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On the rare occasions when my husband and I sneak away for a date night, I like to do something to capture that memory. My view is why should the kids be the only reason we take out the camera?
So, when we recently went out on a weeknight to celebrate our 14-year dating anniversary (yes, I will use any excuse to get out of the house), I definitely made my husband break out the camera phone. That being said, after a long day neither of us were feeling very photogenic, so we took a shot of the next best couple in the room. The great part is that in seeing this picture, it is all I need to bring back the memories of an impromptu night out. Photos can truly serve as the scrapbooks of our lives! Cheers to camera phones, Michelle Schoulder, President |
Taken at Tino's Cucina in Mt. Vernon, NY.
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Raising two sons that show no interest in having their picture taken, I have tried it all to capture that perfect family photo. Bribes, threats to take away bribes...nothing seemed to work. In the end, my husband and I developed our own method that has a decent success rate. What is our secret? Well, the tickle monster of course.
There is this stretch of time, particularly between ages three and six, where asking my children to "say cheese" turns into this horribly forced smile with a chin so high up in the air you can barely see a face. Realizing that the tried-and-true "cheese" method was out, we endeavored to find something that worked for us - the tickle. Right before the photo is taken, we give an oh-so-gentle tickle and prompt them to look at the camera. The result? On the worst attempts, you still win by getting to enjoy the sound of laughter. At best, you walk away with images like you see from our recent trip to Newport, RI. Plus who doesn't love wrapping their arms around their little ones? It may not always work, but it is worth the try! Find what tickles your family's fancy, Michelle Schoulder, President |
Taken aboard the Aquidneck in Newport, RI.
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Sometimes what makes a picture perfect is not the technique used to photograph it, but the subject matter in it of itself. Of course that would apply to images of our family and friends, but for me it also is reflected in how a party theme ultimately came together.
The two images I selected this month are from back-to-back parties that I held at my home celebrating my son's 5th and my 40th birthdays. I get great pleasure transporting our guests to somewhere other than my regular dining room. From table skirts to table cloths, we keep it fresh and most importantly fun. Lately I have even leveraged my chandelier by hanging objects from it using ornament hooks. The decor helps me serve up the perfect themed menu from rainbow-inspired dishes for my son's Trolls party, to all-time favorite diner delights for my 1950s party. So go and serve up some fun, Michelle Schoulder, President |
Photography by K. Salkey Photography.
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After serving as Fundraising Vice-President for two years in the Junior League of Bronxville, I am constantly humbled by the individuals and businesses that support local community efforts.
Our spring fundraiser for 2017 was called Trends & Treasures and while it focused on fashion and home trends, there is one trend that I feel will always be on the rise and that is giving thanks. Therefore when my joint venture partner and fellow sponsor, K. Salkey Photography, arrived to capture the details of the event there was one shot I made sure he got. I had him photograph the various sponsor acknowledgements at the event, including this image of our VIP seats. Now I have the perfect piece to include in my thank you card. So always celebrate those that give and are often behind the scenes, by capturing their kindness on camera. Supporting others is always in style, Michelle Schoulder, President |
Photography from the Trends & Treasures
fundraiser by K. Salkey Photography. |
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For anyone that has ever attempted to photograph a group of people, especially kids, you know it would be close to a miracle to have everyone looking good, or even just looking at the camera, in the first shot. So why not take two...or twenty?
My note of caution, especially with how easy it is to keep clicking away on your phone cameras, is that it is better to stop and reset or rearrange the grouping then continue to take twenty of the same shot in hopes that one comes out. In the latter instance you are left with a lot of unused photos that will add to the growing size of your photo library (unless you are a disciplined deleter!). Will it work out? Not always. So, instead of insisting for that perfect picture, sometimes it is great to just curate the top one or two and celebrate the fact that kids are just kids. That is what you see in the two cute shots of my beautiful nieces with my two loves. Remembering how hard we were trying to get my little guy to focus makes looking back at the picture all-the-more special now...because at least I remember that he consistently ignored instruction at this age! Take two photos and email me in the morning, Michelle Schoulder, President |
It takes two...to make a picture go right?
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Milestone birthdays only come along every decade or so, right? That it is why, no matter how you choose to celebrate them, a few photos can help capture the magic until the next one rolls around.
