I have been a photographer for about 13 years. When I was first starting out, Photoshop was getting into mainstream photography, along with digital. This meant that people, myself included, were editing photos like it was going out of style.

And then, it went out of style.

Over editing photos is not something I do anymore. I stopped over processing photos about 4 years ago because I just felt like the smoothing of skin and over editing colors and adding filters was just TOO MUCH.

My editing style is pretty close to the original image! This is because it keeps the photo timeless.

I also realized that filters are part of trends, and that means that when a trend goes out of style, that editing also goes out of style. And then you’re left with photos that are out of style.

Of course, to each their own. Each photographer has their own particular style and I’m not here to say that it’s wrong or out of date or anything, it just isn’t for me or my clients.

I like to stick to a nice elegant and timeless look with the photos that I create. I feel like editing this way means that your photos will never look dated or out of style.

What do I do then? I color correct, bump up the warmth, take out blemishes, clean up the skin a bit and brighten and add contrast. It’s very minimal and takes me less time to edit which also means your photos get to you sooner.

Editing this way has revolutionized my time in front of the computer and lets me focus more on the creative part of my photography.

I love letting my clients see exactly firsthand what they can expect to see when they get their final images. So, I’ve pulled together some before and after photos so you can see exactly how I edit the photos!

What do you think? What kind of look do you like to have for your photos?

Getting your family portraits taken while on vacation is a wonderful time spent because your family can hang out, have fun, and get some meaningful and one-of-a-kind memories captured.

However, there are some things you should prep before visiting and getting photos taken. I’m gonna delve into some of the best tips to consider so that you feel really prepared and don’t have to worry about a thing!

By the way, a portrait session only takes about an hour and half and doesn’t carve too much time out of your vacation so if you’re interested in booking a session, let me know! We’ll get it booked!

WARDROBE

I get this question a lot and it can feel like an overwhelming decision because you definitely want your photos and family to look class and timeless, yet you don’t want to have to worry about over packing or packing something that will take up space in your luggage.

Let me be the first one to tell you: WHATEVER YOU WEAR WILL LOOK GREAT! The beach makes for the perfect background that really lets you shine against the beautiful blue waters and setting son.

As long as you don’t use any patterns that are distracted. Using color schemes instead of trying to be too matchy-matchy can work really well. Follow your kids’ lead and if they feel comfortable in something you can try and keep that look for the session for everyone.

In the end, you’re on vacation and your vacation wardrobe works well for your portrait session because I’ll make sure you look and feel comfortable in anything you decide to wear!

WHEN TO VISIT

This is also the biggest factor in getting portraits taken. The best weather here in Puerto Vallarta and the surrounding areas is from October to May. This is when the heat subsides and the humidity as well.

However, during this time, it is also high season and the sun sets closer to 6:30 pm. High Season also comes with more festive days in Mexico and more visitors to the area than the rest of the year. So the beaches might be crowded or there might be people in the background… don’t worry because I’ll be able to retouch them out ;).

In the summer months, it rains off and on and so it can put a damper on your session. Usually, it rains heaviest during August and September. The good thing though, is that the sun sets at the latest time of the entire year - close to 9 pm! So sunset can always happen after the afternoon showers and we can still get great photos taken!

BUY WHAT YOU CAN HERE INSTEAD OF BRINGING IT

The best thing about visiting a high touristic location is that many of what you can get in your country, you can get it here, especially products from the US. We have various pharmacies for things like bug repellent (the green OFF brand is the most effective one!), Walmart, Sam’s and Costco, and many other various supermarkets that will have anything you need.

Like wipes, diapers, and sunblock you can also get it at these stores. So if you can save yourself some weight and worry, just get it here. Many hotels also are equipped with stores that have lots of the basic things that you’ll need. Super handy just in case you forget something too!

