Whether it's a wedding day or a scheduled photo session, we all want to look our best when being photographed. Here are 5 important makeup mishaps to avoid when you know you'll be in the spotlight.

1. SPF
   Of course, it's important to use sunscreen every day; however, products labeled with "SPF" should be avoided with flash photography. The ingredients Titanium Dioxide and Zinc oxide have light reflecting properties that can cause your skin to look shiny and colorless. 
2. HD Makeup
   Cosmetics that are referred to as HD (high definition) contain silica powder, which is also highly reflective.... Make that EXTREMELY reflective. Check out the images of these celebrities wearing Makeup Forever's HD Powder!
3. Skimping
   Pictures seem to lessen the appearance of makeup. Don't hesitate to put on a little more blush than you typically would for everyday wear. This also goes for eye makeup and lip color, but don't go crazy! ... Just a little.
4. Foundation Finishes
   Mind the type of finish your foundation has. Satin or dewy foundations can cause the skin to look oily and sweaty when met with a flash. Try choosing a matte finish. However, be careful if you have dry skin! Matte foundations can cake easily if your skin is not properly moisturized. On the other hand, if you have oily skin, I highly recommend carrying along some blotting tissues!
5. Shimmer
   Once again, shimmer deals with reflecting light. I suggest avoiding all cosmetics with shimmer including blushes, bronzers, and shadows. I know, they are beautiful!... but when those little specs of shimmer catch the flash.... shiny face. So, resist the urge, ladies! 

Now, you are officially prepared to make the duck face... Kidding! Please, don't.

Even if you don't know the first thing about photography, there are a few simple tricks to turn average snapshots into great captures! Whether you are using your camera phone or a basic point and shoot camera, you can benefit from the simple tips below!
1. Angles
The easiest trick of all is to get creative with your angles! Don't just pull out your camera and snap. The image here is a picture of my niece blowing out her birthday candles. What makes this picture a better than average image? The angle! I knelt on the floor and put my camera on the table. Because of the angle, you can see her  entire face, rather than just the top of her head.
2. Windows
If your camera has the ability to turn off the flash, turn it off! In the same picture, my niece is sitting across from a big window. If I were to switch places with her, it would be nearly impossible to take this picture with a basic camera, UNLESS I used the flash. And let's face it, on-camera flashes are not very flattering. Natural light is your friend. It won't always be available, but take advantage of it when you can.
3. Shade
If you are outdoors on a sunny day, the single most important thing you can do to make a better picture, is put your subject in the shade! The sun gives off harsh light creating extremely unflattering shadows across the face. If there is absolutely no available shade, have your subject face away from the sun, and use your flash. (Or, if you're feeling creative and fun, don't use your flash... you just might capture a cool silhouette!) Yes, this contradicts what I said about shooting near windows, but window lighting is much different than direct sunlight.
4. Background
Mind your background! Try to avoid any clutter or distractions behind your subject.  If you're in your back yard, try shooting towards bushes and wooded areas rather than houses and parked cars.

I could go on, but I really want to keep this post simple for the individuals that have no real interest in learning photography, but still want to better their photographs.
But, who knows... maybe I'll start an absolute beginners guide?!  Hmm.

    Now that the holidays are over, I'm getting serious about preparing myself for my first spring season! My Facebook page and blog have been somewhat of a ghost town these past weeks, I've been busy behind the scenes designing business cards, choosing new professional packaging, and drooling over thoughts of new gear! I can barely wait for the first signs of spring to sprout! Out will come the mommies with growing bellies, the newly engaged, and the tiny tots learning to walk! Ahhh!  
I was able to do a few sessions this winter, and it was amazing to photograph people in the the natural elements surrounded by snow and brisk air. Even though I'm excited about this spring, winter is definitely not over yet! I'm so excited to have a January engagement shoot and family portrait session to look forward to! There's still plenty of time to schedule a session for winter! 
(Psssst.... I'm also planning a Valentine's Day Session!! <3 ...Details very soon!)