Family Session on the North Fork of the American River
One of my favorite things to do, outside of photographing clients, is to scout out new locations for my photo sessions. I learn about new locations from photographer friends and browsing the internet. But sometimes, I happen to be out with my family and stumble across a special spot.
That’s what happened last summer. My family and I were hiking down near this bridge outside of Colfax. We walked across the bridge and over the river, and I thought, “Hey, this might be a decent spot for family photos or senior sessions.”
Fast forward to late November, I met up with this family to take pictures there. It was chilly, but they were smart and stopped for Starbuck’s coffee and hot cocoa beforehand.
We took pictures on the bridge and down near the river, too.
I’ve photographed this family a few times before, and I always look forward to getting them in front of my lens!
The kids are getting older and taller - thankfully, I brought my trusty stool, so I could be slightly taller than them. And the weather is getting warmer and it stays lighter later, which I love. I can’t wait for more family and senior sessions this spring!
Austin | Class of 2024
I know most senior boys are not thrilled to have their senior pictures taken.
I would guess, the majority of them, do it because they want to make their mom happy.
I can’t say for sure if that was the case with this young man, but his mom was there at his session and she was very happy!
Austin was a joy to photograph; he’s easygoing and kind and was open to taking photos in a number of different locations around Old Town Auburn.
That’s one thing I love about shooting in Auburn - many unique photo spots within walking distance. It’s perfect for seniors wanting an urban look for their photos.
Austin’s mom wanted to do his photo session in the fall, which worked out great, except that his cap, gown, and tassel were not yet available. Luckily, he was able to borrow his sister’s cap and gown. (Don’t look too closely at the year on the tassel, okay?! wink)
I have two MORE spots in April for Class of 2024 seniors! Click on the “Contact” button or email me at jennieharlessphotography@gmail.com to discuss dates and locations.
The K Family
I’ve had the pleasure of photographing this awesome family for 7+ years! These girls are growing up so fast, and it’s fun to check in and chat a bit each year while snapping away.
And this Mama recommended me to her sister (btw, that’s the biggest compliment ever for a photographer!), and I had fun capturing photos of her family. Stay tuned…a future blog post will highlight that fun photo session!
Fall Minis | The J Family
I just love this sweet family!
Fun fact: Mom Jenn and I played soccer together and attended the same high school years ago.
It’s such a pleasure photographing these three every fall! Each year, I chose a different location for fall minis (mainly because I have SO many families who come and see me every fall). In 2023, fall minis were held at the Bear River day use area in Colfax.
Want to get in on my Fall Minis this coming October? Subscribe to my quarterly newsletter (I only send 4 emails a year, promise!) or reach out to me via email at jennieharlessphotography@gmail.com
2023
Photo by Behnam Norouzi on Unsplash
As 2023 comes to a close, I thought I’d share this round-up of 23 “things” that have helped me, taught me something and/or brought me joy in 2023. And by “things,” I mean everything from websites to TV shows to books, and of course, experiences with my loved ones - all of which I’m really thankful for. It’s quite a mishmash, but you’ll learn a little about me by reading through it - and maybe you’ll find something that you’re interested in trying.
1.Vegan Recipes (free)
As a new vegan/vegetarian, I’m constantly on the hunt for healthy and delicious recipes. I’ve found a number of yummy recipes at Cookie and Kate.
2. Epoch Times (paid)
This is now my go-to news source! I bought a subscription about 6 months ago, and I’m happy I did. I love that the articles are delivered via email throughout the week, and if I don’t have time to read the article, I have the option to listen to the article.
3. Putting Me Together (free)
I was finding it difficult to know what to put together in terms of outfits - clothing, jewelry and shoes. Then, I read a blog post written by Audrey of Putting Me Together, and I’ve been following her advice ever since. She writes frequent blog posts on her website, but also has paid content, too.
4. Wit & Wisdom Jeans ($44 and up)
One of the biggest takeaways from Putting Me Together has been to buy high quality jeans (I live in jeans!) like the Wit & Wisdom brand. Those of you who know me well, know that I’m pretty frugal when it comes to clothing. But if you buy Wit & Wisdom jeans during Nordstrom’s anniversary sale in July, they are significantly less expensive.
