Studio or Location Photoshoots? Which is better?

You are planning to have some professional portraits taken. These may be for acting/business headshots, a family photo, an engagement or graduation portrait. You know you want portraits. Now, you need to set out what kind of portraits. Knowing this in advance will make your conversations with prospective Glendale photographers a lot more fruitful. The more you can tell them about what you are looking for, the more accurate their estimate will be.

GLENDALE STUDIO PORTRAITS

Studio portraits offer some advantages. Let’s list some:

• Total world domination in terms of lighting

  Lighting is the name of the game in photography. It is what can make you look younger, older, thinner, heavier, more serious and more approachable. It creates a candid or dramatic mood. While light can be modified on location, it is not as controllable as in the studio. If lighting is the most critical thing for you to get a theatrical or artistic look, then studio may be where you want to start.

• Can take place day or night, rain or shine

  Here in southern california, we don’t have to worry about the weather too much. But if you need an acting headshot, or modeling digitals ASAP and it happens to be pouring outside, the photo studio is your best buddy for sure. Also, time of day does not matter. So if you don’t get off work untill 8 pm, you could have a session at 10 pm no problem. Of course, you can be outside for night photography too. That is always an option.

• Usually allows you to see images as they are taken

  In studio, most photographers shoot what we call “tethered” in the industry. This means you can see the image just taken at full size and with proper color 2 or 3 seconds after the shot. This allows clients to look and see exactly how they are doing and to make adjustments; a change in expression, fix a tie etc. This way, there is no surprise at the end of the session. “OMG my hair was like that the WHOLE time?” What looks fine to your photographer, may not be OK with you. Tethering solves that problem.

  Of course, on location, clients can look at the back of the camera’s LCD display after a shot. But you cannot see all of the images in an array, or in a way that is easy to compare quickly. Some photographers DO have a way to tether on location, so you should definitely ask that during your discovery call.

• Easier wardrobe changes

  You may not believe this, but some locations out there do NOT allow wardrobe changes. This is probably so that photographers get in and out quickly without a lot of to-do or getting in the way of the general public. It can be hard to enforce though, so even if “technically” there are no wardrobe changes, it may be possible to sneak one in, especially if you are OK quickly changing while another person holds up a towel. You can invest in a portable changing tent, but they are cumbersome, conspicuous and not that easy to drag around in certain private locations.

  Studio sessions, however, are a breeze for private wardrobe changes that are not rushed.

• No permit fees

  Here in Los Angeles and Glendale, there are not too many options for large gorgeous open spaces for portraits that are free. As in real estate, they key to location photography is, wait for it….Location Location Location. Los Angeles beaches do NOT require a permit, but such photo sessions may not be the look you want, and for many people, it is at least an hour away with traffic to get there. Then, once settled, you have a brief 30 minutes or so to get that lovely sunset. That may be worth it to you. And if it is, tell your photographer right away.

  If you are looking for greenery and flowers as your location, you will most likely have to pay anywhere from $100 to $1100 for a 2 hour photography permit. Probably the most popular such location is the LA Arboretum

There are many things to consider when planning your egagement, family or graduation photos. To start planning your session, contact me, Katie Katsenis, certified portrait photographer. Let’s talk and see if I am a good fit for your project.

Los Angeles Geocaching: The Perfect Hobby For Kids

Real Life Treasure Hunting for Family Fun in Los Angeles

When I first heard about the sport of Geocaching , I could not quite get my head around it. What? Go around looking for treasures that people have left you the exact coordinates for? How is that fun? What’s the point? If you already know where the treasure is, then where is the mystery?

Here is the thing: Geocaching relies on the fact that exact coordinates are not as exact as it may seem. The coordinates get you most of the way to finding a hidden treasure, but it’s that last bit that makes it fun. I spent 20 plus years in the elementary and high school classroom. Here are the elements of Geocaching that make it a terrific hobby for kids.

Kids Being Tech Savvy

In order to Geocache, you need a phone with an app installed. There are several on the market, but they are all very similar. They range from free to about $5. Kids will need to learn something about latitude and longitude and how to navigate the app. They will also learn a bit about calibrating the app to their phone. There will be times when they may need to use a traditional compass as well. Like most things, apps do not work perfectly all the time. You need to be thoughtful and realize that apps are a tool that needs to be controlled by a human.

Kids Respecting Where We Live

There is an unwritten rule in Geocaching. Leave the area you are searching in better than you found it. The rally cry for this attitude is “Cache in, trash out”. The idea is that caching led you into a place, and you can take some trash with you as you leave. Whether you are caching in a park, wilderness, the beach, mountains or the inner city, take trash out. It costs nothing to bring a plastic bag, fill it, and then place in your trash when you get home. And it makes the world better.

Kids Cultivating Patience

Once the coordinates have led you to with 30 feet or so of your cache, the problem solving begins. Most caches are hidden really well. They will not be obvious, usually. You have to be patient and problem solve. Look down, under, over, up, around, to the side, from above, from below…you get the idea. It may take awhile. And, you have to be prepared that the cache is no longer there. Sometimes, people who are not Geocachers, “mugglers”, find caches by chance and take them. If you notice this, be sure to leave an online note, so that the next person does not waste their time.

