Winter Mini Style
Holiday Portrait Style Guide
Holiday Outfit Inspiration
To help answer the number one question I receive every year (WHAT DO I WEAR?!) I’ve collaborated with my friends at Poppy Barley to offer you some holiday portrait style inspiration.
It was so much fun to create pairings from their luxuriously cozy new Knitwear Collection and some lovely footwear favourites.
I was joined by my friends Sarah and Anita, two of the owners of LAST Modern Event Venue.
Sarah is wearing The Cove Crewneck in Cerulean and the Modern-Day Mary Jane in Black.
I am wearing The Retreat ReSpun Mockneck in Pearl and the Meghan Pump in Tapioca.
Anita is wearing the Retreat ReSpun Mockneck in Camel and The Uniform Oxford in Black.
Sarah is wearing The Novel Cardigan in Oatmeal and the On Point Boot in Dune.
I am wearing the Retreat ReSpun Mockneck in Camel and the Toujours Tall Boot in Creme.
Anita is wearing The Novel Cardigan in Melange Grey and The Uniform Oxford in Black. She also tried the On Point Boot in Black for this look and it was lovely.
Special thanks to everyone who participated in this collaboration!
Luminaries: May
May Reyes
Our seventh luminary is May!
I have had the honour of knowing May for several years now. May was co-nominated by myself and my friend Aislin, in recognition of her leadership, compassion, kindness, patience, and the inspiring way that she lives and works. May and her colleagues have cared for all four of our children intermittently since 2018 and we are so grateful for her. To see May is to smile. She just radiates joy and I’m delighted to celebrate her as part of this project.
The Luminaries Project is a personal creative project that celebrates women over 40 who are lighting the way for others in their communities. I am still accepting nominations, so if you know someone special, please read more and nominate them.
May with four of the children in her care, all of whom adore her: Felix, Beatrix, Sterling and Aoibhín.
Name: May Razalan Reyes
Age: 47
Current occupation: Early Childhood Educator Supervisor
Past occupations: Kindergarten teacher (Phillippines), grade one teacher (Phillippines), educational assistant (Edmonton Catholic School Division)
Why I chose to work in childcare: This is the closest or most related to my past occupation. Ever since I was young I enjoyed working with children. I love watching them grow and develop into confident, self-sufficient learners. Every day I learn new things and grow with every learning phase. I like working with families, fulfilling each child’s needs and supporting their growth. Working in childcare is a fantastic experience. Children are truly amazing, and it is a joy to see them grow, play and achieve their milestones. It is difficult but the rewards are enormous.
To describe myself in five words: I am cheerful, loving, loud, flexible and passionate about my work.
In my free time, I love gardening. I love watching my plants grow. I love to see flowers bloom.
A book I'm currently reading: “The Queen, her life.” I am a fan of the royals, especially Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Diana.
I love to listen to: love songs and sometimes rock songs, depending on the mood.
My morning routine: I wake up at 5am, do a quick 20 minute Zumba. I love to dance. Prepare breakfast for my family, prepare my packed lunch, shower and then go to work.
The biggest adventure of my life was when my family migrated here to Canada. We had to leave everything back home. Few friends, no close relatives, just us. Our start was rough. I had to adjust to the culture, to the weather, to the food. I could not work because I got pregnant, and I was left alone at home. I would cry every day. My mom lives in the US and would call me but after the phone call I was sad again. I almost gave up, but my husband and parents kept encouraging me tot hold on.
After giving birth, I applied at [the daycare where I now work], and I was hired. The best thing was I could bring my baby to work. From then on, I worked harder every day. I came to work inspired and happy. There are times that I would leave the Centre, but I keep on coming back, because this place is where my son and I grew up. I grew up maturely and I became a better person in this place.
Life is easier now because I embraced the people and the culture, the climate of this country which I call a home away from home.
What I love about my current age: I can say I am more mature because I have learned not to expect too much from people. I have learned to go with the flow of life. I am calmer now than before.
I try to foster these traits in the children I work with: I want to foster joy in the children for them to always see the bright side. By making the child feel that I am there to listen and care about their feelings is fostering empathy.
I hope every child who attends our daycare learns how to share, how to be patient. I want them to learn how to communicate. I want them to learn the colours, alphabet, numbers. I want them to develop their thinking skills by playing and exploring the world through their imagination and curiosity.
When I mentor people who are beginning their careers, I try to help them learn how to interact with children. I teach them to listen and acknowledge children’s feelings. I teach them to encourage each child to play and explore.
I feel proud when I see people close to me overcome their challenges. I feel proud when I see my children achieve something like finishing college.
People who inspire me: my mom. She is a retired teacher; my dad, for he inspired me to work harder; my husband because of the hardships we have gone through and how we overcame them. And we would say, “we have come this far; we have been through lots; this will come to pass” and always with a prayer.
