What to wear for your branding session!

If you only read one part of this section, let it be this: wear something that feels like you, and make it comfortable. If you want a little more info, read on. But just remember that first bit.

Look, I get it. Dressing yourself in the morning is tough enough when you don’t have to stand in front of a camera and be your best self. It’s normal to want to shop for new fancy clothes to wear to a photoshoot. And that’s totally fine if that’s your jam and you’re comfortable with that. But usually the best route is to go with something that’s tried and true. When selecting the right footwear, think about what’s appropriate for the location, and what presents the lowest risk of a sprained ankle. Maybe it even makes most sense to ditch the shoes altogether for maximum agility for all the activities!
Wear something that’ll keep you cool in summer, warm in winter, and that’ll make you feel like the sparkly human that you are on the inside. Bring a couple outfits so that we can play with different options and combinations, and get a little sandy/wet/muddy if you’re game and the moment calls for it! If you have anything in your wardrobe that is textured, sheer, or billowy, fabrics that flow turn up so beautifully in photographs because they capture snapshots of movement – avoid starchy, stiff-seeming garments that get crumpled in weird spots and need adjusting.

Be careful with prints, logos, and bright colors as sometimes these detract from the most important parts of the photograph – you!

Avoid matching and blending together into one monochromatic blob. In order for the components of your photograph to really sing, you’ll want to find complementary outfits that showcase a controlled variety of textures and colors so you can look good together without looking the same.

Once we pick a location together, we can discuss color palettes that will help you stand out beautifully against your environment.

If you’ve read all of this and you feel like you want a little bit more info, I’ve got a full comprehensive guide on this that covers it all! Just let me know and I’ll send it over.

Get in the right headspace!

Unless you guys have had a stint in the world of reality TV that I don’t know about, there’s a chance you might feel a little bit apprehensive about the idea of a camera following you around for a couple of hours. This is totally normal! But try not to fight about it. In fact, make a point of being more loving and sympathetic to one another. Set aside some time to do an activity that you love together before the shoot and get all of that good oxytocin juju flowing so that you arrive feeling calm and in love.
Make some time buffers around the day so that you aren’t rushing from one thing to another. When a couple shows up to a shoot having had to run seven red lights to get there, it sets the tone for a rushed and disorganised session. Give yourself the gift of a relaxed session and allow plenty of time for showers, grooming, and forgetting things.

Weather

If we’ve booked your shoot outdoors, we’ve got to relinquish some control to the wonderful unpredictability of the great outdoors. And while we can’t control the weather, there are some factors (thankfully) that are in our hands. Let’s discuss Plan B’s for when your dream location only looks good drenched in sun and it’s raining cats and dogs. Do we reschedule? Do we brave it? Do we shoot somewhere else?

Personally, I’m a bit partial to a cloudy day. The light diffuses through the clouds in a way that makes everyone’s skin look absolutely luminous. And I don’t mind a bit of wind, there’s something about the way it adds movement to photos that I’m a real sucker for. And a little drizzle here and there never hurt anyone.

If the heavens are looking a little inclement, here are some things to consider:

• Bringing an umbrella! Not just functional, but a pretty damn cute prop too!

• Layer up so you can modify your outfit to the conditions.

• Bring a change of clothes just in case it pours and the sun comes out right afterwards.

Time and Seasons

If you haven’t already decided on a date or a time, there are a couple of things to consider when booking your shoot: lighting, weather, and season.

If we’re shooting outdoors, the best, most magical lighting for me is either 1-2 hours after sunrise or 1-2 hours before sunset. If it’s cloudy, we can shoot basically anytime, and if we’re shooting indoors, then timing depends on what kind of lights we’re working with and what direction the building is facing.

I don’t mind a bit of wind, there’s something about the way it adds movement to photos that I’m a real sucker for. And a little drizzle here and there never hurt anyone. Basically I just love taking photos, so almost anytime works for me! The only thing is, I prefer to avoid the middle of the day for taking photos outside because we’ll likely end up with quite a few photos of you just squinting into the camera.

