Brand Photography

CURRENTLY BOOKING BRAND SESSIONS
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Please hear this with magnificent passion.
⭐️I LOVE MY JOB⭐️
I can’t stress it enough.
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Every time I photograph entrepreneurs we talk about their dreams, my dreams, and then we encourage each other to keep going and taking steps towards those dreams.
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Let me help you get started on your dream. First step is writing them out.
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Write one of your dreams in the comments below. Once you put it out there, you are one step closer to reaching that dream.

How Can You Be Your Own Brand Photographer?

Do you need bio or profile photos quickly, but don’t have time to hire a professional photographer?

I know as a business owner sometimes you need a great headshot, but you are in a time crunch and can’t hire a professional photographer. So for you, I created a simple selfie tutorial.

You will learn how to look for good natural lighting and which lighting to stay away from. I’ll also give you tips on the best camera angle and help you find your favorite side/angle of your face. (You know you have a favorite. We all do.)

Do me a favor. Right after you watch it, go and take 5 minutes to practice. Don’t feel vain. Feel beautiful/handsome, amazing, and confident.

Learning how to take a better selfie will not only get you a great profile shot for social media or a sweet photo to send to your special someone, but it will also help you love yourself more.

3 Major Steps To Take In Creating Authentic Family Photographs

How do you create authentic family photos?

At the time of booking:

When you first book a family portrait session, send the family a questionnaire. Ask questions that helps you get to know them a little bit better. Questions like, what each family members favorite candy is, or favorite drink at Sonic. These simple questions give you a small insight to their personality, but also allows topics to talk about when you take their pictures.

Day of the session:

First things first. When the session first starts, make some small talk. Be observant when doing the small talk thing. Watch their mannerisms, smiles, touches, and the candid way they stand with their arms folded and hands in the pockets.

If you are photographing them at their home, this creates a comforting atmosphere. Everyone, kids and husbands included, open up a little more than they would in a public location.

However, if you are doing the session at a park, or your local downtown area, give them an action.

Tell them to group up, then gradually watch how their arms fall on each other. If they don’t, direct them a little bit and make a connection between each other.

How to create multiple poses/photos in one setup:

While everyone is in the group, here is a shot list you can use. Keep in mind to work around your subjects.

1. wide group shot of everyone smiling (safety shot, not as heartfelt, but safe)

2. close-up group shot

3. close-up of each person, without anyone moving. Examples are below. Kids might have their arms intertwined in moms arms, or mom might be running her hand through her children’s hair. Again, if they are currently doing them, coach them and direct them through it and make them do an action. It will look authentic and lead to something beautiful.

4. Photograph the connections. Not just the faces, but also the arms and hands holding one another.

While you are there to photograph the family, don’t forget to snap some of mom and dad. Take a look at these cuties below.

Have any follow up questions. I’d be happy to help. You can email me at cristy@cristycross.com or leave a comment on this post.

*Pin these photos and add them to your Pinterest boards for inspiration.

Aperture | Basic Photography

Aperture Edition | basic photography

Some things to think about when learning how to shoot in manual with your digital single lens reflex camera (dslr):

-Keep your shutter no lower than 1/100.  This will help prevent blurry or shakiness in you photo from motion happening either from the photographer slightly moving, or your subject moving fast. Ideally, if your subject is moving fast, your shutter would need to be around 1/200 to insure your subject isn’t blurry as well.

-Play around with your ISO.

-Change your f-stop/aperture.  Get comfortable playing around with your settings.

-Shoot a variety. Walk around your subject and shoot from all directions.

-Photograph subjects near and far, shade, and in the sun. 

-Photograph different types of subjects.  For example, portraits, landscape, and action shot. 

-You can also photograph still life.  For example- a wooden chair, flowers, books, bike, car, makeup, pottery, etc.

**Let me also say, you can photograph inside, but only with a good source of natural light.  For example, bring your subject next to a window and use the window lighting. When you are first learning photography, it is easiest for you to shoot with natural light.

