Jacqueline Horning Photography

Alex, Lindsay and the Baby Bump

Portraits, maternityjacqueline horningComment

Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia, PA

I'm excited to show you the rest of the images from this maternity session.  We were tossing around a few ideas for locations, then Lindsay happened to comment that she loved trees.  "I'm kind of obsessed."  This is a woman after my own heart.      

That was all I needed to hear!  I was pumped to highlight this beautiful couple and some glorious trees.  We met up in a little corner of Fairmount Park and it was just about perfect. 

These two are as cute as they are pretty, don't you think?  

Congratulations A + L !  Can't wait to meet your little one!  xo

See more maternity sessions here, or contact me to set up your own!




the Art of Getting Ready

Weddings, Real Lifejacqueline horningComment

Throughout my years in college my friend Jessie - who is now more family than friend - taught me the art of getting ready.  While I typically tried to squeeze in an errand and a run before a shower, she valued breathing room.  When possible, she'd take her time, let her hair dry, waltz about in her robe, drink tea, and walk out the door relaxed, ready, and fabulous.  

On your wedding day: be fabulous like Jessie.   

There are so many things I love about the "getting ready" time of day before a wedding.  You are surrounded by your best women.  Prepping with some good coffee or good mimosas (or both) involves some lounging, some primping, and best of all: anticipation of the day to come.  

As you think about your own wedding day, here are a few ideas to help things run smoothly and set yourself up for great images:

  • Mirror, mirror, on the wall: Make sure your space has enough mirrors and outlets, or arrange to bring them yourself.
  • Girls only: Can you get to the bathroom half dressed?    
  • Don't go hungry!  Arrange to have (healthy) finger food delivered so bridesmaids can eat between hair / makeup appointments.  Even better: have packable snacks like granola bars to take with you.
  • Clear the clutter: Consider keeping bags and belongings in one room (or part of the room) to minimize clutter in your space.  That great photo of your mom helping you into your dress is best without the clothes you threw off and empty Starbucks cups in the background.
  • Don't get dressed...before your photographer arrives.  He or she will photograph your accessories using your surroundings and show off your style.     
  • Go where the light is: Expect your makeup artist and photographer to have a say in where you sit for appointments and put on your dress.  You are free to disagree, but remember, you hired them to make you look good!     
  • Maximize time: Your wedding planner or photographer will talk to you about the timeline of your wedding day and can recommend when he or she should arrive.  In general, I arrive earlier than a couple expects to capture this morning of emotions and pretty dresses.  

 And finally....The biggest challenge I've seen is transitioning from the mirror (getting ready) to the lawn (for portraits).  If you are aiming to keep your party on time, here are a few ideas:

  • Delegate: If you are working with an event planner, you're set.  If not, consider talking to an organized bridesmaid - or better, friend who isn't in the bridal party - to help keep you on track. 
  • Communicate with all stylists and vendors.  I talk through a timeline with couples well ahead of time.  Once you have that timeline, communicate relevant times to your makeup artist, hair stylist, bridesmaids, mother(s), etc so they can plan when to apply that last minute lipstick.
  • Accept it: Transitions take time!  Allow time to grab purses, use the restroom, find keys, pack a snack, review the transportation situation, etc.  Your event planner (or that organized friend) will help with this.    

But, you know, I've had weddings run ahead of schedule and behind schedule, and you know what?  They are all married.  :)   Yes, aim for a relaxed morning on your wedding day, but work your little tushy off to get through the hiccups in marriage.  Can I get an "amen"? 

What do you think?  Do you have anything to add?  What worked (or didn't!)?

xoxo

Planning your own wedding day?  Give me a call and we can talk through the details of your day! 

One Last Getaway

personaljacqueline horningComment

Happy Fall!  I'm taking a breath and popping my head up to wish you warm drinks on cool mornings and no colds until January.  :)   

There's a lot going on behind the scenes over here and I'm excited to tell you about it in the next few weeks.  I also have cute babies I can't wait to feature!  (I know which one you're more excited about.  Wink.)

Before we found ourselves scurrying around a few weeks ago, Pete and I snuck away for a weekend.  It was   w  o  n  d  e  r  f  u  l.  

Related to spending quality time - or just having time to be with close friends and family - I read this article in the New York Times.  I loved it.  It changed the way I'm looking at my fall calendar.  Sometimes a little reinforcement to do what I already want to do goes a long way, you know?  Tell me what you think, if you'd like.       

Hoping you and yours are well! xo

P.S. There are only THREE slots left for mini sessions on October 17th! Sign up here!  

Photos from my iphone and instagram feed.  Follow along or read more on the blog.      

Fall Mini Sessions (woot)

Portraitsjacqueline horningComment

I'm psyched to tell you all of the details for this year's mini sessions!  There are only a handful of sessions available, so don't wait!  Click here to sign up.      

 

Save the date!  This year's mini sessions will take place on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17th, 2015 at Pastorious Park in Chestnut Hill, PA (map).

There are six sessions available.  Each session is 20 minutes long, includes 10 digital images and two desk prints (4x6, 5x7, or 8x10) and costs $125.  

Sessions currently available: 

9:15-9:35 

9:45-10:05 BOOKED

10:15-10:35

10:45-11:05 BOOKED

11:15-11:35 

11:45-12:05 BOOKED

Click here to sign up.  You'll request your preferred time slot, and pay online to reserve your session.    

"Tell me more", you say?  

  • Sign up and pay online, and I'll contact you to finalize your time slot.
  • Wait around eagerly anticipating October 17th [Plan your outfits!  Check "gifts for parents" off of your to-do list!  Get a haircut! (Or is that just for my shaggy man?) ]
  • Arrive at least 10 minutes early for your session.  If you are running late, we'll be happy to see you but will still end your session at the designated time in order to keep the day on schedule and respect other's time.  
  • Look forward to seeing your images!  They will be delivered no later than Friday, November 20th.  

More questions?  Call 267.225.8750 or email jacquelinehorningphotography@gmail.com.  I'm happy to talk!  

Can't wait to see you on the 17th!  XO