Tag Archive for: Leesburg VA wedding photographers

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A Wedding Photographer’s Advice On Early Scheduling of Your Photographer

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The holidays have come and gone, and with them, a host of new engagements, family members, pets, and special memories. We are now looking ahead in 2021. With a new year comes new hope and new celebrations.

Have you recently become engaged? If so, congratulations! But where do you go from there? According to multiple wedding sources including the Knot, Zola, and brides.com, the range for booking your wedding photographer is anywhere from 6 to 13 months.

By this time, you may already have picked your venue, a theme/color scheme, an idea of a guest list, and a basic timeline for your wedding day. All this is immensely helpful to your photographer, and here are a few reasons why:

The Venue

Choosing your wedding venue is like choosing your dress—you want it to be perfect! Once you have chosen your wedding venue, your wedding photographer can help tell the story with images of why you chose that place. You may have chosen your venue based on personal reasons – it may be a special place to you and your fiancé. You will know whether you want the wedding shots inside or outside, or if you are doing photos at more than one location. All this information can help your wedding photographer plan and bring to life the once-in-a-lifetime photographs of your special day. Leesburg, Virginia photographer Anne Lord has vast experience in helping couples choose the best locations in the surrounding areas to produce the most fantastic images. Images that will also reflect the love and connection between the happy couple.

The Guest List

Having a draft of your guest list ready when choosing and working with your wedding photographer is particularly important. You will probably have an idea at this point of who you really want photos taken such as out of town family or friends. Perhaps you have a clear  idea of who will be on your ‘must photograph’ list. This will help your wedding photographer coordinate photos to take with whom and where at the venue.

As a Leesburg Virginia wedding photographer, Anne Lord has photographed hundreds of weddings over the years and has great tips and advice for how to plan your wedding day photos.

The Timeline

While taking candid, spur of the moment photos, having posed shots add great substance to your final wedding album. Identifying the photo arrangements you really want to include can reduce disappointment and conflict later. It will also make it easier to coordinate everybody during the shoot. Thus, it is a great idea to finalize your shot list in advance so that you can make the most of the limited time during your wedding.

This way your wedding photographer is also able to capture all the many “firsts” that happen in a wedding. The first look, the first dance, the first kiss are just a few moments that you will want to remember for a lifetime. Sharing the tentative schedule of your wedding with your wedding photographer ensure that they will be in the right place at the right time.  With Anne Lord’s vast experience as a Leesburg, Virginia wedding photographer, she has the skill and creative eye to bring to life the once in a lifetime photos.

Capture once-in-a-lifetime-moments with Anne Lord

Your wedding day is going to fly by quickly. You will be preoccupied and distracted by so many things that day. Planning in advance and being organized will make a big difference.

With years of experience as a wedding photographer, Anne Lord goes above and beyond to prepare for the big day and to capture the unique story of every wedding. Browse her wedding portfolio to get a better idea of her work. Are you ready to discuss your big day? Contact Anne at 703-435-5292 or anne@annelordphotography.com and let’s talk about it.

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Pose with Confidence for Your Headshot with a Corporate Photographer in Washington, DC

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Do I need to smile? Where do I put my hands? How should I position my arms? These are some of the most common questions I encounter as a corporate photographer in Washington, DC. I understand —if you’re not used to being in front of the camera, posing for your headshot can be intimidating indeed.

The ideal headshot exudes confidence, approachability, and professionalism. Trust me to capture your best side during our shoot, and use these simple tips to feel and look confident in front of the camera.

4 Ways to Look Confident in Your Headshots

How you feel during a photoshoot, whether awkward or comfortable, will reflect on the final images. Unfortunately, posing for a corporate headshot doesn’t come naturally to many people.

Over the years working with companies and professionals; however, I’ve observed a simple way to increase your confidence on the big day— come as prepared as possible. Follow the tips below:

  1. Study different headshot poses.

Try to do a bit of research before your photoshoot with a corporate photographer in Washington, DC. Tools like Google Images, Pinterest, or LinkedIn can inspire you and help pick out the headshot poses that you like best.