Keep a journal of the lenses you are using, the focal length (18mm, 50mm, 75mm, etc), shutter speed, aperture, iso, sun, shade, etc.

DIY Christmas Felt Garland

An easy way to make your Christmas décor festive, without spending too much money is by using these two items: felt and hemp string (or any other string you have around the house.)

Felt is such a forgiving craft material and I love creating with it, and so do my kids!

You can hang the garland over your mirror, artwork or mantel.

Instructions:

Head to our local craft store, and select your colors

Cut felt pieces to 1 inch-1.5 inch x 8 inch strips for each color.

The amount of strips will depend on how long you want your garland to be.

Tie each strand onto the string. As you gather more and more pieces of felt on the string, push them together so your garland will be full of volume.

I’ve made a tutorial video for you too! Take a look and enjoy.

Watch below!

Four Ways To Feeling Confident On Camera

Being in front of the camera is scary. I know. Even though I’m a photographer I get nervous when I’m on the other side.

Today I’m sharing 4 Ways To Feeling Confident On Camera.

1. Practice your looks in the mirror. I know that might seem weird, but it will help. Trust me. Sitting, standing, smiling, and serious face.

2. Wear your favorite outfit. The outfit that makes you feel great about yourself. Also, select colors that work with your hair color and skin color.

3. Add a prop that makes you happy. Favorite coffee mug, flowers, or hat for example.

4. Select a photographer that makes you feel comfortable. A great photographer can help direct you, coach you and make you look and feel amazing. Ask to meet in person over coffee to see if your personalities and type match up.

Okay, ready to try these steps? Let me know how it goes!

Camera Phone Tips | Basic Exposure

CAMERA PHONE TIPS | BASIC EXPOSURE

Cristy Cross

The number one comment I get from so many people that take my camera phone course is they never knew about this feature and it has changed the result of their photos. So today, I’m sharing it with you too!

Photo Excursion Ideas with Your Kids

My kids love to create, but usually it’s with coloring, drawing or crafting. When my youngest son wanted to go on a photo adventure with our Instax Fujifilm camera I was super excited.

He came up with the places he wanted to go, and I drove. It was a fun experience for the both of us.

Some things to think about with photographing with kids:

• Keep it super simple and throw your expectations out the window. It will be way more fun for you if you do.

• Give them a bank of themes they can photograph and let them choose a handful of options.

• This idea can be done with a smartphone, dslr, polaroid, or Instax camera

• Display them on your bulletin board or hand out as gifts to your family members

Take a look at how our excursion went and the topics Liam chose to photograph!

View this post on Instagram

Join us and get a peek into how Liam sees the world through his Instax Fujifilm camera.

A post shared by PHOTOGRAPHER+EDUCATOR (@cristycrossphoto) on Jan 20, 2020 at 3:03pm PST

Simple Easter Egg Designs

Easter is next week!! Craziness. Time is flying by fast and slow and our weeks feel a little scrambled. Are you feeling the same way?

It may sound cliche, but throughout COVID-19, I truly do think it’s a good idea to keep some of your same routine, and so that means, continue Easter egg dying.

If you are a kid or an adult, I challenge you to try out a few different patterns.

Use all of the colors, do an ombre look, spray the egg dye with a water bottle, etc.

I love how each egg is an experiment to see how it will turn out.

After you dye your eggs, do a photoshoot with them and share with me. Tag me on Facebook or Instagram @cristycrossphoto.

How To Photograph Your New Christmas Puppy

So you got a new puppy for Christmas for your kids (and you). Congratulations! Be ready for all the cuddles and puppy play. It’s crazy how much cuteness can be in one tiny little furry body and all of that cuteness has to be documented.

I have some pointers for you when photographing your new Christmas puppy.

