Portrait Guide by angel dibbs photographer
F E AT U R E D S E S S I O N
the ashworth family
A PEEK INSIDE
a daughter’s perspective QUICK TIPS FOR A
perfect portrait session W H AT T O W E A R F O R
kids, family & teens ALSO INSIDE Letters from you M y p h o t o g r a p h y story
complimentary
The portrait process From shoot to p r i n t
PICTURE THIS
In the spring of 1989, I picked up a 35 mm. camera for the first time. Never mind that I had chosen another profession on the opposite side of the lens; it was the season I fell in love with cameras, photography, and above all, the intense satisfaction which came from sharing how I saw the world, through my looking glass. Back then, I was a stylist-makeup artist, and worked with many talented photograhers behind the scenes, working on models. My interest in fashion and beauty photography was burning inside of me, and though I had limited time and gear, I attempted to photograph anyone who would submit to my whims and smile for my humble 35 mm. “Anyone” meaning my girlfriends, former clients and all of my relatives. Little did I realize, I was developing the foundation for my next career. Through those years, I moonlighted as a dance instructor, while my daughter received preproffessional training every night down the hall. Being a single mom, that arrangement was beyond perfect. I was thrilled that my only child was happy to pursue my lifelong passion while I got my tap dance groove on for a few extra bucks, Ultimately I saved a ton on babysitters, while spending a small fortune on my kid’s training. Good thing she is talented and made a career in performing arts! My former career and performing arts took me places I never imagined I’d go, then a health crisis forced me to rethink my life and professional goals. Friends, family and my photographer mentors encouraged me to reinvent myself by getting an education in digital art and photography. I did exactly that! Photography has been an exhilarating ride so far, and I plan to stay buckled up for all the loopty-loops ahead! (Did I mention I love roller coasters?) I’d be honored to tell your story in pictures,
ANGEL DIBBS PHOTOGRAPHER
LETTERS FROM YOU
JEN
MEGHAN & ROD
TA M I
I had a great experience working with Angel! She is very creative with her shots and made me feel very comfortable in front of the camera. Her energy is great and she is so positive with her cues and helping me get in the correct pose!
Choosing Angel as our wedding photographer was the best decision ever! We LOVE our engagement photos, and she even included our dog! Everyone was impressed with our Save The Date cards, which Angel custom designed for us, and we can’t wait to have her capture our big day this Fall. Honestly, Angel’s kindness and talent is stellar. We feel fortunate to have met her!
Seriously, we only had 30 mn. to do a quick portrait session, so I thought because I had rushed Angel, the pics would be “so-so.” To my surprise, they were great! I’m awkward in front of the camera anyway, but somehow Angel was able to get me to relax and have fun. No idea how she captured so many good images while I was nervous and in a hurry...but SHE DID!
ALLI
JENNIFER
JEWEL
The pictures you took of our newborn in her most fragile moments are absolutely precious. She is already growing so fast that it is a treasure to be able to look back on those sweet, sleepy moments.
I’ve never modeled for photos like that before and Angel made me feel like a pro! All the shots came out so great I couldn’t even pick a favorite! I love having Angel photograph me and I look forward to working with her more often.
My experience with Angel was exciting! She made me feel like a real model! She was so pleasant and I love how she was open to anything I had to offer to the photo shoot! Along with her being open to my creativity, she gave me very helpful tips and ideas for more fun and beautiful shots! I definitely won’t ever forget my experience with Angel! It was one of a kind!
WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU! PLEASE SEND YOUR LETTERS TO ANGEL@ANGELDIBBSPHOTOGROPHER.COM
SPOTLIGHT ON T H E A S H W O R T H F A M I LY
F A M I LY F A B U L O U S N E S S Bobby and Sarah always wanted children. An engineer and physician’s assistant, the two met while attending Virginia Tech and tied the knot as soon as Sarah finished graduate school. Bobby was already working in Northern Virginia, where they began building their family. When their three children came along, they became focused on the kids while maintaining their fulltime work. Bobby and Sarah’s dedication to their family is obvious, and they seem to balance it all with such ease. The Ashworths are a beautiful family to work with, their fun personalities and warmth matched the beautiful, early spring weather. Sarah chose clothing in soft shades of blue, with denim, white and neutral khaki to complement each other. Reflective of both
their laid back, fun-loving style these outfits left room for plenty of running, playing, hugs and laughter. Since these portraits look great in grouping, they would be fabulous as a framed wall gallery, in clean, white wood with double white matting to emphasize the natural beach colors. Fresh and contemporary, these finished images share the close bonds of special people who will cherish these moments for many years to come.
COOL AND CALM Kids are best in the morning when they’re at their happiest. Well rested and fed, a calm, fun energy should make for the perfect shoot time for kids and siblings. Lunch, nap times and evenings are generally more complicated times for the optimal portraits, since young ones are often both hungry and tired at this time.
GET THE LOOK Decide before the shoot what look you’re going for. Where in your home will your portraits be displayed? If in a more formal room, be sure everyone’s clothing is coordinated to this look. If the room is less formal and more “family” keep this in mind as well. Furnishings from desired rooms can also be used if the shoot is in-home, guaranteeing a perfect match to your decor.