Also, I suggest getting inspiration from people you look up to. For instance, who are the foremost experts in your field? How do they pose for their headshots? You may pattern your own pose according to their style if you want to achieve the same effect.

  1. Practice posing with a mirror.

Once you’ve picked your favorite poses, try a few of them in front of the mirror. Not only will it help you see your most flattering angles, but practicing will also help you evaluate your facial expressions.

Furthermore, how to smile for your corporate headshot depends on the image you want to project. Big smiles and laughter will help you look relaxed and free-spirited. On the other hand, a closed-mouth smile is excellent for more formal industries.

  1. Keep your eyes expressive.

Similar to Leesburg, VA wedding photographers, I love the way eyes can tell a story. So, make sure to communicate with your eyes. A mischievous, smiling, or pensive stare can speak volumes in an otherwise still image.

  1. Relax, the camera loves you!

During the shoot, treat the camera as your best friend. To help you feel this way, expect me to interact with you, build rapport, and keep you relaxed the entire time to capture you at your best.

When you come to the shoot prepared, it will ultimately help you loosen up and feel confident. Just have fun, and it will show up in your images.

Anne Lord: Your Corporate Headshot Photographer

The best corporate headshot starts with research, preparation, and a bit of practice. Don’t worry— I’ll be there every step of the way. Let me use over 19 years of experience as a corporate and Leesburg, Virginia wedding photographer to bring out your professional side. Call me at (703) 435-5292, and let’s discuss your ideas.

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4 Historic Wedding Venues in Leesburg, Virginia Beloved by Leesburg, VA Wedding Photographers

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The term “Virginia is for Lovers” has been a part of American jargon since 1969. Indeed, Virginia is home to some of the most beautiful venues for engagement and wedding photoshoots. For Leesburg, VA wedding photographers, there’s nothing like taking photos that showcase both the love of our clients and our beloved state.

With so many gorgeous venues to choose from, it can be challenging to find “The One.” Couples who love history are in luck —welcome to four historical sites in Virginia where you can declare your lifetime vows in style.

Historic Wedding Venues in Leesburg, Virginia

Leesburg, Virginia is an excellent choice for weddings, not just for its picturesque setting, but also for its convenience. If you have guests coming in from out of state, they can choose from three major airports in the area: the Washington National Airport (DCA), the Dulles International (IAD), and the Baltimore-Washington International (BWI). From there, getting to the wedding venue is just a smooth commute away.

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Since it’s so easy to sort out transportation for Leesburg, Virginia weddings, you can spend more time searching for the venue of your dreams. The following historic places in Virginia are some of the most popular when it comes to wedding and photoshoot venues. They are dearly beloved among couples and Leesburg, VA wedding photographers for both their timeless beauty and historical significance:

  1. Bristow Manor

Looking for “something old” to complete your list? Consider having your wedding at Bristow Manor, located in Bristow, Virginia. This lovely Colonial Revival Manor House is tucked away in Leesburg, Virginia’s secluded countryside. Feast your eyes on its iconic blend of traditional Southern roots, topped with a verdant golf course. There are available outdoor and indoor event venues at the manor to fit your wedding photo shoot plans.

  1. Heritage Hunt

Heritage Hunt is a perennial favorite for spring weddings in Leesburg, Virginia, Washington, DC, and surrounding areas. It’s no wonder this enchanting venue is so popular. It features a stately clubhouse, blooming gardens, and vibrant cherry blossom trees that will bring out the magic on your big day.

  1. Oatlands Historic House and Gardens

The Oatlands Historic House and Gardens showcase a spectacular circa 1804 mansion in the Greek Revival style in the heart of 360 rolling acres. As your Leesburg, Virginia photographer, we can discuss which part of the site will work best for your wedding backdrop —whether that’s the handsome mansion or the picture-perfect gardens.