1. Select your background. A Christmas tree with lights makes your photo more magical.

2. Choose a few different ribbons to gently tie a bow around your puppies neck.

3. Have a second set of hands to help keep the puppy stationary and not wiggle around. Be careful they don’t fall off a chair :)

4. Be camera ready with all the puppy wiggles

5. Edit your pictures with CC Mobile Presets and post on social media or send an e-Christmas card.

Let me introduce to you OUR new puppy, Cotton. We got her for the boys for Christmas and we are all in love with her. She is just about the sweetest little thing. I mean, look at those eyes!

Transform your smartphone photos into professional photos. It’s so easy.

New! Turn your ordinary smartphone photos into professional images with one simple click.

The new easy to use presets are in the shop! These presets were designed for anyone on the go; taking pictures with their smartphone and wanting a little more pop for their photos. They are fresh, funky and full of color. Each one is titled after an 80’s song to make your photo magic making a little more fun.

Don’t take my word for it. Scroll through the before and after shots as well as read reviews written by customers.

“I am OBSESSED with the CC Mobile Presets I ordered today! The step-by-step instructions were absolutely seamless.”

— Janie

“These were so great and made my overcast photos pop. You did a terrific job! I’m so impressed with these presets.”

— Kristina

“I’ve never used presets before and you made it so easy! Thanks so much.”

— Jackie

“I love how easy you make it to edit pictures.”

— Jennifer

“Purchase them! You will not regret it.”

— Katy

“Oh My goodness it makes taking pictures so fun!”

— Mady

Client Testimonial: "I love the photos so much!"

I work with the absolute BEST clients ever (no, of course we’re not biased)!

Just recently, Wendi said, “I love the photos so much! It’s going to be hard to choose which ones are my favorites!!”

I was so excited to hear her say that! I work very hard to make sure every client is satisfied and this proved that I am on the right path.

Tell me: did you have a similar experience as Wendi when working with Cristy Cross Photography? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below!

Your Excuse Isn't Good Enough

Are you struggling with finding the time for family pictures?
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I know it can be difficult fitting into everyone’s schedule.
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Here are a few tips to help you move past that:
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1. Schedule the appointment a month in advance to prepare your family.
2. Plan your outfits two weeks prior to the session. I provide all of my family sessions with an outfit guide for free to help you out with this.
3. Let your kids be a little crazier than usual during the session. This allows for genuine smiles.

Are you done with the excuses? Good, I’m glad to hear it. Take action now and let's get a date set. Click below to start the process.

Testimonials from clients:

“That was so enjoyable. It was such a fun and relaxing experience. She is so easy to feel comfortable around. I couldn’t agree more.” -Schaap Family

“OMG yay!! Thank you Cristy. Love what you captured in the kiddos. Their little personalities came through so well and even how they interact with each other is just perfect. Such sweetness.” -Maggie

“You are the BEST!!! You have such a gift and are so experienced at your craft. You made me feel so much more at ease that I ever thought. I could. You are a gem Cristy.” -Darby

It doesn’t take much for time to slip away from us. Before we know it, the day is over and tomorrow starts a new one.
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And what does tomorrow bring? Busy-ness, to-do lists, work, school, baseball practice, piano lessons. The list goes on right?
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Can we all just take a second. A second to breath and appreciate the things around us.
Cuddling on the couch with your kids, talking about random highlights of your day with your husband, sitting still on the porch and listening to silence.
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Taking the time to sit in the presence of your family can feed your soul.
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Taking the time to be photographed with your family in your home, cuddling on the couch, preparing dinner, baking cookies, playing with dolls, stuffed animals or cars...ya know, the normal everyday stuff.
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Can I photograph that for you? The chaos, the calm, the tears, the smiles, the hugs, and all the stuff you would do when you are in down time with your family.
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Those are the memories I know I want to cherish as a mom. Those are the things I’m going to think about when my boys, who are 7 and 11, go to high school one day.
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Before we know it, time will slip away.

In other news, I want to introduce you to my friend Renee. She is an underwater photographer. Have you ever wanted to do maternity pictures…in the water? You will be blown away by her work. So beautiful and magical.