I have to focus on bug repellent for a moment: BRING BUG REPELLENT. It’s a must, especially if you’re going to be staying at a location that has luscious gardens or lots of vegetation. The mosquitos usually come out right before sunset, which is when most of my photo sessions take place.

Usually, during the summer, it is more saturated with bugs, winter we get a little bit of a break, but still, because of the hotel’s greenery, the mosquitos are really annoying so bug repellent is really important.

I usually carry some with me but sometimes, I also tend to forget! There are a few natural made bug repellents as well so just look for the ones that have more essential oils than the OFF brands.

SNACKS, DRINKS, TOYS & EXTRA CLOTHES

I think I put this tip in almost off of my posts that offer tips for better photo sessions because I can’t stress enough how snacks, an apple juice, some toys, and extra clothes can make a huge difference in a kid meltdown or a kid having the best time of his life.

You don’t have to bring these with you from home unless you have a specific diet, the hotels offer snacks and drinks for kids that can make the session run more smoothly. It seems like I have to give snacks every 15 minutes of my life so I make sure to carry snacks when ever I leave the house. It also works for bribes in getting real smiles!

Toys are another thing you don’t have to necessarily bring from home. Most shops in the hotels or surrounding areas have sand toys that your kids can have a blast playing with during the session.

And last but not least, bring extra clothing. If you’ve chosen carefully what you’re going to wear, bring another outfit that also works. Because kids will run into the water, get sandy, drip juice, and well, you know the drill ha! So extra clothes make for an easier transition rather than having to cut the session short.

Luckily, I can come to you for the session and photograph your family at your hotel’s beach area so we are close to all the things you’ll ever need. I hope these tips prepare you for the best portrait experience yet! If you are wondering how you can book a session with me, email me hello@jackielamas.com.

I was recently featured in an article at Redfin! It’s all about how to curate & style a wall gallery for your home so that you can make sure to get the look you’re looking for! Lots of great ideas and tips for your next photo gallery!

Lots of amazing photographers and style experts gave amazing tips and tricks… Check it out!

Curate a perfect wall gallery in your home

“As a professional photographer, my best advice to create a beautiful photo gallery in your home, try and match your photo background to the color scheme of your home! This way, all of your photos…”

read the full article here

Hi friends!

Today we have a special treat for you that I think you’ll find it super useful!

Photo hanging hacks that won’t ruin your walls and can even save you time and money! Brought to you by Quill as a collaboration because we want your photos displayed beautifully and conveniently as well!

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Hang photos and art beautifully and easily!

A lovely new painting, print, or photograph can be a great way to dress up a blank spot on a wall or change up the look of a room. But too often than not, hanging a frame becomes an exercise in damaging a wall.

Luckily, there are steps you can take to make sure that your wall stays pristine and your new frame hangs without worry.

For starters, you have to ensure that your frame has secure support in order to actually hang from the wall. Some frames do come with hangers that are appropriate for their size and weight. Others do not, and if that’s the case you’ll have to adjust your approach.

Old-fashioned soda can tops can be a great stand-in for holes or hangers that are absent.

Want more steps to follow to ensure a beautiful hanging job and a beautiful framed piece of art to look at? Take a peek at this graphic.

Hanging hacks that won’t ruin your wallsInfographic by Quill

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Make sure you pin this and save for when you need it! Never thought of using toothpaste to mark the spot seems so easy!

Which hack are you gonna try?

Read more articles like this on Quill.com

This year has been one for the books, hasn't it? That being said, the boarders have reopened and flights are coming in and out of the city. And with winter coming in now, you'll probably want to get outta the snow and into some good ol' sunshine.

Current pandemic status:

Right now, Puerto Vallarta has had a low index of people who have been infected by the virus. That being said, hotels have been restricted to only 30% capacity so it might be a little difficult to find a room at one of the more popular resorts, thankfully, Puerto Vallarta has plenty of great hotels both big and small that offer so many great amenities.