Kids Seeing Things Differently

Geocaching takes you to places you would not go otherwise. You will see places of your town or city, empty spaces, and natural vistas that you did not even know were nearby. It also helps you to be more flexible in how you problem solve and interact with the world. Places that seemed useless or “ugly”, are now part of a global game that many appreciate. Places that seemed “not my problem”, are now places that have touched your life in a small way. Over time, these experiences change your attitude, and how you see things.

Kids Exercising By Proxy

Not every kid loves sports or going to the gym. Geocaching forces you to walk or hike a lot more than you would. And the best part…you are so fixated on finding the treasure, you do not even notice that hill, or those rocks you are climbing, or how hot it is. You are on a mission.! In this way, caching is a way to get some exercise without “officially" getting some exercise. If you have kids who are reluctant to move around, geocaching may be a way to get them out without them even knowing it. Pretty slick, eh moms?

Kids Enjoying Family

It is really easy to get caught up in the routine of school and activities. Caching can take as long as you like. When you select a cache to go visit, you can decide how hard, far and difficult the hunt is. If you all work together, you can pick easier caches for younger kids and multi-level caches for older kids. Kids can be independent while still being with their parents and siblings. Caching gives everyone something to do, at the level they are comfortable with.

Kids Logging Successes

One of the great things about the Geocaching website, is that you can log all your finds. Each time you get back from an adventure, you can log each one. You can tell if you found it, discovered it, did not find it, left a treasure, took a treasure, upload pictures and more. After awhile, your geocaching log becomes a prize possession. There are people out there who have found thousands of caches. How many will you find?

Katie is a former special education teacher in Los Angeles. She is now a maternity, baby, and child photographer.

Would you like to make some extra cash on your own time?

How to Create Lasting Memories With Your Kids in the Outdoors

Your child’s growing-up years will be a kaleidoscope filled with more precious moments than they can possibly remember every detail of. However, some memories are so impactful in a child’s life that they will be treasured forever. For whatever reason, times spent together in the outdoors are more indelible than most. Here are some ways to create cherished memories that will last you and your child a lifetime.

Go to the Beach

The magic of the beach is that it is for everyone. Even people who wouldn’t consider themselves the outdoorsy type love the beach. There is something about the deep blue of the skies, the timelessness of the sand, and the constant gentle motion of the ocean that create the perfect ambiance for mindfulness. 

It is in these mindful moments together that perfect moments turn into lasting memories. The most important thing is to engage with your kids. Don’t hand them a bucket, tell them to go play, and then turn to your novel. Build sand castles, splash in the waves, and look for shells together.

Take Them Camping

Camping never fails to deliver lasting memories. Either everything goes wrong and you can laugh about how miserable it was, or it is perfect and brings back nostalgic feelings every time you think about it. 

Camping also provides an excellent opportunity to teach your kids vital skills such as fire making, first aid, and orienteering. It’s also a great time to teach important life skills, such as courtesy and respect. You can teach your kids to be responsible campers by cleaning trash and extinguishing your fires. 

Play With Them in the Backyard

You might think that lasting memories are only made during major events such as family vacations or trips. However, a kid doesn’t need a special destination to form happy memories with you. In fact, some of the best memories can happen in your own backyard. All it takes is a willingness to let go of your everyday stressors and truly connect with your kids. Think about your own magical moments with your parents. Chances are they happened when you were doing something simple together, like playing tag, throwing a ball, or jumping on the trampoline. 

There are ample studies which show that spending more time outdoors is good for both your physical and emotional health. It is also the perfect setting for making lasting memories with your kids. Your kids will be all grown up before you know it, so take every opportunity to spend focused time with them in the great outdoors!

Check out this article on ingredients to avoid in your child’s food!

Jurassic Quest Drive Through: An Experience

Jurassic Quest: What You Want To Know About the Drive Through Version.

Jurassic Quest is normally a museum event where you can walk around, dig for fossils and do other fun things. The Covid adapted show is a drive through event that takes place in various cities.

I attended the show at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, CA and these are my thoughts:

Dinosaur Logistics:

This event is amazingly well organized. Tickets are purchased online and a QR code is emailed. You use this code to enter the event. About 2 days before, you get a link to download the audio portion of the tour. You can easily sync up the audio to the Bluetooth in your car. And if you have any issues, there is a person there to trouble shoot just after you enter. At this time too, you receive any add ons you bought with your tickets. Souvenirs can be purchased on your way out. I counted about 5 different things; an inflatable T Rex and Triceratops, a dinosaur egg, a sword, and an “I survived” …T shirt for Mom and Dad. There is a photo opp where a worker takes one photo in your car with dinosaurs in the background. You have to be ready and be quick because you get about 5 seconds. You go online later to see it. Portable restrooms are located at the end of the tour. There are spaces to park. Overall, it takes about an hour to complete.

Jurassic Quest: Driving Through The Experience

“Scenes” are set up along the way and the audio tour guide explains a little bit about the dinosaur, or animal (they are not all dinosaurs) that you are near. Tip: It is good to have one person in charge of the audio. You have to pause it often as you move through. The audio script is similar to that of a theme park where there is a little bit of fun tension built up and “missing T Rexs” running around. If your kids are small enough, you could make a lot of this element. There are also some cute, funny comic relief lines.

Life Sized Dinosaurs

Many of the dinosaurs move and this makes the event fun. Some have feathers or fur too. Others are brightly colored. Even under these austere conditions, the models give you a real idea about what these creatures probably looked like in real life.

