I absolutely hate getting my picture taken, but I have to….soon, at least. I know your style is more relaxed and casual, so I’m hoping you can help. Do you have any suggestions for me so that I won’t freak out once I get to the studio? I’m just really intimidated by the whole atmosphere and posing process. — Scared to Smile

You’re right — sometimes it can be stressful to have your picture taken; but a lot of that depends on the photographer you choose to trust. It sounds like you already know a little bit about how I work with my clients — so that’s good! I love it when my clients come out of their portrait session saying, “that was fun!” or “when are we doing that again?” I want my clients to have a great time, and just knowing that should help you start to feel a little more at ease about having your portrait created. Of course, that’s just the beginning. As we plan your session, we’ll talk and discuss your goals, what you like, and what you’re comfortable with.

Some tips for having a stress-free session… Trust me, these are pretty simple, and hopefully, will have you feeling much better about your next portrait session.

Think about the reasons why you feel anxious and intimidated. Is there a specific incident that triggered these feelings, or is it because you hate to be formally posed? The more specific you can be regarding your concerns, the better job I can do when I work with you. If it’s the posing process that freaks you out — we can find ways to work around that; if it’s cheesy phrases like “say cheese” that make you stressed out — well, don’t worry, we can avoid those phrases and work a little more candidly.

Maybe you haven’t ever been happy with how you look in photographs; if that’s the case, ask yourself — how many of those images were professionally created? While there is something to be said for the spontaneity of family snapshots, there is also a lack of training photographically. When you trust a Certified Professional Photographer (like Betsy’s Photography) to create your portrait, you can be assured that your photographer knows how to pose you to look your best and the best way to bring all the elements of your portrait together.

So, once you’ve taken some time to think through the reasons behind your feelings, then is the time to discuss things with your photographer if you’re still concerned. As a photographer, I want each and every one of my clients to be comfortable about being photographed — and while I usually accomplish this by keeping things relaxed and developing a relationship with my clients, if you’re still worried you won’t be comfortable enough, I am always willing to chat about this matter further. Often, just talking about the process with your photographer (over the phone, or in person), as the session date draws nearer, is enough to put a nervous client at ease.

I’m glad that you’re willing to broaden your horizons! And I will do my best to make sure that you have a great portrait experience before, during, and after your session at Betsy’s Photography Studio. So, when you’re ready, contact Betsy’s Photography and I’ll be happy to walk you through the next easy steps to having your portrait created by Betsy’s Photography. You can do it!

Ask the Artist! features your questions, answered by Betsy Finn, photographic artist. Trust Betsy’s Photography, You’ll be Trusting the Best!

Novi, Mich. – Local photographer Betsy Finn of Betsy’s Photography in Dexter, Mich., took home the award for “Best of Show” at the Annual Print Competition, held by the Detroit Professional Photographers Association on November 20th, 2007.

While Betsy has successfully entered print competitions at the Regional and National level, this was her first time participating in the competition held by DPPA. Of Betsy’s six entries, four received “Awards of Excellence,” one received an “Award of Merit,” and another received an “Award of Honor.”

Her print, titled “Narcissism,” also won an award for “Best of Category” (Unclassified), and ultimately was voted “Best of Show.” Another print, “Three vs. One,” was a runner up for “Best of Category” (Portrait). When asked about her accomplishment, Betsy said, “It’s a great honor to be recognized locally for my work. I’m thrilled to have won ‘Best of Show,’ especially since this was my first time entering DPPA’s competition. I am extremely happy my prints did so well.”

The print competition was held in Novi, Mich., on November, 20th, 2007. At the DPPA Print competition, photographers are allowed to enter 6 prints into the competition. Print entries are entered by category, such as “Wedding Candids,” “Portraits,” “Commercial,” and “Unclassified.” Each print is judged on its own merit against standards of excellence. The competition was juried by a panel of prestigious Michigan photographers.

The Detroit Professional Photographers Association is Michigan’s largest affiliate for the national organization, Professional Photographers of America. DPPA was established in 1915 to serve the professional photographic community by offering educational opportunities to help photographers grow their business and improve their artistic abilities.

Betsy Finn, owner of Betsy’s Photography, is a Certified Professional Photographer and award-winning photographic artist. Earlier this year, her work received national recognition, when two of her prints were selected to hang in the 117th International Exhibition of Professional Photography. Betsy’s Photography studio is located in Dexter, Mich., and provides wedding & portrait services to clients in Southeast Michigan. For more information, visit the studio website: betsysphotography.com.

