Morgan Dawson Photography

Wardrobe Wednesday {Build On Your Basics}

I admit it - I have a uniform that I wear almost every day.

{dark jeans and white tank} + {X over tank} = {my outfit}

If it sounds lazy - and some days, maybe it is! - remember that people like Bobby Brown and Vera Wang also have “uniforms” (have you EVER seen them wearing something other than black?). The trick to keeping this highly functional outfit fresh is to change up the {X}. For example, I can throw on a cozy sweater in the morning to wear while I edit with my coffee, swap the sweater for a white cardigan and fun necklace when I head out for a shoot, then make one more change into a fitted jacket and a pair of hoop earrings before meeting friends for a drink.

How easy is that - three totally different looks by changing out one piece of clothing and a few accessories!

Will this idea work for your next photo shoot? Absolutely! Rather than spend money on separate head-to-toe outfits, you can either save some dough by only picking up a few new pieces, or splurge a little on one or two killer tops. The other reason I love the idea of wearing a uniform to your shoot is how easy it is to change your look. You can bring along a small bag and make a quick change without having to look for a bathroom or car to change in. Not only will this get you more looks for your shoot, but your photographer will love knowing that the location for your session doesn’t need to revolve around a nearby spot to change.

To give you an idea of what I’m talking about, I put together a few different outfit ideas that will look great over your jeans and tank. But let’s make sure we have the basics set first.

The white staple tank shown below is my all-time favorite, can’t-live-without-it, should-have-bought-a-few-more top. No lie. I actually bought one for my Mother as part of her Oprah’s Morgan’s Favorite Things Christmas gift (which included a pair of pants from Lands End that I wear all the time - message me if you’re curious). While a white tank is something you can pick up anywhere, I love this one because: 

• the material is thin enough to layer and not get warm, but thick enough to not be see-through
• wide shoulder straps mean your bra straps won’t show (a no-no for any picture)
• you can wear this multiple times without it stretching out (great for travel!)
• wash after wash it still looks great

Ok - enough about the tank!

Jeans. Everyone has them, but just make sure what you’re wearing actually fits you. If they’re too tight or sag in the butt (you know what I’m talking about), you really should invest in a new pair. I secretly hate shopping on my own, so I like to go to a store where the salespeople will be brutally honest and not let me leave with a pair that looks bad. With SO many options - low rise, mid rise, skinny, bootleg, curvy - you can definitely find a pair that fits you. And for color, a darker wash always looks good, and can transition easily to an evening pant. 

Since the majority of your outfit is set, have fun with your {X} top. Be bold with colors and patterns. Wear some sweaters or tops buttoned up (maybe with a belt) or open and layered. Mix in fun jewelry and accessories like a scarf or hat (I’m obsessed with newsboy caps lately) - and voila! Picture perfect outfits in a snap :-)

SHOPPING GUIDE:

I recently asked our amazing Wardrobe Wednesday Facebook fans to tell us what clothing shop they love that many people don’t know about. Thanks to them, I now have even more online shops to drool over. You’ll see that I picked out a few items from these new-to-me stores. If you’re not familiar with them, I highly suggest you check them out!  

 

TOPS:

Ultra Soft Square Neck Tank - White House Black Market ($24.50)

Chic Merino Cardigan (yellow) - Boden ($88) 

Fairy Dance Top - Anthropologie ($98)

Perfect-Fit Mixed-Tape Cardigan (blue) - J.Crew ($49.50)

Com-pleatly Contemporary Top - ModCloth ($54.99)

Navy Blue Striped Cardigan Ruffle Trimmed with Pockets - La Posh Style ($41.99)

 

ACCESSORIES:

Polka Dot Bangle - Down East Basics ($7.99)

A Flying Swallow and Branch Necklace - Etsy ($26.50)

Teardrop Earrings with Crystal Detail - Maurices ($10.00)

 

Kimberly and Jake {Maternity Session Sneak Peek}

Let me just start with this: Kimberly and Jake are two of the coolest, most laid-back people I've ever had the pleasure to meet and photograph. Through our pre-session phone conversations, I knew we'd hit it off right away. Meeting them in person only cemented it. Kimberly, who runs triathlons in her spare time (no joke), is the poster woman for being fit during your pregnancy. She's due in just a few weeks, but nothing - not the baby, not moving, not renovating a house - is slowing her down. I was impressed.

