The First Styled Shoot of 2022
I am a family and maternity photographer and currently building my intimate/micro wedding portfolio. I'm excited to share my experience of the first styled photoshoot event I attended and photographed this past March. As a photographer, for me, it's imperative to observe the needs and focus within my business to help create a list of goals. The list helps to narrow down specific areas that need improvement. A couple of goals for this year are to work towards building my intimate/micro wedding portfolio and improve my photography exposure by assisting wedding photographers as a second shooter and book a couple of styled photoshoot events, for me is a must! These goals will not only help build my wedding portfolio but improve every aspect of my photography business.
The styled photoshoot event was titled, "The Sunset Lover," one goal crossed off my list! Ava, the owner of City + Pine Photo, and Kelly, owner of Driftwood & Pine Florals, were behind the design and concept. It was put together beautifully by these two talented women. Ten photographers (including myself) attended this event. The group got divided into three groups, each group had a certain amount of time to capture photos. It was a little chaotic as everyone was trying to capture their one million dollar photo in such a short time. I was okay with all the chaos, in events like this it's expected. I, at the beginning of the photoshoot, was a bit of a nervous wreck due to being the first styled shoot event to attend.
The styled shoot took place at The Mt. Hood Center in Boring, Oregon. The wedding venue is nestled in the Willamette Valley which offers a breathtaking modern country setting. The Green House and The Lookout Deck were my favorites! The Green House is an enclosed place that offers a ton of natural light, and overhanging plants, it's perfect for an elopement or boho or dreamy feel ceremony. I loved it! If you love sunsets, The Lookout Deck is the perfect spot. It provides a panoramic view of the meadows and trails. Perfect place to sip on a cocktail while you enjoy the sunset. The Mt. Hood Center is PERFECT!!
Overall, my experience helped me understand that no matter how chaotic a styled shoot may be, the investment is worth it and I would do it again! I also learned that putting a styled shoot event together requires time, dedication, and a lot of planning. All vendors who collaborated with Ava and Kelly did a great job!
Photoshoot Concept: @cityandpinephoto and @driftwood_pineflorals
Floral design: @driftwood_pineflorals
Venue: @mhceventspace
Models: @kenonpippert and @kpip08
HAMU: @blushingbridepdx
Signs: @lifein.letters
Cake: @saintcupcakepdx
Rentals: @partyplacepdx
Linens: @latavolalinen
Dress: @rawgoldenrentals
Suit: @stitchandtie
