

Sew Trendy Coupon Code - 20% off your purchase

Sweet & Simple Session - Explained!

What is a Sweet & Simple Session? I am so glad you asked! In these sessions, I set out to capture a set of meaningful images of family. The beautiful connections between mothers, daughters, fathers, sons, siblings, spouses. At the end of the day, that connection is just sweet & simple - no fluff, fanfare, or crazy props. It is the love that we carry with us throughout each day, that keeps us going during the tough times and what we rejoice in during the happy times.

Whether you are choosing a Sweet & Simple Session to highlight your family, your children, or your journey into motherhood, the outcome is the same. You will have a series of beautiful, cohesive images to select from. These images can then be shared in a beautiful heirloom album, a keepsake box to highlight your favorite memories, or a stunning piece of statement wall art to highlight the awesome memories made during your session. Remember that with Seen & Hurd Photography, you only purchase the images that you want, you aren’t stuck picking 10 because that it what you pre-paid for. Our full service studio doesn’t end with an email link to a gallery. Each session experience ends will hand-delivered, custom art that will be cherished for years to come.

“I had no idea what I was doing when I met with Sarah to order prints. She had amazing suggestions on what prints to do, and how to format them. After ordering them I was beyond thrilled with the results. The images were stunning and on a good quality paper but the metal prints and ornaments are complimented on every time we have a guest in our home. Worth every penny!”

— Brittany (client)

Some details to consider. These sessions are usually a bit shorter than an average session, about 35-45 minutes, but if we need to shoot longer that is fine as well. Since we are trying to capture the connections and love in your family, the session is spent laughing, playing, and snuggling with those you hold dear. My client closet is also available during these sessions. This option can help to reduce stress about finding that perfect outfit or provide an opportunity to wear something unique and out of the ordinary. Usually clients will choose 1 gown or outfit but change the look with a variety of accessories.

“It was so wonderful to have her bring us dresses and outfits so that we didn’t have to try and find/coordinate outfits. I felt like a queen wearing my gown, while my daughter felt like a princess. ”

— Megan (client)

A Sweet & Simple Session fee is $250 and includes a $50 keepsake credit to apply to your art/ print order. And remember if you book your session before the end of May 2019, you will receive a complimentary gift with your print order.

I am so excited to see what we create together! Click the button below to get started with your session!

Colorado Winter Wedding: Nicholas & Catherine

A few weeks ago I had the absolute pleasure of photographing a beautiful late winter wedding in Westminster, Colorado. Nick and Caytie are such a fun couple and this relaxed yet sophisticated wedding highlighted the love they have for one another.

When capturing a wedding day I try to keep several things in mind as I know how fast the day goes by! Wedding days are such a blur when you look back on them. Preserving memories and moments is not a responsibility I shoulder lightly. I know that the images and moments that I freeze in time will be treasured and viewed for years and possibly generations to come.

One of the ways that I get to know you as a couple is through a photography session with clients before the big day. This might be an engagement session, couples session, or a boudoir session with the bride. This allows me to get to know clients as well as for clients to get to know me! It makes photographing the big day much more relaxed. Caytie and Nick selected a couples session before Nick left for Navy boot camp. He had not yet popped the question but our session together was very much a “pre-engagement” session where we highlighted their love and connection to one another. I really wanted to capture some images that both of them would be able to treasure once Nick left for training. We had so much fun exploring the Larimer Square area in downtown Denver. They were totally smitten with one another and it was nice to see the two of them so happy.

Caytie and her mom met with me before the wedding where I was able to get an idea of the style of the wedding they were planning as well as sharing details both families wanted captured. We were able to collaborate on Pinterest and create a board that gathered some inspiration images that we could reference and talk about. It also helped me to know what additional gear I would need to bring in addition to my standard kit. I highly recommend keeping communication channels open with your photographer! I knew based on our conversations that I would need to bring a macro lens to capture her gorgeous ring (see image far left below) as well as well as my favorite portrait lens - my Canon 85mm 2.8.

