Senior portraits have come a long way! Unlike the traditional studio sessions of the past, today’s senior portraits offer a unique opportunity for students to express their personality, passions, and style. Whether they prefer a classic studio setting or an outdoor urban vibe, senior portraits are a lasting keepsake of this special milestone.
With so many options available, planning a session can feel overwhelming. Here are some simple tips to help you and your senior prepare for their portrait session. 1. Know the Yearbook Deadline Many schools have specific deadlines for submitting senior portraits. To avoid last-minute stress, schedule the session well in advance. Since it can take at least two weeks to receive the final images, plan accordingly to ensure you meet any submission requirements. 2. Consider Your Senior’s Schedule High school seniors have busy schedules filled with classes, extra curriculars, and social events. Before booking a session, sit down with your child to find a time that works best. The best lighting for outdoor portraits is just after sunrise or before sunset, but an experienced photographer can make any time of day work. Midday sessions should be avoided if possible, as the lighting can be harsh. 3. Find a Balance Between Preferences You may have a vision for your child’s portraits, but it’s important to involve them in the decision-making process. Most senior sessions include multiple outfit changes, allowing for a mix of classic and personal styles. Encourage your senior to express themselves while also capturing timeless images that you’ll both cherish. 4. Encourage Self-Expression Senior portraits should reflect who your child is at this exciting stage in life. Talk with them about their interests, hobbies, and future aspirations. This will help guide the choice of outfits, props, and locations, resulting in portraits that truly represent them. 5. Choose the Right Photographer Involve your senior in selecting a photographer whose style matches their vision. A great photographer will not only capture beautiful images but also make your child feel comfortable and confident throughout the session. Senior portraits are more than just pictures; they’re a celebration of a major milestone. With a little planning and collaboration, you can ensure that your child’s portraits are a true reflection of their personality and journey.
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As a portrait artist, my passion lies in creating artwork that captures the essence of the people and moments that mean the most to us. But beyond my love for portraits, I also enjoy home décor and gardening. For me, decorating is about simplicity and intention—designing spaces that feel meaningful, uncluttered, and personal. In the past, I adorned my walls with pieces from Bombay Co. and Pier One Imports. They were beautiful, but over time, I began to question their purpose in my home. Why should I display something generic when I could surround myself with images that reflect the very heart of my family? That’s when I made the switch—removing store-bought art and replacing it with large portraits of my daughters, our family, and even ourselves. It’s a simple idea but a powerful one: our home should be about us. Though my daughters no longer live at home, their portraits hang proudly on their walls, greeting me with their smiles whenever I pass by. These timeless heirloom portraits are more than decor; they’re a window to cherished memories. When I look at those portraits, I hear their voices and feel their presence. They remind me that these images are heirlooms—pieces that will be treasured forever. Choosing the Perfect Portrait for Your Space. When I create a portrait, I always start by asking:
Heirloom Portraits: A Gift for Generations
Heirloom portraits are more than decoration—they’re an expression of who we are and what we cherish. They bring life, warmth, and personality into a home in a way that no store-bought art ever could. So, if you or someone you know needs help designing a space with meaningful, timeless portraits, let me help. Together, we can create artwork that not only enhances your home but also becomes a treasured family legacy. Let’s transform your walls into a celebration of what matters most—your story, your family, your memories.
As the year winds down, it’s the perfect time to capture new family memories with a photoshoot. But where should you take those portraits? With the cooler weather setting in, an indoor studio session becomes even more appealing. Beyond comfort, a studio offers a variety of options, especially if you're considering fine art portraits or creating large wall art for your home. Here’s why a studio might be the ideal choice for your winter family photoshoot:
1. Weather-Proof Your Plans Outdoor sessions rely heavily on the weather. A sudden rain or chilly winds can force you to reschedule, which adds stress to an already busy time of year. Choosing a studio eliminates this concern. Your session will go ahead smoothly, no matter the conditions outside. 2. Warm and Comfortable No one enjoys shivering or winds messing up nicely done hair during a photoshoot! A studio setting ensures everyone is warm, comfortable, and relaxed. This translates into more genuine smiles, better photos, and the chance to take your time with different setups. Plus, with more time to experiment, you'll end up with a wider selection of images for your collection. 3. Create Heirloom Art for Your Home Studio sessions provide the opportunity to focus on creating heirloom-quality portraits that can be passed down through generations. Whether you're looking for fine art pieces or large wall art to display in your home, the studio environment offers control over lighting and background, allowing for timeless and beautifully composed images that stand the test of time. 4. Keep the Kids Close In an outdoor setting, it can be a challenge to keep children and pets contained. A studio gives you the advantage of a safe, contained environment where kids can be more easily managed, meaning more quality photos. Many studios are also equipped with toys or small distractions that allow for moments of calm, ensuring you get those perfect shots. 5. Flexible Scheduling and Lighting Natural light can be unpredictable, especially in winter. Outdoor sessions need to be timed perfectly, usually during golden hour, which can limit your scheduling options. Studio lighting is fully controlled, allowing you to book your session at the time that best suits your family’s schedule. This flexibility means more convenience for busy families. 6. Give the Gift of Legacy A studio session isn’t just about capturing a few nice photos—it's about creating family heirlooms. Imagine surprising your loved ones with large, professionally printed portraits of your family to hang in their homes. These timeless pieces make meaningful, lasting gifts, preserving your family's legacy in a beautiful and tangible way. With the holiday season fast approaching, it's important to schedule your family portrait session before your calendar fills up with social engagements and commitments. By booking a session now, you'll have time to create and enjoy beautiful fine art portraits or large wall art for your home before the festivities begin. Maybe you're planning to gift these stunning portraits to loved ones or add an heirloom piece to your own collection, securing your session early ensures that you won’t miss out on capturing these precious moments during this busy time of year. Schedule Your Complimentary ConsultationGetting ready for your headshot session doesn't have to be stressful. At Etmportraits, we want your experience to be as enjoyable as possible. Here are some simple tips to help you prepare and look your best on the big day.
