Morgan Family Capitol Building Session | Olympia Portrait Photographer

As a wedding photographer I don't photograph as many family as I used too since my summer and fall are busy catching "I do's." BUT when I do get to squeeze one in I remember how fun they can be.

This is the Morgan Family's second time having their family portrait's taken with me and it was really fun to see how much the girls had grown up. Not to mention the addition of a little, chubby-cheeked and smiley brother! So much can change in two years!! We hammed it up, danced and played and had a blast exploring the Capitol Building! What a great setting and an amazing family.

OF COURSE now I'm going to sneak my favorite quote about families in here... not that it pertains to this family cause I don't think I've met their 'nut' yet but when I think of it relative to my family it makes me giggle!

“Families are like fudge – mostly sweet with a few nuts.” - Unknown

...... side note...... if you are the 'nut' do you know it?? If you read this and think "no, not my family - we are 'nut' free" could that mean that YOU are the 'nut'? Anyway, I find it pretty humorous and it also reminds me how much I love my family, 'nuts' and all.

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THROWBACK!

People, and family, change over time and it's great to have images to hold side my side to not only remember fond moments that have passed but also to see all the changes that may not be as obvious because you see people every day. A solid reminder not to take any moment, phase - good or bad- or person for granite.

Second side not of today's blog, I'm happy to see how much growth there is in my photography skills too .... so SO much can change in two years!

Thank you Morgan family for trusting me to capture your family portraits not once but twice! I hope we can enjoy each other's growth again!

XOXO,

Sarah

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

Trina + Jonathon's Romantic Spring Session....At My Neighbors House | Olympia Engagement Photographer

If you've been following me at all you know that I am a sucker for beautiful locations! Rattlesnake Lake, Franklin Falls, beaches, mountains, the ocean......! I have a list 10 pages long of all the locations I want to photograph a couple or elopement at (Some I will be checking off the bucket list this summer so if you are recently engaged message me!!! #shamelessadvertising but it's my blog so I can do that haha)

As a Pacific Northwest Wedding Photographer I consider myself quite lucky because there is no shortages of beautiful locations to shoot at. So, I spend so much time dreaming of and planning shoots in many of these breathtaking locations that sometimes I forget that some of the most beautiful locations can be right in front of you! Sometimes it's the side of the road (been there, done that) and sometimes you can't help but ask your neighbor if you can shoot in there driveway -  after years of ogling over it!!!

Meet Trina + Jonathan - they are fellow photographers from PS Photography by Trina + Jonathan. They met me in Lacey along with my good friend Leslie of One Thousand Words to make my vision of shooting in blossoms (at least once a year) happen! Wow, did it ever happen! Trina + Jonathan have years of marriage and four kids under their belts and still are MADLY in love with each other!!! Of course with that type of connection they could make any location look good but my NEIGHBOR'S DRIVEWAY lined with gorgeous pink blossoms was just PERFECT! Overgrown field across from their house was a bonus :)

So, when you are thinking about planning a portrait session, an adventurous location like Franklin Falls or Rattlesnake Ledge would be amazing and would surely yield some amazing images. BUT don't forget that there is beauty all around us and we don't have to travel far to create some epic portraits. For those of you who can't swing an adventure portrait session this year, this may be the perfect option for you! I've got endless ideas so message me if you want your own beautiful little session.

Trina's makeup was ON POINT for this session! Amanda at A Second Look - Makeup by Amanda nailed it!!

Oh, and for those of you drooling over Trina's gorgeous floral dress (like me) find one in your size HERE.

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

Olympia Arts Walk 2017

In April, my family and I attended the Arts Walk 2017 in downtown Olympia, Washington. Arts walk is a two day festival that celebrates local artists - of all different crafts. From Painting to little wooden bird houses, sewn masterpieces and hand crafted statues there was an endless variety of beautiful, locally crafted Art. There were also performers filling the streets; some of my favorite being the children jugglers, fire dancers, break dancers and musicians. Local businesses aided in the spirit of the festival by displaying the Art of local Artists, from preschool students to accomplished Artists alike.

The streets were closed to traffic for the festivities and there were so many people it was hard to find room to walk. Looking all around there were smiles on the faces that whizzed passed me, children danced, laughed and chased bubbles. Looking up I saw balloons, a beautiful blue sky - and some rain. Even looking down was festive as the streets where covered in detailed chalk drawings, names of children and lovers and inspirational quotes.

The Luminary Procession is held the first night of Arts Walk and boasts some elaborate and visually stunning lanterns -many homemade. From dinosaurs to bugs to simple shapes, a parade of beautifully lit works of art passes through the streets of the Olympia. What a great way to close out the first day of Arts Walk.

A unique and popular part of Arts Walk is the Procession of the Species, which is a parade where it's participants dress up in detailed costumes of all species. It is intended to celebrate our connection with the earth and all living things. More immediately it provides joy and entertainment for all that witness it's magnificence. The Procession of the Species in Olympia has very minimal funding and depends on donations to keep it running. Please consider donating (information on donating HERE.)

The experience was one of a kind, chocked full of culture, spice and life. A truly remarkable and eye-opening experience that we will now be adding to our calendar every year.

Some of my images from Arts Walk and the Procession of the Species were featured on Thurston Talk's website. See the article HERE.

Arts Walk is presented by the City of Olympia Arts Commission and the Parks, Arts & Recreation department with

support provided by the local business community.

