How to Take Easy Silhouette Maternity Photos

Silhouette photos are incredibly powerful and eye-catching images. They add drama, mystery and interest to a photograph, emphasizing the shape of the subject. Perfect for maternity photos! 

Looking to document your growing bump? This tutorial will help you take easy silhouette maternity photos from the comfort of your own home.

Steve and I have been together for over 10 years, and in that decade, we've taken hundreds of photos commemorating special moments and preserving memories. However, when taking photos, I am usually the one behind the camera.  Sometimes I need to remember that it is also important to be the one in front of the lens - like when you are about to have a baby and want to remember your days with ‘the bump’ and your last days as a duo. 

As we are on a budget, instead of hiring an expensive photography, I decided to take my own maternity photos at home with the tools I had available. I quickly realized, it is a lot easier than you would think. 

Here's how you can take easy silhouette maternity photos at home.

Equipment You’ll Need:

• DSLR camera
• Tripod (optional, see tips below)
  
• Wireless remote control shutter release
  
• Window with sheer curtains
• Clothing clips (or similar)

What to Wear:

• black tight fitting top (i.e. sports bra or tank top)
• black leggings
• hair with texture or shape (i.e. curled, in pony tail or messy bun)

You want your silhouette to be as simple and clean as possible. Try to wear clothes that eliminate lines and bunching. Show off those pregnancy curves!

Steps:

1. Set up your camera.
2. To create a silhouette, place your subject (that's you!) in front of a light source, such as a window with sheer curtains. Remember: you always need to shoot into the light for silhouettes.
3. Optional: If using a second model (aka your partner) have him/her stand in front of the window to frame your shot. Keep the frame simple, you are the focus of the photograph.  
4. If using your camera’s automatic setting, make sure to turn off the flash.
5. Set your camera to the appropriate remote control or timer setting. If using the camera timer, make sure to give yourself plenty of time. 
6. Focus on the lightest part of the photo (i.e. area just above the shoulder) to set the exposure for the brightest part of the scene. By exposing the bright sky behind, the areas that are not so bright in the foreground will appear under-exposed or darker than normal, giving you a more dramatic silhouette.
7. Step into the frame and strike your pose. 
8. With the help of the remote control, snap your shot. Make sure the remote is hidden when the camera goes off! (I used a remote shutter instead of the camera timer. I found it gave me more time to set up, and I was not rushed to 'get into position’, but it is personal preference.)
9. Check your shot and adjust if needed.

Tips for Posing:

• Stand sideways and not straight on. Shooting straight on will lack detail. It looks best when you can make out the outline of limbs, faces, etc. 
• Stand in a way that creates some shape to the photo (i.e. place your hands on your belly, bend a knee, etc.). 
• If posing with a partner, make sure there is space between you and your partner, otherwise the silhouette will end up looking unrecognizable. Try turning sideways and facing each other. 
• Do some research beforehand and create a pose list. Pinterest has a lot of great options.

Tips for Editing: 

• Most of the time, silhouette photos are beautiful without any heavy editing. 
• Usually a simple adjustment of brightness and contrast in your favourite editing software are all that are needed to finish the photo. 

There is no right or wrong way to create a silhouette. It really comes down to personal preference.  And the great thing about digital is you can take as many photos as you want to capture the perfect shot. Have fun and experiment!

Issues You May Face:

1. If you don’t have a tripod: Instead, place two equal-height chairs back to back. Place a small pillow or folded piece of clothing, towel, etc., on top of the chair backs to help balance the camera. It doesn't have to be pretty, as long as it is balance.

2. If when reviewing your photos, you notice a reflection in the window: First, evaluate the items that are in front of you. For example, when I first started taking the photos, I noticed the reflection of something white in the window. Turns out, it was the white duvet on the bed. To minimize, either remove the item creating the reflection or cover the area with a dark item (i.e. black shirt) and it will remove the reflection from the photo.

3. If your sheer curtains won’t stay closed: Either move the frame of your shot so that it is only in front of one panel, or use a cloth clip to fasten both panels closed. Preference would be to place at the clip at the very bottom or top so that it is not in the shot. However, if the clip is placed more in the middle of the curtains, be sure that you are standing in front of it when taking your photo so that it doesn’t show. 

I am in love with how these photos turned out. They were exactly what I was looking for - something simple to remember the days leading up to Baby Wardo's arrival. 

Update: Thank you for making this one of the highest viewed posts on To & Fro! As we are now expecting baby #2, check out my newest silhouette photo documenting my growing 21 week bump. 

Sometimes it is the simplest pictures that work best.

Have you ever taken your own photos to document a special time in your life?

*Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links at no additional cost to you.