I always offer my brides the option of two photographers to capture their day. I love having a second photographer on wedding days for a variety of reasons. Having two photographers allows images to be captured at the same time in different areas of the venue with different groups of people. It allows for a more relaxed timeline so that desired moments can be captured in a much more natural setting instead of being rushed. Lucky for me, my husband (Ty Hurd Photography) is a fabulous photographer as well and is usually my companion photographer at weddings. He is excellent at capturing details and has an eye for dramatic light. It is also a bonus as he can capture the groom’s portraits without the guys feeling weird with a girl in the room!

Another detail that Caytie and I discussed before her wedding day was how she wanted to display her final images. We looked at the samples that I have on hand as well as other vendor images to decide on her final selections. As her and Nick were moving just days after the wedding she did not want large items like statement wall pieces because she wasn’t sure what her new home would look like. But she did want items that spoke to her aesthetic and lifestyle. She choose a light and airy glass box for small prints as well as a small album and one standard piece of wall art (be sure to check back soon as I will post about all of her beautiful pieces soon!). By knowing how the newlyweds were going to highlight their memories also made it easier to capture the details and memories of the day. I wonder which image will be hanging in their new house?

I love capturing love and stick to my belief that true emotion and beauty should be truly and deeply seen. Capturing the grand moments like the first walk down the aisle after saying I do, the quiet moments with a parent or best friend in the middle of the hustle and bustle, or the sentimental moments such as dancing with your father at the beginning of the reception. All of these moments deserve the same level of professionalism, attention to detail, and care. I strive to make my couples feel like the prince and princess in a fairytale - like their love story is the most important one of all time. If you are interested in booking a consultation for a wedding please contact me. I would love to meet and share more about who I am as a photographer.

Yours behind the lens, Sarah

Partner Spotlight: Miss Madison Photo Props

Hello friends!  As I mentioned in a previous post, I am excited to highlight some of the fabulous people I have met along this photography journey.  This week I am thrilled to introduce you to Sunny Wells of Miss Madison Photo Props.

I honestly can’t remember where I originally came across Miss Madison Photo Props other than it was on Facebook.  I was able to join her preferred photographers group and just stalked at the beginning. I loved her beautiful gowns and was in awe of the talented photographers who were sharing just stunning images of their maternity sessions using her gowns.  I knew I wanted to offer that experience to my clients. I do remember the first gown I ordered however! Sunny sometimes does fun games in her groups where the winner gets an additional percentage off their purchase. As many of you know, I am a competitor so I was determined to win!  My persistence paid off and I was able to snag a discount code which was awesome for a photographer who was just starting out and didn’t have a huge client base yet! I decided to use my code to purchase a gown for a fundraising opportunity I was planning. My husband’s cousin had recently invited us to be a part of the Denver Walk to End Alzheimer’s event.  We had agreed to be photographers the day of the walk but I also wanted to raise awareness for the event, disease, and caregivers in honor of my grandmother who battled dementia at the end of her life. I was offering photo sessions where a portion of the session proceeds would be donated as long as anyone in the photos wore the color purple to honor those fighting the disease.  So I ordered my first Miss Madison gown - her Anna design in lilac so I could offer a beautiful purple option to my clients and honor my grandmother (Violet Weller) at the same time.

Anna gown in Lilac

I was thrilled with the gown and the outcome.  My client asked at the session where it was from as she had a black tie event coming up and the gown was so comfortable and it made her feel so pretty.  Combined with the high quality and wonderful customer service, that was enough for me to continue ordering from Sunny.

Sunny Wells grew up with 9 siblings and learned to sew from her mother, much like her mother had done before her (I love a good generational connection!).  Her father purchased her mother a Bernina sewing machine after opening up his own dental practice and her mother began teaching her sew at just 5 years old.  She found it boring and often left the sewing room to bake or climb trees with her brothers. Her mother eventually suggested that Sunny design her own dress for her 8th grade graduation and after that experience she was hooked on designing and sewing her own creations - even the bridesmaids gowns for her own wedding.  Life happened and she didn’t get back into sewing for 20 years until her own husband presented her with her own Bernina sewing machine. Then one day her oldest daughter called and asked her to make a gown for an upcoming maternity client she would be photographing soon. The idea of Miss Madison was born when her daughter asked her for 5 more gowns a week later.  Now 5 years after that phone call she has sourced her own textile companies to find the perfect laces, threads, and fabric. Her main fabric doesn’t wrinkle, it retains its shape even when it’s stretched to capacity. It has amazing recovery! You can wash AND dry it! Stickers and burrs don’t cling to it... it resists stains, but most of all, it hugs a woman's curves like magic!  She says it hasn’t been all butterflies and rainbows but that she loves what she does and is looking forward to the next 30 years!

