At the beginning of the summer, the Missouri Trucking Association came to Cedar Creek in an effort to build connections between the association’s different trucking companies.
“No one really knew one another, and we wanted the group to spend time getting to know one another both personally and professionally,” said Judy Stockton, Director of Business Operations & Meetings for the Missouri Trucking Association.
Since the primary goal of the retreat was building relationships and strengthening communication, Stockton contacted Jeni Grunzinger, Sales and Marketing Manager for Cedar Creek, to create an individualized retreat package that would help the group get to know one another in a fun and relaxing environment.
“Helping plan MTA’s retreat was a lot of fun,” said Grunzinger. “They took full advantage of the on-site activities, and scheduled a bonfire, 2nd Shift Brewing beer tasting, and a two-hour team building exercise led by one of our program coordinators on the low-ropes confidence course.”
Early afternoon the group gathered for the low-ropes confidence course. About an hour into the exercise, the group was talking and laughing, but more importantly they were working together to overcome obstacles and challenges.
“The Wall was one of their favorite parts because we told them ‘no’ and it motivated them,” said Stockton, who, when planning, took great care to ensure that the course was not too physically challenging for the group.
Originally designed as a resting point with waters and snacks, the group saw the Wall and asked if they could do it.
“We hesitated at first because the group had been on the course for a while already and it was quite hot,” said Grunzinger.
However, the group could not be deterred, and began to strategize how to get their entire team from one side of the 15 foot wall to the other.
“They did it!” exclaimed Stockton. “Overcoming an obstacle they thought was originally impossible was a great moment for the group.”
After the course, the group headed to the Western Town for their 2nd Shift Brewing tasting, which included five large samples and a pint before heading off to dinner and then the bonfire.
“We would definitely do it again! The group had a great time, and even expressed interest in getting their management teams out on the course,” said Stockton.
[ngg_images source=”galleries” container_ids=”9″ display_type=”photocrati-nextgen_basic_thumbnails” override_thumbnail_settings=”1″ thumbnail_width=”150″ thumbnail_height=”100″ thumbnail_crop=”1″ images_per_page=”20″ number_of_columns=”0″ ajax_pagination=”1″ show_all_in_lightbox=”0″ use_imagebrowser_effect=”0″ show_slideshow_link=”0″ slideshow_link_text=”[Show slideshow]” template=”default” order_by=”sortorder” order_direction=”ASC” returns=”included” maximum_entity_count=”500″]
To begin planning your group’s meeting or retreat at Cedar Creek, contact us today, or fill out our group rates form online.
Wedding favors are one of the dozens of things engaged couples should consider for their upcoming outdoor wedding. Although a relatively minor detail, an out-of-the-box wedding favor can set the tone for a fabulous weekend. Of course, some couples are more creative in this department than others.
Ideal wedding favors match the personality of the couple and can be enjoyed by guests. The best wedding favors also consider the location of the wedding and even the season. You wouldn’t want to give wedding guests hot chocolate mix in the middle of July. Instead, take a look at some of these creative favors for the summer nuptials. They’re inexpensive, fit the tone of the season and are sure to please guests.
Fans
Guests might lose interest in your wedding if it’s 100 degrees outside with 90 percent humidity. Consider having them cool off with a portable fan. They’re inexpensive and will come in handy during that five-minute break away from the dance floor. Or you can get creative and personalize some old-fashioned hand fans for your guests.
Sunscreen
Many of your wedding guests have probably made an entire trip for your occasion, which means that during the summer, you can expect them to spend a lot of time outside. Provide them with a personalized bottle of sunscreen — you don’t want your guests grumbling about their sunburns on your special day.
Sunglasses
The glare of the sun can be a distraction from all of those wedding toasts and other special moments. By providing sunglasses as a wedding favor, you can be certain that guests won’t have to miss a minute of any festivities.
Reusable Water Bottles
If you host your wedding at a resort such as Cedar Creek, there’s a good chance that some of your guests might want to explore the trails and other outdoor amenities. A reusable water bottle is a good way to encourage your partygoers to toast to your wedding while also ensuring they stay adequately hydrated.
Customized Playing Cards
“I already have too many playing cards at my house,” said no one ever. Anyone can use an extra set of playing cards, especially as they go on their summer vacations. Since you won’t have wedding photos yet, you could use different photos of you and your soon-to-be spouse on each of the cards. Of course, this wedding favor is perfect for any time of year.