How to Get Out of a Photography Rut

In Alaska, it was so easy to stay creative and inspired to photograph the beauty. There was an all you can eat visual buffet in front of you 24/7. Walks, drives and adventures were plentiful, and my camera was always by my side. Toronto, however, is a different story. That all you can eat buffet? More like a continental breakfast with a few stale croissants. Not so visually pleasing. I'm in a photography rut and I need to get out. 

Each photographer is unique and that means different things inspire and motivate them. But, every photographer hits a wall at one point or another. Do you enjoy taking photos but ever find yourself in a rut? 

If you’re having "photographer's block", here are a few tips to keep things fresh and new:

1. Try something new. 
Get out of your comfort zone. You’ve been photographing nature for years? Try portraits! Write a list of things you’ve never photographed before and make it a point to learn the techniques to achieve those shots. Practicing a different style of photography will teach you to look at things from a different perspective. Check out these tips for iPhone photography. 

2. Create an assignment for yourself.  
For example, try taking a photo every single day for a year, go on a photo walk every week for one year, challenge yourself to photograph 100 strangers or take a picture of an object that starts with every letter of the alphabet.

3. Attend a workshop. 
Although they may be pricey, just being around other photographers can be inspiring. This will also help your broaden your skill set. 

4. Arrange a photographer meet up in your area. 
Get together with people that share the same passion. Meet regularly and choose a new theme each meeting. You will learn something new from fellow photographers and getting together will help keep the passion for photography alive.

5. Try a change of scenery. 
Take a trip or go for a drive. Going on a new adventure will offer a  fresh perspective on things.

6. Learn to use an editing software.  
Editing software will help transform your pictures. Can't afford fancy software for your computer? No problem! There are some great apps available on smart phones these days. These completely FREE apps are my favourite.

7. Rent a new piece of equipment. 
Experiment with something new, like a new lens, camera or accessory. Buying new equipment is a big investment, while renting for a weekend is quite affordable and also the best way to test it out before you commit to purchasing. Check out some of the go-to items in my camera bag.

8. Write a list. 
Writing a list of things you've never photographed or a "dream shot" list. Then, get out there and start crossing things off the list!

9. Give back to your community. 
Volunteer to photograph an event or donate some of your work to fundraisers you support. While working at the Zoo, a colleague and I enjoyed photographing the animals we worked with. We would then donated some of photos to the Zoo's fundraising events.

10. Be inspired. 
Go through magazines or look online for inspiration. Remember the goal is not to copy their work but to draw inspiration from it.

At the end of the day, the most important thing to remember when taking photos is to enjoy it. If you don't enjoy what you're doing, then why are you doing it?

What do you do to stay creative?

Wildlife Viewing in Alaska

One of my favourite things about Alaska was the abundance of wildlife. From moose to eagles, to sea otters and bear, in spring, summer, winter or fall, there’s always wildlife to see. But with an area that encompasses almost one-fifth the area of the lower 48 (contiguous US), sometimes deciding where to go to view the wildlife wasn’t always easy. 

Even though it is the largest city in the state, one of the great things about living in Anchorage was that we didn't have to travel very far to see the wildlife. In fact, a lot could be seen in and around the city, or just a short drive/day trip away. 
Here are my favourite spots for viewing Alaskan wildlife, all within a 4 hours radius of Anchorage.

Where to View Wildlife in Alaska

Bear Viewing

Alaska is home to all three species of North American bears - black, brown and polar. Unless you are waaayyy up north, or at the Zoo, the chances of you seeing a polar bear in Alaska are slim to none. On the other hand, your chances of seeing a black or brown bear are pretty good if visiting in spring or summer. While black bears, and the occasional brown bear, roam free in and around the city of Anchorage, to get a good view of them, you either want to head north to Denali National Park or south along the Kenai River. 
On any bus tour into Denali National Park, you have the chance of being graced by many of the animals that call the park home - brown bear, moose, caribou, dall sheep, fox and wolves. If it's a good weather day, you may even get a peak at Denali herself, North America's tallest mountain.

The Kenai River is a famous fishing destination because of its salmon runs, which the bears are also no stranger too. It is not uncommon to see a brown or black bear patrolling the shores near the fisherfolk, looking for their next meal. 

Moose Viewing

Considering moose roam the city of Anchorage like they own it, you may not have to go very far to see the largest member of the Deer family. In fact, its not uncommon to see them strutting their stuff down one of the roads, munching on some willow trees along a trail or even taking a nap on your front lawn. Trust me, it's happened and in Alaska, is a believable excuse for being late for work.