I have been able to add several other gowns from Miss Madison to my studio closet since that first Anna gown purchase.  I consistently go back to her shop for several reasons. One is the amazing customer service she and her employees provide.  When you order a Miss Madison gown they provide an estimated timeline for your purchase to arrive. I love getting updates from them when my order is assigned to a seamstress, and then when it is finished and ready to be shipped.  I also get tracking information with every order. I love that I am able to know these details. It makes it much more personal and easier to connect with the women who are helping me to make beautiful images and memories for my clients.

Piper Gown in Moss Green

Another reason I continue to order from Sunny is the quality of her gowns and the attention to detail she provides.  I fell in love with her Piper gown (yes, partly because it is the name of my daughter!) and ordered one in moss green.  Once I had it on a client, I was even more enamored with it. I feel asleep one evening thinking about a couple of ideas I had for my next gown.  I messaged Sunny and was able to express my ideas about using a mesh fabric on my next gown. She responded just as excited as I was and created a gown that far exceeded my expectations.  Not only did she replace the lace in her original design with mesh, she custom dyed the chiffon to be a match to the new color that was created when the two fabrics were layered over one another.  I was blown away by her attention to detail that she demonstrated when creating this gown. (Be sure to follow me on Instagram @seenandhurdphotography to see images of the gown!)

Her designs and colors are also varied and meet the needs of so many of my clients.  One way this is evident is in her line of girls gowns. The versatility that this option adds to my sessions is so appreciated.  I have had several young girls wear my Charlie gown and they love how it makes them feel like a princess. The colors she offers are also beautiful - deep, rich, and luxurious.  But her women’s gowns are just amazing. I have her Everly design in Denim Blue. I love this gown and the mix of fabrics it offers. I think the sleeves are my favorite. I also recently acquired one of her newer designs - the Scarlett gown.  I selected her Mauve color for this purchase. I was also able to customize my purchase by adjusting the length of the sleeves. One of my favorite aspects of this gown is the full skirt - it adds so much drama to images and yet the gown is still comfortable to wear.  As I have already mentioned, Sunny makes customizing her gowns so easy. I ordered her Mia gown and it was so quick and easy to add sleeves to my order. The options are endless! Each gown that arrives from Miss Madison is just as well made and gorgeous as the last. And a little bonus is how good the box smells when you open it!  She adds a little extra touch when she finishes your order and I love how good her gowns smell and look fresh out of the box!

From left to right: Charlie in Berry, Everly in Denim Blue, Scarlett in Mauve, Mia in Charcoal

I am so excited to see what new designs she has in the works and am so looking forward to continuing building my client closet with Miss Madison.  If you are in the market for a gown for a special occasion, look her up! I cannot recommend her enough. And I love that I am also supporting a strong #bossbabe to boot!

If these gowns shared here strike your fancy and you would like to add them to your session with Seen & Hurd Photography, add them to your preferences when you book your session with me.

Partner Spotlight: Picture Perfect Bowtique

As I grow and expand my photography network, I have had the pleasure of meeting some pretty fabulous people. I thought I would take some time and introduce you to a few of them over the next couple of weeks.

First up is Picture Perfect Bowtique. I came across her shop in a few Facebook groups I belong to. I began collecting gowns as a part of my client experience a little over year ago. For the most part, the designers and shops I work with are women-owned and operated. Picture Perfect Bowtique is no different! Katie Conway is the owner and designer behind the magic of this little wonder. She is also a photographer and operates out of Ohio. Katie is an entrepreneur who is also a stay at home mom of two boys and two girls. She started this journey by just making things here and there for her children and props for her photography clients. She continues to design and hand make all of her gowns herself, a true #bossbabe! I love supporting small businesses like hers where I know my dollars are helping a hard working woman! She specializes in maternity gowns, although her gowns are so comfortable that several non-maternity clients have chosen to wear her gowns as well.

