portraits 2012/2013 Edition
complimentary
by Rebecca Olsen Photography
quick tips for a
perfect portrait session EXPLAINED: the process from shoot to print
ALSO INSIDE: • • •
LETTERS FROM YOU FEATURED CLIENTS WHAT TO WEAR
--from Rebecca’s desk Welcome to the very first edition of Portraits, a magazine produced exclusively for Rebecca Olsen Photography, a boutique photography studio located in the Canberra region. The aim of this magazine is to showcase some of the gorgeous clients I have had the pleasure of photographing, and to give you an insight into the world of professional bespoke photography. In this edition, I will cover some of the most common questions clients ask about the portrait process, what you can expect on your portrait shoot, and tips on what to wear. Do you have suggestions for future editions? Please let me know!
I’D LOVE TO HEAR YOUR IDEAS! PLEASE SEND YOUR LETTERS TO REBECCA.OLSEN@INTERNODE.ON.NET
Kylie Bethany
Peter
It was so much fun and the boys had a ball even if it was freezing! The hardest part was choosing which photos to use there are so many fantastic ones.
Our baby was 2 days old, and Rebecca was wonderfully gentle and patient with us. Her ability to adapt to the surroundings was impressive to see. She was open to our suggestions for props, and knew what would make a great shot.
Rebecca is the artistic genius behind my latest promotional photos! I just love the way she captures [the] environment, most beautifully capturing light and shadow. A true artist.
letters from you
Margaretha Catherine
Rebecca understood our needs from day 1. I knew I wanted a specific formal baby photo of my daughter to mimic that of my own, however I also wanted some fun casual photo’s that would really capture the personality of my then 14 month old. Rebecca associated with our needs immediately being a Mum also to a toddler and had many wonderful suggestions for best time of day for both toddler and lighting, what to bring and where to go. Rebecca knew how to bring the best out of our Ruby and we certainly captured her brilliant smile and cheeky attitude. Seeing these photos of Ruby in our home brings a smile to my face many times a day and I’m so glad we have them displayed.
Janelle
Thank you for the lovely photos. I must say it was hard [to choose] as there were quite a few we really really liked!
Marcelle
Our framed print up on the wall looks fantastic! Thanks for getting it done so quickly and making the whole experience so easy and stress free (apart from trying to pick the best shot out of so many beautiful choices!) Mum is like a kid before Christmas - she can’t wait to get it back from the framer.
The portraits are fantastic - they are such awesome quality, better than we ever expected. Thank you so much for helping us record our memories!
Nandita
[I needed] a few photographs taken for my novel. I just told Rebecca what my book was about and the result was fantastic. I love the way she uses light, and exactly knew how to extract the mood with the weather. The results were story telling with photography!
SPOTLIGHT ON:
THE JACKSON FAMILY
What little boys are made of What is it about little boys and trains? Nearly every little boy that I know is obsessed with trains. So when this gorgeous family contacted me for family photos, and the mum mentioned that her boys love trains, I knew we had to do something around that theme. You should have seen the boys’ eyes light up when they saw where we were. I think it was the closest thing to heaven that they could think of. The weather was bitterly cold, but it was only the grown-
WANT TO SEE MORE LIKE THIS? Check out our website www.rebecca-olsen.com.au for photos from recent shoots, loads of information, and our current price list.
ups who huddled against the walls, trying to get warm. The boys were too busy exploring and finding all kinds of treasures. When a real train decided to come along, their delight was almost euphoric. They also brought along their favourite toy trains and track, and we set it up on the old station platform (see photo opposite page, bottom right). Did you notice the red engine? More than 4 years ago, that little engine was a gift the “new baby boy” had “given” his big brother when he was brought home from the hospital. It’s still the favourite and now the boys enjoy it together. The bond of brotherhood is an amazing thing to witness.
COOL AND CALM
Kids are best photographed 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, since young ones are often hungry, grumpy and tired.
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 and belongings such as musical instruments from desired rooms can also be used as props in your portrait, guaranteeing a perfect match to your decor and taste.
HAIR AWARE
Get haircuts at least a week before the shoot. 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.
CHILL PILL
Calm your own nerves. Relaxed parents have more fun, which helps kids become 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 him before coming. This will allow for a (hopefully) slightly calmer pup during your shoot. Don’t forget to bring along his favourite treats.
FROM SHOOT
TO PRINT
the portrait process Here at Rebecca Olsen Photography we work hard to ensure the process of capturing your memories progresses as smoothly as possible. Here is a quick timeline of how the process works and what to expect.
2-6 WEEKS
WITHIN 1 WEEK
We will chat on the phone or in person for our pre-consultation to discuss what you would like to achieve with your portrait session. We will talk about location, clothing, style and any special requests that you might have. Every session is custom designed uniquely for you!
We post a selection of our favourite images on our blog as a “sneak peek�.