Tip: If you have a moon roof or convertible, you have an advantage to see. Many of the models are very tall or elevated and so it can be tough to see a couple of them from the inside of the car. No one is allowed to hang out the car windows.

Tip: The tour mentions different countries and continents. You may want to review the tour in advance and show your kids on a map the places mentioned.

Final Jurassic Thoughts:

Kids aged 3 to 9 or so will love this event. Adults, be prepared. It takes about an hour and there is 3 to 4 minutes of downtime as you wait to pull up to the next scene. This happens about 3 times. It may be good to plan ahead some things to talk about so your kids don’t feel impatient.

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8 DIY CAR MAINTENANCE TIPS YOU CAN HANDLE

8 DIY CAR MAINTENANCE TIPS YOU CAN HANDLE 

Maintaining your car properly and regularly will allow it to perform at an optimal level for a longer period. If you don’t show it some love and care, it will start deteriorating sooner. Several people are not interested in spending on regular maintenance or checkups. But if you don’t do that, prepare yourself for bigger expenses. 

Whether you are looking to sell your car or want to keep using it for long, proper maintenance and regular checks add a lot of value to your 4-wheels. There are several tips you can learn and follow to keep your vehicle in top conditions. 

We have listed down the top 8 DIY maintenance tips. All of them are useful to increase the performance of your vehicle. 

First, go through your vehicle manual

Most of the people completely forget about the owner’s manual that comes with the purchase of your vehicle. Whether it is a new or a used car, you need to get this manual. It will provide you clear insight into your vehicle and makes it simpler to maintain. 

The manual has several how-to guides designed specifically for your vehicle. The manual will tell you about the maintenance schedule of your vehicle. It will explain when you need to change your engine oil, how to check fluid colors, and the right level for the best performance of your vehicle. It will also guide you about the type of fuel your vehicle needs. 

You can also keep a schedule of your checkups as well as the ones for which you have to visit the workshop.

1. Changing windshield wipers

Any tools required: No

Completion time: 15 minutes

Most auto parts stores have a sale on their wiper blades and offer free-of-cost installation. But the free installation service is only available if you buy the most expensive wiper blade they have on offer. Therefore, it is better to start changing the blades on your own. After approximately 6 to 12 months you will need a new pair of wiper blades. 

The setup varies a lot from one vehicle to another. So you might have to consult your manual first. But the steps involved are not too difficult even for a first-timer. 

• Lift your wiper blades just like you do when you wash your windshield.

• Remove those old blades by emphasizing how they connect with the metal arms. 

• In most cases, there will be a tab on your wiper’s underside. And you have to push that tab to get it off from the arm. 

• Now attach the new blade and make sure you don’t bend the arms.

• Line everything and ensure the safety and durability of the new blades.

1. Changing air filter

Any tools required: No

Completion time: 10 minutes

Your car needs a new air filter every 12000 miles or 12 months. The entire process of changing your air filter will only take about ten minutes. 

• Open your hood and find the air filter. It will be present in a black box with clips on each side. You can always take assistance from your owner’s manual. 

• Now open the casing and examine how the filter fits inside the box. Also, note which way the face of the filter goes. 

• Now remove the old filter and insert the new one and close the metal clips. 

1. Changing oil and oil filter

Any tools required: Funnel, oil pan, oil filter wrench, ratchet

Completion time: 30 to 40 minutes

According to the experts, you need to change your oil every 4000 to 5000 miles. This is especially the case when you have better products and new cars. But before you begin, keep in mind not to change the oil when your engine is hot. 

Allow it to cool down first and then begin with your process. Also, you will have to jack up your car safely so make sure you can handle a jack comfortably. 

• Locate the oil pan by getting under it.

• Unscrew the plug and drain all the oil into the oil pan. 

• Put the drain plug back into its place.

• Now go remove the old oil filter from the engine using your wrench. Be careful because the filter also has some of the old oil in it. 

• Now lubricate the gasket on the new piece with the help of motor oil.

• Fill the new filter ⅔  with new motor oil. 

• Now screw in the oil filter and hand tighten it. 

• Fill your engine with new motor oil with the help of a funnel.

• Check your oil level using a dip-stick to make sure you have put enough motor oil. 

• You can discard the old filter and recycle the old oil.

1. Maintaining battery 

Any tools required: Rags, wire brush, rust-removal fluid, wrenches 

Completion time: 20 minutes

A good battery connection is critical if you want your car to keep running efficiently. You just need to run a simple visual check to see when your battery needs your help. 

• Remove the negative battery terminal first and then the positive one. If they don’t come off, use a flathead screwdriver for prying them loose. 

• Clean the post using a professional cleaner. You can also use baking soda and water to clean it off.

• Dry the post using a rag and replace the battery terminal. 

1. Radiator flush 

Any tools required: Funnel, coolant, rags, Philips wrench/screwdriver, coolant receptacle, radiator flush solution 

Completion time: 30 minutes

As you use your vehicle, the radiator starts building up deposits that can disrupt your vehicle’s cooling system. Your manual will tell you when you need to flush it, which is usually 1 to 2 years.

• Ensure your vehicle’s engine is cool. 

• Consult the manual and find the radiator’s plug for draining. 

• Unscrew the plug and drain the old coolant.

• Place the plug back and remove the cap of the radiator. 

• Add the coolant using a funnel and fill the rest with water and put the cap back on it. 

