Bri & Dustin | Laguna Beach Maternity Photographer

As a Laguna Beach Maternity Photographer, I adore all things baby. I LOVE belly bumps and I adore the glow of a mother to be. Capturing the bond that has already formed between mother and baby is beautiful.

So often, when women are pregnant, they don't see themselves as beautiful. That's where I come in, and that's where I get to show them that what they are going through, the changes that are happening to their body and their lives, is beautiful. To carry a life inside of you is a beautiful gift from God and it comes with a huge responsibility. It's always a goal of mine to make all women see their beauty.

Bri and Dustin were such a wonderful couple to work with. They were willing to do whatever it took to get the photo. Bri was such a trooper making the tiring trek down to Laguna Beach. It's a lot of stairs for this non-pregnant woman to go up and down, so for her to be as awesome and willing as she was (all while carrying an extra little human in her womb) was incredible. 

The love shared between both Bri and Dustin and their son-to-be was so wonderful to see. As a Laguna Beach Maternity Photographer, and as a woman, pregnancy is magical to me. It never ceases to amaze me. The way the female body changes to literally grow another human is fascinating.  Bri was just beautiful and Dustin was so sweet with her. We shared some good laughs and it was the perfect overcast day to be at the beach for photos. Call me crazy, but when I'm out at the beach doing a photography session, I pray for some overcast (right up untilbefore the sunsets). I love the drama that a cloudy day can create in an image, and this was no different.

If you or someone you know is pregnant and considering a Laguna Beach Maternity Session, I would love for you to contact me today!

If you're interested in learning more about having a maternity session with me, please go here: Maternity

3 Ways to get Sharper Photos | San Clemente Family Photographer

As a San Clemente Family Photographer, one thing I see a lot of newer photographers struggling with is how to get sharper photos out of camera. There are A LOT of different factors to consider when trying to make a sharp image. Today I'm going to discuss three ways to get sharper photos.

I'm choosing these particular three factors because I personally feel these are the top three to take into consideration when trying to get sharper photos.

1. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE ENOUGH LIGHT ON YOUR SUBJECT
There are a lot of reasons that having enough light on your subject will effect how sharp your image turns out.
One reason; having enough light on your subject helps your camera to "grab" onto the right area you're wishing to focus on. What I mean by that is: while our lens is what we use to focus, the camera itself still needs to be able to "see" what we're trying to focus on. It looks for areas of contrast (an area of light next to an area of shadow). If your subject is too much in the dark and there isn't some light that the camera can grab onto, then your lens is going to have difficulty focusing. This brings up another point about contrast... backlit images typically have decreased contrast and more haze. Because of this, it can make it harder for your lens to focus. It is created by the way the light source is hitting your lens (typically going straight into it). It's like us being blinded by the sun when we try to look right at it... a little hard to focus, amiright?!

As you can see, between these two images, the top image has less light on my subject, aka my dog. While her eyes are still in focus, you can see how having more light on her does actually make her appear sharper.
On top of making it easier for your camera to find the right area to focus on, having enough light also helps reduce your ISO. If your ISO is too high, you'll have noise/grain in your image. If your image is underexposed and you need to bring back some exposure in post, you're going to have noise in your image. Having too much noise will make your image look less sharp, even if you nailed focus.
All I did different (besides adjust my settings) for these two shots was open my blinds to camera right.

2. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A FAST ENOUGH SHUTTER SPEED.
This is a big one. If you do not have a fast enough shutter speed, you are going to introduce camera shake into your image. This will make it impossible to have a sharp image, and you also will not be able to fix this in post. A blurry image out of camera will remain a blurry image out of post.
There's a bit of a "rule" when it comes to how slow you actually let your shutter speed get. The rule is 1/focal length. What this means is that if you're using an 85mm lens, your shutter speed should not drop below 1/85ths of a second. And since 1/85 isn't an option on any camera I'm aware of, you'd want a shutter speed of at least 1/100th of a second.
Now, it's also suggested to never let your shutter go below 1/60th of a second. This is because this is the average threshold for people to hand hold their camera. Meaning, any slower than that and it's suggested to use a tripod. Now... of course, there are always those who have very steady hands and can go lower than 1/focal length or even lower than 1/60, but you'll need to test your own limits. I know that I am more on the shaky/unsteady side of things. So I prefer to keep my shutter speed as fast as possible. Because I know I cannot fix a blurry image in Photoshop, I never want to risk introducing camera shake into my image.