5. Improved Health Strength Training Videos on YouTube (free)
I’ve been doing cardio and yoga workouts for a number of years, but recently I was reading about the importance of strength training for those of us who are over 40. For the past eight weeks, I’ve been doing 30-minute strength training workouts on YouTube (@improvedhealth), and I’ve noticed a big difference in my upper body strength.
6. All Creatures Great and Small (free)
I watch very little television, but over the years, I’ve been known to get hooked on a PBS show every now and then. On the recommendation of my librarian friend, I checked out Season 1 of All Creatures Great and Small, and then Brian and I proceeded to watch all three seasons in 2023. Now, I’m looking forward to the premiere of Season 4, which airs on January 7.
7. Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza game ($9.99)
This one is for my kids, ages 8 and 11, who adore this new-to-us silly card game. To be honest, it’s not my favorite card game, but seeing my kids laughing and enjoying themselves is the best.
8. Our Winter Garden (cost varies)
My husband has the green thumb in our family, and he’s the one who takes charge of the summer garden. When I asked him about doing a winter garden this year, he said, “Go for it!” so I did. Now, I want to keep it real here - the squirrels and I are battling it out and they are winning for the most part, having eaten all of my lettuce plants! But there are a few broccoli and cauliflower plants that are thriving and so I’m celebrating those little successes - and continuing to spray all natural “squirrel mace” around my plants every chance I get.
9. Mini Gifts (cost varies)
I’ve always loved miniatures, thanks to my Mom, and this year, I decided to shower a few friends and family members with miniature items from Etsy. I sent this amethyst pocket angel to my aunt who was battling brain cancer and these smiling yellow suns to my sister-in-law who needed a bit of “sun” in her life.
10. Photographer’s Edit ($0.24/image)
While I looooooove taking photographs of high school seniors and families, I don’t enjoy the editing process much. Enter Photographer’s Edit, a company started by a photographer, who will color correct my images and return them to me for final polishing in 3-4 days.
11. Thank You Messages and Handwritten Notes
This year, I tried to be even more diligent about thanking people for their kind words, for their help, and for their thoughtful gifts - whether it was for me, our kids, or our whole family. Sometimes the thank yous happen via messenger or by email, but I prefer to send a handwritten note. Really, though, just speaking your gratitude is the most important thing.
12. Bullet Journaling ($10-$20)
I’m new to bullet journaling, but not new to journaling. In fact, I’ve journaled for years and have stacks of notebooks to show for it. My problem is that I can’t find something when I’m looking for it. The creator of bullet journaling gets this, and thus, gets me! I started my first bullet (dot) journal last month, and just having an index in the front and page numbers on every page has made a world of difference. I’m currently reading this book from the library to learn more.
13. Creating a Trust (cost varies)
After years of procrastination, my husband and I finally met with an advisor last month who is helping us create a trust. We got off the 2-hour call, and all I could think was “Man, that was a lot of adulting for one day!” {smile}
14. Dry Bar Comedy on YouTube (free)
When I need a little pick-me-up, I watch one of my favorite Dry Bar comedians like Jose Sarduy.
15. Mancala with my Daughter (free)
I love playing Mancala with my daughter. I remember watching my mom play Mancala with my niece, and now I get to play with my 8-year-old.
16. My Portuguese Ancestors (paid)
Learning more about my Portuguese ancestors has been one of the most exciting and satisfying things I’ve done this year. Ancestry.com helped a ton, as did assistance from a genealogist whose family is also from the Azores.
17. Emails and FaceTime Calls (free)
You should know that I’m not the type who enjoys talking on the phone; I’m much rather text or email - or talk in person one-on-one. This year, I enjoyed emailing with friends who’ve moved out of state and FaceTime calls with my two best friends from high school.
18. Hiking (free)
I’ve always loved to hike, and in 2023, I set out to find a few hiking buddies! I connected with two moms who I walked with once or twice a week after dropping the kids off at school. Now, months later, I look forward to our time on the trails together.