• Now, turn the engine on and allow your car to get to its normal working temperature. 

• Turn the heater on at full and allow your vehicle to run for about 10 minutes. 

• Switch the car off and allow the engine to cool and drain all the radiator contents. 

• Refill the radiate with the fresh fluid. 

• Take the old coolant to your gas station for recycling. 

1. Changing brake pads

Any tools required: Hammer, adjustable wrench, C-clamp, lug wrench.

Completion time: 30 to 60 minutes.

You must change your brake pads approximately every 20000 miles. And consult your manual to see the entire process before you begin. 

• Jack your car up and break the lugs on the tires to remove the wheels. 

• Remove the caliper and the pads will slide out. Make sure to keep the brake caliper 12-o-clock position and right above the bolts. And don't allow the caliper to hang on the front brake line. Just find a spot to secure it. 

• Replace the old pads with the new ones and secure them back onto their clips.

• Compress your brake piston and while using the C-clamp put the end and screw it on the piston on the other end. 

• Tighten the clamp until you can place the caliper back over the new pads.  

• Now put the caliper back and put the wheel back on as well. 

1. Changing spark plugs 

Any tools required: Spark plug socket, 12-inch socket extension, socket wrench, or ratchet.

Completion time: 20 to 30 minutes.

Spark plugs need to be changed every 30,000 miles. Changing them is a simple process but you can consult your manual if you have any ambiguity. 

• Locate your spark plugs attached to thick rubbery wires. 

• The number of spark plugs depends upon the cylinders of your car engine.

• Only remove the first wire using a ratchet and don’t break the order in which the plugs are installed. 

• Install the new one and tighten it first by hand and then by a wrench 

• Reconnect the rubber wire. 

1. Changing the fuel filter

Any tools required: Eye protection, rags, wrenches (open-end), new fuel filter, fuel line washer.

Completion time: 30 minutes.

It is better to change your fuel filter every year and also consult your manual to ensure you carry out all the steps in the correct manner.

• Begin by relieving the pressure on your fuel system. Find the relay or fuse of your pump by starting the engine and pull it out, your engine will die.  

• Now disconnect the fuel line from the filter and find the correct wrenches for the filter fittings. 

• When the wrenches are in place, put a rag on the fitting to make sure you cover any remaining fuel pressure from the lines. 

• Hold the wrench on the filter and turn the other wrench anti-clockwise and get the bolt out. 

• Do the same process on the other side and remove the old filter. 

• Change the washers which are present on the bolts and install the new filter in the same way you removed the old filter but the opposite. 

• Put the relay or fuse back before you start the engine. 

Final thoughts 

All these DIY maintenance tips are pretty simple to execute. And they will improve the performance of your vehicle tenfold. Just make sure you go through the instructions manual before you begin with the process for better guidance. Performing this maintenance work on your vehicle will allow you to save a lot against your vehicle’s expenses both in the short and long run. 

Here are some more car maintenance tips you can go through to groom your cup right in the comfort of your home. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7ghlNTH41o  

Tis the Season: Tips for Having a Joyful and Stress-Free Christmas With Your Family

Whether snuggling up to watch a Christmas movie or watching your children open gifts, the Christmas season is full of opportunities to make happy memories that will last a lifetime. This guide will help you streamline your Christmas preparations so that you can maximize your family time and experience true joy during this special time of year.

Christmas Shopping

The Christmas holidays are the busiest shopping period of the entire year. Stores often have long lines, and popular items may sell out quickly. When you're out shopping, just keep in mind that the holiday rush can lead to injury. To minimize these risks, try to give yourself plenty of time for your shopping trips and take a list of the gifts you need to purchase. You may want to try reserving your presents online; this way, you can go to a pickup desk at the store where your purchases will be ready for you. You could also try splitting your shopping between online purchases and brick-and-mortar stores to save more time.

Decorations

Decorations help you and your family get into the holiday spirit and allow you to showcase your personal style. Inflatable snowmen, reindeer, and Santa bring a fun element to outdoor decorating that your kids will love, and wrapping clear or colored lights around outdoor trees or vines is another way to show holiday spirit. You might want to decorate an outdoor tree with oversized ornaments as well.

For indoor decorations, string your lights on your Christmas trees in a vertical direction to cut down on time. Consider having one large tree for the main room and smaller trees for your children's bedrooms. Themed trees are very popular, and you could let your kids pick out a theme for their tree. Tropical, Nordic, and red-and-green themes are some of those that you might consider.

For a twist on tradition, you could opt for a tinsel or feather tree. Kids love making their own Christmas ornaments, and they often enjoy making ribbon garlands, old-fashioned popcorn strings, gingerbread houses, and homemade cards. These activities are fun to do as a family. You can do one activity each weekend to keep things simple and enjoyable.

Food

The holidays are the perfect time to get creative with recipes in the kitchen. Whether you're updating a classic recipe or trying something entirely new, preparing ahead of time< will help keep things pleasant. Consider using weekends before the Christmas break to bake casseroles, pies, cookies, and other dishes that can be frozen in advance of the festivities. If you've got a large number of sweets to make, split the work up by inviting your kids and other family members to bake alongside you. You could even host a baking party with family and friends by putting on some Christmas carols and having some snacks. If you're pressed for time, consider purchasing some of the baked goods or main dishes that you need. These can be purchased from grocery stores and online retailers.