Since Kim had been out of state for a long-term work assignment, we had to wait until after the holidays to schedule our shoot. To say it was a cold day would be an undestatement. The wind was howling, but thankfully they had their wood stove fired up when I arrived. 

We started inside so we could get a few pics of her bare belly, but decided to head outside for a few more shots. It was so cold - I had to move fast in order to keep the red (and runny) noses to a minimum. I was carrying a step stool and leaping through the snow to get in position (and stay warm), knowing that I had about 10 minutes before we were popsicles. I was sure I was going to bite it on the ice a few times, but thankfully I held my balance just long enough. It helped that they happen to have an awesome red barn in their backyard, a perfect backdrop. 

Kim and Jake, I can't wait to meet your baby in a few weeks, and to hear about your next adventure in parenthood. You'll be amazing parents for sure :-)

Cheers!

Morgan

 

 

Wardrobe Wednesday {Maternity}

Did you hear that Wardrobe Wednesday contributor Lindsay, of Lindsay Horn Photography, is having a baby! We're so excited for her entire family (including future big sis Emory), and can't wait to meet him or her this July :-) Even though it's still a few months away, I'm sure Linds is already picking out what she'll wear for her maternity photo shoot. Here she gives us a peek into what we might see!

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With our own little bundle of joy on the way in July, I’ve had maternity portraits on the brain!  We didn’t get “real” maternity portraits taken the first time around (I know, shame on me), so I’m really excited to capture this special time for round two!  It’s so easy to feel frumpy and unattractive in some of the maternity clothes out there, but there are a lot of really cute outfits too!  I’ve chosen a couple of different styles and paired them with a coordinating looks for your man as well.  

Style number one is the “Urban Chic” look.  You can be pregnant and still be super trendy and stylish!  I LOVE this dress, I think the neckline gives some great balance for your adorable baby bump.  Being a Texas girl, I substituted the boots in the image for something a little more southern, and I added a vintage headband and necklace for a sweet feminine touch.  As an extra sweet bonus for you, TFJ Designs is offering 15% off of the first 10 orders of the Kayla headband (shown here) using the code: WWKAYLA15!  Make sure to click on the link below in the shopping list to take advantage ASAP! If you do miss out, check around her shop, she has plenty of adorable accessories.  Dress your guy up in this modern take on an old classic – he is also the perfect accessory!  

Style number two is the “Casual Cool” look.  I picture these outfits in a natural setting where the colors will really pop.  I love the layering in this outfit, and it just goes to show that our standard style advice still applies even in a maternity wardrobe … layers, textures, and accessories!  I found some great jewelry to round out this adorable ensemble, and even included an accessory for your hubby too (if he’ll go for it!).  

Just remember, pregnancy is something to be celebrated and commemorated, no matter how much weight you’ve gained or how unattractive you may feel.  You DO look beautiful, and your kiddos will love looking back on these images one day too!  

Shopping List: 

URBAN CHIC

Woman:

Shawl Collar Dress (Motherhood Maternity) $29.99

Black Boots (Old Navy) $34.97

Drop Necklace (Kohl’s) $20.00

Vintage Headband (TFJ Designs) $28.00

 

Man: 

Black Pants ( Old Navy) $19.97

Sweater Vest (Old Navy) $24.50

Blazer (Old Navy) $49.50

Black Shoes (Target) $29.99

 

CASUAL COOL

Woman: 

Low-rise Boot Cut Maternity Jeans (Old Navy) $24.97

Fuchsia Jersey Stretch Tank (Old Navy) $10.00

Lightweight Floral Smocked Tank (Old Navy) $27.50

Boyfriend Cardigan (Old Navy) $34.50

Flats (Old Navy) $19.50

Earrings (Old Navy) $7.50

Bracelets (Old Navy) $10.50

 

Man:

Khaki Pants (Old Navy) $29.50

Oxford Shirt (Old Navy) $20.00

Brown Shoes (Target) $34.99

Bracelet (Urban Outfitters) $5.00

 

 

 

 

Wardrobe Wednesday {Boudoir}

Did you know that Wardrobe Wednesday has yet to feature boudoir? Well now we can cross that one off the list! I'll let the FABULOUS Kelly of Kelly V. Photography and Black Lack Images tell and show you how to make the best of your boudoir portraits!