What I am looking forward to right now is to retire one day and travel the world.
Advice for those thinking of pursuing a career in early childhood education: [this career] offers endless opportunities to explore and keep learning. Every child is unique and will teach you something new about the field. But seeing the world through a child’s eye, all that possibility, positivity, and excitement for life is worth it. When you do your job well, you will be forever appreciated by parents, families and the little ones you work with . You will know how much your work matters and feel a sense of fulfillment each day. If you love being with children and are creative and energetic, this is your dream job. There are days that will test your patience, but no matter what happens, when you see those smiling faces everyt day you will say that you have the best job in the world.
Luminaries: Leah
Leah Dahr
Our sixth luminary is Leah!
I would love to share some advice that Leah shared with me at the end of our shoot, when we were discussing the challenges of balancing motherhood and work. She explained that sometimes the onslaught of demands can make feel like you’re floating in a swamp surrounded by alligators. The key, Leah said, is to only worry about the alligator closest to your boat.
I loved that!
Leah was nominated by three people, her daughter Jessica, her son Brandon and her daughter-in-law, Krizela. Here are some of the things they had to say about Leah.
“She's incredibly caring, selfless and brave. She supports fiercely and never let's people give up on themselves. She taught me what bravery was and that you're never too old to chase your dreams.”
“She went from a small town girl into the military, into a medical role that took her across Canada, the US, Europe and served time in Afghanistan working in hospitals to help any and all that required her aid. She actively brightens the day of those around her and works to solve problems. She is a font of compassion and one of the truly caring people of the world.”
“She worked up from nothing, raised 5 children into adulthood and still does what she can to guide them, all the while having to constantly leave home to serve in North America and overseas. She always makes others feel at ease and worries about others, even if they don't worry about themselves. She is loved dearly in her family, amongst her colleagues. I feel she would be a great example of a person that even through adversity remained humble and trudged on.”
The Luminaries Project is a personal creative project that celebrates women over 40 who are lighting the way for others in their communities. I am still accepting nominations, so if you know someone special, please read more and nominate them.
Name: Leah Boyd
Age: 60
Current occupation: Physician Assistant (PA) with Inspiromed
Past occupations: Military PA, Medical Technician (Med Tech), EMT
To describe myself in five words: determined, dedicated, loyal, compassionate, mom
In my free time, I love quilting, sewing, gardening, knitting, crochet, cross stitch, spending time with family and grandkids
A book I'm currently reading: Marilla of Green Gables
I love to listen to: a variety of music, podcasts and local radio
My morning routine: not very elaborate: shower, hair and makeup, drive to work, on days off, relax on the couch, drink my coffee, plan the day and play with our dog, Nyla
A decision I made that changed my life was: to join the military in order to give myself and my children more opportunities and education.
The biggest adventure of my life: I have had several adventures, some of biggest have been raising a large family, a tour to Afghanistan and work in the Role 3 Hospital with some of the most incredible caregivers and doctors, and a humanitarian tour on the Mercy Ship.
What I love about my current age: I love who I am, I am comfortable and confident in my own skin, I have time to spend with family and especially grandchildren I didn't have before. I have the time to do the things I love.
Some issues I am passionate about are: older women's physical and mental health issues. The process of physical aging for women is more commonly talked about now than in my mother's generation, but there are still a lot of taboo topics and misinformation. Reaching menopause is not a conclusion at the end of a stage of life; life goes on past this. Ongoing feminine health information is still important. Family doctors need to continue to educate women through menopause and beyond, and foster an atmosphere that allows the sensitive issues to be discussed.
I feel proud when: I see my family and grandchildren happy and successful in whatever they put their hands too. When Dean (my husband) and I attain our personal and professional goals.
Some people who inspire me are: my parents, my children and my husband. Several inspirational speakers e.g. Brene Brown
When I'm going through a tough time, what usually helps me feel better is: thinking things through, coming up with a plan and understanding what I have control over and what I don't, and of course a good cup of tea!
What I'm looking forward to right now is: time with family, planning to learn to take lessons to play a cello, finish unpacking this house.
Personal philosophy/favorite quote?
I have several:
“Excellence is never an accident; it is the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction, skillful execution, and the vision to see obstacles as opportunities.” - Aristotle
Age is a number not a definition.
How you talk to yourself is important.
Do your best at whatever you are doing.
People might be surprised to know that: I joined the military at 40, got a degree at 54, had five children (my oldest is 42), and I'm a seamstress.