DIY: Friendly and Spooky Halloween Tablescape Decorations

I love Halloween decorations, but I’m not fond of the scary ones. I like the cute and spooky stuff, you know?

Well, when my seven year old came to me with the cutest creation of Frankenstein, I was inspired to create a Halloween tablescape. I love when he inspires my creativity, because he is so creative all the time.

We created our spooky friends out of lunch paper sacks, construction paper, markers, glue and fake succulent plants.

Here are the steps to creating your own:

1. Brainstorm which spooky friend you want to create. There’s a ghost, Frankenstein, mummy, werewolf, Dracula, jack o’latern , bat, black cat, one-eyed monster, skeleton, etc. Ask your kids for more ideas :)

2. Select your colored construction paper and trace the paper sack onto your paper and cut it out.

3. Create your spooky friend with markers, glitter, extra paper or any other craft item you have in your home.

4. Glue your paper to your lunch sack.

5. Add a rectangular vase inside your bag or mason jar filled with rocks or something to weigh it down so it will stay open and not fall over.

6. Finish your creation by adding fake succulent plants from Hobby Lobby as hair.

Add this to your table with pumpkins, checkered black and white placemats and more succulent plants. Now you are now ready for a party!

LIfestyle Newborn Family Sessions

How does Cristy Cross Photography photograph newborn sessions?

Your newborn session takes place in your home and in your babies nursery 1-2 weeks after the baby is born.

Photographing you and your family in your space, cuddled up on the couch or hanging out in the kitchen creates a relaxed and comfortable feeling for the whole family.

Basically I focus on allll the hugs, kisses and intimate setting.

Would you like more information? Send me an email at cristy@cristycross.com or click the CONACT tab. I’d love to visit more with you.

Let's Get Authentic

  For more info on getting genuine smiles of your family, you can check out the live video here.

When hiring me for your family photographer, ask yourself why you want family photos?  What's the desire behind having them done?  Also, where do you want to take these pictures?  And, what in the world are you going to wear?

Let me break it down for you.

Why get family photos?  Do you want to document your family and kids while they are little in their genuine, real-life moments? Those laughable, funny and squishy love moments? 

Where should you photograph your family? If you want those genuine moments, photographing in your home is the best place.  Families are in their environment and will be more authentic.  (Your backyard are also a great location) BUT your favorite park is also a plus! Just like this family session below.

What to wear? First off, start with mom.  Then work on the rest of the family outfits.  Keeping with solid colors is best.  You want these photos to be timeless, yet trendy. Decide on a color palette choosing between cool tones or warm tones.  For example, gray, cream and tan are a good base.  Add baby blue and dark gray for cool tones or for warm tones add maroon, camel and blush.  

Plan your outfits a week before the session.  Then, lay them out the night before so you are prepared and ready to go. 

Keep the outfits simple.  I want you to feel comfortable and relaxed.  

30 minutes to 1 hour before your session:
-Feed your kids a light snack, like apples or a banana.
-Please don't feed your children gold fish, or graham crackers or anything that will
stick in their teeth prior to the session. (for the young ones)
Feel free to do all of that AFTER the session :)

 Note to mom:

Get your hair and makeup done by a professional.  Nothing crazy or out of the ordinary.  Just having a professional to pamper you is something you deserve.  Consider it a gift to yourself.

Hey Friend! Life Is About To Get So Much Easier

Hey friend! Are you taking 100s of pictures of your children and not satisfied with the way they look? I want to help make your life just a little bit easier.

It takes me seconds when it comes to editing my photos, because of my presets. It takes my friends seconds to edit, and they aren’t photographers.

These CC Mobile Presets are incredibly simple. You click one button and you are done. Adding pops of color with clean and crisp light, a beautifully composed photograph just became more amazing.

These presets, CC Mobile Presets, are made for mobile phones using the free Lightroom app, as well as Lightroom CC for desktop/laptop.