19. I Feel Good About…(free)
A practice I began in early 2023, this has to be one of my favorite ways to end the day. Really, it can be done any time of the day, and though it’s simple, it’s very powerful! Before bed, I jot down three things I feel good about. It can be anything, big or small. As I filled up page after page, I would often reread what I wrote the day before and the day before that. And just like that, I would feel better about myself and my life.
20. Photographing More High School Seniors ($99)
I love photographing high school seniors, and before every session, I re-watch Amy + Jordan’s on-location senior session videos! Love their teaching style with specific tips for boys and for girls!
21. The Family Board Meeting by Jim Sheils ($14.99)
This book is a quick read (check it out from the library if you can or buy the ebook for $4.99 here) and contains some great ideas for how to connect with each of your children, one-on-one.
22. Costco Runs (cost varies)
My husband and I noticed we were spending quite a bit at Costco last year. Can you relate?! So, instead of making the 30-minute drive to Costco once or twice a month, we now order everything online. You know things like paper towels and toilet paper and peanut butter and syrup - and best of all, no impulse buys! And as long as we spend $75, shipping is free.
23. Playing Pickleball with my Son
Noah and I have played pickleball half a dozen times at local parks, and we both love it! We don’t play by the official rules; right now, we’re just enjoying hitting the ball back and forth. But each time we play, I come away feeling more connected to him and thankful for this one-on-one time.
Things I’m Looking Forward to in 2024
Trying out some Minimalist Baker recipes (Thanks to my SIL for the recommendation!)
Reading How Not to Age by Dr. Michael Greger (on the library’s waiting list)
Possibly purchasing a used 35mm lens to take video
Cooking with my new non-stick Farberware cookware (Merry Christmas to me!)
Traveling internationally with my family (Destination to be determined.)
Your turn: What were your favorites of 2023? And what are you most looking forward to in 2024?
Fall Mini Session | Bear River
In October, I held fall mini sessions at the Bear River in Colfax. This family joined me last year for minis, and it was so much fun to see how much this little one and her big brother have grown since last November. That’s one of my favorite parts about minis - I get to see many of the same families each fall!
A BIG thank you to all the families who joined me this year for fall minis and red truck minis. I truly appreciate you stepping in front of my lens year after year and supporting my small business,
Right now, I’m up to my eyeballs in images - editing pictures from the six red truck minis as well as several full sessions!
I better get back to Photoshop now, but I will post more pictures soon.
P.S. Speaking of Photoshop…sometimes with little ones, a head swap or two is necessary. Two of these images have a head swap in them. Can you spot them?
Location, Location, Location!
I know in real estate, it’s all about location, location, location! As a photographer, location definitely matters, too! (Lighting is also super, duper important, but I’ll save that for a future blog post.)
I have TWO fun family sessions coming up this month, and both families are wanting to take photos in Roseville or Rocklin.
Last night, I sat down to type up a list of my favorite locations in Roseville and Rocklin, and as I was composing the list, I included links to my blog posts which are filled with images at those locations. Because I think it’s SO important for families to be able to see what these locations look like - and the amenities available there, such as golden grass, a water feature, a bridge, a swing, etc.
But when I went searching for a blog post with images taken at Adam V. Baquera Park in Roseville, I didn’t find anything. Turns out, even though I did mini sessions there in 2021 and a full family session, I never posted any of the images here on my blog.
So, even though these images were captured two years ago, I’m going to post them now. Better late than never, right?! It will make my job easier when future clients ask about Roseville and Rocklin location options and if you’ve never heard of Adam V. Baquera Park, now you have!
Spring Preschool Pics | Tutor Totter Preschool
Look at all these cuties at Tutor Totter Preschool!
I love taking photos of these preschoolers every SPRING (with a black background) and every FALL (with a woodsy outdoor feel).
I feel so lucky to be invited back year after year to take pictures of these kiddos. Fall photos are coming up at the end of the month for Tutor Totter students.
If you’re part of a preschool, homeschool or co-op group in Placer or Nevada County, and you want pictures taken, email me at jennieharlessphotography@gmail.com to set up a “picture day” at your school or a local park (for homeschoolers).
