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Have you ever wished for a portrait that doesn’t just capture your image—but tells your story and becomes a lasting legacy? At Enjoy the Moment Portraits, I specialize in creating fine art portraits that blend classic techniques with modern technology. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted to become a family heirloom you’ll treasure for generations. Behind the Scenes: How I Create Heirloom Portraits In a recent video, I gave viewers a look at the process behind one of my newest studio artworks. Here’s what goes into turning a photo into museum-worthy portrait art: Every fine art portrait begins with preparation. I help choose the right wardrobe, guide your posing, and design the set using timeless backdrops and classic furniture to set the mood and tone. After capturing the photo, I transform it into fine art by digitally painting it—stroke by stroke—using techniques that mimic traditional painting. I don’t use shortcuts or filters; every brushstroke is done with intention to preserve a handcrafted, authentic look. Once the digital painting is complete, it’s printed as a giclée on canvas. This advanced printing technique uses microscopic dots of ink for stunning clarity, detail, and depth. It’s the same method used by museums and art galleries. To elevate the piece further, I apply real oil brush strokes to the canvas by hand. This adds texture and dimension, making the portrait feel even more alive and timeless. These portraits aren’t just beautiful—they’re made to last. Each piece is designed to stay vibrant for 80 to 100 years or more, making it a true heirloom to be passed down for generations. Come See the Artwork in Person While photos and videos offer a glimpse, the real beauty of these portraits is best experienced in person. I invite you to visit my Cypress studio to see and feel the texture, richness, and detail of these heirloom portraits for yourself. Turn Your Legacy into Art. Your story deserves to be preserved with care and artistry. If you’ve ever dreamed of a portrait that goes beyond photography and becomes lasting art, let’s talk. Sonia Ahmad, Cr, CPP EtmPortraits.com
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When you invest in a professional photographer, you're not just paying for a photoshoot—you’re investing in expertise, creativity, and a seamless experience designed to bring out the best in you and your brand. At Enjoy the Moment Portraits, we take every step seriously to ensure you receive high-quality images that make a lasting first impression. The Journey from Start to Finish 1. Discovery Call & Consultation – Every great portrait begins with understanding your vision. We start with a discovery call to discuss your goals, whether it’s personal branding, corporate headshots, or fine art portraits. From there, we guide you through the process, ensuring everything is tailored to your needs. 2. Styling & Concept Development – Your session should be a reflection of you. We provide styling and concept consultations, helping you choose the right wardrobe, backdrop, and overall aesthetic that aligns with your personality or brand. 3. Professional Hair & Makeup – Looking your best is key, and our in-studio hair and makeup team ensures you feel confident and camera-ready. 4. The Photoshoot: Lighting, Posing & Expression – This is where the magic happens. We meticulously set up lighting, guide you through natural and flattering poses, and bring out authentic expressions that capture your unique essence. 5. Master Retouching & Digital Delivery – The artistry doesn’t stop after the session. We carefully retouch each selected image to enhance its impact while maintaining a natural look. Finally, we deliver high-resolution, professionally edited portraits ready to elevate your brand or personal image. Why High-Quality Visuals Matter Studies show it takes only 7 seconds for someone to form a first impression. Whether for business or personal branding, high-quality imagery speaks volumes before you even say a word. Investing in professional photography ensures you make a lasting and powerful impact. At Enjoy the Moment Portraits, we value every client’s trust in us, and we are dedicated to making the experience seamless, enjoyable, and rewarding. Because your image is worth it. Ready to elevate your first impression? Contact us today to start your journey toward stunning, professional portraits! There are a few decisions you’re going to need to make as you plan your senior photoshoot and when to schedule your session is one of them. So, what season is the best?
In the end, it comes down to your personal preferences and the types of photos you would prefer. Let’s look at some of the pros and cons of each season to help you make the best choice. Spring By choosing to schedule your session in spring, you may end up taking photos before your senior year, but that’s perfectly fine. Pros ● Avoid the rush by getting your photos done early on. ● If you choose to take your photos outside, it won’t be freezing cold or too hot. ● Benefit from beautiful spring flowers and greenery as your backdrop. Cons ● There is always a slight chance of rain. ● You might feel awkward taking photos before your senior year, but it doesn’t need to be. Plus, you can always choose to do another session later in the year. Summer Summer is a popular choice for senior photo sessions because it’s such a positive time of the year. Pros ● You get to enjoy more hours of sunshine and the warmth that the summer months offer. ● There’s no need to dress in any heavy layers. ● Your schedule will be far more flexible during the summer months. ● There’s the option of getting a tan before your session so that you have a natural glow. ● There is generally an abundance of wildflowers, which look great in photos. Cons ● The heat can be uncomfortable. ● There are far more bugs to deal with during summer. ● Since everyone is spending more time outside, you may struggle to find a public location that isn’t overly busy. Fall Fall is also a popular season for many seniors across the U.S. and for good reason. Pros ● Fall colors make for some of the most beautiful backdrops. ● The hot summer temperatures have subsided, making it more comfortable to be outside. ● Taking your photos during golden hour in fall will give them a beautiful soft glow. Cons ● Because of the eye-catching scenes that fall creates, public spaces might be busier than usual. ● The sun sets earlier in the fall and with a busier school schedule, it might be difficult to work in a photo session without missing some school. ● Since this is a popular time for senior photos, you may struggle to find a slot with your photographer. Winter It might be a bit colder, but you can still capture beautiful senior photos during the winter months. Pros ● Public spaces are a lot quieter, which means you have more locations to choose from. ● You have the option to take photos in the snow. ● Since winter is not the first choice for most seniors, you can take photos that are more unique. ● Photographers generally have more slots available during the winter months. ● You can choose to have your shoot in a studio if you want a warmer location. Cons ● The temperatures can make it too cold to use an