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With Valentine's Day right around the corner, I know lots of girlfriends, fiances and wives are looking for a unique and creative gift to give to their guy.

Enter the boudoir portrait session.

If you're not familiar with this type of session, boudoir is French for "woman's bedroom." Add in the photography element, and it's almost a literal translation -- tastefully intimate images of women looking their sexy, sensual best. It's not about being a size 2 or having a perfect body, ether. In fact, it's about celebrating you, pampering yourself and giving your guy an amazing gift in the process.

In addition to Valentine's Day, these sessions are popular for anniversaries, birthdays and especially for brides to give to their husbands on their wedding night. Some women want to capture their pre-baby body or get together with a group of friends and each book a session as an incentive to keep up wth their combined workout regimen.

Whether it's a gift or a reward for you, the great thing about these sessions is that you can really go all out. Get your hair and makeup professionally done, splurge on a manicure and even pick up a few new pieces of lingerie to wear.

As far as what to bring, it doesn't have to cost a fortune. Dig through that closet of yours (and his, too)! Grab that all-lace shirt you usually wear under your go-to cardigan. Your favorite jeans can look amazing with a bare back. Don't overlook everyday cotton underwear, either. It can be extraordinary in the right setting. Nab one of his favorite team jerseys or a colorful tie and a white button-down shirt. And this is one type of session where it's all about the accessories. Think chandelier earrings, long beaded necklaces, high heels, shimmery bracelets, thigh-highs and even elbow-length gloves if you're into the vintage look.

The best part is that each outfit can be completely different from the next. Not only does it give a variety to your photographs, but it's fun creating images that match the feel of each look whether it's soft and sensual or daring and bold.

One more important bit of advice: Be sure to wear something comfortable and loose-fitting to your session. Jeans and even tight socks can leave marks on your skin that take awhile to fade.

If you're considering booking a session like this, here are a few inspiration looks to get you started!

Girl Next Door
Lace-waist hiphugger, Victoria's Secret: $9.50
Full-coverage bra, Victoria's Secret: $24.50

Sultry Satin
Xe-Antik earrings, Steve Madden: $18
Fantasha pumps, Steve Madden: $99.95
Miraculous Multi-way Bra, Victoria's Secret: $55
Lace-trim panties, Victoria's Secret: $12.50
Black satin elbow-length gloves, Unique Vintage: $12

Fun and Flirty
Havanna Nights dot corset, Jessica Simpson Collection: $29.99 (was $65)
Havanna Nights dot garter, Jessica Simpson Collection: $14.99 (was $30)
Havanna Nights dot thong, Jessica Simpson Collection: $7.99 (was $16)
Black thigh-highs and heels can be found at all major department stores

Vintage Vixen
Creme Brulee Bra, Anthropologie: $62
Creme Brulee Panties, Anthropologie: $42 
First Glow Peep-toes, Anthropologie: $188
Blooming Luster Posts, Anthropologie: $24

 

Wardrobe Wednesday {Valentine's Day!}

Jen from Minor Impressions always has creative ideas up her sleeve - and two of the most adorable go-with-the-flow girls to work with :-) I can't wait to see what her Valentine's Day cards will look like!

Why not schedule a fun candy-centered photo shoot for your little ones this year! Here are some ideas to get you started :-)

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Ok, I admit, I haven't even taken down my Christmas tree yet! I know, I need to get with it because before I know it, I'm going to get a note in my daughter's folder giving me all the fun info for her class Valentine's Day party. It's hard to believe it's only a month away.

