5 Emotions Everyone Should Capture

Just because you have your family shoot scheduled 6 months out doesn't mean you need to wait until then to capture your own moments. You're probably thinking...but I capture them everyday or almost everyday with my phone! Sure you are, but are you truly thinking about what's going on or setting up the "perfect" Instagram shot? Not every picture needs to be perfect or shared and sometimes not sharing it brings more value...it's your moment, only you have with your family.

Now I have a challenge  for you!

Ttry and capture what I think are five important moments of everyday life! ...here's the kicker...don't share a single picture! Even if you get the urge, let it pass, put it in a special album on your phone or computer and after you got all five print them! Yes PRINT THEM! It doesn't matter where (this topic is still in process) 

After you've received the prints think about how you feel in that moment, holding them! If anyone will actually take this challenge and follow through with it, I'd absolutly love for you to share that with me and others! Either post on here, my FB page or email...this is what it's all about guys! Now here's the list:

1.  The Quiet 

2. The Connection

3. The Stress

4. The Love

5. The Joy

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V-Day Exclusive Frames

Gorgeous hand crafted, MADE IN AMERICA distressed wooden frames! Each comes ready to hang! 

FEATURES: 

Wire hanger

Acrylic (shatter and dust resistant)

KODAK Lustre Professional Paper

Lustre Coated for added UV protection

COLORS:

Distressed Pink

Distressed Navy

Distressed White

Distressed Mint

Sizes:

5x7 | $45

(Easel Back Option)

8x10 | $55

(Easel Back Option)

11x14 | $105

Wire Hanger Only

TO ORDER:

Please let me know the following:

1-Image # if I took your photo or attach your own, 

2 - Color

3 - Size

4 - Backing you would like (Easel or Wire) 

5 - Address to be shipped to! Shipping is $8 (any amount of frames)

CLICK HERE TO PLACE ORDER

IF YOU ORDER 2 OR MORE FRAMES TAKE 10% OFF! 

I will invoice you and and upon payment I will place the order! 

ALL ORDERS WILL RECIEVE A IMAGE PROOF!

Why Family Portraits Boost Your Child's Self-Esteem

I want to first start off by making clear that I did not write this article and it is cited at the end. Unfortunately I do not enjoy writing and I don't pretend to even be good at it, but so many things need to be shared that I find important so please read on! xoxo

One of the hidden but powerful aspects of family photography that moms and most photographers rarely consider is how it can help us raise children with stronger confidence in their own worth and abilities. Psychologists and experts have done some work in recent decades exploring the link.

A revealing study was conducted in 1975 with a group of fourth graders at a Tennessee school by Tulane University. During a five week period, the children took Polaroid instant photos of themselves with provided cameras in a variety of assigned poses, compositions and expressing various emotions. The children worked with the printed images of themselves and created scrapbooks once a week over those five weeks. Testing of the students and teachers at the conclusion of study revealed a significant increase of 37 percent in the students’ average self-esteem behaviors. This Murfreesboro Study shows some evidence personal photography of children seen and enjoyed in a specific way can help boost a child’s self-esteem.

But how can family photography, specifically family portraits, help boost a child’s self-esteem?

 David Krauss, a licensed psychologist from Cleveland, Ohio says, “I think it is really important to show a family as a family unit. It is so helpful for children to see themselves as a valued and important part of that family unit."

A photographer’s job is to create and make the image look like a safe holding space for kids where they are safe and protected. Kids get it on a really simple level.”
Krauss is one of the earliest pioneers in using people’s personal photography and family albums to assist in mental health counseling and therapy. He co-authored “Photo Therapy and Mental Health” in 1983 that is considered a founding text for the use of photography in therapy.
“It lets children learn who they are and where they fit,” says Judy Weiser. a psychologist, art therapist and author based in Vancouver. “They learn their genealogy and the the uniqueness of their own family and its story. When a child sees a family portrait with them included in the photograph they say to themselves: ‘These people have me as part of what they are, that’s why I belong here. This is where I come from.'”

Weiser has spent more than 20 years using all manner of personal photography to assist in the treatment process of her clients. She is considered by many to be the foremost authority on these treatment techniques, called PhotoTherapy.

When It Comes To Having The Greatest Positive Impact For Your Child, Which is Better, Digital Images or Paper Prints?

Obviously, rather than print and display family photographs, families are increasingly enjoying their images in a digital form, be it a mobile device, a laptop, or simply on social media. But does an image on a tablet, computer screen or social media site have the same impact for helping families boost a child’s self-esteem?
“My bias is very simple. I think they (family photographs) should be on the wall,” says Krauss.
“I am very conservative about self-esteem and I think placing a family photo someplace in the home where the child can see it every day without having to turn on a device or click around on a computer to find it really hits home for that child this sense of reassurance and comfort. They have a certainty about them and a protecting quality that nurtures a child. It let’s them know where they are in the pecking order and that they are loved and cared for,” says Krauss.

