Freeman Family • Maternity/Family Portrait • Houston

Since I took these in February I have been dying to post some images from this session. The reason for the delay is simply because I prefer not to share session photos before my clients place and receive their order.  

I remember when I took Matt and Carolina's wedding pictures 5 or so years ago, and now here we were again taking family pictures. With two little ones and another on the way (now 3 little ones), their family had grown and changed so much.  It was a really good feeling to be a part of this family's most joyful moments.

We captured some very sweet moments at El Jardin del Mar.  The weather was nice (a bit windy at times), and for many of these shots the sun cast a soft gleam which made the images all the more lovely. I will include strong and lively shots which also appeal to my eye, as I hope it does to yours as well.   

All images ©Julie Cruz & j.cruz.photography

 

As always, please do not copy these images without permission.

Thank you!

Dominique + Friends • Prom • Galveston

I was super excited to take prom pictures last month.  It was the first time I had been asked to do so, and I think it is the perfect photo opportunity to memorialize an american high school milestone.  Why had I not thought of this before?!  I only wish I had more parents wanting to step away from the traditional prom date pictures taken at the front door right before the couple heads off..... 

We drove to Moody Gardens in Galveston for a few pre-prom pictures of Dominique with her friends.  (I have to tell you, Dominique is the sweetest girl in the world and if you were to meet her family you'd see why she turned out so well.  They are a big family with big hearts.)  So for Miss Dominique we were at the prom hot spot to put a modern twist on her prom photos.  It was a really nice day and the timing was perfect as the last minutes of the sun illuminated my subjects.  I also got the sun lens flare which inspired me for post production work on these pictures.   And I love the warm colors.

All images © Julie Cruz & j.cruz.photography

I always welcome healthy critiques to improve my skills, so if you'd like to know something (How to's in photoshop, photo style, etc.) or give your opinion please do not hesitate.  Thank you! 

Talitha • Maternity Portrait • Clear Lake • PART I

I love maternity photography because there is truly something very amazing about that growing bump.  Talitha looks so beautiful.  She's going to be a first time mommy by the end of this month.  We can't wait to meet the precious baby girl.

All images © Julie Cruz & j.cruz.photography

I made the next image shown first in a crisp light & then in a soft light.  To me they are equally as beautiful, but I'd probably go with the second if I were to mount this image & hang it in my home.  It just has that soft angelic feel to it, you know? Then again....?  It depends on the pictures surrounding it.

Seth + Erica • Engagement Session • Houston • POST II

More image variations from this photo session!  I had to share these posed images in their many dramatic aesthetics.  I find each small change leaves a new imprint on how I feel when viewing the image & how it appeals to the eye.

I'd like to know your opinion, whether you're a friend, follower, or just a passerby.

All images © Julie Cruz & j.cruz.photography

warm-toned w/dramatic lighting

Deep shadows w/dramatic lighting

b&w w/dramatic lighting

b&w w/G&B color pop

b&w w/G color pop

b&w w/G&R color pop

b&w w/ R color pop