Regulations, requirements, and restrictions:

Hotels are being regulated and the Secretary of Health has been inspecting and certifying hotels so that they follow the new regulations. This means you'll see employees in masks and face shields, some will wear gloves, and at almost every corner you'll find some hand sanitizer. Also, all rooms are subject to the same regulations and you'll find them taped shut with a seal of sanitation to make sure that each and every room has been sanitized according to the new regulations.

All guests are required to wear masks upon entering the hotel and to keep their distance as they enjoy the pool, restaurants, and other hotel amenities. You won't find gyms open or kid’s clubs, but you can still enjoy a relaxing vacation by the pool and the beach.

Downtown areas are being restricted and you'll find lots of shops, bars, and restaurants closed. However, you will also find lots of local spots open where you can grab lunch, enjoy the sunset by the boardwalk - the famous Malecon - and walk around Old Town Vallarta.

Clubs and nightlife have been restricted again during this second lockdown and so you might find your hotel a better place to socially distance nightlife - but if you can, stay away from others and keep your distance with your mask on for safety.

Be mindful and keep to pandemic "rules"

We love having people come and enjoy our beaches, boardwalk, sights, and sunsets, however, I've seen many tourists come and not wear masks while out on the town and just plainly disregarding regulations for the pandemic.

Wear your mask, use it along with a face shield, and respect the locals. We would hate for you to get covid or bring covid into our country just because you didn't want to stay home and follow the pandemic rules.

Yes, it’s safe to visit!

Together we can get through this and once again enjoy vacations as a whole but for now, keep to your own pod/group, wear your mask whenever possible, and respect the country and local regulations.

And... if you feel comfortable, get a portrait session with a socially distancing, regulation following, friendly photographer - me!

This year still isn’t over and while it’s been one for the records, we can still bring some holiday cheer and close it out strong!

I’ve rounded up the best Photo Gifts for all of your loved ones that I offer my clients everywhere. All items ship nationwide and I’ve also added in pricing so you know what they cost upfront.

All photo keepsakes are made with quality in mind and ship worldwide. But hurry because, after November 30th, it’ll be harder to get your gifts delivered on time.

Make sure that you’re looking at size, style, and what will give you more value for your money. I’ve highlighted some tips and products below!

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The size you print has an impact in how your final photos will look. While it might seem like a 16x20 print is large, depending on your wall, you might have to go bigger or with a few different sized images to fill up your wall.

I can help you plan out your gallery wall so that your images make a huge statement in your home and fit perfectly with your home decor.

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Get matching frames and print sizes that work well on any wall! Choose a mix of 3, 4, or 5 gallery frames.

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The perfect gift is this wooden photo printed box that holds up to 100 photos inside. Get all of your favorite photos in a 4x6 or 5x7 custom wooden box.

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If you want to gift a little mix of everything I have you covered! Print collections save you money and offer more value.

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View more of our holiday products:

PIN THIS FOR LATER

You might have seen it over and over again as you started planning your wedding on Pinterest or on the blogs of other photographers, planners, and coordinators.  Are you wondering what a First Look actually is? 

What is a First Look?

First Looks are not new, I'm sure they've been around for a long time but really come to become the new tradition about 7 years ago.  Since then they have taken lots of different forms but to put it simply, it's when the couple sees each other before the ceremony.  

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Why do a First Look?

There are many reasons that a First Look might come into play during your wedding day.  In my experience, it usually happens for one of two reasons:

1. To take advantage of the light. For example, if your getting married in the fall and your ceremony is at 4pm, that doesn't leave much time for portraits of the two of you. It cuts into time with family, perhaps a cocktail hour, or another event during your day. To take advantage of the light, we'll schedule the portrait session before the ceremony when light is abundant. This way we ensure that you have great photos of the two of you with lots of time.

2. Another reason couples opt for a First Look instead of staying with the traditional see-you-after-the-ceremony, is to have a moment alone together. Usually, after the ceremony, there really isn't much time spent as a couple, alone, together. Having a couple of hours just the two of you really makes the day even more special.