  1. Foxchase Manor

The Foxchase Manor embodies elegance in every corner. It features jaw-dropping Italian marble floors, classic architecture, and lavish ballrooms. It’s especially ideal for large wedding parties since the Foxchase manor can accommodate up to 1, 500 guests for indoor nuptials.

Anne Lord: Veteran Wedding and Corporate Photographer in Washington, DC

While these historic venues are spectacular choices for weddings, they are just a few of what Leesburg, Virginia has to offer. Let me help you find the perfect indoor or outdoor location that will elevate your engagement and wedding photos.

I have over 19 years of experience as a wedding photographer. Trust me to capture your precious wedding memories for a lifetime. Call me today at (703) 435-5292, and let’s talk about what your dream day looks like.

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Leesburg VA Wedding Photographers Discuss the Value of Corporate Environmental Portraits

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Recently, an increasing number of clients have asked me to take environmental portraits for their company’s websites. Similar to what Leesburg, VA wedding photographers strive to achieve, corporate environmental shots tell the company’s story through photos taken in the workplace or on location.

While posed headshots are still essential for company profiles, environmental portraits offer a different perspective about a business, its purpose, and its team. Let me share some of the amazing benefits of this type of photography and help you determine the right photo style for your company.

Benefits of Environmental Corporate Photos

As more and more customers search for businesses online, websites have become one of the greatest business assets today. Professionally shot photos allow you to connect with clients and show them what they can expect from working with you.

As a corporate photographer in Washington, DC, I’ve taken countless studio portraits for businesses. These beautiful shots convey professionalism effectively. However, environmental portraits have a unique way of bringing company images to life. Exceptional benefits include:

  • They allow companies to show off their office and architecture.

With environmental portraits, we can shine a light on the best parts of your office or facility. Are you particularly proud of your operations floor? Do you want to show potential clients your latest equipment? Would you like to showcase your stylish pantry or meeting space? Environmental photos flaunt excellent backdrops while maintaining the focus on the individuals.

  • They show your team at work.

Camera-shy members of your staff may not be able to let loose for studio portraits. In my experience, these people naturally become comfortable in familiar settings —in this case, your workplace. Environmental corporate shots capture your team doing what they do best. It also shows the human side of your company, helping you establish a genuine connection with potential clients.

  • They add diversity to shots.

Since corporate environmental photos allow more room for creativity, they are a great way to make your websites look more dynamic and engaging.

How to Choose Between Environmental Portraits or Studio Headshots

Your choice ultimately depends on your goals for your corporate photos. To help you decide between these portrait styles, I recommend taking the time to answer these questions:

  • What kind of image would you like your corporate images to present? A law firm, for instance, typically requires more formal photos compared to a crafts shop.
  • How many people need to be photographed?
  • How much time can you allot to the photoshoot?
  • What’s your budget?
  • How are you planning to use the photos?

Proper planning is essential to Leesburg, VA wedding photographers and corporate photographers. Don’t worry if you’re not sure about what you want yet. During our consultation, I can help you finalize the elements of the shoot. This includes recommendations on posing, location, outfits, and more.

Anne Lord: Trust Over 19 Years of Corporate and Wedding Photography Experience

As an experienced corporate and Leesburg, Virginia wedding photographer, let me bring your ideas to life. No matter what style you prefer, I have the skills and equipment to make it happen. Let’s talk about what you’re looking for in your wedding or corporate photos. Call me at (703) 435-5292 to start a conversation!

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Wedding Detail Photography Tips from Leesburg, VA Wedding Photographers

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Preparation is key to gorgeous wedding detail shots. To guarantee excellent photos, some elements require extra setup before shoots, while others are good to go with a few minor adjustments. Help your Leesburg, VA wedding photographers capture every significant detail on your big day with these smart tips.

3 Tips for Brilliant Wedding Detail Photos

It’s easy to forget about your photo plans amidst the hustle and bustle of your wedding day, so finalize everything before then. Follow these tips to make sure your album is filled with beautiful detail photos:

  1. Make a detail photo checklist for each part of the wedding day.

While experienced wedding photographers typically have a photo checklist of their own, it still pays to create your own. After all, there’s a chance that you want a shot of something that’s not on their priorities.