Christmas can seem like a stressful holiday, but luckily there are some things you can do to make it a little easier. With a little preparation and some help from others, you can have a relaxing, restful, and magical holiday season.

Want to give a great gift of fine art for Christmas? Schedule a couture experience with us today!

3 Unexpected Benefits of Maintaining a Clean Home

Cleaning is probably not high on your list of favorite things to do, but it's important to find time to clean if you have children in your home. As you’ve probably noticed, kids are experts at making messes. Actively setting aside time to clean your home offers benefits for both mental and physical health. When done right, the results will feel worthwhile, rather than like you’re trapped in an endless cycle of chaos.

It Will Make You Happier

Believe it or not, cleaning and tidying actually make you happier. Scrubbing toilets and mopping floors may not offer glee when you are performing the tasks, but having a clean, tidy home will make you happier in the long run. You'll find that you take pride in your residence and derive more comfort there. A cleaner home generally means more productivity and focus, and that makes any mom happy. You can find things faster and not feel constantly overwhelmed by a mess. Finally, a clean house also decreases your stress levels because it reduces your subconscious load. And as the saying goes, when mom’s happy, everyone’s happy.

It Will Keep You Healthier

A clean home is a healthy home. Aside from keeping mold, bacteria, and viruses in check, regular cleaning keeps pests at bay. Dirty, damp clothes left in piles breeds bacteria, and food left on countertops offers incentives for roaches, mice and other pests. There are more kinds of mice than you might expect, and they all can make your family sick. They leave droppings throughout your home, so you'll want a clean environment that won't attract them or offer them a place to hide. Cockroaches also love messy houses, and keeping your home clean is one of the easiest ways to keep them at bay.

It Will Give You a Routine

Motherhood is wonderful, but it also makes for an unpredictable schedule. To maintain a clean home, you need to keep to a cleaning routine. As crazy as it may sound, having a routine in place when you are a parent can help you preserve your sanity through the sleep deprivation, tantrums, and other havoc. Perform small cleaning tasks daily, and set aside a time to deep clean regularly. Your entire family can help. This will make your cleaning routine a family bonding experience, and you'll pass down the importance of cleaning to your kids. 

It Will Make You Sleep Better

You spend a third of your lifetime in bed. Maintaining a healthy environment not just at home in general, but in bed, is essential. Most experts recommend washing your sheets weekly, but it all depends on the season, the fabrics in use and personal hygiene and circumstances.

Compared to regular clothes, it is important to know how to wash a blanket specifically, especially if you are using the recently fairly common weighted blankets. Make your research and make sure you do this chore on a regular basis.

It's not easy to find spare time as a mom, but it's important to prioritize cleaning your home. The mental and physical health benefits are worth it, and it’s a great opportunity to teach essential life skills to your kids.

Fun Ways to Teach Your Children Responsibility

Children long to be treated like adults, but they can be rather reluctant to embrace responsibility. While your children may be too young to run errands or make their own meals, they can definitely learn the basics of responsibility. These are some entertaining ways to show your kids how to be responsible.

Assign Jobs With a Reward System

When your kids are old enough to start helping around the house, you need to figure out which chores they're able to handle at their given age, according to Cozi. Suitable chores for younger children could be replacing the trash bag, while preteens and above could be responsible for running and emptying the dishwasher. Some form of compensation is good as well, such as a weekly allowance based on successful completion of chores or having certain privileges tied into whether or not chores are accomplished. You should also set out certain parameters for what it means to do a task successfully and when it needs to be done by. Your kids need to learn the importance of doing chores in a timely fashion, correctly.

Get a Dog

Owning a dog gives your family a new member to dote over and your kids a great opportunity to learn responsibility. If your kids want to call the dog theirs, they need to take part in the caring and training. When helping your kids train your dog, they will likely be giving the dog several treats, so it’s important to pay attention to what’s in them. According to VitaLife, you should make sure to mind the ingredients and consider the size and calorie count in order to keep your dog healthy. Even though your kids won't be able to fulfill every bit that comes with taking care of the dog, they can absolutely learn about responsibility as they and their dog grow up.

Let Them Call the Shots

Your kids might feel like you're pestering them with your reminders to do things like getting their schoolwork in order and brushing their teeth, so you can let them give you a taste of your own medicine. Ask them to remind you to do things like going to the grocery store and even when it's time for you to brush your teeth. Getting to feel like they're in charge can do a lot for a child's self-esteem. It can also help them to become responsible leaders in the future.

Being responsible involves understanding what you need to do and when you need to do it. Children can learn to see the beauty of responsibility by being cognizant of its positive results and realizing that being responsible means being mature. These methods take the stodginess out of responsibility and allow your children to make a far smoother transition into adulthood.

Want to preserve the memories of your kids’ magical childhood before they grow up too fast? Book a child couture portrait session with us!

Meet Los Angeles Lactation Specialist Julie Matheney.

In my work, I meet many new moms who are breastfeeding their child. Many are aware or have had some education about lactation and what to expect. But in my experience, there are many moms who do not begin their first Motherhood experience with these tools. Knowing where to go for instruction on breastfeeding is important. For this blog, I interviewed one lactation specialist in the Los Angeles area who is available to provide support and training for new moms. You can find her on Instagram

Q: Let’s start with your name. What is your name? Tell us

3 or 4 things about you.

