This blog topic is more of a mommy post than a photography post. I just wanted to share this fun idea with other parents if you happen to be home on a cloudy day. I call this a Dr. Suess/Rainy Day activity to do with your child. So here we go...
 
My middle child Mila has been obsessed with painting lately, specifically rainbows, so I decided to bring her art to life today. After I explained the idea of having her paint the sky, she was so excited to dip her brush in some watercolor. We had all the materials ready to go at our house, so I propped her near a well-lit window and let her creative process begin.

Since she insisted her rainbow colors be in the right order, I did give her some instructions while taking her photos. I probably shot around 20 different images playing with different angles. 

My oldest daughter has a collection of art supplies so they made the perfect props for the photo. I will let you know that everything that was displayed on the desk was stacked quite ugly behind me. I did that simply to avoid any distractions in the images. It was also an overcast day which made it a perfect day to create some sunshine and color with her. ​

The final step to get my image was to head to the nearest park and take her photo. I did this with my oldest daughter when she was around the same age. At that time, I had purchased a cute wooden ladder and giant paintbrush but I wanted to be more resourceful this time around. I ended up getting lucky finding this tree stump at our park that gave her some height in the shot. After a quick edit of her portrait, I took photos of her painting separately and added them into photoshop to crop and place her art in the image. I'm sure there are plenty of apps that offer this overlay technique but personally it's easier for me on my computer. It is such a simple process as well as great quality time. My children have an art room (for the time being) so this is where I plan to print and frame the image we both came up with.  Another reason why I loved this so much was because I get to see her at the age and stages of her art in all-in-one. 

Thanks for reading,
Vanessa Castillo

I won't be speaking for other photographers, but I simply want to explain the process when booking a session with me. Other photographers may have a different approach but I hope this helps give a general idea. I booked my first professional shoot for my family really not too long ago. Even I didn't see the importance of it until I received my gallery, and got all choked up. I am always the one behind the camera, and because I love photography I don't mind it at all until I realize that I have no photos of myself for my kids to have.
Before I get to your why and what booking a session with me is like, let me just tell you a quick story. Just recently I made time for a trip to sunflower fields. I wanted to a good group photo of my daughters. I got them all dressed up, coordinated and all, I rushed to make sure I had everything packed, diaper bag, snacks, camera, etc. I made it an hour before they closed since the location was more than an hour away from me. I didn't get the photo I wanted, and honestly my camera felt like my cell phone. I couldn't put it down and really enjoy my children because I was so focused in getting a shot. I am sharing this because not even I can do it all. I believe it is so important to set time aside and allow someone else to look at your family and show you what is beautiful and special about it...even though I am sure you already know. So anyway lets begin...

Along with the seasons and time of day, locations can have a big impact on your photos. When considering your location, choose one that best suits you personally. What you have to wear to your session can also help narrow down your decision. Don't be shy to dress up at a more natural location, but do consider the type of shoes you'd bring to a park. ;)

​Anyways, here are some of my favorite photography locations around Dalas that I have found to love!

1. Arbor Hills Nature Preserve / Address: 6701 W Parker Rd. Plano, TX 75093
This location has so much to offer because it is just so large. I usually only shoot just around the entrance of the park and I am able to deliver many options to my clients. The open field they have is perfect to capture a gorgeous sunset as well. You must visit right when the leaves begin to change their colors...it's beautiful. This park is usually filled with many other photographers, but with so much space, there is plenty of room for all of us!
Cost: FREE ​

These are the girls that inspired me to start my business in photography. As a mom I see how quickly children grow up, so every moment spent with them means I am usually taking so many pictures of them. Since I am always taking pictures, they hate to pose for me at times. So if you're a mom that wonders why you can't get your children to look and smile at the camera at the same time. I understand & it happens to me too! While doing family sessions, I always hear from moms "look at the camera and smile!" But I think it's important to also capture the moments in between the poses. Personally, I would much rather remember my children behaving as children. So even though I do offer the posed family photos with every session, I really recommend framing the natural moments around your house. I feel it brings more joy and shows their true character.