Mercy Hasselblad
As a Los Angeles wedding photographer, one of the things my clients don’t like to ask (but want to know) is how to look good. As someone who spends a LOT of time behind the camera, in front of the camera, and behind a computer going through thousands of photos, I have a few tips on how to look great.
I love doing engagement photography for cute couples. And the thing about my idea of a cute couple is that you don’t have to be particularly attractive, young, or thin in order to be a cute couple. To be a cute couple, you have to be in love. You look at each other with that little mix of adoration and let everything else (including my presence) slip away. Be willing to look stupid and try funny things because some lady with a camera told you to. Giggle, tickle, and be ready to tell your significant other what they mean.
This baby was so dynamic! Her different faces were hilarious! I love doing newborn photography in Los Angeles. I typically do in-home sessions because it’s easier for parents, but I also take portraits in my studio. This session brought tears to my eyes, because I photographed the parents getting engaged, their wedding, maternity photos, and now it’s come full circle and I got to photograph this little new life!
I’ve enjoyed watching Daniel grow as an actor. Even as I’ve grown as a portrait and headshot photographer, I’ve seen him grow from a kid to disciplined young adult. Recently he’s gotten into very good shape and seems so healthy. I loved the opportunity to take some acting headshots for him right before making the trip down to Los Angeles! Congratulations on your amazing shoulder muscles, Daniel!
The thing about photos is that they don’t say a lot about the person’s soul. Their inner being. Because although this girl is beautiful on the outside, her soul is amazing. Although this started out being a hike with a friend, I have a thing for photographing redheads. So I brought an epic skirt and made her run around in the foothills at sunset in it. The varied scenery had so much to offer, and the gentle undulations of the hills are a fashion photographer’s dream.
This family was a hoot! They reminded me of why I love doing family photos in Los Angeles and Boise. Family photos are significant, because they take a sliver out of time and show us who we used to be. My mom is an amazing photographer and took a photo of us every year she could. It’s amazing to see the transformations and how we used to behave for photos.
After a long day of wedding photography, I go home, put on my sweats, get some tea, and start going through photos. As you may know, I send couples as many pictures as soon as possible. So that typically means I’m up for a good 5-6 hours after I leave a 12 hour wedding. As I scroll through the photos, I find myself falling in love with certain photos. As they come up, I melt and remember why I love doing wedding photography.
After a heck of a time scheduling around busy wedding season, two busy teenagers, and hard-working parents, we finally had a chance to do family photos! That, in itself, is an accomplishment. Ever since I first saw this farmstead, I wanted to photograph there. THEY LIVE ON AN ISLAND. It’s a private little area you would never be able to find if you didn’t know it was there. Complete with wild fields of grass, various creatures, and a tight-knit family, this made for amazing farm family photos!