A breath or fresh air

Ahhh, the beauty of nature. I'm talking serious nature. The kind where bobcats roam, snakes slither and eagles fly. Yep it exists out there, just far, far away from our convenient life surrounded by stores, homes and restaurants. It's awesome to see how the environment alone can evoke different emotions. By positioning a family smack dab in the middle of nowhere, I immediately felt a sense of innocence and family connection. I won't go on and on with my deep analysis, but check out these photos taken amongst the preserved land in Monterey County and you can analyze for yourself.

The "No Fuss" Session?! Speak English please.

If you haven't been introduced to my "No Fuss" session here is the skinny. This is the perfect session to update photos in your frames, plan for holiday cards or document your family for the year. These are quick 30 minutes sessions on set dates and pre-determined locations at a discounted rate of $100*. The session includes 30 online proofs, an online slideshow and 1**digital print ready file. Can't beat that! Check out the "no fuss" calendar here. To find out more visit the everyday section of my website.

*beach sessions are an additional $25 to cover the cost of the beach permit.
**weekday sessions include 2 digital files

The 2011 No Fuss schedule is now available. Book in advance because there are limited spaces and these usually fill up by the end of summer.

I'm a big fan of walls and other textured backgrounds that lend themselves to more natural (in the moment) posing rather than the perfect triangle poses. This isn't to say I don't take posed photos, but the more open you are to being in the moment the more we'll capture the "experience" of the session.

If your purpose is to capture one posed family photo with everyone looking at the camera please let me know ahead of time and we'll spend the entire session concentrating on getting you the photo you have in mind.

Check this "No Fuss" session out to see how much can be covered in 30 minutes
(it might take a second or two to load)

Kids + Mess = lots of good photos!

Next time you fret about pulling out paint or any other type of messy substance, think about this very important photography equation - Kids + Mess = Lots of good photos. Instead of hovering, take a deep breath, go get the camera and enjoy the moment. You'll love the results. Dying Easter eggs was that PERFECT messy activity to capture my boys. Nothing's better than a messy table, dyed hands and lots of colorful eggs.

Spring's here and the wheels are spinning backwards...

While paruzing one of my favorite sites, Etsy, I came across this fun, fresh palette of pinwheels (made by PaperPoloriod). It inspired me to coordinate a Spring photo session.

If you are looking to capture your kids in those fun Spring formals, this is the shoot for you. I've recently been obsessed with the colors and look of vintage photography. The set will have a slightly vintage feel which will complement those beautiful Easter dresses, or button-ups and slacks. Of course the sky is the limit on dress, go all out vintage or jeans and a tee will work too. For those of you with girls, I suggest Etsy for vintage looking hair pieces (if you are not familliar with this site it check it out, you'll be addicted!). One vintage accessory can MAKE a photo. I am not a prop girl myself, although I plan on using these awesome pinwheels in some of the photos, but if you'd like to go all out on the Easter or spring theme, feel free to bring your own props. I'm more than happy to work with your baskets, flowers etc.

The session will take place on
Sunday, April 17th.

$25 per child
includes 10 minute studio session and 1 - 5 x 7 print
(If you'd like to take sibling photos you must book a session per child and they will be photographed both individually as well as in a group. There is a limit to 4 children per group)

Sessions starting early afternoon and will be booked first come first serve.
There is a limited amount of spots.
Please email me with any questions or to book your session(s).
claire@withinsightstudio.com

Spring Portriats with a twist

I started spring portraits at Red Hill Lutheran School today. I couldn't wait to take these photos. And not just because I love photographing kids, but because I'm so excited to offer a fun twist to the "spring portrait." It's a fun challenge to play around with so many kids (ages ranging from preschool - 8th grade.) Each child with their own unique personality. Revealing this personality has become somewhat of an obsession. These are a few sample photos of my boys. I wanted to show how a little bit of color, a few accessories, and some cute expressions can add that little something that exposes so much more of your extraordinary child within.

Would you like to join me for a spot of tea...

Check out these little pink princesses. They used their session as a time to dress up and play. What a perfect idea! Oh and if you aren't into pink...turquoise and lavender would look just as good.

Get your PINK on!!

In a household surrounded by boys, I find myself pining for just a pinch of pink, a bit of sparkle and a little touch of glam.

Instead of adding one more to my litter, which certainly won't guarantee pink, I've decided the most effective way to cure this craving is to offer a "girls only" photo session where I can immerse myself with feminine accessories!

These "girl" sessions are only available until February 9th, 2011 so book today.
Session fee $35* (per child)

Book your session between 10 and 2 on a weekday and receive $10 off session fee.
Contact me with questions or to book a session

*Session fee includes 20 minute session for 1 individual. Prints and files purchased separately

**Limited sessions available