If you're a little more prepared than I am, you still have time to plan an adorably unique photo shoot to make some cards that all of your kiddo's friends will be excited to show off. The great thing about Valentine pictures is that they can get away with being very casual. Since these are cards that will be given to their friends, let them show their personality. You can make a simple t-shirt dressier with a  tulle skirt or a little more casual with a jean skirt and leggings. Let your son show his wild side for all the girls, or how tamed and put-together he is.

This is also the perfect time to find some adorable props to add. Instead of buying real roses with the thorns, you can find a bouquet of fake roses at a craft store, and all of the other items are easily found at Wal-mart or your local grocery store. Most kids will love the opportunity to eat chocolate or lick lollipops while being photographed, and the younger kiddos will find it hard to resist squeezing a new teddy bear!

Shopping Guide:

 

Girl Outfit & Accessories - Gap

Boy Outfit - The Children's Place

 

All props can be found at Wal-Mart, but these were found on the web:

Lollipops - Melville Store

Teddy Bear - Target

Chocolates - Sees

Rose Bouquet - Wal-Mart

 

Ryan {Cake Smash sneak peek}

I've said it before and I'll say it again: You NEVER know how a child will react during a Cake Smash shoot. Some are excited (OMG there is a giant cake ALL FOR ME!), others are confused (You actually WANT me to play with my food?). I'd say Ryan fit somewhere in the middle.

Just a few weeks shy of his 2nd birthday, cutie Ryan seemed cautiously excited about the big blue cake in front of him. He slowly started to nibble it bit by bit. No big grabs for the center. No smearing of frosting for fun. Just some controlled cake eating.

What I quickly learned was that Ryan is not a fan of messy fingers. Every few minutes he would walk over to his dad with outstretched hands as if to say, "Can you help me out, Dad? Can't you see I've got a situation here!" After a quick wipe down, he was back to business...at least for a few minutes. Yes, he tried his best to clean his hands himself by licking his fingers or wiping them on the paper, but the buttercream frosting was too tough of a match. 

 

I wonder if he still has blue hands...

 

Wardrobe Wednesday {Couples}

I'm guessing you probably know someone who got engaged within the last month. Maybe you! While the wedding may be months (or years) away, it's time to start thinking about booking an engagement shoot. You know your mom will want something for the paper, or maybe you're already thinking about your save the date cards. In any case, the time is now to book a date for your session!

The next thing you'll need to do is figure out what out will make your ring look the best what you both should wear. No worries, Erica May has it all figured out!

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This week I choose to put a few outfits together for a couple’s session. I really wanted to pull in some classic fall/winter colors and give couples some layering options. Although most of these items are a little pricey, I think most of us would be able to find the jeans, shoes, and possibly blazers from our own closets (or a friend’s). I love the option during a session to throw on or take off another layer to really mix up the looks. These bold and rich colors photograph well and look beautiful in color or black and white. Always spring for a nice new pair of dark jeans for your man if his jeans are starting to look a little too worn. 

 

You definitely don’t need to have two different outfits for your couple’s session but if it is in the budget and it is ok with your photographer, it can really give a whole new look to your portraits (it is also good if you are on the fence about what to wear!). This is also a nice time to touch up your make-up, fix your hair, and re-group (the guys always enjoy the break too). The second outfit I put together is a more care-free almost spring-like look. It would be great to throw on for a few more pictures at the end of your session to really change it up (if it is not too freezing!).

Woman – Outfit 1

Silky cascade ruffle blouse – Gap - $44.99

Perfect boot jeans (dark wash) – Gap - $69.50

Ambition Women's Army Green Military Inspired Jacket – Ovestock.com - $35.99

LifeStride Unity Bootie – DSW - $49.95

 

Man – Outfit 1

Three-button topcoat – Banana Republic -  $275.00

Silk/cashmere v-neck sweater – Banana Republic - $59.99

Timberland Earthkeepers City Plain Toe – Piperlime - $80.99

 

Woman – Outfit 2

BR Monogram Clara jacket - Banana Republic - $99.99 (optional) 

Monogram ruched goddess dress - Banana Republic - $89.99

 

Man – Outfit 2

The new classic polo – Indian earth - Gap - $29.99

The vintage khaki – Chino Tar - Gap - $49.50 –