Advice for those thinking of pursuing a career in the military: Don't believe the recruiter — this is not camping as you know it. It's not for the faint of heart, but one of the best jobs I ever had! If you want to be part of something big, travel to unusual places, have dangerous and interesting adventures, make friends, have brothers and sisters not related by blood, have access to continuing education , be mentors, humanitarians and leaders, have great dental, medical and pension benefits, and like wearing green, this could be a job for you!
Anything else you'd like to add? I have had an adventurous and interesting life thus far and I'm grateful for every opportunity given to me and to every person who helped me along the way. Most of all I'm grateful for a supportive and loving family. I look forward to “Act Three” as my children put it and to age with grace!
Beyond Headshots
One of the most common requests we receive is for headshots, but as it turns out, most people are really looking for more personalized portraits. Let’s talk about it!
While we do offer stand-alone Headshots for individuals and teams, and Headshot Days (like mini sessions for headshots), in my experience, I’ve found most people do want and need more than just one photo in front of a plan black or white backdrop. I’m always happy to take simple and clean new headshots for you, however, I often find myself encouraging clients to think beyond the headshot.
At Luminarie Creative, my speciality is portraiture! If I may be so bold, I believe that booking an individual portrait session is almost always a better choice than basic headshots. Why? Let’s start by looking at this suite of portraits from a recent session:
These images were all taken during the same 90 minute session.
My client had her outfits well prepared and changed quickly, so we were able to photograph her in seven different looks!
We shot all these images in one space during one session, but I created variety for her by using a variety of backdrops, alternating between studio light and natural light, and by offering lots of posing guidance to great different moods and show different facets of her personality throughout.
Does this series of portraits include headshots? Yes! But it also includes much more range and allows you to get more mileage out of your portraits.
Portrait sessions allow us to be more personalized than we can be with standard headshots. We will choose a location and theme that is tailored to your industry, style and personal taste. We play music, laugh, talk and have fun together while we shoot. This creates a relaxed vibe that ensures you enjoy the experience as much as the final product.
Let’s kick off a creative conversation and plan a session that’s totally customized to your needs, and make some portrait magic together.
Benefits of being a repeat client
There are many benefits to being a returning commercial or brand photography client with Luminarie Creative.
There are many benefits to being a returning commercial or brand photography client with Luminarie Creative.
Here are the top five perks that come to mind:
Efficiency - The more we work together, the more efficient our time becomes. We can say hello and jump right into things. My clients are often amazed by how much we can achieve together in one shoot, especially after working together for several successive months or years.
Value - Over time, we refine and iterate and skip the types of shots that aren’t as useful for your business, and focus on creating the types of images that help you communicate, build a rich brand story, and sell your products or services.
Familiarity - As a creative professional, I become familiar with your unique requirements, tastes, preferences and goals. My approach becomes increasingly tailored to your needs, turning out images that get you noticed. As a client, you become familiar with my process and working together feels seamless and easy.
Consistency - Creating a body of work for you over time naturally leads to consistency within your brand’s visuals, which builds trust among your customers. And it looks so pretty!
Fun - The more we get to know each other, the more relaxed we feel. Our creative process together just begins to flow and we find ourselves chatting and joking around while making photo magic. It feels less like work you’re obligated to do and more like something to look forward to!
One example of a repeat client is PURA Botanicals. We’ve been working together since 2016 As their brand has evolved, so has our approach to photography together. They put an impressive amount of forethought into each campaign, and working with their founder and their communications director is a collaborative process and a labour of love.
Here are a few favourite images of recent campaigns we’ve done together:
Holiday campaign
Founder’s Portraits
As you can see, these three shoots had very different locations, themes and goals, but there are common visual threads that connect them. They all look distinctly like the PURA brand, while being distinct enough to create excitement about the different subject matter.
How to make the most of your brand shoot
How to make the most of your brand photography session
Here at Luminarie Creative, I know that commercial and brand photography is a big investment; you devote time, resources, thought and budget to this process. I want to help you make the most of our time together. Here are some of the top general tips to help you get everything you were dreaming of for your pictures.
Here are my top 10 tips to help you make the most of your brand shoot:
Find a specialist. Yes, we all take pictures, but there is so much that differentiates one photographer from another. Choose someone who actually offers the services you need. You wouldn’t go to a dermatologist for help with a toothache; you’d see your dentist, right? So when it comes to images for your business, choose a photographer who has specific experience with commercial or brand photography. Many photographers even have sub-specialities and do their best work with certain industries. For example, at Luminarie Creative, we love to work with solo entrepreneurs, businesses and organizations within the areas of arts, fashion, health, wellness and education. This doesn’t mean that’s the extent of our abilities, but we tend to shine in these areas.