For my husband Andrew's 40th birthday we took a much-needed trip away just as adults. While the weekend was all about rest and relaxation, I made it a point to still snap a few photos that would help us look back on how happy we were. Whether you take a selfie or ask the staff, I encourage you to find that moment within the milestone. Trips or big celebrations not your thing? Do not fear. How about a picture of your indulgence from the day? Perhaps a candid of your cake or a picture of a present? I believe that like a fine wine, we all improve with age. Bottle up a little bit of that birthday bliss with a snapshot you can savor. Make a wish...and a memory, Michelle Schoulder, President |
A collage made on Fotojet with
some bests from the big birthday! |
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Everyone has their obligatory set of New Year's Resolutions, right? Perhaps they revolve around health or housework or helping others. Well, regardless of how yours may be going so far, I would like to make a pitch to add another resolution to the potentially already-shrinking list.
The good news here is that the measure of success can be rather simple for this resolution. Maybe the goal is one for the year, or one per quarter...or for the very ambitious...one per month! But what am I referring to you ask? Resolve to take a picture that captures a family memory or moment that is outside the norm. We all instinctively pull our our camera at a wedding or birthday party or first-day-of something or other. However, every once in a while, I encourage you to capture the not-so-obvious. My picture this month demonstrates what I suggest. After making sure Santa's magic was all set in place, despite how tired I was, I quickly found the camera and captured our Christmas tree in all its silent glory. And now I think, "I'm so glad I did that." We all know what happens in the morning. So instead of trying to take a picture amid the chaos, looking back at this image serves as a reminder to me of how magical the season can be...both day and night. In the end #snaptshotsareforsmiles Pledging to pen more pointers, Michelle Schoulder, President |
Savoring the silence and Santa's handiwork!
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There are so many things that can be done with photographs nowadays. From filters that can change the hue or create a vintage look to apps that can turn your picture into a work of art with brush strokes and all, I encourage you to make the most of your holiday portraits this year.
Let's face it, if there is any point during the year when you will sit and coordinate your family outfits and maybe even hire a pro, it is in anticipation of printing those annual cards that will be sent to friends and family, far and near. So why not make the most of it and add in some elements that can last you all year long? In 2015 my family and I decided (or perhaps I should say that I decided and my family was forced to go along with it) to hold a frame with a blank paper inside. From there in "post-production" we were able to add in text to send a message as generic as "Thank You" or as specific as "Happy Birthday Papa." It was a great way to express ourselves and have a card that was unique and special for the ones receiving it. No matter what you do, maximize your memories! Happy holidays, Michelle Schoulder, President |
Send a message with your memory this year.
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For the month of November my pointer just has to revolve around food, because if you are anything like me you spend the majority of your time perusing new recipes to add to your Thanksgiving line-up of treats.
To that end, my pointer does not focus on how to take a specific picture of food, but more on how a food picture can inspire you to try something new. With the advent of sites like Pinterest there are endless ideas out there from all-out gourmet, to simple snacks and you just need to find the one that speaks to you. It is amazing how something as basic as a cheese and crackers platter can suddenly amp up the holiday cheer. Even better yet, so many of the images we find can easily be replicated with little helpers in the kitchen. There is nothing better for me when my favorite trio gets together - food, fotos and family! So go google and gooble, Michelle Schoulder, President |
Food meets fun when inspired by photography.
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When it comes time for Halloween, of course the obvious pointer is to take plenty of pictures of you or the little ones - be they kids or critters - in costume. However, my suggestion for this month is to sometimes take a picture from a different point of view - literally and figuratively.
There is not much interest in looking at the back of someone's head in a photo...until that view tells a greater story. I love the picture I am highlighting this month as even a year after taking it, when I look at the image, it reminds me of so much. It is great to see my sons (yes, in their matching Halloween pajamas) waiting with anticipation for the next batch of trick-or-treaters to come to the door. I am constantly amazed in how they seem to delight more in the act of handing out candies versus going out to collect them (and yes, I know that will not last for long). Maybe to someone else this picture does not convey any meaning, but if an image can evoke a memory for at least one person that is what makes it special. Snapshots can truly be our scrapbook of life in many ways. Treat yourself to future memories this year, Michelle Schoulder, President |
A new perspective from the night
of Halloween 2015. |
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If you are on any type of social media then you know as soon as August rolls around you will be seeing a ton of "back to school" pictures. What I started to take particular note of in those pictures are the many types of signs and boards that kids are proudly holding announcing their new grade or what they want to be when they grow up or some other cute fact or catch phrase.
