THE BLOG

How to Prepare Your Pet for a Photo Session

August 25, 2026

Simple Tips for a Relaxed, Fun, and Meaningful Pet Photography Experience Your pet doesn’t have to sit perfectly, look at the camera, or behave like a professional model to have beautiful photographs.In fact, some of my favorite pet photographs happen in the moments when pets are simply being themselves—running, exploring, cuddling, looking curious, or giving you that expression that makes you smile.A little preparation before your session can help your pet feel more ...

Limited-Time Photography Session Specials

August 7, 2026

Simple, meaningful sessions designed to preserve what matters most. There is a special kind of energy that comes with a limited-time photo session offer. It is the perfect excuse to finally book the portraits you have been thinking about and turn a fleeting season into something lasting. Whether you are celebrating a milestone, refreshing your family images, or simply wanting to preserve life as it feels right now, this is a wonderful time to make it happen.At Mary Lee's Photography in ...

Fall family photo outfit inspiration for a portrait session in Willits, California.

What to Wear for Fall Family Photos

August 4, 2026

A Complete Style Guide from Mary Lee's PhotographyFall is one of the most beautiful times of year for family portraits. The golden leaves, warm sunlight, and cozy atmosphere create the perfect backdrop for timeless photographs you'll treasure for years to come. One of the questions I hear most often is:"What should we wear?"The good news is that choosing outfits doesn't have to be stressful. With a little planning, your family can look coordinated, comfortable, and beautifully connected ...

Tips for Preparing Your Child for a Stress-Free Photo Session

July 21, 2026

A photography session should be a fun and memorable experience for your child. The goal isn't to capture perfect smiles every second—it's to preserve genuine moments, natural expressions, and the unique personality that makes your child special. Here are a few simple tips to help your session go smoothly. 1. Get a Good Night's SleepA well-rested child is more likely to be happy, energetic, and ready to enjoy the session. If your child still naps, try to schedule the session ...

What to Wear for Your Photography Session (And What to Avoid)

July 13, 2026

Choosing what to wear for your photography session can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. The right outfit choices can elevate your images and help you feel confident in front of the camera. Here’s how to keep it simple and stress-free.Here’s how to keep it simple and stress-free. 1. Start with Coordination, Not Matching Instead of everyone wearing the exact same outfit, aim for a coordinated color palette. Choose 2-4 complementary colors and mix them ...

A coffee mug on a tray with a book and autumn leaves, next to a cozy plaid blanket.

The Beauty of Change

November 5, 2025

Beyond its beauty, fall carries a deeper meaning. It’s a gentle reminder that change is not only inevitable but also breathtaking. The trees let go of their leaves with grace, showing us that there is peace in release and strength in transition. It’s the season that teaches us to embrace the new, to let go of what no longer serves us, and to find beauty in every ending that becomes a beginning. Maybe that’s why fall feels so beautiful—it’s not just the colors ...

Full moon glowing with a halo of colorful clouds in the night sky.

The Magic of Halloween Through the Generations

October 23, 2025

Capturing the Heart of Halloween, Past and Present There’s something special about Halloween—the way the crisp autumn air carries the scent of fallen leaves, the soft glow of pumpkins lighting up porches, and the laughter echoing through the streets. Long before it became a night of costumes and candy, Halloween began as the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. It marked the end of harvest and the beginning of winter, a time when people believed the boundary between the living ...