The importance of printed photographs displayed in your living space was echoed by other experts.
“My personal and clinical bias is there is something very powerful in touching your fingers to an actual print,” says Craig Steinberg, a licensed psychologist who works with children ages five through 13 near Eugene, Ore. “Touching the photograph where a face is smiling or the shoulders, it is the same thing as touching a book when you read it. There’s a lot of stimulation of the brain when you have that sensory experience. That is a bit lost in the move to digital. You are touching a keyboard, mouse or a touchscreen but you are not touching the image.”

“Displaying photos prominently in the home sends the message that our family and those in it are important to one another, and we honor the memories we have experienced,“ says Cathy Lander-Goldberg, a licensed clinical social worker and a professional photographer in St. Louis, Missouri and the director of Photo Explorations, which offers workshops to girls and women using portrait and journaling for self-reflection.
Additionally, Krauss recommends having photographs of that child with their family placed in the child’s bedroom so it can be among the last things they see before sleep and the first thing they may see before beginning their day. 

“It says we love you and care about you. You’re important.”

by Chris Cummins, Contributor to Design Aglow, Images by Elizabeth Messina

Memory Cards

What the hell is formatting and why do I care?

I'll get to formatting later, but you should very much care if you don't want your family vacation pictures lost for eternity because you were too lazy to take care of your shit! Technology helps make our lives easier but it also helps destroy them faster, in more than one way. Let's just stick to memory cards for now....

First of all if your just hitting the "delete" button you're setting yourself up for potential disaster, even if you don't do it that often. When your camera processes an image it organizes it, gives it a name, in a folder, etc. When you delete a file and not format it, you're just telling the camera to replace the image, but there are still traces of the old file left behind. When you format it you basically start from scratch and tell your camera everything is new and let's get to work! I hope you're all following me on this!

As some of you may or may not know I'm a Canon girl so I won't even go into the functions or screen shots of formatting a Nikon, Sony, etc., look it up. :)

Here are the steps to formatting a memory card on a canon...this is taken from the back of my Mark III, but it's very similar to the most basic Canons.

Step 1 - Click "Format Card"

Step 2 - Toggle to card you want to format

Step 3 - Click OK

Step 4 - DONE

KEY POINTS TO REMBER ABOUT FORMATTING:

1- Back up your pictures BEFORE you do this because you won't get them back

2- Format the card in your camera NOT your computer!

Now onto which memory cards are the best....drum roll......IT DOESN'T REALLY MATTER! ;)

They really don't but I would generally stick to main brands such as SanDisk, Lexar, PNY, Toshiba, Sony, or Samsung. That doesn't mean there aren't more but for the love of God please don't get some cheap shit from Amazon for $5, if it's cheap, it's cheap! My favorite are Lexar and SanDisk, but I do find Lexar has faster speeds so I lean towards them more, again not sure if it really really matters. 

When you're buying memory cards it can kinda be overwhelming and if you're just looking at price there is a reason why the same size memory card has a price difference, it's the speed! I always buy the fastest speed, 95MB/s on an SC card or 120MB/s on a CF card. It makes a difference! Quality not quantity my friends! 

TIPS ON MEMORY CARDS:

1-Mark the month and year in sharpie on the back when you buy it! This stuff doesn't last forever so it's best to know when you bought it and replace them after a couple years! Just like that old compact in the back of your makeup drawer!

2-Store them in little cases or an organizer. I will have conflicting views on this because I read an article from a guy who worked at SanDisk and he just threw them around in his bag and said it didn't make a difference. I'm all about taking care of your stuff so do whatever you want! 

As you can see below I have a bunch of different kinds and speeds that go about 4 memory cards deep in my little ikea container. The slower ones never get used anymore and those go in my bag as back-ups or are  just extra because I fill these little bad boys up in the busy seasons! I do however buy new cards all the time...amazon and best buy always have sales! I snatch 'em up! You should too! 

If you guys have any questions please leave a comment below and I'll follow up asap!

Thanks for reading and I hope I saved you from a future panic attack! :)

Michelle

The Art of Espresso

Let’s start from the beginning...I began drinking coffee in college, who wasn’t, but I mixed it with vanilla creamer and called it a day. I did indulge in the occasional white chocolate mocha from Starbucks and omg the amount of fat and sugar in those things is outrageous, but that didn’t stop me...the $6 price tag did. Then fast forward to my time in Paris and Italy where locals go to the “bar” which is an espresso bar, not for alcohol. This is where people catch up with others, go to be seen, and grab a bite to eat usually croissants or something sweet. You order a café, wait while your barista pounds in the espresso, pushes a button, then watch it slowly drip down into a tiny tazzina (small cup) and then magically they swirl some perfectly frothed foam to make a beautiful design....something I’m yet to master, it’s on the bucket list! It’s black, it’s strong, it’s delicious, but very much an acquired taste! 