Here are two more shots of my beautiful and well behaved model. As you can see, the top image is NOT sharp, and the bottom image is. Both of these were photographed using my Canon 35mm lens. The shutter speed in the top image is 1/40 and the shutter speed in the bottom image is 1/125. So, as you can see, even though I was still at 1/focal length in the top image, I was below 1/60. And for me, through my years of personal experience with photography, I know that I like to keep my shutter speed at no less than 1/100, even with a 35mm on my camera.
I encourage you to test your own limits at hand holding your camera.

3. TOGGLE YOUR FOCAL POINTS
This is another mistake I see a lot of newer photographers make. Either they leave their focal point in the middle of their view finder, or they allow the camera to choose the focal points for them. In my opinion, both of these are mistakes. For one thing, unless you are ALWAYS using a center composition, which I don't personally recommend, you're going to need to utilize your other focal points. They're there for a reason, use them! Now, your center focal point is your strongest one, but that doesn't mean the others should be ignored. I like to use the focal point that is closest to the composition I'm looking to have for my image. Practice moving your focal points so that you can get used to where the buttons are located and soon you'll be able to move them without having to look at your camera.
Now, you could focus and recompose your image, but there are limitations to doing that as well. For example, if your focal point is in the center, and you tilt your camera upwards to focus on someone's eye, then recompose the shot by tilting your camera back down so that the center focus point would now be pointed at their torso, there's a chance you will alter your depth of field. You will shorten the distance your camera is to your subject and your subjects face will not be sharp. Focus and recompose works best when moving from right to left, not up and down. That's just something to keep in mind, and something that I again encourage you to practice with so that you can see for yourself what I'm talking about.

The image above is something that you might see when you look into your view finder and want to change your focal point (this is what I see on my Canon cameras, Nikon may be slightly different). The middle example is showing that the camera would be using the center focal point. However, it's also showing that you're using ONE focal point, which is what I suggest. This is where you could change your single focal point to any of the other gray boxes that would best achieve the composition you're looking for in your image.

Hopefully these three tips will help you in getting sharper images. As I mentioned, there is SO MUCH more that goes into getting a sharper image in camera. These are just my top three. If you're interested in knowing more, I've put together a little ebook for you. You're welcome to sign up for my newsletters to get tips & tricks sent straight to your inbox. When you sign up, you'll get my 8 tips for How to Achieve Sharper Images in Camera. These newsletters are for newer photographers looking to learn how to use their cameras to the best of their abilities!

If you're interested in some one on one mentoring, I'd love for you to Contact Me today! I love helping newer photographers grow and learn.

I have been a San Clemente Family Photographer for 3 years. Capturing families interacting is the best job! If you're looking to schedule a family photography session, I'd love to hear from you!

Elise, Kaleb, & Boe | San Clemente Family Photographer

I love my job. Being a San Clemente Family Photographer is honestly one of the best jobs there are. Getting to meet new families and capture their unique dynamic is always fun and exciting for me. Each family is different. They have their own vibe, their own personality. On top of that, each individual is unique as well.

Elise, Kaleb & Boe are no different. You may remember seeing Elise & Kaleb on the blog before (You can check it out here). Not all of my families consist of human children. Some, such as this one, have fur children. As a fur mom, myself, I love when families want to incorporate their little four-legged family members.

Boe is the sweetest boy. He loves going on his walks, which is Elise is so good about taking him on. He also loved going to Deer Park, a park on Camp Pendleton. For this reason alone, we chose this as our location. Since Boe is a bit of an older pup, it's not always so easy for him to get around, and usually not for very long. But he LOVES going to Deer Park. It was such a special time getting to capture the three of them together, interacting and just being the happy little family that they are.

