Sunday, October 6, 2013

Perryville Panthers Football Player Portraits - In Studio Sports Photography

If your child is on a sports team, you know you'll get a team photo and your iPhone is probably filled with images. However, it can often be hard to get a great portrait of your child in uniform in these situations. This Perryville Panther came into the studio with his family to get football portraits done.





Thursday, September 19, 2013

Kubota Artistic Tools Viva La Vintage Actions Review

I had the chance to try out Kubota's Artistic Tools Viva La Vintage Action Pack this month. You can use these actions as is - just click apply and save. However, I've discovered that the most beautiful images are created by painting on an effect. I can choose to make a balloon pop and make skin creamy and softly vintage by using several different actions and painting them onto the original image.

On this image, I painted Hot Flashes onto the balloons and Vintageous to the model.

Woman with red balloons - fashion beauty portrait

Having the option to paint on the photo using Kubota Tools is really nice, as you don't need to mask, invert the mask and then paint the effect back in. I created a duplicate layer as soon as I pulled the image into Photoshop and then just painted directly onto the duplicate layer to create the perfect look.

On this one, I used Creme Brulee for the background, used Edge It to create a slight vignette and painted Vintageous onto my lovely model.


Want to try Kubota out for yourself? The Dashboard and 50 actions is completely free. Viva La Vintage, which I was able to use for 30 days to review, is currently $109 and includes 25 nice vintage actions.

Thursday, August 1, 2013

Maryland Styled Wedding Shoot - Grungey Alley Fun

What do you get when you combine models looking to update their portfolios, a makeup artist and a lovely vintage gown? A styled wedding dress shoot in an alley right here in Port Deposit, Maryland.


 


Model: Shamia
Makeup: Alexis Michelle
Styling: Katelyn Thomas Photography

Friday, July 26, 2013

Maryland Children's Photographer - Themed Fairy Portrait Photography

We had another beautiful themed children's fairy portrait session here at the studio in Port Deposit, Maryland this week. Some children don't want wings - just the woodland setting and a pretty fairy dress. That's just fine. We can always add digital wings, but these photos turned out so lovely, they don't need them!



 You can book enchanted fairy sessions year round at my normal portrait session pricing of $150, with print/digital packages starting at $250. However, I only offer limited edition themed enchanted fairy portrait packages, which include your session fee, an 8x10 portrait of your choice from an edited gallery of images and facebook posting of the chosen image for $79, a few times a year. The magic will arrive August 17th and 18th for the last time til 2014, so be sure to book your spot now by calling 410-378-4521, messaging me on facebook, or by email.

Don't have a fairy princess in your home? Superheros are swooping in August 24th to 25th.

Monday, July 15, 2013

Actor Headshots Maryland - On Location and In Studio Head Shot Portrait Session

The other day, I blogged some images from a head shot session for an upcoming actress. Today, I thought I'd share portraits of another lovely actress. We were able to work on location and in studio right here in Maryland to create some beautiful actor headshots.



And, of course, we wrapped the shoot by goofing around with one of my props. 


To schedule on location head shots in Maryland, Delaware, or Pennsylvania, or to book an in studio session, call 410-378-4521.

Sunday, July 14, 2013

Maryland Head Shot Photographer - Actress Headshots - Port Deposit, MD

I recently did head shots for two lovely actresses at the studio in Port Deposit, Maryland. To add plenty of variety, I split the session into indoor and outdoor sections, just as I do for senior portraits. Of course, once they saw the props and the wardrobe, we ended up tacking on some fun shots for their facebook profiles. (I love my wardrobe. It is so great to be able to offer dressier options for clients who only brought casual looks!)




My favorite thing about this session? I finally found someone who could wear this gorgeous vintage 60's red prom dress!

I offer headshots for models, actors and corporate clients in the studio or on location in Maryland, Delaware and Pennsylvania. To book your session, call 410-378-4521 or contact me through email.

Monday, July 1, 2013

Maryland Children's Photographer - Superhero Portrait Session

We're getting ready for some really fun and exciting children's sessions here in your Maryland children's photography studio this August. Enchanted Fairy Day is making an appearance, as is our new Superhero Portrait Session! Make sure to book your appointment slot, as I have limited availability for these entertaining themed photography days.

Fairies will be fluttering in on August 17th and 18th. I have yet to have a little one come in for her session and want to leave. They love picking out their dresses and wings, holding a dragonfly or bird in a nest and sitting and playing in the sets after their session is done!