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

Fun Prop Ideas for Your Portrait Session

Most of the portraits that I shoot focus more on the connection between people rather than props but I do recommend bringing one or two personal items to make your session unique and fun. It doesn't have to be big and elaborate to make amazing photos (but if you have a beautiful armchair briiiing it!!)

Couples/Engagement Photography

• Chalkboard

• Save the Date

• Rings

• Pillows, blankets

• Candles

• Flowers

• Flower Crown

• Beautiful Dress

• Uniform

• Antique or Victorian armchair, love seat or couch.

• Matching item ex baseball caps or jerseys

• Balloons

• Hammock

• A bicycle

• Large balloon or half a dozen small ones (helium)

• Umbrella

• Signs

• Old Pick-up truck or car

• Row boat

• Coffee

• Hat

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Maternity Photography

• Book

• Ultrasound Photo

• Baby Shoes

• Sign

• Chalkboard

• Letters Spelling Babies Name

• Flowers

• Floral Crown

• Antique or Victorian armchair, love seat or couch.

• Balloons

• Pickles and Ice Cream!

• Significant or cherished item

• Chalk

• Lace dress, a flowing dress

• Fur baby and sign to announce pregnancy

• Tiny crown

• Baby Daddy!! siblings.

• Sun hat

• Swing (Can be adorned with flowers)

• Large piece of sheer fabric

• Wedding Rings

• Tulle Skirt and Bralette

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Senior Photography

• Letterman Jacket

• Sports Paraphernalia

• Your best friend or close family member so you are more relaxed

• Medals or Awards that you are proud of

• Sports uniforms

• Instruments

• College Swag

• Several Outfits

• A fun hat

• Sunglasses

• Swing (Can be adorned with flowers)

• Flowers

• Floral Crown

• Antique or Victorian armchair, love seat or couch.

• Balloons

• Book

• Sign

• Graduation year numbers

• Globe

• Flag

• Significant Necklace or Bracelent

• Class Ring

• Props that elude to your future career (stethoscope for doctor etc)

• The best prop you can bring is confidence and a genuine smile!

Family Photography

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• Pillows and Blanket

• Tent, Campfire, s'mores

• Chalkboard

• Family Pet

• Bicycles

• Kayaks

• Hiking boots and a gorgeous view!

• Signs

• Bubbles

• Antique or Victorian armchair, love seat or couch.

• Old Pick-up truck or car

• Tee-Pee

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Children's Photography

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• Watermelon

• Lemonade stand

• Kissing booth

• Old Pick-up truck or car

• Signs

• Bubbles

• Antique or Victorian armchair, love seat or couch.

• Tee-Pee

• Bicycle or Tricycle

• Umbrella

• Balloons

• Child-sized chairs

• Headbands

• Bow Ties

• Cakes or cupcakes

• Lollipop

• Swing

• Vintage Suitcases

• Chalk

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Lifestyle Photography

• Game or activity

• Books

• Baking

• Ice cream

• Pillow Fight

• Fort

• Sprinkler

• Water balloons

• Tea/coffee

• Couch

• Bed

• Wagon

• Bicycle or Tricycle

• Popsicles

• Trampoline

• Hike

• Tent, campfire, s'mores

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

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

Rachel + Jordan's Boho Ft. Steilacoom Couples Maternity | Tacoma Maternity Photography

Today on the blog is one of my favorite sessions of 2016! This couple was so much fun and just look how adorable they are! Rachel had an idea to take some pictures in a white canopy so she brought some fabric with her and we made a cute little retreat for them to cuddle for photos. It went perfect with her GORGEOUS floral dress and Jordan's blue shirt. Rachel and Jordan are so amazing together, their love for each other just radiates around them and the look they get when they are with each other is just the sweetest. I can't wait to meet their baby girl - with so much love for each other their little girl will be loved beyond measure.

Did I mention how fun and hilarious this couple was??? My favorite is the one with Jordan's little kick while he goes in for a kiss haha! There were so many hilarious outtakes I had to add them in! Hope you get as big of a "kick" out of them as I did. :)

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

Dnycia's Ft. Steilacoom Park Senior Portraits | Tacoma Senior Photographer

I met this sweet senior's mother, Letitia, at a get together with some friends and she started telling me about her soccer-loving daughter, Dnycia, so I was excited when Letitia contacted me to do Dyncia's senior portraits! We had one reschedule due to rain but as a Pacific Northwest Senior Photographer I considered that lucky because the next was beautiful and we even had some sun!!

Letitia had warned me that Dnycia was shy but camera's don't lie! Just look at that smile!!! Once she warmed up a bit I think she even had fun! I know I did! So nice to meet you Dnycia, good luck in the rest of your senior year and I'll see you for family photos in the summer.

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

Kenzi + Daniel's Rattlesnake Lake Couples Maternity | Olympia Maternity Photographer

One of my absolute favorite session to date - Kenzi and Daniel's Rattlesnake Lake maternity was a dream!!! As a Pacific Northwest Maternity Photographer I live for the dreamy, moody PNW sessions. The rich colors of Rattlesnake Lake along with Kenzi's red hair was a perfect combination! This sweet couple just had their baby boy, join me in welcoming baby Everett!

Congrats Kenzi, Daniel and new big sis Olivia!!! - Can't wait to get your amazing little family in front of my camera again!

To see more of this amazing session click HERE.

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