outdoor location. ● There is more cloud cover, and the sun sets early, which can affect your photos. ● You may miss your yearbook deadline. Now that you have a better idea of what each season entails, you can continue planning your senior session at a time of the year that works for you. Senior portraits are a once-in-a-lifetime milestone, and choosing the right setting can make all the difference. While outdoor sessions have their charm, an in-studio session offers unmatched advantages, ensuring a stress-free and polished experience. Comfort in a Controlled Environment A studio session means no battling the elements. With temperature control, you can stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter, making the experience enjoyable from start to finish. Plus, there’s no worry about wind or humidity ruining a perfect hairstyle. Hair & Makeup Stays Flawless Professional hair and makeup look best when they remain untouched by heat, humidity, or sudden gusts of wind. An indoor session ensures your look stays fresh, polished, and photo-ready throughout the shoot. Private & Relaxed Atmosphere Unlike public parks or busy city streets, a studio session offers privacy. There’s no need to pose in front of onlookers, giving you the confidence to relax and be yourself in front of the camera. Convenient Wardrobe Changes Changing outfits is a breeze with a comfortable, private changing room. No need to struggle with outfit swaps in the backseat of a car, small pop up changing room or a public restroom—studio sessions allow for easy transitions between looks. A Variety of Backdrops Our studio provide a range of backdrops, from classic solid colors to stylish textured options, giving your portraits a timeless and customized feel. The versatility of a studio setup allows for multiple styles in one session. No Weather Cancellations Rain or shine, your session goes on. No rescheduling due to unexpected downpours or extreme heat—your portrait day remains on track no matter what Mother Nature has in store. Extra Comforts for a Smooth Experience With a studio session, you can enjoy small but important comforts—snacks, touch-up breaks, and a relaxed setting that makes the experience enjoyable. Choosing Enjoy the Moment studio means choosing reliability, comfort, and high-quality results. Looking for a senior portrait experience that keeps things stress-free while delivering stunning, timeless images? Chat with us.      Love is a journey, and for Mark and Laura Shook, that journey has spanned four incredible decades. As the founders of Community of Faith, their lives have been dedicated to faith, service, and a deep love for one another. I recently had the privilege of capturing their portraits, and the experience was nothing short of inspiring. The Vision: Love and Relationships Before the session, I had a conversation with Laura about her vision for their portraits. She expressed that she wanted the images to reflect love and relationships—something that has been at the heart of their 40-year marriage. From the moment we first started talking, it was clear that their bond was built on laughter, understanding, and unwavering support. A Fun-Loving Connection Mark and Laura brought an energy to the session that was both heartwarming and uplifting. Their playful banter and affectionate glances spoke volumes about the depth of their relationship. Photographing them felt like capturing a beautiful story—one of commitment, faith, and resilience. Featured in Living Magazine Their story of love and dedication doesn’t just shine through in their portraits—it’s also been featured in Living Magazine! There’s an entire article dedicated to making marriage work, where they share insights on building a strong and lasting relationship. Click here to read the full interview. Laura Shook: Author and Cancer Survivor During our session, I also learned that Laura is an accomplished author. She has published several books, one of which she graciously gifted me—a powerful memoir about her journey to overcoming cancer. Her story is one of strength and perseverance, adding yet another layer of admiration to this incredible couple. Timeless Portraits, Timeless Love It was an honor to capture Mark and Laura’s portraits and celebrate their milestone anniversary through photography. Their love is a testament to the beauty of commitment and faith, and I am grateful to have played a small role in preserving their legacy through portraits. Are you looking to capture the love and connection in your own relationship? Let’s create something timeless together. Sonia Ahmad, Craftsman, CPP.        Your headshot is often the first impression you make in today’s digital world. Whether it’s on LinkedIn, your business website, or social media, that small image speaks volumes about your professionalism, credibility, and personal brand. But here’s the tough question—could your headshot be holding you back?
1. A Poor Headshot Can Undermine Your Credibility A blurry, outdated, or poorly lit photo can send the wrong message. Imagine a potential client searching for your services online. They find your profile, but instead of a polished, professional image, they see a selfie from five years ago. Instantly, doubts creep in: Are you detail-oriented? Do you invest in your business? First impressions matter, and an unprofessional headshot can cost you trust—and ultimately, opportunities. 2. No Headshot? You Might As Well Be Invisible If you don’t have a headshot at all, you’re missing a huge opportunity to connect. People trust faces, not blank avatars or logos. Studies show that profiles with professional photos receive significantly more engagement than those without. If your competitors have high-quality headshots and you don’t, guess who’s making a stronger impact? 3. DIY and Stock Photos Don’t Build Trust Some professionals rely on stock images or AI-generated avatars to represent their brand. While these might look polished, they don’t establish authenticity. Clients and employers want to see you—the real person they’ll be working with. A professional headshot conveys confidence, approachability, and trustworthiness in a way that generic images never can. 4. A High-Quality Headshot Helps You Stand Out In competitive industries, standing out is crucial. A well-crafted headshot gives you a distinct presence and makes you more memorable. Whether you're a business owner, consultant, or job seeker, a professional portrait signals that you take yourself—and your career—seriously. Invest in a Headshot That Works for You Your headshot isn’t just a photo—it’s a powerful marketing tool. If you’re serious about making a strong impression, investing in a professional headshot is one of the simplest yet most effective steps you can take. At Enjoy the Moment Portraits, we specialize in creating headshots that showcase your professionalism and personality. Don’t let an outdated or unprofessional image cost you opportunities. Book your session today and put your best face forward! Ready to upgrade your headshot? Let’s make it happen. 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. 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! |
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
May 2025
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