Golf Balls and Tees
Before or after the wedding, your guests might want to enjoy a nice round of golf. Treat them with a set of complementary balls and tees. Although they’re available at the golf course, the gesture is what’s important here.
S’mores Kit
For the outdoorsy bunch, summertime often means camping and campfires. Provide your adventurous friends with a tasty treat as they embark on their summer journeys. Just make sure it’s something that won’t melt too quickly.
Coasters
On a hot day, people often enjoy sitting outside with a refreshing beverage right at their side. Providing your guests with personalized coasters is a perfect way to have the memory of your big day live on long after the wedding itself.
Visors
It’s kind of like giving out hats, but it puts a summer spin on things. Plus, these gifts might come in handy at the wedding if your guests need to get rid of sun glare without messing up their hair.
Food & Drink Basket
Many people use some sort of food item for their wedding favors. But to get creative, make a summer-themed basket. Pina colada mix, lemonade mix and summer fruits such as mangoes, melons and peaches are all good things to include in your wedding favors.
Have any other good ideas for summer-themed wedding favors? Feel free to add them in the comments below.
It is not uncommon to find our property packed during the week with companies, not-for-profits, governmental agencies, and religious organizations all trying to strengthen office morale, empower employees, and streamline operations through Team Building activities.
Team Building comes in a variety of forms. From brainstorming sessions, roundtable discussions, and professional development seminars in our meeting and conference rooms, to “get-to-know-you” games and hands-on activities held both inside and outside, we welcome and support your plans and ideas to make your retreat a success.
Moreover, because we have become a popular venue for retreats, we now offer a variety of Team Building Activities led by one of our program coordinators, who will work with you in advance to discuss your group’s goals and objectives, and your current group dynamic to tailor a plan specifically for your team. Each experience is unique, but all are designed to encourage teamwork, taking overall performance to a new level.
Several of our most popular Team Building Activities include:
- Our Low Ropes Confidence Course – Designed to challenge team members in a series of planned exercises that encourage valuable skills like Leadership, Teamwork, Trust, Cooperation, Communication, Problem Solving, Overcoming Obstacles, and Supporting Others.
- Beer Tasting – Your group will experience the fine art of beer making and learn more about the raw ingredients used in the brewing process. Generous samples of at least 5 different beers will be tasted during this lively presentation. At the end participants will receive a pint of the beer they like the best! Snacks may be arranged per the Specialty Break and Hors D’oeuvres Menu.
- Western Town BBQ – Enjoy a chuck wagon style barbeque dinner in a unique vintage western setting. Complimentary cowboy hat and bandana for each guest.
- Wine Tasting Party – Guests will enjoy generous samples of fine wines. All are described by a wine expert as they are poured. Tasting sheets describing each wine will be provided to the guests for future reference. This is a great event for wine enthusiasts as well as beginners. Snacks may be arranged per the Specialty Break and Hors D’oeuvres Menu.
- Mystery Dinner – This comical and entertaining show has many themes available. Guests are encouraged to dress in theme attire and interact with the show.
- Campfire – Star filled skies, clean country air, and the warmth of a campfire is an excellent way to unwind after your meetings. Included in the set-up is building and lighting the fire, and all the makings for S’mores for your entire group.
- Historic Hermann, Missouri Day Excursion – Take a winery tour and visit historic Hermann Missouri. Transportation provided by coach bus or limousine to and from Cedar Creek.
- Golf – Our 9-Hole Par-3 Executive Course can be reserved for a friendly tournament or hole-sponsored contest.
Need help in the planning process? Download our Corporate Retreat Checklist, or contact Jennifer Buwalda, Manager of Meetings & Events, by calling 573.237.3672 ext. 510 or emailing contact@cedarcreekcenter.com.
Cedar Creek’s Town Hall is a great venue for wedding parties looking for a small space filled with unique character and history. Located in the heart of the Western Town, the Town hall offers a beautiful countryside property to our ample amenities.
What’s more, the Town Hall offers unlimited opportunities for wedding parties, and has been used for cocktail hours, rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, and receptions. The Town Hall accommodates up to 80 guests.
Brides who have chosen the Town Hall have added their unique, personal touch to the beautiful countryside setting with stunning floral arrangements, fragrant candles, softly-lit lanterns, beautiful centerpieces, and more, so it came as no surprise when one of our recent weddings was featured as the COVER of the Weddings & Celebrations special section for Town & Style Magazine. Click here to view!