Being a San Clemente Family Photographer is one of the best things I've ever had the pleasure of being apart of. If you're looking to get your own family photos done, I would love to chat with you! Contact Me today to set up your photography session!

Project 52 : Month 1 | San Clemente Photographer

As a San Clemente Photographer, I'm always looking for a way to help myself grow in my art. So towards the end of the year, last year, I decided I wanted to do a Project 52.

If you're not a photographer, there's a good chance you're looking at your screen like I'm a crazy person thinking "what the heck is a Project 52?!" Basically, it's this: There are 52 weeks in the year. So I've made it a goal to make sure I take a photo, just for me (not client work), at least once a week. I'm not limited to only one photo a week. If I wanted to be an overachiever, I could be. But the goal is to go out and take some photos at least once a week. So, in order to hold myself accountable, I created a group for anyone who wanted to join in on the fun and participate. I then created 52 different "themes" for everyone to shoot for.

Since our first month is down, I thought it would be great to show you what I've been up to for that project. Everyone has been doing great in the group so far and I've been loving everyone's different interpretations of each theme. So, here are my interpretations for the first 4 weeks.

Our first theme was : Sparkle
I chose this little gingerbread crystal that was gifted to me a couple of Christmases ago. He's a cute little guy and he sure does sparkle something pretty in the sunlight.

Our second theme was: Gold
I chose to photograph my Golden Retriever, Capone. He's such a good boy. He doesn't love having his photo taken as much as his sister, but the fact that he's getting up there in age is going to make him my prime subject for as much as I can.

Our third theme was: New
It just so happened that earlier that week I had completed my new tattoo. So I sat myself down in front of my camera and captured it. I'm very much in love with my new tattoo and if you're in the Fallbrook area, and in the mood for a new tattoo, you should definitely check out Robia of Two Faced Tattoo.

Our fourth theme was: Excitement
I had a friend come to visit me from Chicago that week. So I made her get in front of the camera with me and just show our happiness and excitement for getting to hang out that weekend. It's always good and refreshing to have a friend come and visit you. I hadn't laughed that hard in a very long time. Her visit was very much needed! I think my favorite part of this image, though, is my dog, Cali, sitting and staring (and smiling) at the camera.

I hope you've enjoyed this little peek into what I've been up to. I know I enjoy sharing it with you.

If you're in the San Clemente or Orange County area and looking for a photographer, I would love for you to Contact Me! Also, to be the first to know what's going on over at Laura Lynn Photography, sign up below to be a VIP!

Spectrum Inspired | Family Photographer San Clemente

Last year, being a Family Photographer in San Clemente, I was lucky enough to become a contributor at an amazing company called Spectrum Inspired. This company is a community of photographers, working together to provide free photography sessions to children who are on the autism spectrum.

I believe that all children are a true blessing from God. So it was pretty easy for me to get behind this cause. If you aren't exactly sure what Spectrum Inspired is all about, you really should check out their site: SPECTRUM INSPIRED

Their mission is this: SPECTRUM INSPIRED is a global community that connects, supports and uplifts individuals and families touched by Autism Spectrum Disorders. In order to educate the general public, our team uses Lifestyle Photography to document a diverse group of children on the spectrum and their families across the globe in effort to normalize and destigmatize ASD. It is our mission to give families a platform to voice their struggles, celebrate their victories and share their story; all the while, removing the stigma and stereotypes of what is thought to be representative of Autism and show the world just how broad and beautiful the spectrum is. 

So... are you, or do you know, a deserving family with a child on the spectrum who should benefit from this amazing gift? If so, I urge you to reach out to them. Send them an application by going HERE.

If you're a family in the San Clemente/Orange County area, I would LOVE to capture the true spirit of your child as well as your unique family dynamic. If you fill out the application, all you have to do is request me as your photographer, and I'll be the one blessed with capturing lifelong memories for your family!

