Family Photography | Large Group Photos

Do you have a headcount of more than seven for your next photo session? No need to fear. While getting group photos to look professional can be a challenge, with the right light, location and the burst of a shutter, Pacific Dream Photography can make it easy. So, go ahead and get the whole family together, or invite your friends because with Pacific Dream, the motto is, “the more, the merrier!” Find below some tips to take the best group photos possible.

1. Find even, soft light: While locating a spot that will both look nice and administer good light for a lot of people can be hard, it is the most important step while taking large group photos. While shooting outdoors, hard and or directional light can be unflattering and result to uneven exposure while some people are blanketed with different brightness levels of light. To avoid this, you need to find a spot that will cover everyone’s faces in the same light so that nobody has awkward spots of sun, and nobody is in dark shadows while the others are in brightness. This will lead to a more cohesive, professional looking image. That being said, many times, your best bet will be to find open shade. This will be somewhere that everyone may look their best without squinting at the sun, or being dappled with heavy light or shadow. Take a look at these examples.

1. Tier your subjects: Take to a staircase, a slope, or grab some chairs to separate the group into tiers to help make everyone fit a little more snug. It can be strange to have a long line of people in a photo, so tighten up your frame by placing people in tiers to ensure everyone is visible. Just make sure that the tiers are relatively even so that your end result is balanced!
2. Laugh a little! Okay, so while most group photos are aimed to be more serious, if your clients are family or friends, a great way to make everyone look a little more comfortable is to ask them to take a silly photo. Have everyone laugh or make faces at each other for a light and fun, candid look. Often times these images end up being the favorites and if you have any issues with the group looking stiff, do one more serious smiling pose after the silly ones. Following the laughs, the group tends to look more confortable and relaxed.

So, don’t exclude anyone! Get the whole family together or ask your friends to tag along at your session because our photographers are certain to make your memories with ALL of your loved ones last a lifetime.

Written by Paige W. (Pacific Dream Photography at the Montage Laguna Beach)

A Formal Affair | Formal Photography

Whether you’re attending a wedding, charity event, or just need an excuse to buy that brand new dress, Pacific Dream Photography is here to help capture you and your loved ones looking your very best. While most photo shoots opt for semi-casual looks, some of our favorite sessions have included formal wear complete with tuxes and bow ties, floor length gowns and everything in between. It is no question that there is something truly special about capturing your luxurious stay at The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel in an outfit that is just as nice your stay. Here are some options and ideas for your formal photo shoot.

• Book with us before a big event! Heading to a gala fundraiser, fancy dinner or wedding any time soon? Schedule a session with us just before your event to capture the day when you’re already all dolled up. It’s the perfect way to remember the personal details of your event including your outfit and accessories as well as the incredible location. Plus, you’re already set to get dressed up, why not take advantage of your time and commemorate your efforts with photos to last a lifetime?
• Buy that new dress! (Or take the old one out of the back of your closet!) We don’t often have a reason or excuse to get dressed in formal wear, so let your photo shoot be reason enough! Not only will you get use out of your formal attire, but your photos are bound to stand out among the rest while you and your loved ones are dressed to the nines. Its just one extra step to take that will guarantee your session goes perfectly, and your pictures are exactly what you are looking for.
• Take it down a notch! Okay, so the tuxedo and ball gown dynamic isn’t for everyone. But that doesn’t mean you can’t stray from your blue jeans for your photo session. Take a moment to find something you will be comfortable in that doesn’t reflect your daily garb. Men can ditch the tie and opt for a sport coat or simple button up shirt and women can aim for a shorter hem or more relaxed cut. Either way, your elegant looks are certain to wow and make for brilliant photos unlike any that you have taken before. For some more tips for a perfect session, check our blog here.

So, make a reservation and get your best outfit ready because your Pacific Dream photo session is guaranteed to be picture perfect!

Written by Paige W. (Pacific Dream Photography at the Ritz Carlton-Laguna Niguel)