Sharing is caring right? Well, my friends want to share with you their experience with the CC Mobile Presets.

“They make editing so simple and fun.”

— Aimee

“I’ve never used presets before and you made it so easy. Thank you so much”

— Jackie

“If you haven’t purchased the CC Mobile Presets, you are missing out! They make taking pictures fun.”

— Mady

“They enhance the colors! They make your social media look so much better. -Sasha”

— Sasha

“They seriously take my pictures up a notch.”

— Maggie

BEFORE AND AFTER

Don’t miss out on making your life easier. Get your time back!

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Tutorial: Editing Your Photos Using Lightroom

When it comes to photography, you not only need to know how to take a picture, but you also need to know how to edit an image!

Take a look at this video as I edit on the mobile Lightroom CC app. This app can also be used on your desktop. There are two kinds of Lightroom though, so make sure you select the one that shares with your mobile device. (Lightroom Classic and Lightroom CC) that way you can post easily on social media using your phone.

View this post on Instagram

Lightroom tutorial using the CC Presets. Easily apply presets on everyday iPhone and Android photos.

A post shared by LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHER (@cristycrossphoto) on May 8, 2019 at 3:10pm PDT

Take a look at all of the images below that I edited using my mobile Lightroom app and applying my CC Mobile Presets.

Interested in the presets? Take a look below.

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BROWSE INSTAGRAM

I love promoting and introducing you to new people, so take a look at my friend Jen’s 7 things she’s obsessed with right now.

My Secret To Photographing Kids

Do you want to know my secret to photographing kids?

Well the secret is patience. I know it’s not a big eye opening secret, but that’s it. Easier said than done.

When I photograph kids, I also play with them and talk to them and get down on their level. I give them actions so they don’t just stand in front of the camera and smile. For example "hold hands and walk in front of me” or lift your sister up with her hands in the air smiling at the sky and turn in circles.”

The in-betweens though, they are my favorite. The moment after the shot or when they are just being siblings. As a photographer you have to watch and observe, and that’s when the patience comes in.

Get the traditional smiling-at-the camera shots, but then let go and have fun yourself as the photographer, whether your are the mom, hobbyist, or professional photographer. Get outside the box and photograph who kids really are- super energetic, fun and loving. They always have a better idea for a photograph if you will just sit back and watch.

Have you ever done a photo scavenger hunt before? My friend Kristina started one up and she shares all about it on her blog. Click here and you can see the list she made and do it too.

How to Reduce Screen Time for Your Kids this Summer

School is out, and Lord knows we don’t want our kids wasting away on their screens this summer.

I researched some ideas that would work for my kids and we are in the second week with a summer list I think you will love.

I seriously wake up in the morning and my kids have already brushed their hair, put on their clothes and made their beds. They’ve even read books and built or crafted an amazing project…all on their own. Now, my kids are 11 and 7, so they can do all of these by themselves for the most part.

This list has saved us! My youngest needs structure. Like, his body actually craves it and his behavior is best throughout the day with structure. He has really enjoyed the list. My mind is blown. IT’S ACTUALLY WORKING.

Checking off their activities on their list.

It’s funny how excited the boys can get from an expo marker and eraser.

Print your own Summer Rules list for your kids. Click on the image below to download.

They’ve been busy reading, playing, exploring, writing, and using their imagination off screen:

Building and using their imagination

Playing outside…The list says 20 minutes, but they always end up being out there much longer.

Reading and writing. Benson, my 11 yr old, has turned in 3 one page written reports-all on his own after reading books.

We went to the library last Wednesday to get books. Benson selected this book, 400 pages, and finished it yesterday. I’m so proud of him for being an eager reader.

Reading and puzzles

Building a movie fort

7 on 7 Photo Project

I belong to an amazing group of photographers.  Each month, we write blog posts and share them.  Take a minute to visit my friend Jen Vazquez, a photographer in California, to read her blog post. 

Learn how to use your digital camera!

Make your smartphone photos look professional!