3 Day Juice Cleanse | San Clemente Family Photographer

As a San Clemente Family Photographer, I feel it's important for me to share with you more than just a blog about the sessions I do. I make it a point to try and become actual friends with my clients because I value that aspect of our relationship. Part of that includes me sharing bits of my life with you.

So... at the beginning of the year, I decided to try a 3 Day Juice Cleanse. My dad and stepmom bought my husband and I a really nice juicer for Christmas. I've already put it to really good use in a short amount of time.

I've never done any kind of cleanse before, so I knew I was in for a bit of a challenge. But I also knew I really wanted to try it. I was hoping for a bit of a reset to my system. See... while my husband is deployed, I don't always feel like cooking for myself. This usually results in me eating out more than I would really like.

I didn't want to do a cleanse that completely eliminated food. So I found one that allowed me to still have a decent dinner at night. The only restriction was that it was lean meat/protein and veggies. So no starches (I cried a little about that), and no carbs (at least not the kind I'm used to eating like breads and pastas).

I found THIS ONE on Pinterest. I didn't take any photos of the juice to show you and be all fancy because... well.. juice often looks a lot yuckier in person than it does in the photos you see online.

So here's what I thought of it and my results.

1. Day 1 and 2 juices did NOT yield 64 ounces of fluid. This left me feeling pretty hungry throughout the day even though I was making sure to drink plenty of water as well.
2. I had some HUGE cravings for salt on days 1 and 2. I mean... I wanted to rip open a bag of potato chips and just go to town kind of craving.
3. I realized just how much I eat not because I'm hungry, but just because I feel like putting food in my mouth. I found myself constantly wanting to graze just because. But I would have probably killed for some popcorn.
4. The juice was YUMMY! I was actually a little surprised about day 3 being as good as it was. I like juicing. I like most juices. However, beet juice has always been too earthy for me. BUT, this particular mix was pretty tasty. So much so, that I would make it again.
5. I lost 5lbs in 3 days. Granted it was all water weight, I did notice I was less bloated. I mean... what woman doesn't want that?

All in all, I think the 3 Day Juice Cleanse went pretty alright. Seeing a 5lb weight loss, even knowing it was water weight, had me tempted to go a couple more days, haha. But ultimately, I knew I just needed to take the next step in altering the way I consume food and the types of food I'm consuming.

Have you tried a cleanse that you love? If so, drop some details about it in the comments below! I'd love to hear about it!

Valentine's Day Session | San Clemente Family Photographer

As a San Clemente Family Photographer, one thing I make sure I capture during a family session is a couple images of just parents! Too often, parents forget that they were once just a couple. And even though you may have children now, you still need a little reminder now and again about what drew you to one another.

That's why, this year, I'm offering a Valentine's Day Session. This session will be just for the couple. It's important to spend a little time with it just being the two of you. When is the last time you took 20 minutes to just express your love to one another? Well... I'm going to give you that opportunity!

For a limited time, from now until February 14, 2017 I am going to be offering Valentine's Day Sessions.

These sessions will be 20 Minute Sessions and will include:
- 10 High Res, fully edited images for download
-A beautiful Glass Box with 10 5x5 prints (same images that you download)
Sessions will be held within 20 miles of San Clemente (92672) and can be scheduled any day, Monday-Sunday. Please see the link below for location options.
Investment is $300 + 8% OC sales tax (total is $324)
This collection is valued at over $700!!

In order to book your session, session fee must be paid in full and is non-refundable. You may choose which date/time/location works best for you. You'll then receive an email with the contract and model release, as well as a short questionnaire about your relationship.

Choose Your Session

So what are you waiting for? Book a Valentine's Day Session for you and your love. Treat yourselves to a romantic session for just the two of you! Let me capture your love through my eyes.

Click here to see more of my Couple's Photography

Have questions? Contact me!

Elise & Kaleb | San Clemente Family Photographer

As a San Clemente Family Photographer, sometimes, my families are made up just a husband and a wife. I love capturing the bond between family members. Whether that be a family of four, or a family of two.