1. Choose the Right Outfit Pick an outfit that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Solid colors work best—avoid busy patterns or logos that might distract from your face. If you’re unsure, bring a few options, and we can help you decide. 2. Take Care of Grooming A few days before your session, make sure to take care of any grooming you need, like a haircut or shaving. For makeup, a natural look is often best, but feel free to bring your makeup kit for touch-ups. 3. Get a Good Night’s Sleep Rest is essential! A good night’s sleep will ensure you look fresh and energized. Try to avoid alcohol the night before and drink plenty of water to keep your skin looking its best. 4. Practice Your Expressions It might sound silly, but practicing your expressions in front of a mirror can make a big difference. Think about the image you want to convey—whether it’s friendly, professional, or approachable. 5. Relax and Have Fun On the day of your session, take a deep breath and relax. We’re here to guide you through the process and make sure you feel comfortable. A little bit of humor and fun goes a long way in capturing the perfect shot. By following these simple tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your headshot session. Remember, our goal at Etmportraits is to bring out the best in you—so just be yourself, and we’ll take care of the rest!
As a parent, you know how quickly time flies. One moment, your child is taking their first steps, and the next, they're dreaming about what they want to be when they grow up. Capturing these precious moments is more than just taking a photograph; it's about cherishing the essence of who they are at this very moment.
Discovering Their World Children today are full of dreams and ambitions. From aspiring astronauts to budding actors, their imaginations know no bounds. In their custom portrait sessions, we tap into their current passions and interests. What do they love to do now? What dreams do they have for the future? By understanding these, I create a setting that is as unique as they are. A Glimpse into a Session with JR I had the pleasure of photographing JR, a sweet, enthusiastic little gentleman with big dreams of an acting career. He came prepared with his favorite outfit and a few accessories that added a touch of character to his photos. Because I took the time to learn about JR’s interests beforehand, setting up the perfect background and mood was a breeze. We spent about an hour in the studio, capturing numerous beautiful portraits that truly reflect his vibrant personality.
The beauty of these sessions is in their spontaneity and genuine joy. By allowing children to express themselves freely, we capture their true essence. It's about freezing time and preserving a piece of their childhood that they—and you—can look back on with fondness.
Fine Art Prints: A Keepsake for a Lifetime From JR's session, we selected the very best portraits for fine art prints. These prints are not just photographs; they are works of art that tell a story—your child's story. Displaying them in your home will serve as a constant reminder of this beautiful phase in their life.
Let's Create Something Unique Together
Every child has a story to tell, and I want to capture it. I design the session with your inputs to bring out their true personality, creating portraits that are as unique as they are. If you want to learn more about how together we can create a one-of-a-kind portrait experience for your child? Click here to learn more. Running a special for the month of July. $190 session for a children custom session. Limited-time offer for this month only $99. By taking the time to capture these moments now, you are preserving the magic of their childhood for years to come. Let's create something that truly tells the story of who your child is today and who they dream to be tomorrow.
Needed a new mat for the artwork in my room, so I cut mats for four frames. The mat around the artwork not only looks classy but also protects the photo from touching the glass, which is super important in humid places where the artwork can get ruined if it touches the glass. It took hours, even though I've done this before. I made sure all the cuts and corners were really clean. Here are a few must-have tools: Logan Straight Cutter Elite Logan Simplex Elite Mat Cutters Series 2000 Advanced Hand Held Mat Cutter It takes time and patience to get a perfect, sharp mat for your photo frames.