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Do you have any suggestions on what I should give to friends and family for the holidays? I want to make something myself, but am not sure where to start. — In Need of Help

This is the ever-important question around the holidays. Maybe you have a friend or relative that’s “got everything” or is just plain hard to please — and choosing gifts for them is the toughest decision of the holidays. Or, maybe you just want to do something “different” this year because it will be a change of pace. Regardless of your reason, sometimes homemade holiday gifts can be the perfect choice!

Now, I’ve made gifts for others in the past, and yes, it can be fun. It all comes down to choosing something in an area that interests you. Like cooking? Bake pies or cookies (give them in festive Tupperware containers), or even create a “best of _____” recipe book. Good with tools? Maybe you could build something or make a holiday-themed decoration. If you have kids, they love to help with these kinds of projects, so why not encourage them to help too? Your little ones could decorate your homemade cookies, or make an ornament — whatever you’re comfortable with, of course. As far as “where to start,” it really depends on a few things; once you answer these questions, you’ll be in great shape to make some great “homemade” holiday gifts.

Consider Your Time Factor: First, you’ll need to consider how much time you have. If your schedule is jam packed already, you probably will want to consider a more simple gift to make. On the other hand, if you have lots of free time (or many helping hands), then a more detailed and lengthy project may be in reach.

Consider The Person: Some people just don’t appreciate certain gifts. And that’s ok, we can’t all love everything; but why bother slaving over something for hours on end when a simpler gift could have sufficed. So before you start on your labor of love, take a few moments to think about your gift’s future recipient. What do they like? Is there anything they don’t like? If you run these questions through your head, you’ll probably be able find a gift they will enjoy.

Consider The Delivery Method: A long distance gift will need to be more sturdy (and less perishable) than a gift you can hand deliver two doors down. So, take the delivery method into consideration when you are gift planning, because you want to make sure it arrives in great shape.

So, I know you’re thinking, “but Betsy, this doesn’t tell me WHAT to make,” and you’re right. I’ll give you a few ideas to get you started, but in the end, it’s up to you to choose the perfect gift. One of the purposes of giving a homemade gift is for it to be personalized. And what better way to do so than putting some thought into what the gift will be?

If you’re still stumped for ideas, there is hope. You know the baking idea I mentioned earlier? Everyone (well, almost) loves some sort of treat around the holidays. You could also create one of those “gift jars” that layers the ingredients (flour, chocolate chips, sugar, etc) to form a neat design — and then include the recipe and “how to” instructions. Or, you could always fall back on the recipe collection idea. Looking for something non-perishable, or non-edible? Well, I’ve got a few suggestions there too. You could make a few jewelry items, or knit a scarf, or build a desk organizer. The possibilities are endless, and it comes down to the three things I mentioned above. Your time, the person, and the delivery method.

Ask the Artist! features your questions, answered by Betsy Finn, photographic artist. Trust Betsy’s Photography, You’ll be Trusting the Best!

Earlier this month I *thought* I would maybe write about the weather, but I didn’t want to jinx our chances of having a few warm days left. Well, it looks like that attempt was unsuccessful, as we’ve already gotten snow flurries (in the air, at least!). And while there was no snow on the ground this weekend, it wasn’t much warmer. Don’t get me wrong, I love the changing of seasons. I think it is beautiful to see the fall colors come and go, the first few snow showers are beautiful, and the occasional severe thunderstorm doesn’t faze me. But, at the same point, I don’t like how the winter months drag on here in Michigan, or the shorter hours of daylight.

But, winter does bring many happy family get-togethers and fun holiday celebrations. This year, we’re holding Thanksgiving at our home. It is a little bit of a change, I will admit, but we’re looking forward to welcoming our family into our home. The groceries have been bought, the house has been organized, and we’re almost ready. It’s going to be great to get the family together.

I hope that you are looking forward to celebrating the holidays with your family, and if life allows, for your whole family to get together. Sometimes it isn’t possible, due to work or other conflicts, but you can still be there in spirit, right?

Betsy’s Photography Holiday Hours:
During the week of Thanksgiving, Betsy’s Photography will be open Monday through Wednesday; Thursday and Friday, we will be closed. The studio will reopen with normal hours the following Monday (November 26th). Thank you for your understanding, and have a wonderful week. If you’re one of those “day-after” shoppers, good luck and have fun!