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How does it work?

The great thing about the First Look is that when you see each other, right after you ease right into the portrait session.  It is a seamless transition that allows for many more photos during your day and also allows the photographer to get those must have shots as well as experiment a little bit without eating time from major events on the day of.  I'm sure that was a run on sentence but you get the idea.  

This is especially important if light is an issue during your day.  After all, your photographs are all that you'll have left and you want to make sure you have the most beautiful photographs of you and your partner!

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But it'll take away the surprise!

FALSE! There is nothing wrong with keeping it traditional, I have many couples who opt for traditional all the time and everything works out perfectly.  However, thinking that seeing each other before the wedding takes away from walking down the aisle, IT DOESN'T at all!

I have had clients who are beyond nervous and quite frankly need more than a shot or two before the wedding, and after the First Look have expressed to me that it was the best decision because it made them even MORE excited to see their love walk down the aisle.  

My husband and I also opted for a first look and we got some of our favorite images from it! It was a nice time to see each other and be alone for a bit before seeing our friends and family for the rest of the day.  It definitely calmed my nerves! 

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Whether you opt to go the traditional route or do a First Look, just know that you have options.  Make sure you talk with your photographer to see which suits your day the best.  

PIN THIS FOR LATER

Originally published Jan 8, 2016

Good morning!

Engagement season is here!  This is one of my favorite times of the whole year because it's when the bling starts to make it's appearance on social media!  From around Halloween all the way to Valentines day, couples are getting engaged all over the world!

To you I say, CONGRATS!!! Being engaged is such a wonderful time for a couple because of the excitement and emotions that go into being more than just a boy/girlfriend.  The whole idea of creating a home and a life together is pretty darn exciting!

Then... the pressure kicks in.  Wedding date, wedding planning, the children talk with people everywhere, and so on!  I get it, I was there!  And I'm here for you :).  I'm going to share some links with you that will hopefully take a little bit of that pressure off your shoulders.  

Rock your engagement session
http://www.jackielamas.com/blog/201585-tips-to-rock-your-engagement-session

Real Wedding Inspiration P. 1
http://www.jackielamas.com/blog/20157real-wedding-inspiration

Real Wedding Inspiration P. 2
http://www.jackielamas.com/blog/20159/real-wedding-inspiration

Should you plan for a destination wedding?
http://www.jackielamas.com/blog/201512/why-its-a-good-idea-to-have-a-destination-wedding

Why do you need to invest in quality photography for your wedding?
http://www.jackielamas.com/blog/20159/investinphotography

Kate Moss’ wedding - For inspiration
https://jackielamas.com/blog/2011/08/holy-mario-testino-kate-moss.html

Martha Stewart Weddings Blog, seriously this lady thinks of it all!
http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/382131/wedding-planning

and, if it weren’t enough that her blog is magic, here is a PDF of her workbook for all of your wedding planning needs!
http://images.marthastewart.com/images/content/web/pdfs/pdf3/wedding_workbook.pdf

If you have any additional tips or links that would help, share them in the comments below! We gotta help our newly engaged couples really be excited, not stressed :).  I'll be doing another post soon on the Do's and Don'ts for your wedding day.  Gonna be loaded with a ton of info, so stay posted!

Below are recent engagement sessions I've photographed... click on the photo to view more from each session :). 

Seriously, what could more intimidating than getting your portraits take, as a family?! Probably traveling with a baby comes close.  

I hear you, it can be really hard on parents who try to get their family portraits taken and suddenly you're dealing with a melt down because your toddler doesn't want to wear that dress and hates those shoes, on the day of your session.  Trust me, I've been there.  And it can be so stressful that you want to call your photographer and reschedule, which let me tell you, is completely in your right! 

However, there is light at the end of the tunnel! These quick and easy steps will all lead to a melt-down free session and lead to a happy post session!