A: My name is Julie Matheney. I started my career as a speech pathologist feeding preemie babies in the hospital NICU but fell in love with working with breastfeeding mamas and now do that in private practice. I’m a mom to two little girls. My husband and I love to travel and now enjoy taking our girls on adventures with us. 

Q: For those who may not know, what exactly is a

lactation consultation? Can you take us through a

typical consult?

A: There are several types of lactation consultant certifications, kind of like there are different kinds of nursing degrees, types of doctors, or fields in engineering. The gold standard for lactation consultants is an IBCLC. it means they have taken significant college level courses, spent hundreds of hours being mentored in breastfeeding and have sat for a four hour board exam. An IBCLC lactation consultant works with any and all issues related to breastfeeding, including helping people who have never been pregnant to induce milk supply for adoption, relieving breast infections, increasing milk supply, teaching you how to position your baby and helping your baby to latch properly at the breast. Lactation consultants can teach you about breastfeeding while you’re still pregnant and help work with you for the entire length of time your baby feeds from the breast. In a typical consultation, we review your relevant medical and labor/delivery history, see a feeding, and develop a plan for improving breastfeeding. We typically will weigh the baby before and after a feeding to get an approximation for how much baby is taking each time they breastfeed. An average consultation is an hour and a half.

Q: I know from being a newborn photographer, that

breastfeeding can be really difficult. In your view,

what are the most common issues that moms face

that you can help with?

A: Breastfeeding is natural but it takes practice. You’ve never done it before and neither has your baby. The most common issue is position and latch. So many people have never held a baby, let  alone a newborn, and it can be intimidating to try to position them at the breast. So many moms worry they’ll hurt the baby when moving them. Babies are actually really sturdy! If you get a baby in the right position, the latch is quite easy. The second most common issue I see in my practice is tongue tie: when there is a small piece of connective tissue under the tongue preventing it from moving fully. Tongue tie can cause damage to moms nipples and limits the baby’s ability to remove milk from the breast. When less milk is emptied, less milk is made, so many moms think they have no milk supply and blame themselves instead of the baby’s inability to effectively feed. 

Q: Breastfeeding is a huge issue.

Not only is there the issue about moms learning how to breastfeed and

or the baby to learn too, but there are also political

issues it seems. Are you involved in any political or

social activities to promote women in this work? Can

you tell us about it?

A: I’m not in any organized groups currently but try to spread the positives of breastfeeding through prenatal breastfeeding classes, awareness through social media, and working alongside individual mothers in their homes. 

Q: In my work, I have seen moms seemingly torn about

breastfeeding...one the one hand, they know they

should, but on the other  they are embarrassed or

feel awkward. Are these feelings common? Can

women find support for these feelings?

A: In my experience, 100% of mothers feel inadequate in some part of their motherhood journey. We take our responsibility seriously and with breastfeeding so often feel like a failure when it doesn’t go 100% perfect 100% of the time. Even when breastfeeding is going really well most mothers will find something they are unsure about. It is very very common to feel inadequate. You are not alone. The best place to find reassurance in your abilities is in a local breastfeeding support group where you can find other moms going through the same thing. 

Q: What is the number one question you get from new

moms?

A: I get asked all the time if moms need to wait for the breast to fill before feeding their baby. This is not needed. In fact, the beast works opposite of that: the more it is emptied, the faster it actually fills. The breast works on demand. The more it’s emptied the more it will make. There is no need to wait to feed your baby. If you are concerned about your milk supply, it is best to schedule an appointment with an IBCLC to help you get back on track. 

There is a lot to know about breastfeeding. This short interview is just the tip of the iceberg. Start today by visiting LALACTATION and schedule your consultation.

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Ultimate Lemonade Stand Guide For Families

Have you ever seen headlines that read, “Effortless Lemonade Stands”, or “2001 Easy DIY Lemonade Stands”? It seems like a terrific idea until you start to do it. Then, the reality sets in that probably no lemonade stand is easy or effortless No summer is complete without the Lemonade Stand Experience. Here is a guide to 7 different ways to create a stand for your kids. Pick one that will work for your budget, time and energy. For more advanced builds, don’t forget safety goggles for everyone. And don’t forget that my age suggestions are just that, suggestions. Never leave kids unattended with tools and building materials.

Lemonade Stand Types

• Lumber Cost: $100 to $350 Good For Adults and Teens Time: 6 to 8 hours

  Lowe’s has a nice set of plans to build a wooden lemonade stand from plywood. Assuming you already own a cordless drill, circular saw etc., this project should be under $350. Essentially, this is a project for an adult or older teen to build for younger kids. It requires intermediate handyman skills.

  Kids can join in the making more towards the end when the stand is painted and the banner and signage is created. When completed, this can be used as a puppet theatre too

• Fence Pickets Cost: $25 to $50 Good For Aged 12+ Time: 1 to 2 hours

  This project uses fence pickets which are screwed together to make a big rustic looking crate. There do not appear to be wheels or casters on this design, and I would add some just to make life easier when putting it in use. Because this project requires cutting with a circular saw or hand saw, it is really a project to be built by adults with help from older kids.

• Wooden Crate Cost: $100-$125 Good For: Younger kids with parent Time: 1 to 2 hours

  This idea uses wooden crates already made. You can find wooden crates at craft stores, Target and Walmart. It is pretty easy and requires only a small hammer and some wire nails. The fun part comes in painting the crates and making the sign or rustic banner to drape between the two poles on the sides.