Props are a great thing for photos especially when they help to tell the story of the snapshot. However, who has the time to carefully color in a small blackboard? Or maybe your are embarrassed of your handwriting that resembles chicken-scratch? For those folks out there who are able to pull it together...I amaze at your planning and patience! For the rest of us, the good news is the plethora of digital downloads that are available on sites like Etsy can be of great assistance. (I find they print really great on photo paper to stay truer to the color.) So in true student fashion, if you are a last-minute crammer, there is still hope! Downloads save the day, Michelle Schoulder, President |
Signs purchased and downloaded
from Hannah's Custom Designs. |
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Since August 19th is World Photo Day, I just had to use that as my inspiration for this month's Picture-Perfect Pointer. The big question then became, what set of images do I curate to celebrate this occasion? After some deep consideration, I thought why not share our first photos after we upgraded our camera collection, changing our joy of photography forever?
Of course for context this upgrade occurred in 2005 when my husband and I purchased what I still deem one of our best gifts for ourselves - our first Nikon DSLR camera. We figured there was no better time to take the plunge than before our 2-week honeymoon to Italy. And boy, were we right! The quality of the pictures we were able to take was beyond compare and many were enlarged and framed for my husband's office. They serve as a constant reminder of why he works so hard for our family. While a camera that fits in your pocket is convenient, and has a role to play in our day-to-day, nothing beats the quality of a single-lens reflex. So whether you have one and don't use it because it is "too big" or if you are contemplating if the sticker price is worth it, I can assure you that the memories you capture will bring smiles today and for generations to come. Invest in your images, Michelle Schoulder, President |
A collage made on Fotojet of some favorite moments
from my honeymoon to Italy in January 2006. |
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How many of us when invited to a party say, "Let me know if I can bring anything?" Which, without fail, the gracious host or hostess says, "Just yourself." However, what they should be saying is, "Just yourself...and your camera!"
Whenever I am at a party taking pictures (even just as a guest, and not as paid help), some guest always comments to me, "I should really use my nice camera more." Well, let me assure you that there is no better place or time to do that than at a party. Once you break out the camera, my suggestion would be to take those pictures that the party host would never dare to stop and capture at risk of neglecting the guests. That is what makes your support all the more special. Any host will delight in receiving an unexpected gift the day-after. My list of must-haves include: a solo picture of the guest of honor and one with the family or close friends, pictures of the decor (including the cake) and of course the guests. Oh, and don't forget one of yourself. Click away, Michelle Schoulder, President |
Pictures taken by Michelle Makes Memories.
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With photography it is quality, not quantity that counts. No matter how many pictures we can take within seconds in our digital age, it does not guarantee us that we will be able to capture that flawless photo.
By flawless I am not advocating altering a subject matter's shape or form. Quite the contrary. My preference is to highlight the subject by removing any potential distractions. Sometimes the basic editing tools of changing the brightness or cropping in will not cut it. That is where someone with more advanced software can help out by removing rogue objects or individuals or in the case of little ones...maybe masking that runny nose or giving a virtual face wipe to that leftover lunch! Friends often compliment me that I take the best pictures. My response is that I take plenty of bad pictures...I just spend the time to edit them before posting for the world to see. With an editing eye, Michelle Schoulder, President |
Check out more of my Before & After
examples by clicking here. |
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April showers traditionally bring May flowers, but this year in my life they brought a fundraiser, fashion show and fabulous memories!
One of my greatest joys outside of my family is being able to utilize my skill set in a way that helps others. So when asked to serve as Fundraising Vice-President for the Junior League of Bronxville it was a no brainer. I am able to volunteer, plan events and help Stamp Out Hunger in Southern Westchester while doing it. After planning a number of fundraisers, my advice to others is to take advantage of the photo opportunities. There is no better way to promote your organization's brand and create buzz around an event than when people are sharing pictures on social media for the days following. Nothing says "support us" like smiling faces! As I say to my team, don't forget the "fun" in fundraising, Michelle Schoulder, President |
Photography from the fundraiser by
K. Salkey Photography. |
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Planning parties can be a lot of fun...but that fun comes as a result of hard work. Quite often it is all the smallest of details that make the overall event a big success.
After putting in that time and effort, my best tip is to make sure you capture ALL the elements of your party. Before guests arrive walk around the venue and take photographs of your decorations, your favors...even your food. Since we know that the event will be over in a snap, you want to be able to look back and see how all the time you spent in advance of the big day translated into happy memories you can treasure forever. Personally, I also like to remember all the people that work behind the scenes to make the event a special one. I always pop in the kitchen or round everyone up for a group photo as the event is winding down. The best part is seeing the pride they have in knowing they helped make your event picture perfect! Snap shots of the small stuff, Michelle Schoulder, President |
Some special people and details from
my first party planning gig! |
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While taking a selfie may be easy in this day-and-age of camera phones, that may not always be the best way to capture a formal photograph for professional use .