For wedding parties and their guests, Cedar Creek also offers several overnight accommodations, including the hotel-style Cedar Lodge and several private homes. For more information on our lodging, please click here.
Next, our talented team of chefs will create a delicious, high-quality, made-from-scratch menu that will leave your guests raving. Our exceptional catering team can also create an entire dessert buffet tailored to your specifications. To view sample menus, please click here.
In addition to our catering services you may choose from a couple of outside caterers we’ve partnered with that we feel have the same standards of quality & service that we do. We also welcome any licensed vendors that you choose to work for the other details of your wedding however we have a list of a few that we highly recommend. Click here for the list.
Guests who attend weddings and receptions at Cedar Creek also enjoy the welcoming environment and local diversions, including:
- Fishing – the lake is stocked with bass, catfish, crappie, and perch
- Golfing – Cedar Creek is home to a nine-hole, par-three, executive golf course
- Hiking – Cedar Creek’s Bluebird and Deer Run Trails encircle the property and offer spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
- Wine Tours – Located in the heart of Missouri’s robust wine country, the area offers ample vineyard and wineries for tastings and tours. A distillery, Pinckney Bend, also offers tastings and tours of local, handcraft spirits.
- Beer Tastings – We carry a wide selection of craft beers made by the finest brew masters in the region!
[ngg_images source=”galleries” container_ids=”10″ display_type=”photocrati-nextgen_basic_thumbnails” override_thumbnail_settings=”1″ thumbnail_width=”150″ thumbnail_height=”100″ thumbnail_crop=”1″ images_per_page=”20″ number_of_columns=”0″ ajax_pagination=”1″ show_all_in_lightbox=”0″ use_imagebrowser_effect=”0″ show_slideshow_link=”0″ slideshow_link_text=”[Show slideshow]” order_by=”sortorder” order_direction=”ASC” returns=”included” maximum_entity_count=”500″]
For more information, please contact a wedding coordinator by emailing weddings@cedarcreekcenter.com!
Cedar Creek’s “Patio and Pergola” is a great venue for wedding parties looking for an intimate space in an outdoor setting. Located strategically between Cedar Creek’s guest houses and the Western Town, the “Patio and Pergola” offers a 360 view of our beautiful countryside property to our ample amenities.
What’s more, the “Patio and Pergola” offers unlimited opportunities for wedding parties, and has been used for cocktail hours, rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, receptions, and outdoor dance floor. The “Patio and Pergola” accommodates up to 150 guests.
Brides who have chosen the “Patio and Pergola” have added their unique, personal touch to the beautiful countryside setting with stunning floral arrangements, fragrant candles, softly-lit lanterns, beautiful centerpieces, and more, so it came as no surprise when one of our recent weddings was featured as the COVER of the Weddings & Celebrations special section for Town & Style Magazine. Click here to view!
For wedding parties and their guests, Cedar Creek also offers several overnight accommodations, including the hotel-style Cedar Lodge and several private homes. For more information on our lodging, please click here.
Next, our talented team of chefs will create a delicious, high-quality, made-from-scratch menu that will leave your guests raving. Our exceptional catering team can also create an entire dessert buffet tailored to your specifications.
In addition to our catering services you may choose from a couple of outside caterers we’ve partnered with that we feel have the same standards of quality & service that we do. We also welcome any licensed vendors that you choose to work for the other details of your wedding however we have a list of a few that we highly recommend.
Guests who attend weddings and receptions at Cedar Creek also enjoy the welcoming environment and local diversions, including:
- Fishing – the lake is stocked with bass, catfish, crappie, and perch
- Golfing – Cedar Creek is home to a nine-hole, par-three, executive golf course
- Hiking – Cedar Creek’s Bluebird and Deer Run Trails encircle the property and offer spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
- Wine Tours – Located in the heart of Missouri’s robust wine country, the area offers ample vineyard and wineries for tastings and tours. A distillery, Pinckney Bend, also offers tastings and tours of local, handcraft spirits.
- Beer Tastings – We carry a wide selection of craft beers made by the finest brew masters in the region!