Marine Mammal Viewing

If visiting Alaska, a wildlife cruise out onto Prince William Sound (from Whittier) or Kenai Fjords National Marine Park (from Seward) is definitely a must. If you're lucky your eyes will feast on the sights of many different marine mammals, from sea otters to stellar sea lions, harbour seals, orcas, grey whales, humpback whales and dall's porpoises. Mountain goats, puffins and bald eagles are an added bonus.

Bald Eagle Viewing

For years, Homer was the place to view bald eagles. A few hundred would congregate on the spit every year to be fed left over fish by one of the locals. Even though feeding the eagles in Homer is now banned, you will still see quite a few hanging around the Homer harbour. But, you don't also have to venture that far south from Anchorage to see this iconic bird. With its location right on the water, chances are you will see one flying over head or even sitting in a tall tree scanning for lunch.

While most people come for the beauty, experiencing the big Alaskan wildlife in their natural habitat  is definitely an added bonus. But if you can't make it to Alaska to see the wildlife for yourself, there are always ways to view from afar. When viewing wildlife, always remember to maintain a safe distance by following these important tips.
If you are planning a trip to Alaska in the near future, I recommend checking out these great resources to make the most of your trip. Also, be sure to pack appropriately! 

Have you been to Alaska? What animals have you see in the wild?

'Wildlife Viewing in Alaska' first appeared as a guest post on Route Bliss.

Lake Huron in the Fall

Lake Huron brings a feeling of nostalgia whenever I am there. It is where I grew up and where I spent endless hours at the beach with friends. It is where I spent my summer with family at our cottage and where I grew my love of the water. It is where I got married and where we will spend countless hours in the future with the little babe. 
My parents' live right on the shore of Lake Huron. So without fail, every time I visit, a beach walk is in order. While the beach is certainly the place to be in the summer, Lake Huron in the fall is just as spectacular. I think you'll agree. 

I'm not the only one that loves a good beach stroll. Our family dogs, Lola and Titus, are always game for checking out the new sights and smells. Beach is a regular word in their 'vocabulary' and part of their daily routine. As soon as they hear the word, its straight for the door. 

And once that door opens, its a mad dash down. There's no stopping them, not even with their second favourite word, treat. Its always the same game - they lead, we follow. So helpful. 

Most of the time, they're just happy to have the freedom to wander. But sometimes, it does get them in trouble. Especially if they come across a dead fish or a fresh patch of poison ivy. 

Titus can be a bit of a drama king. It can never be a perfect walk. Whether he's too cold (hence his sister's leopard print sweater), the flies are out (he has bad fly anxiety and thinks they're all out to get him) or he just feels like being dramatic, there's always something he's not happy with. So sometimes a time out is needed, to remind him to slow down, relax and enjoy the view. 

Because I definitely enjoy that view.

If you asked me to tell you one of my favourite places on Earth, the answer would be simple. Lake Huron. And I think Lola and Titus (on most days) would agree.

Have you been to Lake Huron? Where is your favourite place on Earth?

5 Completely Free Photo Editing Apps

Photo: Jordan McQueen  //  unsplash

We all want our photos to be liked, which is why we spend that extra time tweaking them before hitting share to let the world see. Today's photo editing apps make it easier than ever to crop, enhance, add effects and filters, and more

Editing your photos is a fun and important part of phone photography. But, with thousands of photo editing apps available, it can be difficult to choose which ones to use. Today, I am sharing my 5 favourite photo editing apps. And the best part? They're all completely FREE!

1 // Instagram

Inarguably the most popular photo sharing community, Instagram (owned by Facebook) is also a fast, hassle-free photo editing app, packed with several beautiful filters. The app lets you share your photographic endeavours on its network, follow other users, and view, like and comment on photos uploaded by others. After uploading your photo, you can also share to your favourite social media networks.

2 // VSCO Cam

VSCO Cam (pronounced visco) is one of the best photo editing apps if you want advanced controls. With a great collection of free filters, you'll have to pay for many others. Editing tools include brightness, contrast, saturation, tint, crop, rotate, sharpness, highlights, shadows, among a few others.

2 // Adobe Photoshop Express

Adobe Photoshop Express is free to download and contains similar editing tools to the previous apps mentioned. It has a basic set of filters and adjustments, such as contrast, exposure, brightness, etc., and you can purchase additional ones within the app. It also has tools for cropping, red-eye removal and adding borders. I use this app most of the time to tweak my photos before adding to Instagram. since it’s got the most needed features and it’s extremely easy to use.

4 // Pic Stitch

Pic Stitch is perfect for quickly combining multiple photos into one beautifully framed picture. With multiple templates and borders to choose from, you can combine both horizontal and vertical photos and also add filters. After you’re done creating your photo collage, you can share your masterpiece on your favourite social media networks. 