HAIR AWARE Get haircuts at least a week before the shoot. It might take a few days to grow into (or fond of) a hair cut, especially if the scissors went amiss. This buffer allows for some growth, tweaks and perfections to the hair style prior to your session. .
CAN’T BUY ME LOVE Build up the session to children as it really is—a time for fun and togetherness. There’s no need for bribes when the event itself is the reward.
CHILL PILL Calm your own lens nerves. Relaxed parents have more fun, which helps kids become most comfortable for the best shots.
PETS ALLOWED If you bring your pet Sparky to the family shoot, make sure to get some brisk exercise with your pup before coming.
THE PORTRAIT PROC E S S
FROM SHOOT
TO PRINT
Here at Angel Dibbs Photographer we honor your schedules, special events and your sessions with a helpful timeline to help you to understand how we are working our hardest to create your treasured memories:
2 WEEKS
2 WEEKS
BEFORE YOUR SESSION:
AFTER YOUR SESSION:
After chatting on the phone or in
We post an online galler y for your
studio for our pre-consultation to
five day preview period.
discuss any of your specifications and
wishes,
we
send
you
a
portrait information form to fill out
2-3 WEEKS
all the details most important to
AFTER YOUR SESSION:
you for capturing the best images
We organize an in-person order
2 D AY S
session and meet to pick out your
BEFORE YOUR SESSION: We give you a quick checkin call /email to confirm all the details from our consultation.
favorite
components
for
your
photography groupings in terms of sizes, arrangements and style. We can also use this opportunity to take orders for gifts, albums, and any of the other unique keepsakes
T H E D AY O F
we offer.
YOUR SESSION: When you arrive at the scheduled time, I will get to know you and your family. As we warm up, the photo session will get going in a natural, relaxed way.
4-6 WEEKS AFTER YOUR SESSION: Your artwork and albums are ready for pickup! At this time we also provide a client care card packet which will ensure a long life from
1 WEEK
your precious heirlooms.
AFTER YOUR SESSION: We
post
stylized
some images
retouched, from
your
session, for a sneak peek on our website and blog.
THIS PAGE A sunset shoot on the Chesapeake Bay with Laura Herrington and Georgia.
A Daughter’s View...
M O M ’ S TA L E N T I N S P I R E S M E E V E R Y D AY . Angel Dibbs Photographer Britainy Dibbs- Cirque Du Soleil, Beach Streets USA and C i r q u e D u Ro c k-V i r g i n a B e a c h , VA .
“ F rom a youn g ag e I ’ ve fe lt so lucky to h ave t h e most cre at ive an d art ist ically t ale nte d mamma bird. At first I t h ought I was part ial, be cause sh e’s my wo r ld . But I soon real i z e d sh e’s on e of t h e be st ph otograph e rs I ’ ve worked w it h . I wat ch e d h er blossom from th e ve ry begin n in g of h e r care e r. Her dedicati o n to cutt in g e dge n ew t e ch n ology, e duc ati o n an d e quipment is in spirin g to me. Sh e’s always push in g th e limit s an d st riving to be t h e best sh e can be . Her work kee ps getti n g bett e r an d bett e r ! I’ ve h ad t h e ple asu r e of workin g w it h h e r at various event s, an d h er client s LOVE h e r ! Mom’s smile w ill l i ght up a room, If you want top level ph otos f ro m a profession al w i th an impe ccable eye for exce lle n ce-- --yo u want my mom. Th ro ugh h er len s t h e wor ld i s more beaut iful th an you could imagin e .”
B r i t a i ny M . D i b b s A er i al i st Chor eog rapher Ci r c us A r ts I nstr uc tor
I T ’ S A DAT E ! what to expect the day of your shoot We’re looking forward to your session, whether in the studio or on location! This is such an exciting time because we have the opportunity to get to know you and your loved ones while capturing fun, exciting photographs in the process. All work and no play make for a dull day, so here is what you can expect from Angel Dibbs Photographer:
R A I N , R A I N , G O AWAY Outd oor shoots of f er t he best availa bl e l i ght and s u r rou ndi ngs for you r p r e ci ou s p o r tra its . But if Mothe r N at ur e t hr eat ens to rai n on ou r p arade , don’ t wor r y , t h e r e a r e a lways o p t ions: Pla n A: We will re-schedule your session for our pre-established rain date. Pla n B : We will find an indoor option that works if you’d like to keep your scheduled date. P l a n C : We will brave the weather and adjust the time window for possible dry times between showers.
DAPPER DARLINGS Clothing choices make a session that much better, so picking the perfect little outfit is a detail that shouldn’t go unchecked. Here are some ideas to help harried parents determine the best duds for darlings.
BOUNCING BABIES: • • • •
Soft or bright solids Simple & comfy fabrics Jumpers, leggings, sweaters Birthday suit or diaper cover only
T I P : Bring a change of clothes in case of a spill, thrill or chill.