I've known Elise for a few years now. She's an amazing photographer in the Wisconsin area. You can look her up if you'd like by visiting her site: Wild Mulberry Photography. Elise and I became fast friends during the time she lived on Camp Pendleton. We found that we had a mutual love for photography, animals and Jimmy Johns. This mutual love connected us instantly.

When I found out that she and Kaleb would be moving back to Wisconsin, I was incredibly happy for her while being incredibly sad for myself (haha, how sad does that sound). I was honored when she asked me if I would take photos of her, Kaleb, and Boe before they left our little town.

We did two different sessions (the second session will be shared next week). The first one being a more urban session out in the town of San Clemente. If you've never been, you should really put it on your list of places to visit. With a small town feel, right by the beach, you'll feel right at home when you walk into the unique small businesses and mom & pop restaurants that are lined up and down Del Mar street. It really is beautiful.

In this session, they let their goofy and fun sides show, and I just adored capturing it. We stopped at Rocket Fizz so they could get some of their favorite drinks (Elise is a HUGE Rootbeer fan). We also stopped at Baskin Robbins so they could enjoy some ice cream (another one of their favorites). Here are some shots from that session.

It was such a pleasure getting to capture the goofy, loving dynamic between these two! Stay tuned for session #2!

If you are looking for a San Clemente Family Photographer, I would love for you to Contact Me today to set up your own session!

Laguna Beach Family Session | San Clemente Family Photographer

As a San Clemente Family Photographer, I often times get to meet some pretty amazing families. This family is no different! I met Nicole a little over a year ago just by happenstance. She is another photographer and we both decided to take a course at the same time. So... we were students together. My husband had just deployed and she stopped over to introduce herself in person with a card and my favorite candy (Haribo gummy bears). It was the sweetest gesture and a prelude to the type of friend Nicole would quickly become.

It didn't take long for us to start building our friendship and before I knew it, she was pregnant with miss E, and we were talking and going for walks on the regular. Getting to know Nicole and her family over the last year + has been a blessing for me. I cherish the times we've spent and the connection we have.

Recently, they found out that they'll be moving. This is typical with the Marine Corps, it's part of the job, but it doesn't make it any less sad. Before they leave, Nicole wanted to make sure they captured some family photos here in California before taking off on their new adventure. To say I was excited would be an understatement.

We went to Laguna Beach and just played in the sand. Mr. P, as per usual, was just off doing his own thing. Getting wet, sandy, digging and having a ball as boys tend to do. I'm so thankful I was able to capture these memories for Nicole and her family. I'm going to miss her terribly, but I know in my heart, we'll always be connected.

Love you Nicole!

I also love to make sure that I pull the parents away for a few moments during the family session. It's good to have a moment and some photos just of the two of you.

If you're looking for a San Clemente Family Photography, I would love for you to Contact Me! Let me capture your families memories so that you will always have them to treasure!

San Clemente Family Photographer | Year in Review

As a San Clemente Family Photographer, it's important that I take time to reflect on the past year as well as plan for the year ahead.

2016 was a great year. I had a lot of firsts that I'm really happy with, and proud of. I created a course for new photographers that takes them from learning their camera and all about photography, and then teaches them how to start their own photography business the legitimate and legal way. I also created my very first set of Lightroom and Adobe Camera RAW presets. I put myself out there more by doing live Facebook videos. And I connected with some really amazing clients this year, as I think I do every year. I also took the time to do more personal sessions this year. I tried new things, I believed in myself, and I pushed myself. 

Being a San Clemente Family Photographer is honestly one of the best things in life. I love being able to connect with families, to capture their moments. Being able to bring them lifelong memories that they can cherish forever is priceless to me.

Having such a wonderful 2016 only means that I need to push myself even harder for 2017. I have new goals. One of these goals is to reach more families in the San Clemente/Orange County area. Will you be one of them? I sure hope so!

Here are a few of my favorite images from throughout 2016

I would love to be able to capture your family memories this year. If you're interested in having your San Clemente Family Photography done, I would love for you to Contact Me!