As a portrait artist and branding photographer at Etmportraits, every session holds a unique story, and my recent experience with Gabriel Cristain and his family was nothing short of remarkable. Gabriel, the CEO of PMI Values Your Casa, approached me for a family portrait session, seeking images that would not only capture their essence and family value. From the start, Gabriel and his family were prepared for the session. We had discussions about style and wardrobe beforehand to ensure everything would fit the theme we had in mind. Our aim? It was to create portraits that would grace their living room, adding a personal touch above the fireplace. Working with Gabriel, his spouse, and their children was an absolute pleasure. Here, I share a glimpse of the formal family portraits we captured. But let's talk about PMI Values Your Casa. This company, led by Gabriel, is making waves in property management, especially in homeowner's associations (HOAs), Condominium Owner's Associations (COAs), and Cooperatives. Gabriel's background in the U.S. Air Force and U.S. Space Force, spanning 20 years, brings invaluable leadership and management skills to the table.
So, how does PMI Values Your Casa benefit homeowner's associations? By addressing their financial, administrative, maintenance, and vendor management needs with precision and care. They ensure smooth operations for HOAs of all sizes, from managing finances to fostering better communication within the community. As a portrait photographer, I believe in building connections with my clients. We're not just here for a quick session—we're here to serve you and stay connected. Whether you're looking for family portraits or business branding photographs, we're here to help you capture moments that matter. Reach out, and let's create something amazing together.
Here are five clothing trends for women-from work to the dinner parties.
Statement Blazers: Tailored statement blazer in a bold color or muted color with unique details. Pair it with classic trousers or a sleek pencil skirt for a sophisticated yet trendy look. Luxe Fabrics: Embrace luxurious fabrics like silk, satin, or velvet for an elegant touch. A satin blouse paired with tailored trousers or a velvet midi dress can elevate your ensemble for a chic evening affair. Wrap Dresses: A timeless wrap dress in a flattering silhouette can be a versatile choice for a dinner party. Look for one with elegant draping and subtle embellishments to add a touch of glamour to your outfit. Statement Accessories: Elevate your ensemble with statement accessories such as bold jewelry, embellished clutch bags, or metallic heels. These can add personality and a modern twist to your look without overshadowing your sophistication. Subtle Sparkle: Incorporate subtle sparkle into your outfit with sequined or metallic accents. A sequined top paired with tailored trousers or a metallic-threaded skirt can add a touch of glamour to your ensemble while maintaining a sophisticated aesthetic. BEAUTY THROUGHOUT THE AGES SESSION
Get a gift for yourself www.etmportraits.com/beauty-through-out-the-ages.html
We met with Adaora Oniya, the CEO of Limsada Properties, to talk about her requirements and review her website. We proposed a personalized session that offers professional makeup and various colored backdrops to ensure the photos align with her brand. We scheduled a consultation to discuss wardrobe choices and the shots we would take. During the session, we provided guidance on posing and expressions to capture Adaora's personality effectively.
Wondering how professional photography can enhance your CEO engagement? Here are a few reasons: Investing in professional photography with Enjoy the Moment Portraits, Cypress, TX. It isn't just about snapshots—it's a savvy strategy for boosting your company's engagement. Quality visuals instantly convey professionalism, attention to detail, and credibility. When your website displays stunning images captured by a professional photographer, it signals a commitment to excellence in every facet of your business.
But it's not merely aesthetics—professional photography tells a compelling narrative about your brand. Through carefully curated visuals, you can communicate your company's mission, values, and unique offerings effectively. Whether it's showcasing your professional expertise or your team, products, or company culture, these images speak volumes and ignite investor interest.
In today's digital world, visual content reigns supreme, especially in diverse city like Houston, TX. Professional photographs grab attention and promote engagement on social media platforms. Regularly sharing these images expands your brand's reach and entices potential investors. Moreover, maintaining a consistent visual presence online enhances your brand's credibility. Investing in professional photography isn't just a luxury—it's a strategic investment in your brand's success. So, if you're looking to elevate your investor engagement in Cypress, TX, consider executive headshots and professional photography services—it's more than just pictures; it's a path to prosperity. READY TO BOOK A DISCOVERY MEETING
Pick a date on the calendar or email us at [email protected] and we will reach out to set up your appointment or call 281-758-8686 and talk to Sonia or Raisa.
Your headshot speaks volume about you. Here is the lowdown on what makes a great one:
Remember, your headshot is not just a picture- it is your personal brand in pixels. READY TO BOOK A DISCOVERY MEETING?Pick a date on the calendar or email us at [email protected] and we will reach out to set up your appointment or call 281-758-8686 and talk to Sonia or Raisa. |
AuthorSonia Ahmad, CPP, is an award-winning photographer based in Cypress, TX. She has earned the Photographic Craftsman designation by Professional Photographers of America. She specializes in personal portrait sessions for Seniors, Teens, and tweens, Women's personal branding, mother-and-daughter sessions, Glamour and fashion, and Headshots. See more portrait sessions in the gallery. Archives
February 2025
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