Tag Archives: tacoma photographer

Photography Etiquette in National Parks

As a professional photographer who has had the privilege of exploring the stunning landscapes of some of our national parks and other remarkable landmarks, I’ve witnessed both the breathtaking beauty of God’s creation and the not-so-beautiful behavior of fellow photographers and photo tour groups. It’s crucial that we, as photographers and photograph lovers, set an example for responsible and respectful photography in these precious environments. Here are some essential guidelines for proper photographer etiquette in natural settings:

  1. Respect Nature’s Fragility: The first and most important rule is to respect the environment. Stay on designated paths and trails to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems. Never pick plants, disturb wildlife, or leave any trace of your presence.
  2. Know the Rules: Different parks and landmarks may have specific regulations regarding photography. Familiarize yourself with these rules, such as restrictions on drone usage and tripods, access to certain areas, and photography permits. Complying with these rules not only preserves the location but also sets a positive example.
  3. Low Impact Photography: When photographing in delicate environments, use a tripod to minimize soil compaction, especially in sensitive areas. Avoid trampling on vegetation or disturbing the landscape to get the perfect shot. Keep your photography equipment in a backpack when not in use and don’t rest that backpack on vegetation or fragile shrubbery.
  4. Be Mindful of Wildlife: Respect the space and behavior of animals. Keep a safe distance and use a telephoto lens for close-up shots. Never approach or feed wildlife, as it can harm both you and the animals.
  5. Minimize Noise and Disturbances: Loud conversations (this is one of my pet peeves) and camera shutter noises can disrupt the peacefulness of natural spaces. Keep unnecessary noise to a minimum and consider using silent mode on your camera when appropriate and if possible.
  6. Share the Space: Popular landmarks can get crowded. Be considerate of other photographers, tourists, and nature enthusiasts. Allow others to enjoy the view and wait your turn when necessary. And when you’re done and have your photograph, move on and give someone else the opportunity of that viewpoint (this is another of my pet peeves).
  7. Leave No Trace: This principle extends beyond trash. Pick up any litter you find, and also be conscious of not leaving behind any photography equipment or props. Preserve the location for other guests and future generations.
  8. Limit Your Impact on Local Communities: If you’re visiting areas near local communities, respect their privacy and property. Seek permission before photographing on private land, and always follow any local rules and customs.
  9. Educate and Inspire: Use your photography to educate and inspire others about the beauty and importance of these natural landscapes. Share your knowledge and tips for responsible photography with fellow photographers.
  10. Lead by Example: As professionals, our actions carry weight. By practicing good photographer etiquette, we encourage others to do the same. Offer guidance and support to those who may be unaware of these principles.

Photography in national parks and other landmarks is a privilege that comes with responsibilities. Let’s strive to be stewards of these incredible places, ensuring they remain pristine for other guests and future generations to enjoy. By following proper photographer etiquette, we not only capture breathtaking images but also contribute to the preservation of these natural wonders.

Happy and responsible shooting!

Chris

Posted in Photography Tips & Techniques Also tagged , , , |

And…The Force Was With Them

Wow! What a fun and beautiful wedding day!

It is always such and honor and a blessing for Chris and myself to be asked to photograph a wedding. This one was special…

With a nod to some of our favorite Sci-Fi/fantasy fiction/sit-com series (Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Friends, Big Bang Theory), Matt and Susan were “going on an adventure”.

Our happy couple said their vows in Susan’s parents back yard with friends and family there to celebrate with them. It was absolutely beautiful (which you will see in the pics I’ve posted)! And so much fun! There was laughter, dancing, joy and true love throughout the day. What an amazing day! Starting off with the “pre-flight announcements” and concluding with fun and funky dancing-it was the best! Oh, and let’s not forget the incredible dessert table that Susan’s mom and friends put together. Certainly one of the best that we’ve ever seen (and tasted).

Congratulations, Matt & Susan. Thank you for choosing us to help capture your special day and be part of your wedding celebration.

May the Force be with you. ALWAYS!!!

~ Lynette

Posted in Family Portraits, General, Portraits, Wedding Photography, Weddings Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , |

Cayden’s Senior Photo Session

It’s almost summer!! At least the weather is trying to tell us that…

Last Sunday, after a very wet weekend, Cayden and I met up in downtown Tacoma near the Museum of Glass to snap some senior photos for Cayden’s graduation. It was a fantastic day!! And, I must say, Cayden is a fantastic kid!! He is heading off to boot camp for our honored U.S. Army in July, and his mom just couldn’t let him go without a few good pics

Graduating from Emerald Ridge High School in Puyallup, WA, it is obvious that Cayden loves his family. He has so much family support for his future life plans! I love great family stories like this. We need more of it.

Cayden, it has been an honor and a privilege to work with you. You are a quality young man and I am blessed to know you. I can’t wait to get updates from your mom on your military career!!

Have a beautiful weekend, everyone, and please enjoy a few of my favorite Cayden pics…

~Lynette

Posted in Portraits, Senior Portraits Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , |

Photographs of Underwater Nassau, Bahamas

Hello friends,

Way, way back in May of 2019, I planned out a trip to the Bahamas with a dive group I belong to: SeaHorses Dive Club. It was set for May of 2020 and we had a very solid group going. But then Covid hit and all travel plans were scrapped-as you are probably aware.