With all the places we can insert a picture of ourselves, wouldn't it be nice to have one of just you? One that doesn't require cropping out your friends or family? Even if you don't have the time or resources to use a professional photographer, you can still achieve the look by dressing your best and finding a simple background - think brick or plain wall. Then test out the lighting (natural light always works) and enlist a friend who will be honest about how you look. Final tip...be sure to leave some space for cropping in later as each site cuts into a picture in a different way. Now say "cheese"...or should we say "career", Michelle Schoulder, President |
My latest head shot courtesy of
K. Salkey Photography. |
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If you are anything like our family, with two young children, you quickly acquire the most adorable collection of holiday art and in the case of February, sweet Valentine's cards from classmates.
At times, I struggle over whether I should try and save these small treasures for a day down-the-line when my sons can look back at them fondly and remember the innocence of youth. Then, I look around at my kitchen island, dining room table and office desk and realize I am quickly accumulating enough stacks of paper to put the Library of Congress to shame! So, my pointer of the month is instead of boxing up those treasures, why not think outside of the box and photograph or scan them? Need some help with the archiving? Send me a message here. Who knew making memories could help eliminate a mess, Michelle Schoulder, President |
Collection of Valentine's cards received by
my son from his classmates in 2016. |
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As you rush around trying to accomplish everything on your to do list for the holidays do you ever wonder, "Why do I bother even sending holiday cards? Does anyone really look at them?"
While I cannot speak for everyone else, I can attest to the fact that I not only glance at the cards as I open my piles of holiday mail, but also cherish those family photos for weeks (and maybe even months) to come. In fact, after glancing at an open wall in my upstairs hallway I determined that it did not need a permanent art installation, but instead would benefit from seasonal cheer. The best part is when I take the picture and thank all my friends for keeping me on their mailing list for yet another year. In an age where an instant "like" is more the norm, I challenge all of us to take a break during the holidays and enjoy those greetings from friends and families and let the sender know you did. There is nothing better than hearing your efforts were worth it. So, do not forget to say thanks for the cheer, Michelle Schoulder, President |
My holiday card Christmas tree featuring
three of my clients cards this year! |
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Traditions are a thing to treasure! No matter what you celebrate or how you go about it, we all have things we tend to repeat year-over-year.
Don't forget to include family photos as part of your tradition. Pick a place - and it doesn't have to be Santa's lap - where you can capture the age and stage (be it melt-down prone or I am sure attitudes as they get older). As years go by it is fun to compile those annual photos into an album or even a photo collage. Having the background serve as the consistent marker really allows the growth of the subject matter - be it kids or pets - to shine through. Now the real question is how much longer will my kids do this for me? Perhaps I should start adding this to my Christmas list soon. Seasons are for smiles, Michelle Schoulder, President |
Annual Christmas pictures at The Westchester Mall
from 2010 through 2015. Collage made on PicMonkey. |
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It goes without saying that Thanksgiving is a time to be thankful for family and of course to take plenty of photographs of your loved ones.
However, do not ignore the main attraction...the bountiful table or buffet of family-favorite dishes. While they may not look as if they were plated by a professional food-stylist, the food at this celebration is just as deserving of a photograph as the family member that helped make (or eat) it. Down the line, those photographs coupled with a copy of the recipe could be turned into a wonderful family cookbook that would be a treasured keepsake or unique holiday present (they are right around the corner) for that foodie on your list. Trust me when I say that a few food photos could be a recipe for future-gifting success! Take some taste-tastic shots, Michelle Schoulder, President |
Our 2015 Thanksgiving dinner plate
composed by my sister, Mehgan Iulo. 
A refreshing side salad brought
by my sister-in-law, Jill Mirsky. |
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"What is the best moment of any event? For me it is capturing the reason why you planned the event in the first place!
My personal pointer is to carve out time, preferably before all the guests arrive, to take that one picture that you can look back on for years to come that will make you smile. Now, here is where the real advice comes into play. If you are doing an event with kids, make sure they have had something to eat within one to two hours before the event to help avoid 'melt downs.' If you are aiming to take that 'perfect' family photo, take a moment to set the scene. I love to use photo backdrops, but anything without other people in the background will make it more frame-worthy. Once you are all set, have a friend (or photographer like K. Salkey Photography in our case) take the picture with a 'helper' in the background to make sure eyes are focused in the right direction." All you need to do now is say, "Cheese!", Michelle Schoulder, President |
Our 2015 family photo from Halloween
courtesy of K. Salkey Photography. |