Give your checklist to your Leesburg, Virginia wedding photographer. If you have specific images in mind for some of its items, discuss them with your photographer. Make sure everything is clear before the big day. Below are some of the essential detail shots on your big day:

Wedding Preparations

    • Wedding essentials, such as:
      • Wedding rings
      • Wedding bouquet
      • Wedding invitation
    • The bride’s wardrobe and room
    • The groom’s wardrobe and room
    • The couple and their entourage while preparing for the wedding
    • The interior and exterior of the building where the couple and their entourage are staying in

Wedding Ceremony:

    • The ceremony venue before and after the guests arrive
    • The wedding ceremony proceedings
    • The unique structural features and wedding décor of the ceremony venue

Wedding Reception:

    • The interior and exterior of the reception venue
    • The reception venue before and after the guests arrive
    • The reception essentials and décor, such as:
      • Table settings
      • Table centerpieces
      • Place cards and menus
      • Wedding favors or souvenirs
    • The newlywed’s table
    • The wedding cake
    • The food and beverages
  1. Let your photographer explore your venues before the wedding.

Visit your ceremony and reception locations a day or two before your wedding with your photographer. Point out key places, such as the table of the couple’s family and closest friends. Give your photographer a rundown of the decorations to let them know of potential shot angles and flawed photo locations.

If you hired several Leesburg, VA wedding photographers for your big day, it’s best to schedule their venue visits on the same day. This will allow them to plan their shots and coordinate their focus areas.

  1. Give your photographer a detailed copy of your wedding program.

This will help your photographer anticipate significant events, such as the first look and first dance, and figure out the best spots to shoot them. Determine the tentative schedule of crucial activities. If the reception party has surprise segments, make sure to keep your photographer in the loop.

Document Every Detail of Your Wedding Day with Anne Lord

As a wedding and corporate photographer in Washington, DC with almost 20 years of experience, I know that every detail tells a story —from the subtle designs of the wedding rings to the beautiful table setups. It’s why I always go the extra mile to capture every significant element of marriage ceremonies and parties. Check out my Wedding Portfolio to view my works.

Need a photographer for your big day? Please call me at (703) 435-5292, and let’s discuss your wedding photo ideas!

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Wedding Photo Advice from Leesburg, VA Wedding Photographers

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When it comes to beautiful wedding photos, a little forethought goes a long way. While your Leesburg, VA wedding photographers will do everything they can to capture every special moment, there are some things that you can do to ensure everything goes smoothly on the big day.

Let’s look at some of the top wedding planning mistakes that can affect your photos and how to prevent them.

4 Mistakes to Avoid for Great Wedding Photos

After photographing hundreds of weddings over the years, I know that spontaneity plays a significant role in capturing raw emotions. However, with so many unexpected things happening simultaneously during a wedding, it can be difficult to record everything.

Planning is key to ensuring all the crucial details make it into the final shots. Help set the stage for gorgeous wedding images by avoiding these common mistakes:

  1. Missing the Firsts

So many firsts happen in a wedding —i.e., the first look, the first dance, the first kiss—and you’ll want to remember them for a lifetime. Sharing the tentative schedule of these firsts with your photographer ensures that they’re in the right place, at the right time.

  1. Not Having a Photo Coordinator

This one’s more of a soft suggestion than a rule. Your photo coordinator can be a friend or sibling who’s close to you and know the people in your life. Just like how your wedding coordinator makes sure that everything goes according to plan, your photo coordinator can help with tasks such as arranging friends and family for group photos.

Ideally, your photo coordinator should attend all meetings with your Leesburg, Virginia photographer to get a good idea of what to expect during the wedding.

  1. Not Finalizing the Poses

While I love taking candid, spur-of-the-moment photos, I also know that posed shots add great substance to your final album. Clarifying the poses you want can reduce disappointment and conflict later. It will also make it easier to coordinate everybody during the shoot. Therefore, it’s a good idea to finalize your shot list in advance so that we can make the most of the limited time during the wedding.