I placed my first order with Katie when I was looking for a gown that was for a very special rainbow maternity session. Rainbow sessions are for mamas who have experienced a miscarriage or infant loss so I wanted to be sure that my client felt beautiful and special. After much deliberation and who knows how many messages back and forth, I ordered her Kelly gown in red. This is where Katie really shines, she is patient and provides excellent recommendations and really helped me make sure the gown I selected was what I wanted. She also recently added a beautiful rainbow skirt to her shop for rainbow sessions. It is definitely something I have on my client closet wish list.

Kelly in red

I love the final result of this gown. The red was perfect! And according to my client, it was comfortable and easy to put on. Always a bonus!

During my first order I also was also able to create a custom gown in velvet. Katie had some gorgeous raspberry velvet that she sent a picture of as we were talking about the red gown I was ordering. I loved it! And she was so easy to work with when I asked about customizing a gown. She was able to mix and match a top from one to the bottom of another. The Lucia gown was created - I even got to pick the name! I chose “Lucia” because my sister did a report on Saint Lucia once and I remembered that she is often remembered as the bearer of light in the darkness of winter; which I thought was appropriate for a winter-inspired gown. I was so excited for both of my made-to-order gowns to arrive! She communicated with me during the whole process, sent me pictures of my completed gowns before she shipped them and also let me know that her area had just experienced a major ice storm! She made sure her hubby dropped them off at the post office once the roads were safe. Once I had it on my client, I knew I had to have another one. I ordered a second velvet Lucia in a beautiful blue color. Every client has commented how warm and comfortable these are. Which is great to have in Colorado during those beautiful winter sessions!

Lucia in raspberry velvet

Lucia in blue velvet

I am so excited to see what this partnership produces in the future. We are already talking about some custom reversible skirts that I can use for my maternity and senior sessions. If you are in the market for a gown for a special occasion, look her up! I cannot recommend her enough. And I love that I am also supporting a strong #bossbabe to boot!

If these gowns struck your fancy and you would like to add them to your selection for a session with Seen & Hurd Photography, add them to your preferences when you book a session with me.

Comment with any questions!

5 Colorado Places on my Session Bucket List

I don’t know about you, but there are times when I drive past a location, or spend time someplace with my family and inspiration strikes - and I want to have a photography session there. It might be the way the light plays in the trees or an interesting architectural feature, but a little bit of magic plants a seed. And then my imagination kicks in… I start to think about the number of people, the feeling the setting emotes, the colors or clothing I would include in the space. I love planning and creating these little pieces of beauty.

With all of that said, there are several places that I would love to shoot. I am dying to get on a beach with a pier and a desert with scrub and cactus, but there are also several places in my own backyard that are just calling my name. So here are five of my bucket list locations along the Denver Front Range.

Location #1: Woodland Mosaic Solarium at the Denver Botanic Gardens

I discovered that this solarium was originally one of eight ordered by Disney and built by a company in England. A woman living in Illinois purchased it from an auction house but passed away before it was erected on her property. Her son lived in Boulder and was asked by his father if he knew of anyone interested in it. Denver Botanic Gardens was looking for something and paid for the cost of shipping and installation.

I have several ideas for this space, including a maternity session as well as engagement sessions. Choosing to have your session at the Denver Botanic Gardens is a beautiful option and provides several unique vignettes for your images. A reservation and fee is required to use their gardens but well worth it!

Location #2: Colorado Railroad Museum

This location outside of Golden, CO has so much variety! And it also has spectacular golden hour lighting, which is always a bonus! I have done a couple of family and children’s sessions at the museum but I would love to see a maternity session here. And how cute would it be to have a large canvas print of your maternity session with trains in the background in your baby’s train themed nursery? I get giddy just thinking about it! With a large variety of trains, engines, cars, and a depot there is a ton of options to explore during a session. And because it has several tracks that are not in use, it is the only legal way to capture an image on the train tracks and ensures everyone is safe. There is a small cost to get into the museum but it provides a fun day for all!

Location #3: Standley Lake Beach

This is an interesting one because the beach at Standley Lake is always changing in size and sometimes isn't even available. Maybe it is because I spent 30+ years of summers in Minnesota, land of 10,000 lakes, that I would love to capture this spot again. I was lucky enough to capture a handful of images during a shootout workshop there in late fall of 2018, and it got me hooked! I think a maternity session here would be just lovely with the water during golden hour and then a sunset in the background. But a fun summer family session would be cute too, with sparkles coming off the water. It is a little bit of a steep slope walking down to the water and can be a bit steep coming back up. So I would recommend that if you choose this location you are in good health, have steady footing, and are wearing excellent shoes!