5 // Studio Design 

Spice up your photos with words, graphics and textures with Studio Design. Upload a photo or take one inside the app and begin playing with the thousands of graphics or textures you can add. If you can’t find a design you like, there are paid downloadable options. Though you can export to your photos to your favourite social media networks, Studio Design also also has a sharing community of its own. Add beautiful layers to your photos and share your creativity with friends and family. 

For more photography, check out these tips.

What are your go-to photo editing apps?

Fall Road Trip Memories

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #GladeForFall #CollectiveBias

I am so happy to live in a place that experiences fall. While it means the weather is getting colder, the changing colour of the leaves makes me happy.

Besides the changing weather and colours, I also love the scents of fall - – the cool autumn breeze, the crunchy leaves and all of the fall food. Thanks to the Glade^® Limited Edition Fall Collection, you can bring these fall scents into your home all season long. I love the Pumpkin Pit Stop™ and Hit the Road™ scents. 

The Glade^® Limited Edition Fall Collection's Hit the Road™ scent takes me back to one of my favourite fall days – a spontaneous road trip to Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska. It was a dreary day, but that didn't stop us from enjoying the vibrant fall colours in the Park. 

Fall comes much earlier in Alaska than we're used to down in Canada and the lower 48 United States. However, it doesn't mean it is any less beautiful. While Denali National Park is spectacular no matter what season you visit, I especially love the layers of colour in the fall. The further into the park we got, the more the leaves changed – from green to yellow to orange to a brilliant red. 

"Everyone must take time to sit and watch the leaves turn." - Elizabeth Lawrence

Looking to bring a little fall into your home? The Glade^® Limited Edition Fall Collection scents are available in jar candles, wax melts, PlugIns^® Scented Oils and premium room sprays, and can be found in the air-freshener aisle at your local Kroger or Kroger banner store. Each fragrance encapsulates a timeless, yet unique, fall experience, and helps you capture a moment you might otherwise miss. 

Happy fall!

What Glade^® Limited Edition Fall Collection products do you have in your home?

Have you taken a memorable fall road trip to see the changing colours?

There's Just Something About a Sunset

There is just something about a sunset that draws me in. It makes me forget everything I'm doing or thinking, and just look up in awe. Don't you agree?
"It is almost impossible to watch a sunset and not dream." - Bern Williams
If I had to pick just 5 sunsets that inspired a lot of dreaming, these would be it...
Orange sky at night over Toronto, Ontario

Camping along Canisbay Lake, Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario

Enjoying fall  somewhere along Lake Huron, Ontario

Out on the tundra of Churchill, Manitoba

Star gazing at Point Woronzof, Anchorage, Alaska

And because I can't pick just 5...
Midnight sun over Kachemak Bay, Alaska

Let's throw in a sunrise for good measure, because they're just as beautiful (if you can get up that early)...
Morning beach stroll in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

For more sunset photos, follow me on Instagram (@toandfro21). 

Where is your favourite place to watch the sun rise and fall?

Assiniboine Park Zoo's Journey to Churchill

My first visit to Winnipeg, Manitoba was back in October 2011, when I joined fellow zoo professionals on a journey to the polar bear capital of the world, Churchill, Manitoba, as part of Polar Bears International's Leadership Camp. Now, almost 4 years to the day, I ventured back in Winnipeg. Surrounded by a similar crowd, but for a different reason, polar bears were still a hot topic of conversation.

Today, zoos and aquariums play an important role in polar bear research and conservation, including providing a home for orphaned cubs that would not otherwise survive in the wild and educating the public to take action on climate change and help protect this iconic species for future generations. AS a leader in the Zoo community, and with its proximity to polar bear territory, the Assiniboine Park Zoo in Winnipeg plays a large role in polar bear research, conservation and education in Canada. 

The Zoo's new Journey to Churchill exhibit is the most comprehensive northern species exhibit of its kind in the world. Home to polar bears, musk ox, grey wolves and more, the award-winning exhibit allows visitors to discover the magic of the North, while making a connection with these iconic Arctic species. And while visiting last week, I felt right at home.

Currently home to 7 polar bears, the 10 acre section of the Zoo is an educational classroom like no other, inviting visitors to learn about biodiversity, climate change and conservation. It is also home to the International Polar Bear Conservation Centre, an education, research and transition facility that is the first home for orphaned Canadian polar bears before they are transitioned into Journey to Churchill, and even on to another zoo within Canada. 

When touring Journey to Churchill, the Gateway to the Arctic building is where you really want to be. The impressive Sea Ice Passage gives visitors the rare opportunity to view polar bears and seals swim from below the surface of the water. With the bears playing above us, it's where I stood in awe for almost an hour.  

Polar bears have a special place in my heart.

What's your favourite animal? Have you been to the Assiniboine Park Zoo?