Deep dive their portfolio. Take a look around a photographer’s full body of work. This will give you a sense of their overall aesthetic (artistic sensibility), approach, and favourite subject matter. Do you connect with their work? Does it feel like a natural fit for your business? Perhaps you have certain images they’ve created or campaigns they’ve worked on that really stood out to you. You can reference these in conversation to help communicate what you’re looking for.
Be engaged during your creative consultation. Luminarie offers a complimentary creative consultation for all new clients, as well as for returning clients (if desired). This is an opportunity for us to get acquainted and chat more about your project. I encourage you to be 100% yourself and be direct and clear about your hopes and dreams for your photos. This will allow me to give an accurate estimate for how much time we should plan for the deliverables you require. This also gives me a sense of your working style, your personality and your sense of humour!
Do your homework. Depending on the length of your session and any add-ons you’ve selected, we may both have homework to do to prepare for your session. I will do my part (e.g. moodboard, shopping list, sending you my favourite resources + recommendations, etc) and you will fill out your questionnaire, send over any inspiration or relevant info and (if applicable) a shot list. Any prep work you do will pay dividends, I assure you.
Prepare gradually but promptly. Don’t leave preparing for your shoot to the last minute. It’s a recipe for stress and getting sweaty! Instead, ensure you send your questionnaire, shot list, or any questions by their due date to allow me to prep and get back to you. Start gradually gathering everything you will need for your session at least a week before our shoot day so you aren’t rushing day-of to do it.
Pack way more than you think you need. It’s way better to be over-prepared than under-prepared, right? If we are efficient, we can often end up getting through way more outfits, setups or items than we originally planned.
Buffer time is everything. Always leave buffer time! If you book hair and makeup before your shoot, allow for this process to take longer than planned (because it almost always does), then allow for travel time + travel delays due to traffic. Buffer time removes SO much unnecessary stress and friction.
Prep your props. This one saves SO much time. If you are bringing along props or using them on site, have them either laid out in order you’d like to shoot them, or even grouped into baskets that we can just pick up and move with us as we shoot.
Change quickly. This may sound silly, but being able to quickly change your outfits is one of the best ways to get the most out of your brand shoot.
Know your deadlines. Ideally you will plan ahead so that our standard turnaround (two weeks after you’ve made your selections from your proofing gallery) works with any deadlines you have. But if you need a quick turnaround, Luminarie does offer rush delivery (when possible) both of your full gallery or of 1-5 images for a rush fee. We want to turn things around as quickly as possible for you!
For inspiration, I’d love to share a few images from my half-day brand session with my client, Sarah. She is a fellow brand photographer who hired me to do her own images. Her shoot offers so many great examples of following my above advice!
First of all, she packed 18 looks! We weren’t sure if we’d fit them all into our four hours together, but it was actually not a problem at all because she changed quickly! Some of them were just a change of a shirt, switching out one blazer for another, but it still created definition between her different images. Scroll to see how all 18 looks were worn during her session.
Lifestyle posing 101: how to look natural in your brand photos
“But will you help me pose?” is undoubtedly one of the most common questions (and sources of anxiety) people have when it comes to planning their brand session.
I’ll let you in on a secret: very few things are accidental in my practice.
Many clients come to Luminarie Creative because of the natural looking, candid style of our lifestyle portfolio. The truth is it takes work, and thoughtful direction, to look that natural!
Unless you are a professional model, chances are high you may feel uncomfortable in front of the camera. That’s because being at ease and knowing how to move your body while a lens is pointed at you is not your job. Offering you guidance, direction, and positive feedback that allows you to look effortlessly cool and approachable, however, is precisely my job!
Using real clients as examples, here are some very simple tips for looking and feeling natural in your brand photos.
Find your light! As your photographer, I will guide you to face towards the best light. Our goal is always even, directional, clean light that illuminates your face beautifully.
When in doubt, pop your hand in your pocket. Just keep your thumb out.
When posing with another person, vary your poses so you aren’t positioned the same way. This leads to much more visual interest.
Put all your weight on one foot, pop that hip and relax the other leg.
You really can’t go wrong by laughing at something imaginary off-camera.
Watch the way children move, laugh, sway, frolic, etc. They have no self-consciousness at all and it shows! Let their boldness inspire you.
Find an action. Do an actual task that’s part of your work and it will look believable, because it is. You really do that thing!
Soft hands. Always shake out your fingers and give them som natural curve. It melts away any tension that was lingering in your image and lends a more relaxed and romantic vibe.
For groups, it’s best to give every person their own pose to create shape in the composition and less stiffness overall.
It’s okay to touch your jewellery. Unless we need to see a clear shot of the accessory for product photography, if it’s just something being worn in a lifestyle shoot, it’s okay to touch and hold.
Sometimes it’s okay to slouch if things are looking too perfect or proper
Interact with your environment. Don’t be shy to lean, rest and sit on the objects around you.