Elicia's Discovery Park Maternity | Olympia Maternity Photographer

June 04, 2017 in Maternity

Maternities have steadily become one of my favorite sessions to photograph. There is something so wonderful and magical about creating and sustaining a life and it should be celebrated. We all have heard, and probably used, the term "pregnancy glow" in our lives and in the beginning months this can be very true. Yet as time passes the physical effects of pregnancy can leave women feeling a little less like a fairy goddess and more like a turtle stuck on it's shell.

As a mother of three I personally know how women can struggle with self-confidence as their bodies change and grow. My favorite thing about photographing maternities is to help expecting mothers to feel beautiful in their skin and there is something about getting your hair and makeup done and putting on a gorgeous flowing dress to do just that!

My second favorite thing about shooting maternity sessions is documenting that amazing period in time! Some day these babies will grow up and look back at these images and see how beautiful and STRONG their mothers are. Daughters will compare their pregnant bellies to the shape of their mothers. You'll be able to look back at the images and have all those feelings you were experiencing come flooding back!

Heck, if every woman got maternity photos maybe new developments would be made on the old wives tale about whether boys/girls sit high/low! HAHA Only kidding.

Before you know it these moments -the little kicks and the uncomfortable nights will be a fleeting memory and believe it or not you WILL miss it. So document these moments... capture the joy, the anticipation, the wonder, the questions of their future, the love between you and your spouse and the amazing process your body goes through in order for you to be able to snuggle your sweet babe.

After all, life is precious and the most valuable gift we can have or give so why not document every moment of it?

The cherry on top is being a Pacific Northwest Maternity Photographer! Just look at those rich greens and the soft colors of the coast. The PNW is extremely diverse and offers some breathtaking backdrops!

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Preparing For Your Portrait Session

June 01, 2017 in Portrait Resources

Hello friends! So you're getting your picture taken! Let's talk about a few things to get you ready for our session!

Although we can schedule your session any time during the day, we try to schedule to take advantage of the best natural light. The hours after sunrise and before sunset are 'golden' times and have ideal lighting. The golden light of these hours are soft, flattering and BEAUTIFUL! Please make sure you specify one of these time slots if you are interested.

ASK QUESTIONS! We strive to create a custom experience for each of our clients. Feel free to ask questions including location advice, wardrobe, style, props and more! Below are a few guidelines to get you started.

Clothing

Keep the attire simple, but coordinate colors for groups.
Solid colors are best... try to avoid large bold patterns and neon colors as they can take attention away from your face. If you do select an outfit with a pattern try to match that pattern to solid colors for the clothing of the other parties in the portrait.
When selecting your wardrobe consider the location of your portrait session and match accordingly. For example, soft colors look great at the beach and avoid green in the forest so you don't blend in!
If you plan to hang a large print or canvas of your images consider the colors of your home when selecting your wardrobe.
Darker, solid colors appear more slimming than lighter colors.
Dress weather appropriate so you aren't too hot or cold.
Be sure to include the appropriate shoes, socks and stockings for your outfit. Plan your wardrobe from head to toe as full length poses are a part of your portrait session.
Bring an outfit change(s) to add variety to your sitting.
Wear clothing you are uncomfortable in. If you are uncomfortable it will show in your face and will be harder to relax and enjoy yourself.
Avoid baggy clothing as it can make you look big/boxy.
Eyeglasses can create glare that hides your eyes. We recommend wearing contacts if you have them or asking your optician if you can borrow a similar frame without lenses.
Remember to empty your pockets of cellphones, keys, chapstick etc so there aren't visible outlines.
Ladies!!! Take your hairbands off your wrists.
Feel free to bring a few props with you to add a unique touch to your portraits.
Bring a portable speaker and your favorite tunes! Music can create some great vibes and help you relax.

Hair/Make-up

We highly recommend getting your hair and make-up done as professional stylists know how to apply makeup to best bring out your natural beauty! Besides, knowing you look fabulous and FEELING fabulous will help you be more relaxed and happy. Those natural smiles and real laughter are always my fave!

There are many talented Hair and Makeup artists in the area, if you'd like suggestions please contact one of the artists on our Wedding Resource Guide.

Kids

Bring snacks to avoid hangry 'tudes. Also good for bribery.
Bring a comfort item - stuffed animal, pacifier, blankey etc.
Make sure parents AND kids are both rested. You may be so focused on making sure your child is well rested that you forget about yourself. Children are very sensitive to their parents emotions and even the slightest bit of grump or frustration can affect their behavior. Bottom line, if you are happy and relaxed your kids will be too!
Allow for extra time to get to the location and prepare for your session. The events leading up to your session can set the tone of the day. Extra time = no stress about being late and time for your munchkins to look around and acclimate to the location.
Don't force them to smile! That's my job! Kids are much more relaxed and natural when you aren't telling them what to do and what not to do. Relax and have fun with them, your smiles and laughter will relax them and then their smiles will come naturally. I'll say it again - when you are stressed they are stressed, when you are relaxed they are relaxed!
Bring baby wipes! Cause boogers.

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Tonya + Mark's Seattle Courthouse Wedding | Seattle Wedding Photographer

February 07, 2017 in Wedding

In December I second shot Tonya + Mark's Seattle Municipal Court wedding with Markie Jones Photography. Markie and I met Tonya, Mark and their parents at the courthouse and spent some time taking some outdoor portraits. It was a typical Seattle winter day with bouts of cold wind and rain and we were definitely chilly! It didn't take us long before we opted for some indoor shots by the large windows in the entrance of the courthouse. They made for some fun and dramatic images! We then headed upstairs to a long corridor where many couples and their loved ones waited for their turns. We didn't have to wait too long before Tonya + Mark's names were called. We were lead back to a large corner conference room lined with windows and an amazing view of downtown Seattle. The ceremony was short and sweet and soon we were headed to CI Shenanigans in Tacoma to celebrate their marriage with friends and family. When we arrived people were already getting seated and it was a full house!! So many friends and family came to honor the couple and laughter and chatter filled the room. Soon a deliciously decked out buffet was served and drink were flowing from the bar. The multi-leveled cake had a cute custom topper and boasted several different flavors! The reception was fun and relaxed and everyone had a great time. Side note, look how cute those little wedding favors are!

This couple has already seen their share of tough times and unfair circumstances, but their commitment to each other has held them together. Stronger is their love today and it will continue to grow as time passes. Through sickness and health, they will stand together and conquer all that comes their way. Cheers to the adventure of marriage and all the wonderful moments it will bring!

“Every atom of your flesh is as dear to me as my own: in pain and sickness it would still be dear.”

-Charlotte Brontë, Jane Eyre

Congrats Tonya + Mark!

XOXO,

Sarah

Like what you see? To see more please like Sarah Gonia Photography's Facebook page, follow us on Instagram and check out our Pinterest page!

Contact me today and lets document all those little moments that make life beautiful

Marina + Yakov's Discovery Park Bridal Session | Seattle Wedding Photographer

December 06, 2016 in Love and Engagement, Bridal

Marina, Yakov and I had fun exploring Discovery Park in Seattle. It was a bit cold out but that didn't stop us from getting some great bridal portraits and having tons of fun while we did it!

This couple is so sweet and genuine and it was clear that they love each other beyond words. Capturing true love without a word spoken makes my heart happy.

For those considering the Seattle area for weddings, bridal or engagement portraits, check out Discovery Park. It is a diverse and simply beautiful location for any type of portrait sessions. There is woods with evergreen trees, an epic beach, grassy fields and a lighthouse! Bring good shoes though, this park is huge and ready for some exploring!