Here are 7 Tips for Making Family Photos Easy and Fun! Having great family photos means so much to many families. You will love flipping through the photos years to come and love seeing them framed on your walls. It’s amazing to see how everyone changes over the years. However, taking the photos is another story. It can be stressful and sometimes painful for you (and the photographer). So here are some tips to make the day memorable, not frightening! Find a photographer that is right for you. Don’t just go by word of mouth. Look at their FB page, their Instagram, their website, and Pinterest. You will be able to determine if you are a “match” to their style right away. Some shoot indoors only, or outdoors only. Check with that as well.Decide on a date & location ahead of time. Do you want springtime photos? Beach photos? Do you want to play in the snow? Make sure you discuss your options with your photographer in advance to secure a location and time. And remember, if you are shooting at a public venue; make sure to check if you need permits or if there are any events going on beforehand.Props: it is usually the responsibility of the family to bring props. Examples may include blankets, picture frames, matching clothing/scarves/hats, or toys for kids. But, be sure to discuss ahead of time, for the photographer may want to bring props as ...

I joined PH2PRO about one year ago (an online mentoring site for headshot photographers, created by a world renowned photographer, Peter Hurley), and I thought I knew a thing or two about headshot photography…boy, was I wrong!                                                                The journey I took was challenging, humbling and rewarding. I learned that it’s ok if you hear, ‘it’s not good enough, or you need work, or what kind of operation are you running” and not feel so bruised that you can’t continue on. I learned to listen to my critiques from Peter and the other Associates on the site, learn from them, change things around and give it another go-around. I began perfecting and sharpening my skills; studied and continued to mess up, try again, mess up, and then try again. I learned from Peter that client’s mustn’t just show up and just smile. It’s about me telling their story in one single image. I learned about hurleyisms, squinching, micro-expressions, the tilt, the lights, subtle changes in posing, psyphotology and so much more.                       On December 17, 2014 I become ...

{Lisa + Brendan | Wedding Day}I had the honor of shooting the wedding of Lisa + Brendan Van Ackeren.  We started the day at the Hampton Inn & Suites for the ladies. Make-up was done by Audrey Noel (freelance styling).  Met the guys at the lovely Chapel at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA.  We proceeded to shoot on the campus after the ceremony at the gloriously detailed campus library then to the football field!! The reception was at Riverview Country Club in Forks Township, PA.  Fantastic day!! Enjoy the sneak peek!Photography: Elaine Zelker PhotographyHotel: Hampton Inn & SuitesLehigh UniversityRiverview Country ClubMake-Up/Hair: Audrey Noel <3 Elaine    for more information or bookings:elaine@elainezelkerphotography.com908-872-0987

{Engagement Session}Chad + TriciaBethlehem, PAelaine zelker photography                  for bookings: e-mail: elaine@elainezelkerphotography.com908-872-0987Lehigh Valley and Surrounding area