Superheros will spring into action on August 24th and 25th. I have capes, masks, props and backdrops that should make these sessions a ton of fun. Here's a superhero who made an early visit to test things out and his sidekick, who went with a bit more of a Japanese Anime influenced look:



To set up your child's Limited Edition portrait session call 410-378-4521, message me on facebook, or drop me an e-mail.

Superhero and fairy portraits are priced at $79 and include a 30 minute session, use of my props, costumes and backdrops, a mounted 8x10 portrait and facebook posting of the image you chose for your 8x10.

Monday, June 24, 2013

5 Tips for Designing Senior Announcements - Maryland Senior Portrait Photographer

I love designing graduation announcements for my awesome clients! (Seriously, I have had the greatest high school seniors come in for their photos and we have so much fun creating styled portrait sessions, from edgy grunge to fashion looks!) I've learned a few things through the years and thought I'd share some of my favorite tips for creating great announcements.
  1.  Keep it simple - Elaborate text, a ton of colors and all kinds of graphics will end up making your cards look chaotic and confusing.
  2.  Remember the rule of 3 - Fonts that is. You should avoid using more than 3 font types in any piece you design. If you want more variety, try bolding text, using italics, or changing the font size or color.
  3. Heavy is best - Light weight paper, such as computer paper, doesn't feel nice. It always gives a
    less expensive appearance.
  4.  Go big - One large image creates so much more on an impact than 25 small ones. I recommend going with no more than four images on the front of the card.
  5. Get help - I am always happy to design announcement cards using any images my seniors have purchased in at 8x10 size or larger at no charge and will be happy to quote prices for professional printing, as well. If you don't have a photographer who provides design help, you can usually find a nice template through a printing service. (I recommend MPix to my clients who want to print their own, as they do a good job with providing quality work.)
Didn't have your photos done yet? I provide on location styled senior portraits in Maryland, Delaware and Pennsylvania, as well as in studio sessions in the historic town of Port Deposit. Contact me at 410-378-4521, e-mail me, or message me on facebook to talk about setting up your boutique portrait session.

Friday, June 21, 2013

Maryland Newborn Photographer - Simply Elegant Baby Portraits - Port Deposit Maryland Family Portrait Studio

It is so enjoyable to work with little ones in my new family portrait studio in Port Deposit, Maryland. I was honored to be able to create some simply elegant baby portraits for a sweet new girl the other day.

 
As a newborn photographer, I feel that the beautiful images I capture of your new addition should simply be about his or her tiny features and expressions. I have quite a few props, but love knit blankets, bonnets and other pieces that will still look wonderful in portraits passed down to your new baby's children and grandchildren. My favorite poses also always end up being those that have a classic, heirloom feel.


Looking for newborn portraits of your precious new bundle of joy? I recommend booking your baby's session for the week of your due date, as the best newborn photos happen during the 7 to 10 day time frame. However, as you can see from this sweet girl's session, we can still get some lovely newborn images of babies up to 6 weeks old if you've missed that time frame. We probably won't get sleeping baby in basket poses, but these classic portraits are still quite beautiful.

To schedule your Maryland newborn photography session, either on location or in studio, call 410-378-4521, email me, or message me.

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

July Special Portrait Sessions and Promotions - Maryland Portrait Photographer

For those of you may have missed the announcement, Katelyn Thomas Photography has opened a  family portrait studio location in historic Port Deposit, Maryland at 20 South Main Street. Of course, I still offer on location portraits to Maryland, Delaware and Pennsylvania area clients, as well.

There are some really exciting sessions and promotions coming up in July! Don’t miss out on these great ways to create beautiful memories of your family.

Birthday Sessions - Celebrating your birthday this month? There's an amazing package just for you!
Get a 20 minute session, a happy birthday timeline image perfect for posting to facebook, a 5x7 print of the image of your choice from your image gallery and a digital file of that image so you can create invitations, birthday posters, etc. Only $50!

Deployment Thank You Offer - As you may know, I am proud to be a part of Welcome Them Home, a program that documents the return of armed forces members who were serving overseas. I'd like to expand this service to offer those who are about to deploy a complimentary family portrait session and 11x14 portrait. (Please show active military id when booking your session.) These sessions are just my small way of saying thank you for your service!