[ngg_images source=”galleries” container_ids=”11″ display_type=”photocrati-nextgen_basic_thumbnails” override_thumbnail_settings=”1″ thumbnail_width=”150″ thumbnail_height=”100″ thumbnail_crop=”1″ images_per_page=”20″ number_of_columns=”0″ ajax_pagination=”1″ show_all_in_lightbox=”0″ use_imagebrowser_effect=”0″ show_slideshow_link=”0″ slideshow_link_text=”[Show slideshow]” template=”default” order_by=”sortorder” order_direction=”ASC” returns=”included” maximum_entity_count=”500″]
For more information, please contact a wedding coordinator by emailing weddings@cedarcreekcenter.com!
Sure, there’s a lot to do in the St. Louis area. But sometimes, you just want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and head out for the perfect weekend getaway.
Should you tour a winery or stay at a quaint bed and breakfast? How about camp or attend a festival in a nearby town? Finding that perfect weekend excursion to recharge your batteries can be a draining exercise in of itself.
We get it, and therefore we’ve created an all-encompassing guide to help you determine the perfect weekend destinations: A St. Louisan’s Guide to the Perfect Weekend Getaway. In the booklet, we detail 18 different places within Missouri and Illinois, including wineries, bed and breakfasts, state parks, lakes and even a few small towns. And of course, we wouldn’t forget Cedar Creek.
Each page provides an overview of the destination, things to do once you’ve arrived as well as seasonal events taking place. We’ve chosen these 18 places since they each have their own distinct vibe and amenities that will suit every city dweller.
So check out the guide, make your plans and enjoy your relaxing weekend getaway.
Cedar Creek offers several beautiful, natural settings for brides and grooms looking for an intimate location with a calming, home-like atmosphere. One popular spot, the “Lawn,” is able to accommodate approximately 1,000 guests.
Brides who have chosen the “Lawn” have added their unique, personal touch to the beautiful countryside setting with stunning floral arrangements, fragrant candles, softly-lit lanterns, and horse-drawn carriages so it came as no surprise when one of our recent weddings was featured as the COVER of the Weddings & Celebrations special section for Town & Style Magazine. Click here to view!
For wedding parties and their guests, Cedar Creek also offers several overnight accommodations, including the hotel-style Cedar Lodge and several private homes. For more information on our lodging, please click here.
Next, our talented team of chefs will create a delicious, high-quality, made-from-scratch menu that will leave your guests raving. Our exceptional catering team can also create an entire dessert buffet tailored to your specifications.
In addition to our catering services you may choose from a couple of outside caterers we’ve partnered with that we feel have the same standards of quality & service that we do. We also welcome any licensed vendors that you choose to work for the other details of your wedding however we have a list of a few that we highly recommend.
Guests who attend weddings and receptions at Cedar Creek also enjoy the welcoming environment and local diversions, including:
- Fishing – the lake is stocked with bass, catfish, crappie, and perch
- Golfing – Cedar Creek is home to a nine-hole, par-three, executive golf course
- Hiking – Cedar Creek’s Bluebird and Deer Run Trails encircle the property and offer spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
- Wine Tours – Located in the heart of Missouri’s robust wine country, the area offers ample vineyard and wineries for tastings and tours. A distillery, Pinckney Bend, also offers tastings and tours of local, handcraft spirits.
- Beer Tastings – We carry a wide selection of craft beers made by the finest brew masters in the region!
[ngg_images source=”galleries” container_ids=”12″ display_type=”photocrati-nextgen_basic_thumbnails” override_thumbnail_settings=”1″ thumbnail_width=”150″ thumbnail_height=”100″ thumbnail_crop=”1″ images_per_page=”20″ number_of_columns=”0″ ajax_pagination=”1″ show_all_in_lightbox=”0″ use_imagebrowser_effect=”0″ show_slideshow_link=”0″ slideshow_link_text=”[Show slideshow]” template=”default” order_by=”sortorder” order_direction=”ASC” returns=”included” maximum_entity_count=”500″]
For more information, please contact a wedding coordinator by emailing weddings@cedarcreekcenter.com!
Cedar Creek offers several beautiful, natural settings for brides and grooms looking for an intimate location with a calming, home-like atmosphere. One popular spot, the Lake, is located alongside the nine hole executive golf course, and offers native wildflowers; a serene, seven-acre lake; and stunning, handmade wood and ropes bridge.
Able to accommodate approximately 400 guests, brides have added their personal touch to the Lake’s natural setting with custom flowers, candles, lanterns, and custom arches.