That being said, I’m not one for hard and fast rules for anything! So if you have your heart set on a particular time of day, let’s chat.
Let’s discuss Plan B’s for what happens if the skies crack open and it starts to pour. Do we reschedule? Do we brave it? Do we shoot somewhere else?

If the heavens are looking a little inclement, here are some things to consider:

• Bringing an umbrella! Not only is it functional, but it’s a pretty damn cute prop too!

• Layer up so you can modify your outfit to the conditions.

• Bring a change of clothes just in case it pours and the sun comes out right afterwards.

Considering seasons is a big part of choosing the best time to capture your memories. There’s something special about every time of year with fresh snowfalls in winter, lush greenery in spring, long hazy days in summer, and the crunchy oranges of fall … What is the story you’re trying to tell? If you’re shooting for your brand, there’s a different tone to every time of year, and different colors that will feature most prominently. Consider aligning them to your brand color palette, or general brand vibe.

But no matter what season you choose, you’ll have epic photos regardless. If you need your images to align with certain marketing agendas, or a specific audition, getting organized early is key!

I highly recommend scheduling your session at least four months beforehand if you need to use them for printed deliverables! This allows a comfortable amount of time for selections, edits, designs, printing, and delivery.

Jackson Hole Photography Star Valley Photographer LGBTQ Photographer Star Valley, Wyoming 307 Jackson, Hole Grand Teton Yellowstone Wedding Photographer Magical Star Valley Photographer Alpine Wyoming Thayne Etna Star Valley Ranch Cedar Creek SVR WY 83127 Best Photographer Best Wedding Photographer Women Empowerment Star Valley Women Western Wyoming 83001 Best Wedding Photographer

Jackson Hole and Star Valley Photographer for couples to say “I do!”

Are you looking for a photographer to capture your true love? To show the essence of your friendship as well as your deep sincere affection? I can be that person to make everything a breeze!

I love capturing the giggles, jokes and teases that lives in every happy couple. I am not looking to photograph you two standing, looking at me, holding hands. This will be an intimate, fun and easy going session that will welcome all levels of playfulness to truly reflect your relationship.

Embracing Self-Love Through the Lens: A Photographer's Journey

Welcome, fellow photographers, to a space where we delve into the art of self-love, a journey as breathtaking as capturing the perfect shot. In the world of visual storytelling, we often focus on external beauty through our lenses, but it's high time we turn that focus inward. Let's explore how embracing self-love can not only enhance our personal lives but also elevate our craft.

Celebrate Your Unique Perspective:

• As photographers, each of us has a distinct way of seeing the world. Just like no two photographs are the same, no two individuals are identical. Embrace your unique perspective, for it adds depth and richness to your work. Celebrate what makes you stand out in the vast canvas of photography.

1. Accept Imperfections as Artistic Beauty:

   • In the world of high-definition images, imperfections are often edited away. However, these imperfections tell a story, much like the wrinkles on a well-loved face or the weathered texture of an old building. Acknowledge and embrace your imperfections, for they add character to both your photos and your life.

2. Invest Time in Self-Reflection:

   • Just as we meticulously choose our camera settings, take the time to fine-tune your emotional settings. Self-reflection allows us to understand our strengths and weaknesses, leading to personal growth. Set aside moments to ponder, both about your art and the person behind the lens.

3. Surround Yourself with Positive Influences:

   • Just as we carefully frame our shots, curate your surroundings with positivity. Connect with fellow photographers who inspire and support you. A community of like-minded individuals can fuel your passion and encourage self-love through shared experiences and understanding.

4. Find Beauty in Self-Care:

   • Like capturing a stunning sunset, invest time in capturing moments of self-care. Whether it's taking a stroll with your camera, practicing mindfulness, or indulging in a hobby outside of photography, prioritizing self-care enhances your well-being and, consequently, your creativity.

In the intricate dance of light and shadows, let self-love be the guiding force behind your lens. Cherish the beauty within, just as you do with the captivating scenes you capture. As photographers, we are not only curators of images but also storytellers of our own journey. Through the lens of self-love, our narratives become richer, and our art, more profound. So, fellow photographers, let's embark on this journey of self-discovery and watch how it transforms not only our photographs but our lives as well.