Family Picnic Session - The family picnic session is an outdoor family portrait session, held at a local park. We've got prop baskets and picnic blankets, but I highly recommend that you also pack a cooler or picnic basket of your own and staying after your session to enjoy the grounds and to eat lunch outdoors with your children!

You can dress this session up, but I recommend that you have a more relaxed feel to the portraits by dressing in your favorite jeans, flannel shirts and cotton dresses. This is a great option for younger families, since it lets children run and play a bit between shots. It is also a wonderful choice for large families, as the park grounds provide wonderful depth to even the largest of group poses.


New & Forever Family Sessions -  Celebrate your new addition to the family with our breathtaking newborn portraits. I recommend that Mom, Dad, brothers and sisters all are a part of this sweet newborn session, giving you precious memories that you will cherish for years to come. The first week is the best time to capture those tiny hands and sleepy baby poses of a newborn, so please consider scheduling your session the week of your due date for best results.  These moments with your newborn are so fleeting—hold them in your heart forever!


Shower Party and Album - I'm so excited to be capturing every detail of an on location baby shower this July. I will capture posed and candid moments of the party and provide an edited image gallery for all the guests to view and share. After the event, I'm gifting the mom to be with a gorgeous album with custom messages from the guests. It is the perfect way for your dear friend to enjoy these cherished memories of a baby or wedding shower for many years to come.

Availability for these exciting new sessions is limited, so call to reserve yours today! 410-378-4521

Saturday, June 1, 2013

Enchanted Fairy Portrait Session - Maryland Children's Photographer - Port Deposit

A few times a year, you can come to the studio here in Port Deposit, Maryland for enchanted fairy portrait days. These special sessions are priced at $79 and include your session fee, the use of my costumes, wings and props and an 8x10 mounted print of your choice from your image gallery. If you'd like to have your child experience the magic of make believe, I am holding a fairy portrait weekend on June 15th and 16th.

One of the things I love most about being a children's photographer is creating a stress free, enjoyable environment for their portrait session. When, as this sweet fairy did, they say they aren't ready to leave and want to play in the studio some more, I know I've delivered on my promise to provide beautiful portraits of your child in a fun and kid friendly way.

Sometimes, you just fall in love with a sparkly crown and need to channel your inner princess. A quick outfit change and there you have it.


Oh, and if you're thinking, "But what about my boys?" I promise I haven't forgotten them. I am looking for costumes that would work for a Robin Hood theme to go along with enchanted fairy portrait days in the future!

To reserve your child's session slot on June 15th or 16th, contact me at 410-378-4521, email me or message me on facebook. 

Things to Do With Kids in Cecil County This Summer

Wow! After that long, chilly spring, the summer is shaping up to be a real scorcher, isn't it? I have been looking for fun things to do with kids in Cecil County over the break and thought I'd share them with you all.

First, it may not be free, but it is a really great deal and all of our guys absolutely adore it. Yup. The Boys and Girls Club of Cecil County has a fun and entertaining program that is really budget friendly - only $50 a week! I love that parents who are worried about school age children being home alone during the summer have an affordable solution. We've done the Rising Sun chapter for several summers and have always been happy with the way the program was run. The North East and Elkton units also offer the Summer Fun Club. There are a few field trips, but from what the kids say, it is mostly like we grownups remember summer - sweaty, silly outside fun and board games and movies when it is too hot out.

If you aren't in need of a whole day, week long program, then you'll want to check out the free programs at the Cecil County Public Library. This year's theme is Dig Into Reading and there are a number of great science related programs perfect for families that homeschool year round. Some of the ones we are looking forward to are MD ZOOmobile: Fear: Friend or Foe, Mike Rose's Magic You Will Dig and Who's Your Mummy. For younger children, We Kids Rock with Bill Currier, Movers and Groovers and On My Own are some programs that look like fun. Oh, and don't forget to sign up for summer reading. There are some chances to win great prizes!

Want to cool off? Kilby Creamery has some of the best ice cream around. If you are new to the area, you'll want to check out this kid friendly business. There are animals to pet, a really nice little playground and some occasional pottery classes. (And if you are thinking of throwing a birthday party, we really loved our party there a few years ago.)

Regal Cinema has the Summer Movie Express program again this year. They aren't in Cecil County, but People's Plaza and Bel Air are both pretty easy to get to. Admission is only $1. The movies aren't super new and you might even own them on DVD, but it is nice to sit somewhere air conditioned on a super hot day and see a family friendly movie on the big screen.