• Recycled Pallets Cost: $10 to $70 Good For: Older Kids with parent Time: 1 to 2 hours.

  The toughest part of this project is getting the pallets themselves. If you have time and are diligent, you can likely get used wooden pallets for free from local establishments like pet stores and other businesses. Los Angeles residents may wish to contact A and I Pallets to purchase new and used pallets for their lemonade stand project.

  This way of making a lemonade stand is similar to the crate version above. But pallets are larger so you are starting with bigger chunks that are already connected together. Personally, I like the super rustic and used feel that pallets bring to the table.

• Table with skirt Cost: $10 to $130 Good For: Anyone Time: 15 minutes

  This streamlined and simple way to have a lemonade stand is perfect for people who do not have an area to build in. Creativity can come in the making of the table skirt. Use a tablecloth or upcycled sheets and decorate with felt letters.

• Antsy Pants Cost: $70 to $100 Good For: Anyone Time: 30 minutes

  This is a set of pieces and connectors. Kids can build different things. These snap and click so it is easy for younger kids to build with just a little help. The cover for the lemonade stand is sold separately. So, be sure to buy both the cover and the building set. The good thing about this option is that the connectors and rods can be used over and over again to build many things like tents, trucks and more.

• Upcycle old Furniture Cost: $10 to $75 Good For: Anyone Time: 2 to 3 hours

  If you or your extended family have old furniture in their garage, there may be a lemonade stand just waiting to be born. Old chests of drawers, tables, carts, tv stands, small entertainment centers are all candidates. Otherwise, you can have fun shopping at flea markets or local Los Angeles gems such as Foothill Trading Company or Ocean View Thrift. You never know what great old piece you can find.

Katie is a retired teacher. She now is a maternity, baby and child photographer in Los Angeles. She specializes in Mother Child Imagery. Expecting moms to moms with adult kids are encouraged to get in touch.

Children's Songs Your Kids Will Love

Today, kids are all about media. Between videos and pics on cell phones, it is almost impossible to grab their attention in any different way. Today, I want to let you know about an album of children’s songs that can keep up with the contant competition for attention.

Tumble Bee by Laura Veirs: The Bottom Line For Children’s Songs

This is a great album that has 13 tracks and offers a substantial variety of meters, tones and sounds. Two of the tracks “Down in the Medder” and “Prairie Dream” are instrumentals. This is an attractive feature, especially if you are looking to introduce toddlers to music without any words.

Songs That Are Playful

Tumble Bee has at least three children’s songs that are “catchy”. The tune is fairly easy to pick up, “The Fox”, “Why Oh Why”, and “Little Lap Dog Lullaby” are the ones I might use in a classroom setting, or at a party to break the ice.

The Fox is a super fun song and is sure to cheer up a pouting person. It would also be a great way to start a play date if you felt your kids were shy. The song is easy to learn, is similar to Old McDonald in some ways, and catchy. Your kids will be humming to themselves in no time. This tune would also make a great song to play as you head out on a road trip.

“Why Oh Why” is set to a beat of three; a fast three, and it is fun to sing. Why can a bird eat an elephant? Why can a mouse it a streetcar? Why does a horn make music? These are a few things your kids will find out in this delightful song.

“Little Lap Dog Lullaby” is a bit of a misnomer, if you ask me. It is fun and addictive. Not something that would make most kids sleepy. Though does resemble famous lullaby lines like “Papa’s gonna buy you a mockingbird“, the pace and lyrical elements make this tune too fun to fall asleep to.

Songs That Are Fast

“Jack Can I Ride” showcases a Scott Joplin like piano accompaniment. The words are fast paced and may take a few times around to learn so your toddler can sing along. About midway through the song sports a square dance feel with fiddles and all. Be careful or you will find yourself saying “Do Si Do”.

“Soldier’s Joy” does feel like your little ones could square dance to it. While slower than the traditional square dance version, it takes pretty intense verbal skill to say the words as fast as Laura Veirs does. There is also a male voice on this song so your kids can hear both singing together.

Jamaica Farewell is included in the songs that are fast paced. In reality, it is slower than the others in this section. But I included it here because the lyrics are sung fairly quickly and may take little ones a while to learn. The calypso sway and imagery of the words makes this children’s song the right thing to do for almost any occasion.

Katie is a baby and child photographer in Los Angeles. Contact her today to book your child’s portrait session.

Got Boxes? How to Turn a Spare Box into a New Toy for Your Kids

Spare boxes can be so much more than a pile of cardboard to go out to the recycling bin. With a bit of creativity, you can create all sorts of new toys for your kids. What you make with a cardboard box may be their new favorite toy.

Shape Sorter

You can get creative by using a small box as a shape sorting toy. There are a number of benefits for toddlers to play with these toys, including teaching cause-and-effect and establishing motor skills. Simply create a bunch of shapes all over the box, such as stars, hearts, and triangles. Then, cut them out using a sharp knife. Your kids can, then, work on getting the shapes into the correct cutouts over the box. If you want to get fancy, consider coloring the different cutouts. This way, you can add some more learning by having them name the colors as well as the shapes.

Puppet Theater

Think about how much fun it would be to give sock puppets, string puppets, or even dolls their own theater to perform in. Old moving boxes are great for this project because they tend to be larger than your average Amazon box. Appliance boxes can work well for this, too. You can go as fancy as you want, cutting out certain aspects of the box out to create a stage. Then, you can hang fabric at the openings in order to form a curtain. It will make it a fun place for your kids to exercise their imagination. Plus, it can be used over and over again.