I’m thinking of scheduling a portrait session for my children but am a little concerned because of their age — I’m not sure I’ll be able to bribe them to sit still or even cooperate. Is this a problem, should I hold off on the portraits for a while until the kids can handle sitting still? — Mother of 3 Tots

This is a valid concern, honestly. But, not to worry! My style of photography allows me to work with kids that don’t sit still, as well as the ones that don’t always smile when they’re supposed to. Remember, it is a little different for your kids when you bring them into the studio, so you can expect for them to be more excited/active/shy than usual. I am used to being around kids and photographing them — after all, I do have 6 nephews and a niece! So, even if your portrait session isn’t the most peaceful experience in the world, things will be fun, and we will be successful in creating great portraits of your children.

Still not convinced? Well, let me explain a little further. Some things to keep in mind — candy etc. works well as a bribe — but save the treats for after the session. We don’t need the extra sugar when working with an already active child. Rather than trying to force your kids to sit still, which I know can be tough — I often work with them on the move. It allows them more freedom to express their personality, which usually makes for better pictures. Oh, and don’t worry about that not smiling part. I have several tricks up my sleeve that tend to work very well.

In answer to your question, whether you should hold off on having your portrait created: I don’t think you need to deprive yourself of these memories. Kids love new experiences, and I will do my best to make their portrait session fun and stress-free. Who knows, the sooner you get them into our studio, the sooner they may want to come back!

If you are still concerned about your children’s ability to cooperate for even one of our more relaxed portrait sessions, then by all means, please let me know. There are some choices we could make in regards to your session (e.g. choose a location they are familiar with) that may make the experience easier on your children. Above all, I want both you and your children to be looking forward to your portrait experience!

Ask the Artist! features your questions, answered by Betsy Finn, photographic artist. Trust Betsy’s Photography, You’ll be Trusting the Best!

Earlier this week I was able to attend a seminar for professional photographers. Organized by the Detroit Professional Photographers Association, the seminar featured senior portrait photographers Kia Bondurant and Sana Antisdel (Antisdel.s Photography). A mother-daughter team, Kia and Sana provided a great program with inspiring imagery and insight.

It’s always good to get a different perspective on things, and for me, Kia and Sana’s seminar did just that. Much of what was discussed I already knew, but it’s that slightly different approach that can give you a whole new way to look at something.

To my clients — thank you for your understanding while I was out of the studio for this event. As much as I love learning, I love working with you even more! Creating fine photographic art for you is something I enjoy doing, and attending professional seminars like this allow me to constantly refine and revive my creativity.

This seminar was approved by Professional Photographers of America under the PPA Continuing Education System.

“Do you ever get bored photographing weddings? I’m trying to decide on a wedding photographer but I don’t want one who is just going through the motions. What’s the key?” — Future Bride

Me, bored? Nope! Each and every wedding that I photograph is different. Even though it is my job to photograph my clients’ weddings, I have fun too. How, you ask? Well, for me, it is honestly a pleasure to know that while you are enjoying the biggest day of your life, I am right there with you, capturing your emotions, your reactions, and documenting your wedding day.

Even though I may document the same “parts” of the wedding (ceremony, the kiss, reception, flower toss, etc), it’s never the same from one wedding to another. It’s all about capturing your joy and your excitement. Because when you look back at your wedding album, I want you to remember how you felt the day of your wedding.

So in answer to your question, “do you ever get bored?” …the answer is No! I love photographing weddings, and I will do my best to capture your wedding day as if it were my own.

Also, if you haven’t checked out the wedding section of my website yet, make sure to do so! There is general information on Wedding Photography, answers to your Frequently Asked Questions about my wedding photography services, and even a helpful Wedding Resource section that contains information on local businesses and vendors.

Ask the Artist! features your questions, answered by Betsy Finn, photographic artist. Trust Betsy’s Photography, You’ll be Trusting the Best!

We’re going to try something a little new and exciting. Since I know you have questions for me, as a photographer and artist, I want to create an opportunity for you to ask and me to answer. So, with that in mind, here’s to the launch of “Ask the Artist!,” here on Betsy’s Photography Blog!

Have a question? post a comment on the “Ask the Artist” page, or contact Betsy’s Photography. We may even decide to feature your question (either way, we’ll send you an answer, don’t worry!).