Senior Session Sneak Peeks | North Oaks, Minnesota Senior Photographer

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It amazes me all the time how fast time goes by.  Talking with this senior during his session just reminded me how soon my own son will be doing senior pics (I wonder if he’ll let me take them?)  I mean we still have 7 years but it’s going to be here before I know it!  Ok so I’m just going to enjoy the next few years but this guy is off to big things after high school.  Enjoy your last year ruling the school.

Michele is a lifestyle portrait photographer in North Oaks, Minnesota.  Photographing students for the Mounds View School District is a summer tradition for the seniors.  To schedule your senior session please visit mQn Photography | Twin Cities Lifestyle Photographer or e-mail michele@mqnphotography.com

What to Wear: Tips for Selecting Your Wardrobe | Minnesota Child & Family Photographer

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A lot of people ask what they should wear to their photo session?  After all, these photographs will become a staple in your family frames and albums for years to come.  Choosing timeless, yet appropriate attire will lend to the positive outcome of your photo shoot.

If it’s an indoor session, choosing soft, warm colors can be very pleasing to the lens. Outdoors, you can opt for bolder colors, earth tones or contrasting, such as big stripes paired with a solid color. Pinstripes or small dots generally do not photography well. Wearing accessories can add a nice touch, but try to avoid accessories that are too big as they may overshadow your face.

Here are some general tips to follow for selecting your wardrobe:

  • Choose soft colors, such as pink, light blue, lavender, yellow, etc. for dreamy looks 
  • Choose bold colors such as red, black, dark blue, purple or orange for dramatic looks
  • Minimal accessories are best, as too big or too many can detract from the image
  • For children, bring outfits that have a lot of creativity behind them. They can be fun, layered looks, sporty, textures (tutus and ruffles for girls look so cute!), jeans, khakis, sweaters, skirts, dresses, etc. “Sunday” wear dress code works well.
  • Avoid character t-shirts, shirts with sayings, etc.
  • Don’t forget the shoes and socks. Men, avoid wearing white socks with dress shoes. Make sure your shoes are clean, not raggedy or muddy. Barefoot photos can also be fun! For the women, boots, heels, sandals or dress shoes look great.

Michele is a lifestyle portrait photographer located in North Oaks, Minnesota.  She also has a studio in Northeast Minneapolis.  To book your next photo session with Michele please visit mQn Photography | Minnesota Child & Family Photographer

Surviving a Family Photoshoot | North Oaks, Minnesota Child & Family Photographer

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How to make your next family photo session a stress free one.

Family photos are truly timeless and such a great keepsake for future generations.  Getting the family together to take those perfect portraits can turn into chaos if not approached correctly. There is usually a lot more to consider when it comes to a family photoshoot since there are members of all ages, which means that there is some extra coordination involved.

Below are some family photoshoot ideas and tips to keep you and your loved ones calm and smiling the whole way through.

  1. Timing is everything. If you have younger children involved in the shoot, try and arrange the photoshoot at a time when they would be well rested. A rested child makes for happy photos. On that note, make sure that all family members have gotten enough sleep the night before as this helps with the fun and relaxation aspects of the session.
  2. Dos and don’ts of bribery. Get your family excited about the photoshoot instead of offering a reward in return for their cooperation. This tends to lead to forced smiles and an irritated bunch of people. If you do have small children coming along it’s not a bad idea to give the photographer some bribery options in the form of toys or small food items to make those difficult moments a little easier

    Behind the camera we are playing peekaboo with his favorite toy.

  3. Relinquish control. As much as you’ll want to direct your children on where to stand and how to pose, it’s best to leave that to the photographer as they know what works best. Not having this pressure will also make you feel more relaxed.
  4. It’s not just about the posing. The best photos happen when you’re having fun so joke and play with your children, hold your partner’s hand and just let the moments happen.
  5. Plan ahead. Discuss all of your requirements with your photographer beforehand so that the family photo session can just flow. Let your photographer know if you want specific pictures taken.
  6. Keep those sugar levels up. If everyone is well fed, the photoshoot will also run a lot smoother. It’s also not a bad idea to take a few snacks and some water along for those who might need it

Enjoy capturing your memories.

Michele is a lifestyle portrait photographer in North Oaks, Minnesota.  She works on-location or in her studio located in the northeast neighborhood of Minneapolis.  To schedule your next session visit: mQn Photography | Minnesota Family Photographer or e-mail michele@mqnphotography.com

Should You Have a Themed Photo Session | North Oaks, Minnesota Child & Family Photographer

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You have probably seen many photos that were taken at a themed photo session. Your friends’ kids got their latest pictures taken in matching Western outfits. Your aunt had a movie theme for her wedding pictures. There are countless theme ideas you can use to make your photos interesting, unique, and a reflection of your personality.

If you are considering a themed photo session, answer the following questions discover your ideal theme:

Is this photo session indoors or outdoors? If it’s outdoors you’ll probably want to consider a theme that suits the current weather.

What season is it? If you are looking to use a specific backdrop or seasonal prop, use Mother Nature’s current display as your theme.

Do you love a specific historical era, such as the 50’s? Or a particular TV series like Star Trek? There are so many eras and movies that you can draw inspiration from. Make a list of shows, movies & eras that you and your family love.

Do you have specific hobbies? Perhaps you are an animal lover, a sports fan or have a passion for fashion. Make a list of your interests and your theme might just jump out at you.

Is this a major life event? Use your pregnancy announcement or your wedding as the perfect excuse for a fun photo session.  Is your baby turning one?  Use a setting and props that speak to both you and family’s interests. There is also tons of inspiration on websites such as Pinterest that you can turn to for ideas

Whatever theme you decide to choose, make sure that it speaks to your personalities so that you genuinely enjoy the process. Themed photo sessions are also usually a great way to encourage children to be involved and to get them excited.

Michele is a lifestyle portrait photographer in North Oaks, Minnesota who also enjoys putting together fun themed sessions for kids and their families (and friends).  To book your next session with Michele or to inquire about a day of themed mini sessions with your friends e-mail michele@mqnphotography.com or visit mQn Photography | Twin Cities Photographer

Bloom Lake Barn with Matilda Jane | Shafer, Minnesota Family Photographer

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Last week we held an afternoon of mini sessions at The Bloom Lake Barn. It is such a beautiful wedding venue but we got to use it for our sessions and it was perfect! I’ve mentioned before I love these sessions and it’s not just the cute clothes the girls wear but these sessions aren’t always about the clothing either. This time I was even fortunate to photograph a couple of handsome seniors. It’s fun to mix it up. Anyway here are a few sneak peeks from the day. I can’t wait to post my favorites on Facebook. Stay tuned . . .

Michele is a lifestyle portrait photographer in North Oaks, Minnesota.  She photographs on location in many cities in Minnesota.  She also has a studio in northeast Minneapolis.  To schedule your next session with Michele please visit mQn Photography | Twin Cities Minnesota Photographer or e-mail michele@mqnphotography.com