Tree Farm Minis | McBurney Christmas Tree Farm
Capturing images of families year after year is one of my favorite things about being a photographer.
I’ve been fortunate to photograph this sweet family for the past SIX years, and during that time, I’ve watched these two girls blossom.
I look forward to the fall each year because I get to see so many wonderful families.
These photos were taken at McBurney Tree Farm in Cedar Ridge, near Grass Valley. The owner generously opens his farm up to photographers for sessions anytime before Thanksgiving.
This was my first time shooting there, and it proved to be a beautiful spot with the sun setting behind the trees.
Wow, these two girls are growing up!
I look forward to photographing them again in the future!
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Interested in fall or Christmas mini sessions this year? Follow me on Facebook for more info!
Mom & Son Pics | Tutor Totter Preschool
This little cowboy did NOT want anything to do with having his photo taken, so his mom scooped him up and stood in front of the black backdrop for a few mom and son photos. (Way to go, Mom!)
There was so much giggling and smiling and happiness.
Aren’t these precious?!
I know as a mom, I would have loved to have a series of images like this with my son when he was itty bitty. (He’s 11 now, and there’s no way I could pick him up like that anymore. Haha!)
I can’t help but grin when I look at these beautiful images! Mom had one of the images framed and hung in their home, and I hope she smiles every time she sees it.
Katelyn | Class of 2023
I had SO much fun photographing Katelyn at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm* in the spring! She chose the location, and what a pretty one it is, regardless of the season. Katelyn is now attending college in the Northwest (I’m a bit behind on blogging sessions), but let’s take a look back at her gorgeous senior photos!
Purple is Katelyn’s color, for sure! So, so pretty on her. And it just so happened that there were flowers in the background that matched her dress. Perfectly serendipitous!
Seniors often bring their cap and gown to their session, but sometimes a senior will want photos done in the fall and they don’t have their cap and gown yet. (Yearbook photos can sometimes be due as early as November.) In that case, I’m always open to doing a complementary 15-minute cap and gown session in April or early May.
I really enjoy working with high school seniors (and of course, their parents!) to ensure that they get photos they truly LOVE!
*FYI: It costs $50 to take photos at Bywater Hollow. Payment is made directly to the farm.
Class of 2024: FALL is a great time to take senior photos! Shoot me an email (jennieharlessphotography@gmail.com) or send me a message via my contact page, so we can chat about what you desire for your session.
The M Sisters | Old Town Auburn
In February, I had the opportunity to photograph these sisters in Old Town Auburn! These two young women are lovely human beings who juggle their high school studies and varsity basketball. (Their high school basketball team went all the way to the FINALS this year! Way to go, girls!)
Photographing teens has been so much FUN for me! I hope to get more high schoolers in front of my lens soon.
Caleb | Class of 2023
I’ve photographed quite a few SENIORS lately, and I’m really enjoying getting to know each of them before the shoot (with the help of a short questionnaire) and during the photo session.
These photos were taken in Old Town Auburn, which is a good place for senior photos with an urban look.
Caleb came to his photo session with several really cool ideas for photos — including props — and I love that he incorporated so many of his interests into his senior photos!
It’s hard to believe this young man has ONLY a few more weeks of high school left!
High school JUNIORS: Let’s take your senior photos THIS SUMMER before your senior year begins! Email me to chat about your vision for your senior photos and to book a date - jennieharlessphotography@gmail.com.
The Moreau Family | Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm
In July, I photographed this lovely family of 12 out at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm* in Lincoln. It’s so pretty out at Bywater Hollow, no matter the season.
Celebrating “Papa” Moreau’s birthday during the photo session was one of my favorite moments! I’m pretty sure it was the kids’ favorite, too - what with all that bubble blowing and skipping and laughter.
I rented a 70-200 mm lens from Action Camera, specifically for these kind of far away type shots. So glad I had it with me for the dock photos.
I’m thankful for sweet families like this one who trust me to take their extended family photos.
*FYI: It costs $50 to take photos at Bywater Hollow, and payment is made directly to the farm.
