I love displaying pictures of my family, don’t you? Photos can, with just a quick glimpse, take you back to the exact moment when the picture was snapped. Photos tell the story of our lives without words. They can be powerful, meaningful, and beautiful. This Mother’s Day, the gift I wanted most was professional photographs of my two girls, Alyssa (age 10) and Lila (age 5), doing what they love most…dancing! I wanted photos that reflected my girls’ zest for life, their personalities, and were a bit outside of the “studio portrait box.” A local Akron-area photographer contacted us to review her professional photography business and I accepted the portrait session for this review. Lauren Grayson, was up for the challenge. You won’t believe the amazing photographs she took of my girls…
Our Photography Session with Lauren Grayson, Akron, OH Photographer
Before our photo shoot, Lauren and I shared ideas for our time together via email. I told her I favored a natural setting, and wanted some casual photos of my girls dancing. She suggested a park for the location of our photo shoot, and our bringing several changes of clothes for the girls, along with any props or favorite toys. Lauren explained that she loves the opportunity to get creative and meet at locations that are meaningful to those being photographed. I immediately felt comfortable with her approach and her philosophy on capturing everyday moments as they are happening.
I really enjoy “lifestyle” and “natural light” photography. I enjoy capturing the details, the moments and emotions. ~Lauren Grayson
Upon meeting Lauren, the girls and I shared with her the clothing and props we had brought. She made some suggestions, and we got started. Lauren first photographed me, as I had told her of my need for a new head shot on AkronOhioMoms.com. I don’t always like photos of me (can you relate?), so I was not sure what to expect. I asked Lauren to watch out for some problem areas like crazy hair, my double chin that creeps in sometimes, and anything else she saw from behind her camera. She took several shots, and here is the finished product:
I love everything about this photo! I love the composition, the lighting, and yes, how I look. I feel pretty, and that Lauren captured my personality. 🙂 I can’t wait to take the time to update my photo on AOM, and on Facebook, and in the picture frame my husband has, and…you get the idea.
Next up were my girls. They were so excited! Lauren quickly caught on to their personalities, and did an amazing job of catching both posed and candid shots of them. She was so patient, and because she wanted the girls to casually play and dance, they had a blast. Yes, I said that my kids had FUN during their photo shoot – crazy, right?! Truth be told, this is the way Lauren likes to operate. Her photo shoots with kids often consist of catching them reading their favorite books, blowing bubbles, playing with favorite toys, sitting on a blanket with Mom and Dad, and so on. She has a gift for capturing real life moments, and through her camera lens, telling the story of a particular point in time. Check out the photos below of my girls, and you will see what I mean.
Honestly, I do not know how we are going to pick which photos to enlarge – my husband and I are gaga for all of them! Lauren also put together some other photo collages that we love. They are a great way to feature several photos – great for those of us who have trouble picking favorites. Again, Lauren’s eye for detail and picking photos that are full of emotion is amazing.
Lauren Grayson Photography, Akron, OH
The finale of our photo shoot was a special photo she took of me and my girls. This photograph makes me smile every time I look at it, and reminds me of just how amazing it is to be mom to my two sweet peas!
Thank you, Lauren, for putting my feelings, and my girls’ love of dance into timeless, stunning photographs!
Book Your Own Photography Session with Lauren Grayson Photography in Akron, OH
Need a new family portrait taken? Looking for the perfect Mother’s or Father’s Day gift? Ready to capture some special family moments? Book a session with Lauren Grayson today by calling 330.651.1088. An outline of her session fees can be found here.
Lauren Grayson Photography Website
Lauren Grayson Photography on Facebook
Special Offers From Lauren Grayson Photography in Akron, OH
Mommy and Me Mini Sessions – Lauren is hosting a limited number of Mother’s Day “Mommy and Me Mini Photo Sessions” this Friday, May 10th, 8:30-10:30 am, and Saturday, May 11th, 9:00-11:00 in North Akron. Photos will be in the grass, taken next to an old yellow garage. Think vintage, soft colors, and fun props like bubbles and popcorn! Cost is $50 for a 25 minute session, and includes 10-15 downloadable images. Find more details on her Facebook page.
Special Discount on Basic Portrait Package for AOM Readers – Because AOM readers rock, Lauren is offering a $25.00 Discount off her Basic Portrait Package (normally $100.00). See the specifics on the package here. And for any dads out there who think this would make an amazing Mother’s Day gift, you’re right! Lauren has gift certificates available for those of you doing some last minute shopping. Just email or call her, and she’ll whip up a gift certificate for you than can be emailed right to you. This offer expires on May 31, 2013. Mention AOM at the time of purchase to receive the discount.
Win A Basic Portrait Package and 15 Free Downloadable Images from Lauren Grayson Photography
This is a giveaway that can’t be beat! One lucky AOM reader will receive a FREE Basic Portrait Package (see details here) a $100.00 value, AND 15 FREE downloadable images from the photo session a $135 value. That’s a $235.00 prize package!
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30 Day Winning Rule applies. For complete contest rules, please see our Contest Statement and Blog Disclosure.
Contest ends at 11:59 pm EST on May 21, 2013 when a winner will be drawn at random. I will notify the winners and they will have 36 hours to respond or another winner will be selected!
This was not a paid post. My own opinions were used based on my perceptions and experience. Thank you to Lauren Grayson Photography who provided her services for review and giveaway.