Finding the right spot

Locations are not just a pretty backdrop. They are a huge part of your session, and not only do they have a big visual role to play, but they greatly influence your mood and mindset as well. The way you feel at home will be vastly different to the way you might feel walking down a bustling city street or a wild craggy cliff.
I know that sometimes choosing a location can feel pretty overwhelming – there are SO many beautiful and photogenic places in this world. Can you think of any places that would signify certain business values or resonate in a special way with your audience?
Don’t worry if nowhere comes to mind, I have so many places up my sleeve that you would look amazing in! But let’s try to settle on a location with lots of time to spare so that we have time to seek permission and permits if need be.

Maternity Photo

HELLO & Congratulations on the incoming baby in your life, and

hello from me.

In the busy-ness of life, it’s not often that we set aside some time to appreciate what our bodies can do. Scheduling in a maternity session is the perfect way to celebrate the everyday miracles that happen during this

gestation process.

Even through the exhaustion, back pain, and the nausea, your body is making another human! If that’s not worth celebrating, then hell – I don’t know what is.

Not sure what to wear?

Look, I get it. Dressing yourself in the morning is tough enough when you don’t have to stand in front of a camera and be your best self. Add having to dress a couple of kids and perhaps even your partner, and things can get a little complicated!

But the number one thing I want you to remember is that being comfortable is everything. It’s normal to want to shop for new fancy clothes to wear to a photoshoot. And that’s totally fine if that’s your jam and you’re comfortable with that. But usually the best route is to go with something that’s tried and true. When selecting the right footwear, think about what’s appropriate for the location, and what presents the lowest risk of a sprained ankle. Maybe it even makes most sense to ditch the shoes altogether!

I also provided a highly detailed clothing prep guide for any sessions booked with me!

The core focus of Chandaslay Photo Coach and Co

Chandaslay Photo Coach and Co is an esteemed luxury photography company that has carved a niche for itself in the realms of glamour, confidence, and self-discovery through its unique and captivating visual storytelling. With a remarkable blend of expertise in photography and a deep understanding of human emotions, the company takes pride in creating exceptional experiences for its clients.

The core focus of Chandaslay Photo Coach and Co lies in capturing the essence of glamour and confidence in a way that empowers individuals to embrace their true selves. By skillfully combining aesthetics, lighting, and composition, the company has mastered the art of crafting images that exude elegance and sophistication. Their portfolio showcases a wide range of subjects, from fashion-forward individuals to those seeking to explore and enhance their self-confidence.

One of the standout features of Chandaslay Photo Coach and Co is their expertise in guiding clients through a transformative journey of self-discovery. The company's approach goes beyond mere photography; it's about creating an atmosphere where clients can fully express themselves and discover their inner radiance. This process often results in striking photographs that not only capture external beauty but also reflect the inner strength and confidence of the subjects.

In addition to their specialization in glamour and confidence photography, the company also has a remarkable talent for capturing lifestyle and emotive family photos. Whether it's a candid moment shared between family members, the subtle warmth of a sunset, or the genuine emotions that surface during an interaction, Chandaslay Photo Coach and Co has the knack for freezing these fleeting moments in time.

The company's proficiency extends to offering their services to visitors exploring the area. With a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the beauty of sunsets, they are the go-to choice for anyone seeking to have their cherished moments immortalized against the backdrop of a captivating golden hour. Their ability to harmoniously blend the natural beauty of the surroundings with the emotions of the subjects results in photographs that are both aesthetically pleasing and emotionally resonant.

In essence, Chandaslay Photo Coach and Co is not just a luxury photography company; it's a conduit for empowerment, self-discovery, and capturing the beauty of life's moments. With a remarkable ability to transform ordinary scenes into extraordinary memories, they continue to be a sought-after choice for individuals and families seeking to embrace their uniqueness and create lasting visual legacies.

Best Photographer in Star Valley, Sarah!