Plumpton Park Zoo is a special place that has really been through some amazing changes the past few years. The new owners are always doing something new and wonderful for the animals. Kids love that the zoo is smaller and cozier than the big state zoos. They feel like the animals are their friends and will go back to visit them over and over. Especially the donkeys and lions. And Jimmy the Giraffe!

 Many of the area churches have wonderful Vacation Bible School programs that are free to the community. I don't know if everyone realizes that they don't have to attend most churches to do Bible School. I know there are great programs at Pleasant View Baptist Church and West Nottingham Presbyterian Church. I noticed a lot of other churches holding VBS last summer, too. If you don't have a home church or your home church doesn't offer programs, just give one of the ones near you a call. The kids got to do crafts, play fun games and learn songs for a recital at the end of the week.

Also, keep an eye out for family friendly church events. Restore Church has a lot going on, as do many of the other area churches.

Love music? Then you'll want to check out the free concerts through the Cecil County Arts Council in North East and Chesapeake City.

Don't forget our local museums! You can visit the Paw Paw Museum, the Upper Bay Museum and the Bainbridge Naval Museum. Admission to museums is free and you can learn so much about local history.


The Charlestown wharf s a great place to take children who want to learn to fish. It is a permit free location, so your only expense is a pole, hook and bait if you don't already have fishing gear.

Did I miss an idea for summer activities for kids in Cecil County? Please let me know. I love being able to let parents who are new to the area know about our great resources!

Monday, May 27, 2013

Maryland Childrens Photographer - 9 Month Session - Mommy and Me Styled Portrait - Port Deposit

I had so much fun working with a lovely mom and her sweet nine month old boy in the new photography studio I've opened in Port Deposit, Maryland yesterday. We went with a romantic, styled look for the Mommy and Me part of the session and then I sat him down by himself for a few individual shots with a luggage setup I had in another part of the studio.

Sometimes, it takes awhile to warm up to the camera, especially when you are a little guy. That's okay. I always make sure I have extra time blocked out after each session so we can take our time if we need to!
The magic trick that finally broke the ice? The word baby. It is hysterical. Baby. Cracks him up!
Now the ice is broken, smiles and more smiles.
Out onto the porch for some natural light portraits!
Can you believe this little man is only 9 months old? He is so smart and cute!
If you have a newborn, baby, or child, you may want to take a look at our portrait programs, which are designed to make sessions affordable during these times when your little ones are changing so fast.

Can't make it to the studio for your session? I provide on location photography in the Maryland, Delaware and Oxford, Pennsylvania area.

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

On Location Retro Pinup Session in Middle River, Maryland

Vintage outfits and the retro pinup look are so much fun! I loved every minute of this fantastic session on the beach in Middle River, Maryland.


The key to a great pinup look is to make sure your hair and makeup match the traditional 50's look.
Am I the only person who goes weak in the knees when I see a vintage parasol? I try not to buy them. I really do.

You can usually find nice vintage bathing suits on Etsy, but there are new suits with retro style almost every where. I saw a lot of cute vintage looking suits at Target last year.
Make up and hair by Tattooed Brookie
Model - Tattooed Brookie

Thursday, May 2, 2013

Why Photographers Want to Schedule Early and Late On Location Sessions

As a photographer, I can work with less than ideal light, absolutely awful light, or even no light at all. I can use studio lighting and modifiers to enhance or add light. I can pose you so that midday sun doesn't affect the quality of the portrait. However, the look of early morning and evening light is so beautiful. Skin glows as if it is lit from within. The sun's light seems to caress hair. Photographers call the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset the "Golden Hour" because the sun's light is truly golden.

If you'd like to be sure your on location session has beautiful light, ask about scheduling an early morning or evening session. During the summer, I'm recommending starting sessions between the hours of 6:30 am and 9:00 am or 5:30 pm and 8:00 pm to take advantage of the best light.

Of course, if you can't book your session during those times, I still will be absolutely thrilled to create some beautiful images for you, either in studio or on location!



Easy Floral Crown Tutorial for DIY Brides

Floral crowns were a big wedding trend for last year's brides and are still pretty popular this year, especially for spring and summer ceremonies. You can buy a lovely handmade crown on Etsy, but they are pretty easy to make on your own, too.

To do this quick and easy DIY project, you will need:
- Several bunches of artificial flowers (I got mine from the dollar store - enough to make 3 crowns for $7.)
- Heavy florist's wire
- Hot glue
- Florist's tape

Simply bend some heavy florist's wire into a circle that is big enough to fit nicely on your head. Then, pull the flowers off of the artificial stems they are attached to. If any of the flowers seem like them will fall apart now that they are off the stem, secure them with hot glue. Arrange the flowers in a pleasing design. I went with a half circle of flowers for the first crown and a 3/4 circle for the second. The third has a few flowers spaced evenly around the crown.

Once you are happy with your design, glue the flower that will be on the center front of the crown into place on your wire circle. Glue a flower to each side. Continue until all the flowers are attached to the circle.

Step back and take a good look at your crown. If it looks great, you are ready to wrap the exposed wire portion of the crown with florist's tape to make it look finished. If not, add more flowers between the ones already glued into place.

How easy was that? And it only cost a few dollars!

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Maryland Creative Beauty Portrait Session - Stream in the Woods

This is part three of a styled beauty shoot in Harford County, Maryland. When you pair a talented dancer with graceful hands and a gorgeous location, you get magic. I'm usually all about props and accessories to help enhance the story of a creative session, but they weren't needed here. I loved the serene awesomeness of this session.



Monday, April 15, 2013

Creative Musical Cecil County Maryland Senior Portrait Session

I love working with creative juniors and seniors to create amazing senior portrait sessions that highlight who they are. Fashionista? Musician? Star lacrosse player? Together, we can create a senior portrait session that is nothing like the cookie cutter school portraits being offered. First, I'll ask some questions to help you decide what you want your session to be about. Then, I'll help you choose a wardrobe and the right accessories. To pull everything together, I will create an inspiration board that reflects your interests and helps me plan your shoot.

I offer on location senior portraits in Cecil and Harford County, Maryland, Delaware and the Oxford, Pennsylvania area. Not sure whether you have an amazing location like this near you? I'll let you in on a little secret. It is just a bend in a little trail in a tiny hiking area up the street from my studio and looks completely underwhelming at first glance. I can find something pretty about almost any location!

 



Saturday, April 6, 2013

What to Wear for Spring Portrait Sessions - Wardrobe Ideas for Family Portraits

Part of every successful portrait session is wardrobe styling. It can be really overwhelming to put together outfits for an entire family, so I like to provide some tips when you book your session. My biggest tip? You don't have to be matchy matchy any more. Pick a shirt, dress or skirt with a pattern or design you love and build the rest of the outfits around this piece. (Or if you want to hang portraits in a specific room, use that room's inspiration piece as your color wheel!)

Still not sure where to start? I've discovered some awesome guides on what to wear that have some great wardrobe options for families. Here's a perfect option for spring clothing for a family portrait. Pink, Kelly green and a great navy blue. The polka dot pattern of the little girl's skirt carries through to the older girl's belt and the inside of her sweater. (The skirt is the foundation piece for the entire wardrobe. Note how all the other garments match the colors in this cute little number!)

If you literally want this selection, you can shop Gap, Old Navy and Piperlime for the different pieces. However, I'd encourage you to make the look your own so you feel your best. So, if mom loves dresses, a pretty pink or green number would be amazing. If dad is positive he won't feel right in pink, he can choose to add a touch of green to his outfit instead.


Need more help with your family's wardrobe? Just ask. I am more than happy to help with wardrobe selection!

Wednesday, April 3, 2013

Fun Portrait Session in Harford County Maryland - Red Parasol in the Woods

I adore the simple beauty of a single prop, an elegant dress and a lovely woman in a natural setting. When I saw this parasol, I knew immediately that it was a perfect addition to my prop closet. I was right. It really helped create the perfect images for this fun portrait session in Harford County, Maryland.

Props like this parasol give people something to do with their hands and enhance the overall feel of a photo.
Another lovely, simple portrait with the parasol.
I like to be sure to capture some images without props in each location, too. It adds variety to the image gallery.
Of course, your surroundings are pretty much one giant prop bin. This tree got a lot of use and was the basis for a lot of gorgeous images. This is one of my favorite from this part of the session.

Want to see more of Aura in this Harford County area creative shoot? I blogged the red balloon portion of this session the other day.