From Danielle Anderson, a former bride, who chose the Lake for her vows, stated:
“The wedding couldn’t have been more beautiful. For the ceremony, I walked across Cedar Creek’s picturesque bridge with the sun shining down and the water gleaming. It was truly a scene out of a movie. The toasts were given with a beautiful sunset as the backdrop, and we were able to dance the night away beneath the stars.”
For wedding parties and their guests, Cedar Creek also offers several overnight accommodations, including the hotel-style Cedar Lodge and several private homes. For more information on our lodging, please click here.
Next, our talented team of chefs will create a delicious, high-quality, made-from-scratch menu that will leave your guests raving. Our exceptional catering team can also create an entire dessert buffet tailored to your specifications.
In addition to our catering services you may choose from a couple of outside caterers we’ve partnered with that we feel have the same standards of quality & service that we do. We also welcome any licensed vendors that you choose to work for the other details of your wedding however we have a list of a few that we highly recommend.
Guests who attend weddings and receptions at Cedar Creek also enjoy the welcoming environment and local diversions, including:
- Fishing – the lake is stocked with bass, catfish, crappie, and perch
- Golfing – Cedar Creek is home to a nine-hole, par-three, executive golf course
- Hiking – Cedar Creek’s Bluebird and Deer Run Trails encircle the property and offer spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
- Wine Tours – Located in the heart of Missouri’s robust wine country, the area offers ample vineyard and wineries for tastings and tours. A distillery, Pinckney Bend, also offers tastings and tours of local, handcraft spirits.
- Beer Tastings – We carry a wide selection of craft beers made by the finest brew masters in the region!
[ngg_images source=”galleries” container_ids=”13″ display_type=”photocrati-nextgen_basic_thumbnails” override_thumbnail_settings=”1″ thumbnail_width=”150″ thumbnail_height=”100″ thumbnail_crop=”1″ images_per_page=”20″ number_of_columns=”0″ ajax_pagination=”1″ show_all_in_lightbox=”0″ use_imagebrowser_effect=”0″ show_slideshow_link=”0″ slideshow_link_text=”[Show slideshow]” template=”default” order_by=”sortorder” order_direction=”ASC” returns=”included” maximum_entity_count=”500″]
For more information, please contact a wedding coordinator by emailing weddings@cedarcreekcenter.com!
There’s no question about it – weddings are really expensive. According to The Knot’s 2014 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of a wedding in 2014 was over $31,000. Moreover, 45 percent of weddings ended up exceeding couple’s budgets.
Maybe you still want to have an awesome wedding but don’t have a ton of cash or don’t want to take out a mortgage to pay for one. In this case, it’s time to find a way to cut costs. One way to do so – serve as your own DJ at the wedding. With services such as iTunes and Spotify, you can keep the party up while saving as much as thousands by forgoing the DJ or wedding band altogether.
But cutting the DJ/wedding band isn’t all that easy — if you’re trying to provide a memorable wedding experience, you can’t just set your smartphone up and dance the night away. The music portion of the evening should be as meticulously planned as any other part of your special day.
Note: We aren’t trying to put all DJs out of work — there are some advantages to having them at a wedding. They can set the tone for the reception, serve as a party facilitator and can easily adjust the atmosphere during the party. We are merely mentioning it is possible to have a successful wedding without one.
Planning is Essential
Throughout the evening, there will be several times where the music should be stopped (dinner, toasts, anything of that nature). There will also be several points in the evening where the music will fit with a particular activity (first dance, throwing of the bouquet, etc.) Don’t just wing it, make sure this is adequately planned out. Moreover, who’s going to know exactly when this is coming up? Make sure someone is available to pinpoint those parts of the wedding.
Must Have the Right Flow
Think of the weddings you have attended. What kind of music did they play? You’ve probably noticed some similarities. While the music playlist should be adjusted based on the guests at hand, there are definitely some safe bets and definitely off-limits songs. Use discretion when building the playlist.
But really, the playlist should fit you and your significant other. What songs have meaning to you? Was there a specific song that you danced to with your now-spouse for the very first time? Include it. Is there a song you and your friends love to rock out to? Include that too (within reason). Another good idea would be to solicit input from your guests. Consider adding a line for music requests on the invitation.
Also, build a playlist a bit longer than you would anticipate needing. There would be nothing more awkward than finishing a playlist early or having to repeat songs.
Same Goes for Equipment
You obviously just can’t show up with your iPhone and call it a plan. Make sure to have a good set of speakers that adequately fit the venue and its acoustics. Moreover, make sure that a good microphone (or two) is on hand. Often times the mics are provided by the DJ, so it’s something you’ll have to think about if you go without.