Location #4: Santa Fe Art District/ RiNo

I love to change things up and explore the fun urban environment that Denver has to offer. The Santa Fe Arts District and the RiNo area have some beautiful art to offer. I haven’t been able to explore the RiNo area as much as I would like but I do follow them on Instagram and am blown away by the talented artists that the city showcases. I did take some fun pictures along Santa Fe this past spring and loved the colors and vibe of the neighborhood. I think an engagement session would be so fun there - could have a blast exploring the various art and side streets of either location. The fun colors, bold lines, and little details are fun to find and make such a unique image. Also a maternity session would be such a departure from the usual nature-inspired sessions that are popular. It would be so easy to find complimentary colors to a nursery design. I also think a senior session would be a blast to photograph in either area. A flowy gown or skirt would be such a contrast to the brick and bold lines. But a cute jean jacket or leather boots would add to the urban vibe. So many options and ideas!

Location #5: The Dairy Block/ Denver, CO

This location just screams fun to me! I would love to do a maternity session or new motherhood session in front of the milk splash sculpture, even a breastfeeding session would be just amazeballs! Yes, cliché, but so much fun. This area is also beautiful at sunset and in the evening with lights that are strung across the open space above. So an engagement session would be lovely and the darkness would provide a feel of intimacy. It might be a little overused at the moment but I think even a popular area can make a photo session experience memorable if it is the right location for the images. And the number of restaurants, ice cream parlors, and drink spots available in this area would make for a pretty fun date after the session is over! The making of memories during a photo session are one of the best reasons to book a session, and this location is sure to provide memories in spades!

So there you have it - 5 locations that are currently on my session bucket list! If any of these locations strikes your fancy, let’s chat about how to make your session memorable in one of these fun Denver spots. I wonder what other locations will be added to my bucket list this year. Comment below with a location that is on a bucket list of yours!

5 Favorite Poses for Senior Girls

While it is cold and still a little snowy outside, I wanted to revisit some of my favorite senior sessions and go-to poses that I like to use. Posing during a senior session can get a bit repetitive and boring, so it’s always good to have a wide variety of ideas and options for your clients to try. Not every pose will work with every client but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try them all and see what works for you! Just remember to have fun and keep your client feeling beautiful and confident! So let’s take a look at my top 5 favorites!

I love this pose because it creates some visual interest and answers the question - “what do I do with my hands?”. The key to making this pose successful is a direct gaze into the lens and keeping the higher elbow parallel to the ground.

This one is always guaranteed to bring genuine smiles and laughs! In prepping this pose I tell my clients to walk away from me and then when I say turn to swing back around like they just heard their name called by their celebrity crush. It always loosens them up and we are able to get some great smiles! You can also add a variation and have them turn or spin as they walk.

When you need a little variety, having your client sit down is always a good option! We were lucky during this session to have a flat spot along the shore of the river for this pose. Bending the back leg helps keep both visible and also allows a place for the arm to rest. Keeping their back straight is also key! For a variation, create a profile pose by having her look straight ahead instead of at you.

Many of my girls always wonder what to do with their hands and arms. I love this pose because it helps them become comfortable trying something new during their session. Creating some additional interest in this pose is off-setting the hips and torso to one another. Usually by adding small variations to where she is focusing and where her hands are, several shots are available for the final gallery in a short time frame. And isn’t the golden hour backlight here just dreamy?

This pose is just a classic! Leaning up against a wall is always a win for me. Starting with one leg popped, it is easy to transition to several variations… ankles crossed, hands on hip(s) or flat on the wall, or can spread the feet shoulder width apart for more of a power pose. I loved the addition of her camera as a prop in this particular shot to highlight something she loves to do.

So there you have it, my top 5 favorite poses for senior girls! Which one is your favorite? Share in the comments!

Getting Published

In the last year I have really started moving my photography journey forward. I have joined more groups, networked, participated in shootouts, and become more active in the photography community. After attending my first shoot out (with the amazing Sarah Lindsay Photography), she posted that she had been published and made the cover of a photography magazine. I was like, that was a thing? I went to check it out.