  1. Not Paying Attention to the Details

There are numerous little things you may not notice but can get in the way of picture-perfect images. Here are some dos and don’ts to pay attention to:

Do:

✔ Ask the officiant to stand aside during your first kiss.

✔ Ensure there’s ambient lighting to set a romantic mood for the images.

✔ Remind guests to put away their phones to keep those screens out of the shots.

Don’t:

• Fill the water glass too early to avoid unattractive condensation in the shots.

• Use table numbers, flower arrangements, and candelabras that are too high to prevent obscuring your visitors.

• Clutter the bridal suite.

• Have the wait staff at the reception background.

What you should and shouldn’t do may also vary depending on your venue. Talk to your Leesburg, VA wedding photographers about them before the big day.

Capture Once in a Lifetime Moments with Anne Lord

With over 18 years of experience as a wedding and

, I go above and beyond to capture the unique story of every wedding. Browse my Wedding Portfolio to get a better idea of the work I do.

Are you ready to discuss your big day? Please call me at (703) 435-5292 and let’s talk about your ideas.

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Corporate Shoot Location Ideas from Your Leesburg, Virginia Photographer

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As a Leesburg, Virginia photographer, I’m passionate about helping brands create powerful, compelling stories that showcase their company’s unique identity and culture. One way to achieve this is by using some out-of-the-box location choices for your corporate photoshoot.

3 Creative Location Ideas for Corporate Photos

Corporate photos are not just great for sprucing up your company website or brochures. In the hands of an experienced corporate photographer in Washington, DC, corporate photography can help you establish meaningful connections with new and old clients. More importantly, it can help you humanize your brand. Here are some location tips for your next corporate photo shoot:

  1. Select a place that has a special meaning to your business.

Achieve a unique corporate photobook by choosing a place that holds special relevance for your business. Instead of your team posing in front of a generic background, take a group shot on your factory floor, storefront, or any another area that’s meaningful to your company. This will make your corporate images look more interesting and organic.

  • Showcase what you do.

Give viewers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at your business by showcasing what you do in your photos. This is an excellent way to attract potential employees, suppliers, and clients on top of more patrons.

Do you run a logistics company? Consider posing in front of your fleet. Do you work at a farm? Present a visual reminder of what you do by using rows of bountiful crops as a backdrop.

If your work involves something “invisible” such as IT, put a spin on your corporate images.  For instance, get a shot of the whole team in front of towering servers to add a dash of interest.

Not sure what to do? Let’s set aside time to brainstorm how we can infuse your corporate photos with scenes from your everyday work environment. I’ll also share relevant concept ideas I’ve used and/or have come across as a Leesburg, Virginia photographer who has handled corporate shoots of all types and sizes.

  • Highlight what makes your business stand out from the crowd.

Show off your brand’s energy and personality by highlighting what sets your company and team apart from your competition’s. Think over these questions:

  • In which places do you do most of your work?
  • What aspects of the business do clients never see, but you think would be interesting to show them? For some creative teams, for example, a wall of Post-Its scribbled with pitch ideas is an amazing feature to incorporate in the photos.
  • What part of your office are you most proud of?

Displaying these exceptional traits in your corporate photos will show people what makes you different from the competition.

Empower Your Brand with Compelling Corporate Photos

Whether you require in-studio portraits, location portraits, or a combination of both, I’ll make sure to capture the angles that best communicate the personality and character you want your corporate photos to convey.

I offer corporate photography throughout Leesburg, Maryland, Loudoun County, Leesburg, Virginia, and Washington DC, and Metro areas. Looking for Leesburg VA wedding photographers? I would love to be a part of your big day and capture moments of love and celebration to last a lifetime.

Please feel free to browse my Corporate Photography Portfolio to get a feel for what I can do for your business and brand. Once you’re ready to discuss your corporate photo shoot, call me at (703) 435-5292 to start a conversation.