In addition, depending on the venue and the atmosphere you want to provide, you need to think whether you want to provide any additional lighting. If you want to control the lighting in the venue throughout the evening, someone needs to volunteer to take on that responsibility.
For both lighting and sound, the equipment that you will need will vary considerably depending on the venue you use. Make sure you get clear guidance from a venue staffer on the acoustics and lights. Once you receive that information, then you can go about the rental process. Needless to say, there are a lot of places online and in-store to look into when trying to find the right equipment. Given the event is one day, make sure that you can find a place, if possible, that will rent you the equipment you will need by the day.
A Backup Plan is an Absolute Must
Maybe one of the speakers goes out. Maybe your device goes bad. Or maybe you just get the vibe that people just aren’t quite into the dancing mood. Whatever the case may be, having a clear plan in place when things don’t necessarily work out as planned is an absolute necessity.
If you’re going to DJ your own wedding, a good backup would be to have at least two sets of everything: speakers, iPhones, playlists and microphones.
Have any other good tips to keep down the cost of the wedding? Feel free to provide your suggestions in the comments.
For more information, please contact a wedding coordinator by emailing weddings@cedarcreekcenter.com!
Simply put, a portrait is a photo of an individual’s face. Why the face? Photos are frozen moments in time, and the face is the most expressive part of the body as well as the easiest to interpret. Unfortunately, today’s portraits show the individual smiling with a blurred background so that their features are highlighted. However, while these portraits are incredibly beautiful, it does not capture the individual’s uniqueness or personality. Because of this, lesson 2 of our tutorial will focus on how to take a true portrait of an individual with the intent to display the likeness, personality, and even the mood of the individual.
The Eyes.
It is said that the eyes are the window to the soul, and thus portraits should have sharp images of the eyes.
For a staged photo session, set your camera to single point focus mode. In this mode, you will see all of the focus point brackets when you look through the viewfinder, but you will only use one. The focus point should be set on one eye.
For a photo session in which the subject in moving around constantly (think children!), set the camera to continuous focus mode, which will allow you to choose the focal points by toggling the brackets while you camera attempts to adjust focus.
After you have captured your shot, always review your photo and zoom in on the eyes to ensure that they are indeed sharp.
For more information on setting autofocus, we recommend reading “Master your camera’s autofocus: which AF point to use and when to use them” by Digital Camera World.
Background.
Based on the individual’s level of comfort, a photographer can take several portrait depths to capture an individual’s personality.
No Background- the frame is full of face. Many people do not feel comfortable with this type of photography as it is very exposing. However, the effects, especially in black and white, are captivating and raw with emotion. These types of photos are taken in a studio with the camera on a tripod to add stability to the image.
Little- the frame is 2/3 face and 1/3 background. This type of portrait tends to feature the blurred background. Given the level of blurriness in these types of photos, most professional photographers prefer to take these photos in studio since that is where they are most comfortable with lighting, and they don’t have to haul their equipment around; however, offsite photos can be accommodated.
Half and Half- the frame is half face and half background. This photo captures the soulful aspect of the musician while highlighting his ability to sing. These types of photos are usually taken offsite at an agreed upon location.
Majority-the frame is 2/3 background and 1/3 face. These types of photos are usually taken offsite at an agreed upon location.
As stated previously, the most popular background in portraits is a blurred scene. However, using a background can help display a person’s individual traits. For an athlete, a gym or field. For a performer, a studio or stage. An avid reader, a library. However, remember to keep your background minimal to avoid clutter or distractions. This is done by using a wider aperture and/or restricting the depth of field.
Other helpful tips:
- Natural light is the most flattering due to its soft nature.
- Always keep the light behind the photographer to ensure natural lighting on the individual.
- When it comes to choosing clothing and backgrounds use complimentary colors.
- Make sure the individual being photographed is relaxed. Here is an excellent article titled “Communication: A Vital Detail Often Ignored” by Dani Diamond that offers several tips.
Conclusion
To continue to enhance your skills as a photographer, we also encourage taking photos regularly to increase familiarity with your camera. For learning experiences as well as personal (non-professional grade photography), we invite you to visit Cedar Creek during our normal business hours on Saturday and Sunday.
For professional grade photography sessions, including portraits and engagement sessions, please contact us.