North Bay Woman

S U M M E R 2 0 1 5 | NORTH BAY WOMAN 35 wonderful gift for myself and the end result was exactly what I hoped for." When Smith is hired to do wedding photographs, she's already spent a lot of time in the initial consultation to give clients a chance to get to know her and her work. "Choosing a photographer is a big decision for clients and there's so much interaction between them on the wedding day so there has to be good relationship between everyone." Find one that is compatible with you and also carefully examine the photographer's portfolio, she suggests. "Look at the images that they show you because they will show you only their best and, if you have no emotional connection to them, keep looking," she advises. ""You will spend four or five hours with that photographer at the wedding and you want to make your day enjoyable." Smith also likes to coordinate ahead of time with the couple, or the wedding planner, to develop a timeline for photographs and special requests so she doesn't miss a special moment. "It's the speeches and the father-daughter dance that always make me cry and it's the quiet moments focused on family and relationships that are touching," she admits. ■ General tips for better photos: Pick fitted and flattering clothes. Some women try to wear bigger clothes but that just adds "weight" in the photograph, Smith says. Look at your outfit from different angles because you'll be moving around. Avoid busy patterns, as they are distracting. Practice posing with your chin out and tipped down. It will make your eyes bigger and your jawline look nicer. Relax your hands. Everyone carries tension there. Look right into the lens. Tips for wedding shots: Relax. Try to breathe and be in the moment and focus on what's happening. When you're present, a photograph becomes very beautiful and really powerful. When you look at your partner and realize this is your wedding day, your face will radiate and your smile will be beautiful. Mariah Smith in her Santa Rosa office studio. – Photo by Stuart Lirette. • Locally Owned • 5860 Paradise Drive, Corte Madera • 415-924-5100 • www.marinacura.com Marin Acura Where Great Adventures New Beginnings Start THE 2016 ACURA RDX in our showroom now! Ready for the open road &

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