Introducing Sarah Lay - with Chanda Slay Photography, a talented photographer, self-love advocate, and empowering force in the world of photography. With a passion for capturing the raw beauty of individuals, Sarah has become a powerful voice for self-acceptance, body positivity, and women's empowerment.

Through Sarah's lens, the world transforms into a canvas where every person is a masterpiece waiting to be discovered. With a unique ability to bring out the inner confidence and radiance in each subject, [Your Name] goes beyond simply taking pictures; they create art that tells stories of self-love, resilience, and strength.

But Sarah's talents extend far beyond the realm of photography. As a dedicated confidence coach, they are committed to helping others embrace their individuality, break free from self-doubt, and unleash their true potential. With a warm and personable approach, Sarah guides individuals on a transformative journey of self-discovery, helping them recognize their inherent worth and celebrating their uniqueness.

Moreover, Sarah is an exceptional teacher, offering insightful photography classes that empower aspiring photographers to find their own artistic voice. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced shutterbug, Sarah's classes provide a safe and inclusive space to learn and grow, fostering an environment where students can develop their skills while embracing self-expression and body positivity.

When Sarah isn't capturing moments of self-love through the camera lens or coaching others to find their confidence, they are actively involved in advocating for women's empowerment. They believe that every woman deserves to feel beautiful, strong, and unapologetically herself. Through their work, Sarah challenges societal norms, dismantles unrealistic beauty standards, and encourages women to embrace their bodies, flaws and all.

With Sarah's infectious enthusiasm, unwavering support, and genuine dedication to uplifting others, they have become an influential figure in the field of photography and self-love. Their mission is not just about capturing breathtaking images but also about igniting a spark within others to love themselves fiercely, embrace their bodies, and empower one another.

So, if you're ready to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, celebrate your individuality, and capture moments of self-love that will last a lifetime, Sarah is here to guide you. Let their expertise, creativity, and passion for empowering others bring out the best version of yourself, both in front of and behind the camera.

Crafting Your Dream Life: Finding Love in Your Work, One Small Choice at a Time

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to get caught up in the monotony of routine and forget about our dreams and passions. Yet, the key to a fulfilling life lies in the small choices we make every day. This blog post is dedicated to the journey of finding love in your work and creating your dream life through the power of incremental decisions.

1. Rediscovering Passion:

The first step in creating your dream life is reconnecting with your passions. Take a moment to reflect on what truly makes you happy, what excites you, and what you can see yourself doing with enthusiasm every day. It might be a hobby, a skill, or a long-lost dream waiting to be reignited.

1. Aligning Values with Career:

Once you've identified your passions, the next step is to align them with your career. Consider how your skills and interests can be integrated into your current job or if it's time to explore a new path altogether. Finding a career that resonates with your values is crucial for long-term satisfaction.

1. Setting Goals:

Dreams are powerful, but turning them into reality requires a roadmap. Set achievable, realistic goals that align with your vision. Break down your dreams into smaller, manageable tasks. This not only makes the journey less daunting but also allows you to celebrate small victories along the way.

1. Embracing Change:

Creating your dream life often involves stepping out of your comfort zone. Be open to change and embrace the unknown. This may mean learning new skills, networking with different people, or even considering a career shift. Change is the catalyst for growth and progress.

1. Cultivating a Positive Mindset:

A positive mindset is crucial for navigating the challenges that come with chasing your dreams. Focus on the opportunities rather than the obstacles, and view setbacks as valuable lessons. Surround yourself with positivity and gratitude, as these emotions fuel resilience and determination.

1. Prioritizing Work-Life Balance:

Creating your dream life isn't just about achieving professional success; it's also about maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Ensure you allocate time for personal growth, relationships, and self-care. A well-rounded life is more likely to foster long-term happiness and fulfillment.

1. Networking and Collaboration:

Building relationships with like-minded individuals can be a powerful catalyst for success. Network within your industry, attend events, and seek out collaborative opportunities. The support and insights gained from a community of passionate individuals can propel you towards your dreams.

1. Celebrating Small Wins:

Every small choice and achievement contributes to the larger picture of your dream life. Celebrate your victories, no matter how minor. Recognizing and appreciating your progress will motivate you to keep pushing forward.