DON'T SAY NO. 
This is really the only real rule that I have when I photograph families.  Especially out on the beach.  It's really easy to try and be on your best behavior as a family, but we all know that on the day of the session, your kid is gonna want to push their limits, set the new rules, and act a little goofy.  

I say, let them.  Let them get it all out of their system, let me take over and have fun.  The more they see this as a fun activity, the more willing they'll be to cooperate.  And this means, not saying "no" to running, climbing safely onto a tree, or even throwing sand and getting all wet.  Keeping things light and fun are going to change the whole experience for you!

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BRING EXTRA CLOTHES
Being that we have just let these kids wild, you'll need to be prepared in bringing more outfits.  Always choose clothes that the kids feel most comfortable in.  And if that day they are particular about a shirt, bring it,  we'll use it and then I'll convince them to change later during the session.  Usually this works because I'm a stranger and they don't know that I'm a complete push over.  Plus, we're having fun and so they'll go along with it even more if we turn it into a game.

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BRING SNACKS / TOYS
Kids are hungry all.the.time!  I'm sure that you are constantly bringing snacks and juices everywhere you go; sessions are no different.  Make sure you bring those favorite snacks and we'll give them to the kids through out the session so that they can keep their energy up and keep giving us those cute smiles!

Bringing toys is another great way to give your kids a break during the part of the session where we focus on mommy and daddy.  It's a great way to keep them entertained and sometimes, we can get cute photos like this one below; this photo captures who she truly is at 3 years.  

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SMILING POSING MAY NOT HAPPEN
Just know that at your session, depending on your children's age, they may not be willing to be still enough for photos.  Take a 2 year old, they constantly run from the camera and don't like to sit still.  As where you have teens who don't like to smile at all but will stand there limp and bored.  So that's where we try to play, run, jump, through the baby in the air, maybe jump onto your teens back, or tell a funny joke - anything to get the energy flowing. 

I'll capture those interactions and sometimes, they make the best memories because they are natural, authentic, and real.  

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DON'T BE AFRAID TO RESCHEDULE
Portrait sessions, thankfully, are always able to be rescheduled if your kid is having a really bad day or isn't up for anything.  Call me and we'll reschedule for a later date.  It's happened where we're in the middle of the session and we'll reschedule for a different day, and it's totally ok!  Sometimes this happens and it's quite alright.  I'd rather not force the session because we'll definitely see it in the photos.  

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Having fun is always the best part of your portrait experience! Don't forget to bring on the bad dad jokes, run, jump, and be willing to play.  I guarantee everyone will have a wonderful time and we'll get the shots that you'll be able to treasure.  

I photograph in many of the same locations again and again. Here in Bucerias and Puerto Vallarta, this means that I photograph many sessions at the same beach.

However, it has always surprised me that I could photograph two sessions on the same day at the same location and each session will be SO different from the other. No two sessions are ever alike and this is because of YOU.

You, my clients, are the ones that make each session unique and truly one of kind. Yeah, I know that sounds cheesy but it’s 100% honest truth. The way that you approach the session is what makes it YOURS AND ONLY YOURS.

I’m using caps because I need to emphasize that each session is tailored to you and that each portrait experience is not like any other.

I never get tired of photographing portrait sessions at the beach. The sunset, sometimes at noon with the beautiful blue sky reflecting the blue water. The vastness of the shoreline and always, the fun that splashing in the warm water brings.

Each portrait session experience depends on what you enjoy. Like to be romantic during engagement photos, we’ll be romantic. Like to be playful for family portraits, let’s have fun. Want to mix in a little bit of both for your anniversary session, we’ll do both.

Your experience in front of my camera is important to me and I hope that you enjoy it to the fullest because moments are fleeting and as cheesy as it sounds, photography is all that is left to remember your life by.

So enjoy the session, don’t be nervous, I got you.

Book your Mexico Sunset Portrait Session. Click here.

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