Props

I'm not a real "proppy" person... is that even a word? I don't usually use many, if any, props.  Some photographers can use props really well... to enhance the photo.  A lot of the time, though, props tend to take a way from the photo.

I did this newborn session of my super adorable niece, Michela, and at the time I thought using this prop was a good idea.  Now I look at it and it just looks like the stuffed cow is either going to eat her or smoosh her.

My suggestion would be to try some shots with props and some without.  Sometimes its hard to tell which ones you are going to love.  Now I'm not saying "never, ever use props."  They can be an awesome addition to many shots.  Experiment and have fun!

Christmas lights

Now that its December and trees will be decorated, I thought it would be timely to share this. I found it on pinterest.com so it isn't my original idea or my photo below but it looks helpful.  It was written by this blogger so check it out if you'd like....

Here's the settings she recommends:  camera settings for a glowing Christmas tree.....the shutter speed down as loooooow as it would go, set the ISO at 100 and the aperture at f/9 so it would all be in focus.

Our tree isn't up yet but I can't wait to try this....