We pushed out another year to 2021 and as luck would have it Covid was still an issue so we pushed out 1 more year. And despite the restrictions that were still in place in terms of travel, we made it in May of this year.

My original group of 25 or so was cut to just 6, excluding myself, but we had a great time anyway. The divers of the group spent time on 6 wrecks, 8 reefs, 10 overall dives, and with too many sharks to count. Those that were snorkeling got time on 2 reefs from a boat, which also included time with sharks on a dedicated shark snorkel. All our trips were with Stuart Cove’s Dive Bahamas, which I highly recommend if you’re basing out of Nassau.

We all had such a good time. I cannot wait to get back. The Bahamas offer some spectacular diving. The best dives for me, even with my limited trips.

Anyway, my pics from the trip are below. I hope that you enjoy.

Blessings,

Chris.

Posted in Landscape and Nature Photography, Travel Photography, Underwater Also tagged , , , , , , , , , |

Paige is Graduating!!!

It was such a privilege to meet up with Paige for her Senior Photo Session. And extra special because Chris and I are friends with her folks. In fact, we shot their wedding a few years ago…and now it’s time for their oldest to graduate!! We were blessed to have had some amazing weather on one of the only dry days these past couple of weeks.

Paige is an amazing young woman who is an honor student and plays water polo for Rogers High School. As you will see from the pics, she LOVES sunflowers!! We had a great time on the waterfront and in downtown Tacoma…and she was awesome!!

Congratulations, Paige! You will do great things!

Blessings,

~Lynette

Posted in Portraits, Senior Portraits Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , |

Giggsters One of Tacoma’s Best Landscape Photographers in 2021

Hi Friends.

It’s no secret that the Pacific Northwest is home to some of the most majestic scenery in the United States. Breathtaking coastlines, lush forests, and gushing waterfalls lie around every corner, offering plenty of inspiration for landscape photographers. As a result, Tacoma and Pierce County is home to some of the best in the business, who have made documenting natural scenes their mission.

We are happy to report that I made Giggsters list as “One of Tacoma’s Best Landscape Photographers” for 2021. Quite an honor to be sure.

Head over to their page at this link to see: https://giggster.com/blog/landscape-photographers-tacoma-wa/

And as always, check out my landscape portfolio page or scroll through this blog to see some of my work.

Blessings,

Chris.

Posted in General, Landscape and Nature Photography Also tagged , , , , |

Bri and Mike

Hi everyone, and welcome back to my blog. Today, I am blessed to post a gorgeous engagement shoot with an amazing couple. Mike used to work for us at McKenna Video Services, years ago when he was in high school. Mike was one of our video editors. Wow has time flown by! We were so excited when he reached out to us to take his engagement photos. Of course we accepted right away, and had the opportunity to meet Mike’s love, Bri. What a beauty! Mike, you did good!!:)

I met up with Mike and Bri at the Mayflower Dairy Barn in Frederickson. I love this location for all of it’s different backdrop options. We dodged a few raindrops early on, but ended up with a beautiful evening. Perfect overcast skies for that great skin tone that all photographers hope for.

Congratulations to you both, Bri and Mike. It is obvious how much you love each other. Both Chris and I want to wish you the most amazing life together. Always have fun!!

~Lynette

Posted in Engagement Photography, Wedding Photography Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |

Alyssa’s Senior Year

What an amazing day! Alyssa was kind enough to meet me at one of my favorite urban backdrops…downtown Tacoma’s Museum of Glass district. This was my first time meeting Alyssa, but I have known her parents for 100 years (give or take), and I was blessed when they asked me to document Alyssa’s senior year with a series of photos.

A Sumner High senior, Alyssa is all class! What a beautiful young woman! We had lots of time to chit chat and find out what her hopes and dreams are. She wants to be a veterinarian, and is considering a number of prestigious schools for her degree.

I hope you all enjoy Alyssa’s senior session as much as I do. Some of my finest work, I must say:)

Thank you, Alyssa, for a terrific shoot! Congratulations, Senior Lady!:) This is gonna be a great year!!!

~Lynette

Posted in Portraits, Senior Portraits Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |

Emily and Joey-The Williams Wedding

It’s summer, and that means wedding season! What a magical time; beautiful brides and handsome grooms are joining together in this most extraordinary commitment. I love it!

This past weekend, Chris and I were blessed to share this extraordinary moment with Joey and Emily. What an amazing couple! You will see from their photos how much love emanates from their eyes. It was a sight to behold; a love story shared with family and friends in the intimate setting of Joey’s home. There were moments of joy and laughter, and tears of emotion flowed throughout the crowd. Splendid!

Congratulations Emily and Joey! You both deserve the world, and I think that’s exactly what you will bring to each other.

Thank you so much for asking us to be a part of your most precious day.

~Chris and Lynette

Posted in Wedding Photography Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , |

Emily and Joey Are Getting Married!

Hi Everyone! I am so excited to tell you about the awesome engagement photo shoot I had with Emily and Joey this past Sunday. Emily is a friend of my daughter. They were tennis doubles partners in their senior year of high school. Winners-of course:)

I met Joey for the first time on Sunday. He greeted me with a great big hug!! He is terrific! I feel like I have known him for so many years.

Emily and Joey are such an adorable couple. They have an obvious love for each other and are so excited to start their lives together. We cannot wait to be a part of their August wedding!

Please enjoy a few of this lovely couple’s pics. It is an honor and a privilege to know people of great character.

Posted in Engagement Photography Also tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |