Location, location, location…it’s all about the location. Believe it or not, but this is usually not the case! It is quite the contrary actually…it’s all about the subject, and yea maybe one or two cool props as well. In your photo’s you want the subject, whether it be your cute, cuddly little newborn, your family, or a senior, they should be the focus of each shot and whatever is in the background should allow the eye to be drawn to your loved ones. The key factor with Amanda Glisson Photography is to have fun and just be yourself because that is when you truly shine in your photos…no matter the location.
With that having been said, there still lies the question…where do I go (on location) to get my photo’s taken? There are many different sites in Colorado Springs that offer both a fun and relaxing atmosphere and I will share some of my favorites with you here.
Garden of the Gods – A lot of clients request to have their photos taken at the Garden of the Gods. This is such a wonderful location and very versatile because you have the open fields, a few rustic bridges, nice wooded areas, and of course those beautiful red rocks!
Manitou Springs – My personal favorite because of the laid back and friendly culture you can see and feel around town. With the beautiful green, wooded surrounding mountains and river running through there are plenty of fun things to incorporate into your photos. Also a great location for Kids and families because of their unique and beautiful park downtown.
Fox Run Park – Another gorgeous location a little north of Colorado Springs. Usually more popular for weddings because of its serene gazebo by the lake and seats carved in the rock for guests, this location is also easily accommodates any portrait session.
The above listed are just a few of my favorite locations but keep in mind, there are no limits to where a photo shoot can take place and new suggestions are not just welcomed but encouraged!
I will talk a little bit about outfits because I don’t want anyone to worry too much about what they are going to wear to their next photo session. The most important aspect of any portrait is that everyone feels comfortable and relaxed, so if you can say that your clothes make you feel this way then you are already on the right track! If you are still worried about what to wear or just want a few quick pointers I have you covered in the listed below.
It’s all about you, don’t wear too many busy patters. While patters look great in photo, there is always such a thing as too much. If you think what you are wearing may be distracting attention away from your face, it may be a sign to bring an extra outfit just in case.
Getting family photos taken? The best tip that I can give that works really well for families is that everyone coordinates….don’t match because, well, then everyone looks the same and it can look a little odd in photos sometimes. What I am saying is just to make sure that everyone’s outfit fits with the look and style of the others in the photo and to maybe pick one color and have that repeat throughout everyone’s outfits.
One last thing…props! Props are so much fun to shake things up a bit and also to personalize a photo. For a maternity session you may want to bring an ultrasound photo or little baby shoes. For a family session you can bring a game everyone likes to play and include family pets as well. Couples may want to bring a love letter they have been holding onto or fresh flowers. Also if you had a prop in mind but don’t have it…ask! I would love to make sure we have everything you need and want in your photo session!
OK, so now that we have covered a little on Colorado Springs locations for your portrait session and shared some great outfit tips as well, it’s time to have fun and get some great photos to include in your home and family album! Here’s a before and after shot from a photo session I had done in Garden of the Gods recently…because what good is an article without any photos?
Colorado Portrait Photography tips