Robots

Robots have always been cool because of what they promise to be able to do for you. While you won’t be able to create the electronic components, cardboard box robots can provide fun for hours on end. Whether you create a cereal box robot or you use shoeboxes or other robots, you can decide what they’ll look like. Stack multiple boxes on top of each other and glue or tape them together. Use other household items like cups to create arms and legs. Then, let your kids go wild by adding some personalization using markers.

Roll up your sleeves and get a little creative. Find as many boxes as you can, in various sizes, so that you have more to work with. It can create hours of fun for you and your kids.

Your kids won’t be kids forever, so it’s important to get photos of them while you can. Book a session with Panos Productions Photography today!

3 Reasons Moms Should Exercise with Their Kids

After having a child, it is easy for moms to put their own health on the back burner as the time to eat well or exercise seems to melt away. Maintaining personal health should continue to be a priority, however. One way to do this is by making exercise a family activity. Here are three reasons why it is beneficial for families to work out together.

It Encourages the Formation of Positive Habits

Parents are the primary educators of children and children are more likely to carry habits they learn in their childhood into their adult lives. Consequently, by exercising with their children, moms can demonstrate how important physical activity is and encourage that positive habit to continue. This concept has been supported by a recent study published by the American Academy of Pediatrics where it was found that the activity level of mothers had a direct correlation with the activity level of their preschool-aged children. As exercise was a larger priority for mothers, their children participated in more physical activity. This effect can be heightened by working out together with children.

It Increases Communication

It's not a secret that schools today are violent, so it's important for moms to have a lot of opportunity to talk with their children and learn about what’s really going on in their lives when they’re out of your sight. Exercising together gives families a structured environment to talk before, during, and after the workout. Participating in physical activity together is also a bonding exercise that can make communication between moms and children easier and more effective. It's clear that spending more time together makes the bond between mother and child stronger.

It's Just Plain Fun

Spending time doing physical activities with your children is simply a fun activity that can bring moms and children together and build a stronger relationship. For the biggest benefits of working out together, you should invite them into physical hobbies you have. Playing sports like soccer or frisbee may be obvious activities to enjoy, but more structured workout routines, like yoga, are extremely beneficial as well. While you might not think about it, there are actually many positives of yoga for children. Yoga is known to improve posture and flexibility, both important factors for growing children. Yoga also improves mental health and gives children the tools they need to understand themselves and have a stronger mind-body connection.

With these reasons in mind, it is clear that making exercise a family activity is beneficial for everyone, in more ways than just physically. Seek to incorporate exercise for the recommended 150 minutes a week.

Here are a couple more articles we think you’ll like!

• 4 Biggest Hidden Dangers to a Child's Health

• Family Fun at the Huntington Library

Family Fun at the Huntington Library

The Huntington Library in San Marino, CA is a fantastic place to take your kids. The trick is to become a member. Members gain entrance to the facilities free. This place is truly amazing. It has several themed gardens, including a children’s garden. There will be a lot of walking, so if you have kids who are not in a stroller anymore, it is a great way to get exercise in a safe environment. There are several lakes and ponds, wildlife to enjoy and wonderful statues and architecture everywhere you look.

OVERALL PROS

Beautiful, clean, safe, full of learning opportunities, kid friendly high tea service

OVERALL CONS

No picnics allowed, pricey if you are not a member.

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When I visited recently, I kept in mind activities that families could do while they visit the grounds.

1. “Book” a Garden: There are 16 gardens to choose from. Each is spectacular. For toddlers, you may want to give special preference to the Children’s Garden, The Chinese Garden and the Jungle Garden. Bring a book that you read to your child often and matches a garden theme. Then, as you visit, you can look in the book and try to find examples of some of the plants. Kids can imagine dinosaurs or other characters as they amble along.

2. Count Your Steps: It is very easy to trek over 2 miles in a leisurely walk around one garden. This is a great way to help kids get generate healthy habits. I recommend using the Chinese Garden for this. You can walk around a stunning lake, look at Koi fish and other wildlife. The architecture there transports you into another world. It is so rich and vibrant, no one will realize they have walked 2 miles! There is also a Chinese food place there to grab a bite. It’s convenient and has outside seating.

3. Portrait Extravaganza: The collection of portraits in the museum is mesmerizing. There are so many to see, it probably can’t be done in one or even two days. The collection has several portraits of older kids, so that makes it more relevant and easy to start a discussion with your own kids about what they see in the painting.

4. Find a Hobby: One of the best things a parent can do for kids is to help them find a hobby; something they can do throughout their schooling years. This teaches coping strategies and skills that so many of us lack. The Japanese Garden has the most extensive Bonsai display around. These are world class examples of how beautiful they are and how it is possible to make a 50 foot Oak tree grow into a 1 foot miniature.

   The Rose Garden, when in bloom, is a great way to introduce kids to the art of rose care and development. There must be 100 different rose varieties there.

   The Rose Garden Tea room offers an experience in high tea. Older kids can see how food can be taken to an art form in detail and presentation. Finger sandwiches and small baked sweets are things kids can learn to make at home.

5. Geocaches: If you geocache as a family, there may be one or two that are hidden around with the permission of the owners. That can add to your days of fun too.

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