Now those of you that know me know that I have a huge competitive streak - maybe from growing up with a twin, who knows? But I love to win! So my goal after seeing those posts was to get my own image published. Shutter Scene Magazine (@shuscene) runs themes every week for their upcoming issues and has been publishing since September of last year. My first image was published in October of 2018. What a rush! Seeing your work selected, valued, and published by others is just amazing. Photography is an art and art is subjective. I know that there are some that don’t love my images or think they are “ok”. But I really put a bit of myself in each image.

The first image to be published was this maternity image taken last January. It was a last minute session as Denver didn’t get much snow last winter. I had just purchased my first gown from Sew Trendy Accessories and was itching to shoot it. I had this vision of sparkling snow, a serene mother, and a little winter magic. A friend of mine was able to pass along the ask for a model and we were able to capture this lovely image the following morning.

The second image to be published was this beautiful violinist in the snow. (I really do like winter!) The vision for this image was created by my fabulous sister and part-time creative director, Liz Haan. She had seen my fabulous yellow gown, again by Sew Trendy Accessories, and wanted to get her niece in it. So we packed up all the kids and made the trek to Evergreen Lake to play for a bit in the snow. I love how it turned out - a little bit of Shakespeare’s MidSummer Night’s Dream meets Belle’s provincial french town.

If you are interested in purchasing any issues from Shutter Scene Magazine, here is the link to purchase Issue 18. My new goal is to make the cover! Wish me luck!

If you are interested in gowns from Sew Trendy Accessories, here is a link for 15% off your purchase. They are a boss babe company that is by women, for women, and supports a community of women as well. Their gowns are stunning and they have gowns for maternity, non-maternity, girls, and newborns.

Why Maternity?

I have been thinking about this question a lot over the last several weeks and continue to find more questions then answers honestly.

I truly didn’t understand pregnancy until I was in that phase of my life. When my twin sister was pregnant, I was completely creeped out by it. I don’t know if it was because it was kinda like watching myself be pregnant, because you know - identical twins. It was weird. But my poor sister had to endure me calling my nephew a parasite for most of her pregnancy. I watched several friends and colleagues experience that part of their lives as well and just didn’t get it. I loved babies but the belly was just plain ol’ strange to me.

Then fast forward to my husband and I making the decision to start a family. We thought this was going to be easy as pie… how wrong we were. After a couple months of trying we got a positive result on a pregnancy test and were over the moon. However within a couple of days, our hopes were dashed. I had a miscarriage and it was devastating. And scary. And worrisome. I decided to become much more proactive because I had just felt so helpless the month before. We sought out a fertility acupuncturist and started treatments. Things still didn't progress quickly and it was 8 months before we got another positive result. We found out in Vegas no less! But it was such a process to conceive. And thankfully I had an easy pregnancy but the whole time I was just on this roller coaster of emotions. Was she ok, was I going to be a good mom, what would she look like, was I still pretty, I was a mess!!! Towards the end of my pregnancy I was fortunate to connect with an amazing photographer and had my own maternity session. That experience was amazing, I got to wear pretty dresses, talk about my daughter arriving, feel pampered. It was great. And started something that I wanted to duplicate for other moms.

Image by Aubrey Lynn Photography

Other events have also impacted my why. In this country of ours, with all of our progress and technology, infant mortality is still not zero. Pregnancy is still a vey dangerous time of life. This year alone I have experienced the unexpected death of a colleague who experienced complications in her pregnancy. I am also familiar with others who have not been able to come home with a beautiful miracle but instead have had to plan a funeral.

A baby is a miracle and moms are miracle creators. I want to honor and celebrate motherhood and all of the joys and trials that come with it. That has translated to creating my own vision and experience for my clients. I have invested in gowns, accessories, and props to make mama’s feel beautiful, adored, stunning, and important. I partner with several hair and make-up artists to allow for some pampering and quiet time in the crazy and busy world we live in. And I strive to create images that when you look back on them, you will remember what it was like to be just you and baby - those swirls, hiccups, and private conversations that no one else will get to experience. I want your pregnancy to be truly and deeply seen and honored.

Gown by Miss Madison Couture (click here for their partner spotlight); Piper in Moss. This gown, and several others are available in my client closet, which can be seen here.