BEFORE YOUR SESSION:
2 DAYS
BEFORE YOUR SESSION: We give you a quick check-in call to confirm all the details from our earlier discussion.
THE DAY OF YOUR SESSION:
When you arrive at the scheduled location and time, I will get to know you and your family and introduce you to my assistant(s). Sessions are never timed or rushed, so you can be sure we are watching you and your family, not the clock! I will capture a variety of portraits, to give you maximum choice later. Your session will generally last between 1-2 hours. At the end of the session, children will get to choose a present from our pirate treasure chest!
AFTER YOUR SESSION:
1 WEEK
AFTER YOUR SESSION: We organise a viewing and ordering session to pick out the portraits you wish to invest in. This meeting is usually done in the comfort of your own home, and after hours appointments are available. We can also use this opportunity to take orders for gifts, albums, and any of the other unique keepsakes we offer.
6-7 WEEKS
AFTER YOUR ORDER IS PLACED: Your artwork, albums or other products will be ready for delivery! If you live locally, we will personally deliver your order, to ensure their safety and your complete satisfaction. On this page: 6 week old baby Charlotte and her beautiful family
nt ie cl er
rn co Britt and I would like to thank you for the amazing photographs you have taken of Ethan. The images display his nature and spirit perfectly. Thank you so much. --Dave
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It’s a date! what to expect the day of your shoot
Location: The location of your portrait should fit you and your family’s personality. From rustic countrysides to urban buildings, and anything in between, Canberra has everything. We’ll decide on a spot during our consultation. On the day of the shoot, you can expect us to arrive on time, ready to create magical portraits for you.
Fun is not optional: This shoot will be full-on fun, complete with laughs, hugs, play time, and plenty of tickling. There’s no manufacturing a good time; when you’re with loved ones, exuberance and spontaneity take over for the most natural, exciting images.
Time flies: Please allow 1-2 hours for our shoot. This will enable us to get the perfect amount of images with variety and allow for an outfit change if needed.
Fast friends: We work quickly capturing natural images so photography doesn’t feel like a chore to even the most cynical toddler (or teenager!). We delight in providing a fun and safe environment for families to enjoy being together.
RAIN, RAIN, GO AWAY Outdoor shoots offer great light and surroundings for your precious portraits. But if Mother Nature threatens to rain on our parade, don’t worry, there are always options: Plan A: When storms loom, we’ll call and reschedule. Treats for the sweets: Bring snacks (but don’t tell kids). We bring wipes to each location, but be careful about foods that stain or dirty clothing! You don’t want to ruin that cute top.
Plan B: Alternate, available indoor venues. Plan C: Adventurous? We have the skills and protective gear. We can finish the session later if needed.
Dapper Darlings
Clothing choices make a portrait that much better, but it’s often confusing. Here are some ideas to help parents determine the best duds for darlings.
Bouncing Babies: • Soft or bright solids • Simple styles • Nappy only • Birthday suit (naked) • Funky hats or ribbons Tip: Bring a few changes of clothes in case of a spill, thrill or chill Avoid: Fancy clothes (with collars, shoes, etc) Crafty Kids: • Layered looks are great • Brights and fun prints • Accessories: hats, scarves, ribbons, chunky bracelets • Clothes should be fitted, not baggy • Bare feet or fun shoes Avoid: Huge logos that date the image and distract the eye Fabulous Families: • Stick to a colour palette of 3-4 complementary colors • Simple timeless outfits • Layers are flattering • Non-glare glasses will keep glare at bay Tip: Match your clothing colors to your home décor where your art will be displayed Avoid: Everyone wearing the same outfit, Brady Bunch style. Mix it up!
a gift for every occasion
AMAZING ALBUMS: These handcrafted art albums feature your favourite portrait under acrylic on the front, and are presented in a matching elegant presentation box. Available in either 9” or 12”, they will satisfy even the most discerning client.
PICTURE THIS: Take your art everywhere you go with our beautiful custom jewellery. Featuring your portrait laser etched onto handmade, high quality sterling silver or gold, we have a style to suit everyone.
Your Style On Display Is yours a sleek, modern home? A rustic, country abode? No matter your decorating style, we assist clients with everything from portrait selection suited to your decor, to room planning, to framing and displaying your collection. Our years of 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. We’ll work together to ensure your portraits are as much at home as you are.
“Being a military family, photographs are extremely important to us and to our extended families back home. Rebecca’s portraits are not just beautiful - they capture our personality too.” - Kylie
www.rebecca-olsen.com.au
FREE 5x7
FREE 8x12
With portrait order of $500 or more
With portrait order of $800 or more
Please present this coupon at time of purchase
Please present this coupon at time of purchase
Expires 31 December 2013. Limit one coupon per client. www.rebecca-olsen.com.au
Expires 31 December 2013. Limit one coupon per client. www.rebecca-olsen.com.au