Finding love in your work and crafting your dream life is a journey of self-discovery, courage, and perseverance. It's about making conscious choices each day that align with your passions and values. By embracing change, setting goals, cultivating a positive mindset, and prioritizing work-life balance, you can turn your dreams into a reality, one small choice at a time. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination, so savor each step along the way.

Branding

If you’re looking to maximise your growth on social media and connect more meaningfully to your audience, you’re going to need some personal branding photos. The good news is we’re already booked in, so you’re halfway there!
Here are some things to think about if this is you:

• It’s all about consistency. How can this shoot help you cohesively represent your brand across all platforms? What are the emotions you’re trying to evoke? What colors represent your brand?

• Consider creating and sharing a mood board with me so that I can get an idea for the creative direction of the shoot. I want us to be on the same page so that I can start planning poses, talking to you about styling options, locations, and what to wear.

• Ask yourself what your top three words are to describe your business, and let me know!

The more prepared you are, the better the shoot will go. But in between the shots on the shot list, there will be moments that neither of us could have predicted, and those moments will be candid gold. The key is to prep, but also to keep an open mind for all of the happy accidents that happen along the way.

Bringing the family

It can be incredibly special having your loved ones join you in front of the camera for your maternity shoot. There’s something so heartwarming about being able to look at the photographs and actually see the connection between yourself, your unborn little one, your partner and/or your other soon-to-be big siblings.

Getting them on board can sometimes be a bit of a struggle – though it’s often easier to get the younger kids to come along than it is a hesitant partner. Letting kids be silly, and giving them the chance to see the session as a game is our best chance of capturing some joyful, authentic moments.

If your partner is dragging their heels, try to let them know that it’s normal to be less-than-thrilled about being in front of the camera. The photographs that you’ll be able to look back on will make it all worth it.

Besides, it’ll be way more fun than they think! I won’t make anyone stand in front of me and look into the lens the entire time – we’ll be doing things in the most relaxed way possible so nobody has to force a smile or feel overwhelmed and awkward.

Let's dive into my story,

Picture this: my roots are firmly planted in the charming backdrop of Star Valley, Wyoming. Now, growing up, I had my fair share of body image hang-ups and confidence struggles. I'll admit, I sometimes overcompensated to mask my insecurities. Plus, I was navigating the tricky terrain of trauma without even realizing it, and let's not even talk about my knack for stumbling into some truly unwholesome relationships. Looking in the mirror? Oh boy, that was a challenge.

But guess what? I decided to embark on a quest of self-discovery. I joined the Teton County Sheriff’s Victim Witness Advocate Program as a volunteer, lending a helping hand where it mattered most. And speaking of hands-on experiences, I became a guide in the enchanting realms of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park. Nature has this way of healing, you know? Along the way, I soaked up knowledge about emotional growth in the face of trauma and building up the self-esteem of fellow young adults.

Now, here's the exciting part. I had an epiphany. I wanted to do more—to be a friendly ear and a guiding light for all those braving the same storms of life. So, I took the plunge and got certified in Life Coaching and even scored a Level II Confidence Coaching CGRCC badge. You've got to understand, I'm all about spreading positivity like confetti! 🎉

And then, boudoir photography strutted into my world. Oh boy, did I fall head over heels for it! Capturing that unapologetic confidence, those radiant vibes—what's not to adore? After a couple of years basking in the world of boudoir, I decided to expand my horizons to lifestyle photography. Turns out, I'm just as smitten with freezing those everyday, genuine moments in time.

Remember my stint as a guide? Well, it ignited a wildfire of passion for the untamed beauty of Yellowstone and Grand Teton. That led me to the realization that I want to seize life's special moments and cast them in the most fabulous light possible. Anyone can say "cheese" to a camera, but my knack lies in capturing those unfiltered, in-between instances that brim with real emotions. Every snap I take aims to stir something inside you and hold your gaze.

So, let's chat! We can hop on a call, have a virtual tête-à-tête through emails, or grab a coffee together if you're around. Can't wait to connect and share more stories and ideas! 🌟

Kids will be kids!