Spring Preschool Pics | Tutor Totter Preschool
These are probably my favorite preschool photos EVER! It was my first time taking photos of this group with a black backdrop, and I love how when you use a simple background like this, all eyes are on the child - and her wonderful facial expressions!
You might be wondering if I took these photos inside or outside - and if you guessed outside, you’d be right! I set up my backdrop right underneath an overhang, and because the sun was behind the building, it was completely shaded.
Here’s another set of images from that same morning.
I can’t wait to take more of these types of photos using the black backdrop!
Wyatt | Class of 2022
In late May, I photographed Wyatt, then a senior at Del Oro High School.
We met up at Griffith Quarry in Penryn, which is a great spot for senior photos - especially for those seniors who love nature and being in the outdoors.
Wyatt wore his cap and gown over a button down shirt, vest, and slacks, and later on in the session, he changed into his Boy Scout uniform.
Being a former scout myself, I know how hard Wyatt worked to earn ALL.THOSE.BADGES, which is why I made sure to get a close-up shot of them.
Photographing seniors has quickly become one of my favorite types of sessions to do! I like that I’m nearly always one-on-one with the senior (or the senior and his mom). I get to chat with the client about school and extracurricular activities and their future plans - and as an introvert, I’m more at ease interacting with just one or two people as opposed to a group of 12 or 14. Plus, I love that there is a ton of variety during senior sessions - a handful of outfits (usually 3-4) and different spots to shoot within one location.
I hope to have the opportunity to take more pictures of high school seniors in the future.
Fall Preschool Photos | Tutor Totter Preschool
For the past five years, I’ve taken photos of the adorable preschoolers at Tutor Totter Preschool. I’ll be back there in late September for more photo fun, but in the meantime, here are some pictures I took in October 2021.
This “golden” field near the preschool works well for headshots. I take at least five photos of each child, and then deliver three or more images in each photo gallery.
Parents can view the images online and purchase prints and high-resolution digital images directly from their gallery. And there is absolutely NO COST or FEES for the preschool or homeschool group.
I’m looking forward to photographing this sweet girl and her classmates next month!
Looking for a photographer to take photos of your Auburn/Colfax/Roseville/Rocklin preschool or homeschool group? I have some weekday availability in mid-September or early October. Email me at jennieharlessphotography@gmail.com for pricing information or to schedule a date.
Another Spring Mini Session | Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm
I’ve loved photographing this family over the past few years. This was their first time at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm, and the kids enjoyed collecting chicken feathers and dipping their toes in the pond.
Bywater Hollow is such a gem of a property, complete with two ponds, a dock, a canoe, and two big lavender fields.
It’s always a hit with clients!
This year, I photographed three families (I blogged about the E Family here) and one recent college graduate.
The weather was quite stormy on Saturday, but the forecast said it would stop raining prior to the first session time, so I crossed my fingers, and lucky for me, it was dry for both sessions. Phew!
I’ll share photos from my other two lavender sessions soon.
Red Truck Baby
I know it’s July and beyond HOT here in Northern California, but how cute is this baby girl?! Right!
Red Truck minis are always a favorite with families, and last year, I had the privilege of photographing several littles under the age of one.
I’m not sure yet if I’m going to offer Red Truck Minis again this December. Stay tuned to my Facebook page for my mini session announcements.
Spring Minis | Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm
I was delighted to take photographs of this wonderful family of five again!
This time, we met up at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm in Lincoln. These photos were taken the first weekend in June when the lavender fields were in full bloom!
Bywater Hollow is a beautiful place year-round with a variety of backdrops and settings - the dock, canoe, wood fencing, two ponds, etc.
In the fall, the deciduous trees put on a colorful leaf show, and for a short time in the spring, the trees lining the driveway are filled with pretty pink and white blossoms.
Bywater Hollow is only open for photography on certain days of the week, and there’s a fee to shoot there (the cost starts at $50), but my clients feel like it’s worth it!
I’ve taken photos at Bywater Hollow Lavender Farm many times, and I love it! If you’d like to schedule your next photo session there, click on the “Contact” tab or email me at jennieharlessphotography@gmail.com, so we can chat about what you have in mind.