AVO I D : stiff fancy clothes, hats that hide little faces, giant headbands
FA B U LO U S FA M I L I E S : • Stick to a color palette of three to •four complementary colors • Layers are flattering and a way to • show personality • Shoes are optional • Keep hair simple and clean • Non-glare glasses keep glare at bay
T I P : Blend your clothing colors to your home décor where your art will be displayed.
A V O I D : Everyone wearing the same outfit. Mix it up!
CRAFTY KIDS: • Layered looks are great • Brights and fun prints •Accessories:hats,scarves,chunky . bracelets • Clothes should be fitted, not baggy • Bare feet or fun shoes
T I P : For shiny, neat hair use product, pomade.
like
shine
gel
or
A V O I D : Huge logos that date the image and distract the eye.
CLIENT CORNER
I love that you kept in contact with me. From booking the session to the blog sneak peek , to delivering my save the date cards, you took that added step to let me know where you were in the process. I felt like your most special client and I couldn’t have asked for more beautiful engagement photos! -Meghan McGee
The Golden Hour When scheduling an outdoor portrait session with Angel D i b b s P h o t o g r a p h e r , yo u m a y notice that we recommend shooting during a very precise t i m e o f d a y- - g e n e r a l l y t h e l a s t sixty to ninety minutes before the sun has completely set. This special window known to photographers as “The Golden Hour” is the period of time w h e n t h e l i g h t f ro m t h e s u n is at its most perfect. With its l o n g r a y s d i f f u s e d a c ro s s t h e entire sky, the light creates a flattering glow and shimmer for picture perfect skintones and deliciously warm portraits. To d e t e r m i n e t h e G o l d e n H o u r in your location, see w w w. g o l d e n - h o u r. c o m .
Yo u r Style On Display Is yours a sleek, modern home? A rustic, country abode? No matter your decorating style, Angel Dibbs Photographer assists clients every day with everything from portrait selection suited to your decor, to framing and displaying your collection. Our experience in design coupled with a wide variety of products that work with any décor make us the perfect choice for your photography and home decorating needs. Whether yours is a mighty mansion or a cozy cottage, call us today and we’ll work together to ensure your portraits are as much at home as you are.
OU R M OST POPU L AR PRI NT STY L ES 1) If your style is more traditional, we recommend matted and framed portraits in classic or creative edged wood. Clean, white rag mattes and frame combinations are available to complement your art and decor. Ask about our frame look book and our gallery wall inspire guide to see the vast options available. 2) If you change out your art frequently or view your art from an easel, we recommend our portfolio boxes with matted prints. Enjoy your portraits for years to come, while preserving them in a beautifully simple keepsake box. 3) If your style is more free-spirited, artistic, or edgy, or if your decor is modern and minimalist, we recommend the fine art wrapped canvas and metal print options. No frames needed, just clean lines, ready to hang!
1
Traditional matted and framed print
2
Modern Metal Prints
3
Fine art canvas wrapped print
a gift for every occasion
Angel Dibbs Photographer takes pride in keeping current with new and classic trends in photography today by updating and adding specialty products for memorably stunning gifts and keepsakes
LUXURY FLUSH MOUNT ALBUMS
PICTURE THIS your album is carefully printed, custom bound and finished by hand in the US in the style of traditional bookmakers. True silver halide printing on Fuji portrait grade paper guarantees the best color reproduction and delivery of the finest details The flush mount design and substrate mounted pages create durability. Unique fabrics, book jackets, and cover bands mean a fine quality art album designed to fit our understated yet elegant style. This is our favorite session album.
P R E T T Y P R E S E N TAT I O N FOLIO BOXES
Designed with your own images, each portfolio box is individually assembled with your needs in mind for a stylish, one-of-a-kind art piece. Box sizes are 8x10, 11x14, 10x10, 13x13, and arrive furnished with 15 matted portraits from your custom session. We will gladly personalize the cover with name(s) and date, beautifully printed on your choice of canvas or silk, and treated with a protective coating .
TELL YOUR STORY
DELIGHTFUL DESIGN Made from the finest materials with old-world craftsmanship and purposeful simplicity. The perfect variety of Japanese inspired fabric cover options, and the ability to truly customize each album is nearly impossible to resist. Three sizes available: 8x8, 8x12, 10x10.
“Our holiday session was a blast!” -Ali Alred
ANGEL DIBBS PHOTOGRAPHER H a m p t o n Ro a d s . RVA . D C M e t ro 978.973.4372 ANGELDIBBSPHOTOGRAPHER.COM | ANGEL@ANGELDIBBSPHOTOGRAPHER.COM
FREE FRAMED 20x20 COLLAGE
2 5 F R E E H O L I D AY PHOTO CARDS
When you book a session by Nov.27th
With your portrait order of $200+
Please present this coupon at time of booking
Please present this coupon at time of purchase
E X P I R ES 1 1 /2 7/2 0 1 4 ANGEL DIBBS PHOTOGRAPHER
EXPIRES 11/15/2014 ANGEL DIBBS PHOTOGRAPHER