If you walk away after reading this and only remember one thing, let it be this: have zero expectations. Embrace what comes – the wind, the rain, the laughter, whatever unfolds. Every shoot is unique, and we have no set shot list to tick off on the day. It’s all about YOU and capturing your life exactly how it is on the day of your shoot. We’re not here to mimic the shiny perfect families you see on your feed, we’re here to tell your unique story as it shows up on the day of the shoot – wrinkles, tears, joyous abandon, and all. Throw your checklist out the window and know that magic will naturally unfold. When it does, I’ll be there to capture it.

LETS BE FRIENDS

You’re booked? Great! I love the fact that life is like a box of chocolates. Every couple that I work with brings their own special sparkle to the table, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. It makes me so happy to be able to connect with the many personalities that walk through the door, and to be able to tell stories that are unique to each and every single person.

I believe there’s a reason that we’ve crossed paths, and I hope that a big part of that reason is that you found something within my work that you resonate with. If that’s the case, we’re off to an amazing start.

In any case, I’ll send you over a questionnaire so that we can start the friendship for real. I’m interested in knowing who you are, what matters to you, what your love language is, what keeps you up at night, what kind of ice cream you choose every time. The more comfortable we are around each other, the better your photos will be, and what better place to start than with real connection? Feel free to fire some questions of your own back at me too, it’s only fair you know who’s telling your story.

Boudoir Wardrobe Decisions

Don’t be fooled – the world of boudoir is about much more than lace and lingerie. There are so many options for clothing (or no clothing), and what you wear to your session should make you feel sexy, confident, and authentic.

When choosing the perfect garments, consider bringing things that have interesting textures like lace, knits, embroidery, leather, or chiffon. Avoid anything with a logo or text on it, and steer clear from super bright, high-contrast prints and patterns.

Choose items that accentuate your shape. Large, boxy, oversized shirts and dresses won’t turn up well in camera. Think high-waisted cuts, corsets, and bodysuits – things that are designed with the contours of the body in mind.

If you’d like to shoot in your birthday suit, there’s a lot we can do with bedsheets, throws, and silhouettes so that you can strike the perfect balance between revealing and concealing.

If you want to get a lil’ freaky, costumes can provide you with the opportunity to step into a different version of yourself, even just temporarily. Channeling a different character can sometimes make it easier to summon that elusive confidence that is required when presenting yourself to a photographer.

HOW TO MATCH YOUR OUTFIT TO THE LOCATION AND SEASON.

If you’re wearing a fancy ball gown in your living room, the viewer might assume you’re going to prom. Don a little sundress number in a snowy field and the viewer might suffer from a crippling amount of pity for you. You and I will be collaborating on telling your story together, so let’s get this right.

Plan your outfits around what you know about the conditions at the location we’ll be shooting at. You’ll want to be warm enough (or cool enough!), have pain-free feet, and look relatively native to your environment. For at home sessions, slip into your comfiest comfies and rock that (pants optional). The idea is to authentically capture you wherever you are.

Think through your clothing choices logically based on location, vibe, and comfort level.

TIP: MAYBE DON’T WEAR ALL BLACK ON A STINKIN’ HOT DAY. JUST TRUST ME ON THIS ONE.

Branding session with me? Here’s what to expect!

During the photoshoot, don’t worry if you don’t know what to do because I will direct you. Most people just automatically look at the camera and smile, but I’ll probably tell you to look away or to let yourself be absorbed in whatever you’re doing like working away on your laptop, reading a magazine, or giving me your broodiest blue steel. We’ll dance, chat, walk, act, and laugh, and you’ll be so busy enjoying yourself that you’ll forget that you’re having your photo taken. I promise I’ll let you know when it’s appropriate to look at the camera. Until then, just do your thing and let yourself be as silly or as serious as you want to be. Just know that there is no ‘right’ way to do things! If I tell you to walk towards the camera, do it in the way that you normally would – and I know this bit is hard, but try not to overthink it!

My goal is for you to feel as authentic and comfortable in front of my lens as you can. I will take care of you, and all you have to do is show up and watch the magic happen.