The main difference between coffee and espresso is the extraction method, which is done at a very high pressure rather than a drip or french press for coffee. Since (really good) espresso machines are well over $1,000 I’m perfectly happy with my Bialetti Moka Pot. They are inexpensive, create zero waste except for the espresso, which you can can save to rub away cellulite, exfoliate, or use in the garden! Since they are made out of aluminum it takes a few brews to get the metal taste out and then it seasons itself, kinda like a cast-iron pan for you fellow cookers! If you guys have never had espresso this way you should totally try it! Or betting yet invite yourself over to my house and I’ll make it for you as long as you don’t mind kids around and a mess! :)

Boudoir Mini 2017

Boudior 2017

Who: You! Short, Tall, Small, Medium,Large...You're all beautiful...I mean it! Capture your beauty in a way that no one else can


What is Boudoir Photography? "Boudoir photos are usually taken wearing either just a little or nothing at all. They are hardly x-rated, more like PG-13....as in classic pinup-inspired pics, or what the pros call 'implied nudes.' That means you're not wearing anything, but you're also not showing off anything either (think shot from the back, or lying on your atomic)." -The Knot Remember I will NEVER shoot you in anyway that makes you feel uncomfortable! We will trust and work together!

When: January 20, 2017

Where: Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center 

Why: First do it for yourself, next do it for your boyfriend, husband, partner, whomever you share intimacy with!

What's a min boudoir like? Your session will begin in the comfort of a private hotel room that will be stylized just for boudoir. You'll have your makeup, including lashes (and option hair) with the amazing Krystle Rodriguez while you sip on some bubbly! Next we'll move on to the shoot...it will take about 20-30 minutes which is why it's called a mini. Normal sessions are 1-2 hours but don't worry we can pack a lot in! I'll have you rolling in sheets, up against walls, smiling, laughing and being you! You might be a bit nervous at first, totally normal, but I promise you'll warm up fast and you'll be having too much fun to that about anything else! 

How Much?  The investment is $275 and includes your makeup and lashes, add $25 for hair. 


What do I get? After your amazing session with Michelle you'll receive a sneak peek and a timeline to when your images will be completed, guaranteed before valentines day! Little Black Book: 6x8 landscape hard cover, lay flat 20-pages, additional spreads, (2 pages) $15. 10% off all print orders placed before V-Day! 

FAQ's

-What do I wear? I'll guide you and you'll receive a "What to Wear guide" after booking
-I need to get in shape first! No you don't...you're beautiful now and really what's the point of waiting...you'll never do it...carpe diem! 
-I have stretch marks can you edit those? Absolutely!
-What if I have a big zit or other issues the day of the shoot? I can take care of all that! I will retouch, smooth, and polish you up, but always staying authentic!

If you're unsure or want to see more pictures just shoot me a message and we'll chat all about it! 


Ok I'm in, what's next? Send me an email and I'll take care of the rest! hello@michelleannphoto.com


Invite your friends and you both get a $25 print credit! No Limit!
xoxo
Michelle
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Best of 2016

FIND THE ONLINE GALLERY HERE

(Pics will not be posted until JANUARY 8)

NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT OF ANY KIND IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN.

The “BEST OF 2016” is sponsored by Michelle Ann Photography. This contest is governed by these official rules. By participating in the contest, each entrant agrees to abide by these Official Rules, including all eligibility requirements, and understands that the results of the contest, as determined by Sponsor and its agents, are final in all respects. The contest is subject to all federal, state and local laws and regulations and is void where prohibited by law.

This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook. Any questions, comments or complaints regarding the promotion will be directed to Sponsor, not Facebook.

ELIGIBILITY

The Contest is open to legal residents of their respective countries where not prohibited by law, who are eighteen (18) years of age or older at the time of entry who have Internet access and who have had a photo shoot done with Michelle Ann Photography any time during the year 2016. Michelle Ann Photography has the right to verify the eligibility of each entrant.

SWEEPSTAKES PERIOD

The Sweepstakes begins at January 8, 2017 12am EST and ends at January 14, 2017 11:59PM EST. All entries must be received on or before the time stated during that submission period. Sponsor reserves the right to extend or shorten the contest at their sole discretion.

HOW TO ENTER

Email your favorite photo to hello@michelleannphoto.com with SUBJECT LINE: BEST OF 2016 CONTEST by NOON, SATURDAY, JANUARY 7! Photos must be received either as a file or with a file number, I can not accept screen shots this year by email or text. Thank you for understanding! 

WINNER SELECTION

All eligible entries received during the submission period will be posted in an album on Michelle Ann Photography's Facebook page. A winner will be chosen by the most amount of LIKES on that photo. LIKERS must also LIKE Michelle Ann Photography's page for their vote to count.

The winners will be announced on or about January 16, 2017. Announcement and instructions for prize will be sent to the e-mail address supplied when the photo was submitted. Each entrant is responsible for monitoring his/her e-mail account for prize notification and receipt or other communications related to this sweepstakes. If a potential prize winner cannot be reached by Michelle Ann Photography within three (3) days, using the contact information provided at the time of entry, or if the prize is returned as undeliverable, that potential prize winner shall forfeit the prize.

PRIZES:

Grand Prize: $100 print credit to be used towards prints from the 2016 shoot you submitted the photo from sold exclusively through Michelle Ann Photography. NEW THIS YEAR- SWAG BAG (contents still to be determined). Runner-up: 11x14 lustre print of submitted photo and must be picked up, no deliveries. Third place: 8x10 lustre print must be picked up, no deliveries. ALL PARTICIPANTS get a $25 print credit towards any shoot booked in 2017! 

Terms and conditions may apply. Incidental expenses and all other costs and expenses which are not specifically listed as part of a prize in these Official Rules and which may be associated with the award, acceptance, receipt and use of all or any portion of the awarded prize are solely the responsibility of the respective prize winner. ALL FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL TAXES ASSOCIATED WITH THE RECEIPT OR USE OF ANY PRIZE IS SOLELY THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE WINNER.

ADDITIONAL LIMITATIONS

Prize is non-transferable. No substitution or cash equivalent of prizes is permitted. Michelle Ann Photography and its respective parent, affiliate and subsidiary companies, agents, and representatives are not responsible for any typographical or other errors in the offer or administration of the contest, including, but not limited to, errors in any printing or posting or these Official Rules, the selection and announcement of any winner, or the distribution of any prize. Any attempt to damage the content or operation of this contest is unlawful and subject to possible legal action by Sponsor. Sponsor reserves the right to terminate, suspend or amend the Sweepstakes, without notice, and for any reason, including, without limitation, if Michelle Ann Photography determines that the contest cannot be conducted as planned or should a virus, bug, tampering or unauthorized intervention, technical failure or other cause beyond Michelle Ann Photography's control corrupt the administration, security, fairness, integrity or proper play of the Sweepstakes. In the event any tampering or unauthorized intervention may have occurred, Sponsor reserves the right to void suspect entries at issue. Sponsor and its respective parent, affiliate and subsidiary companies, agents, and representatives, and any telephone network or service providers, are not responsible for incorrect or inaccurate transcription of entry information, or for any human error, technical malfunction, lost or delayed data transmission, omission, interruption, deletion, line failure or malfunction of any telephone network, computer equipment or software, the inability to access any website or online service or any other error, human or otherwise.

INDEMNIFICATION AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

BY ENTERING THE SWEEPSTAKES, EACH ENTRANT AGREES TO INDEMNIFY, RELEASE AND HOLD HARMLESS SPONSOR AND ITS PARENT, AFFILIATE AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES, THE FACEBOOK PLATFORM, ADMINISTRATOR, ADVERTISING AND PROMOTIONAL AGENCIES, AND ALL THEIR RESPECTIVE OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, REPRESENTATIVES AND AGENTS FROM ANY LIABILITY, DAMAGES, LOSSES OR INJURY RESULTING IN WHOLE OR IN PART, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, FROM THAT ENTRANT’S PARTICIPATION IN THE SWEEPSTAKES AND THE ACCEPTANCE, USE OR MISUSE OF ANY PRIZE THAT MAY BE WON. Michelle Ann Photography AND ITS PARENT, AFFILIATE AND SUBSIDIARY COMPANIES DO NOT MAKE ANY WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, AS TO THE CONDITION, FITNESS OR MERCHANTABILITY OF THE PRIZE. Michelle Ann Photography AND ITS PARENTS, SUBSIDIARIES, AFFILIATES, ADVERTISING AND PROMOTIONAL AGENCIES, AND ALL THEIR RESPECTIVE OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, REPRESENTATIVES AND AGENTS DISCLAIM ANY LIABILITY FOR DAMAGE TO ANY COMPUTER SYSTEM RESULTING FROM ACCESS TO OR THE DOWNLOAD OF INFORMATION OR MATERIALS CONNECTED WITH THE SWEEPSTAKES.

PUBLICITY

By participating, each entrant grants Michelle Ann Photography permission to use his/her name, likeness or comments for publicity purposes without payment of additional consideration, except where prohibited by law.

This sweepstakes is sponsored by: Michelle Ann Photography 

Any questions regarding this contest should be directed to Michelle at hello@michelleannphoto.com