February, 2021 - White Willow Photography

UncategorizedBy reimerFebruary 25, 2021February 25, 2021

Winter Outfit Guide

Have you ever wondered what to wear to your outdoor winter photo session?? Great, I put together this guide to hopefully help you in your upcoming photo shoot. Just to be clear these images are not taken by me but taken off trusty Pinterest.

Of course this is just a recommendation on what to wear, you do you. I tend to lean towards clothes without patterns. Another suggestions is that if one of you wears blue jeans, maybe the other should wear a jean jacket. I personally love the beige look. Try black jeans with a white or beige sweater.

If you’re still wondering what to wear try surfing Pinterest a little or ask a friend!

These photos were not taken by me, you can find these photos on Pinterest.

UncategorizedBy reimerFebruary 24, 2021February 25, 2021

How to Choose a Wedding Venue

Be picky. This is your special day and you only get one chance, if you aren’t 100% into it, don’t choose it! Don’t be pursued by the prices they may offer you in order for you to choose them, if you don’t like it, keep the train moving. Sometimes restrictions like COVID or your budget can come into play, but there’s always a way!

Determine a budget and stick with it. Don’t even browse for venues that are out of your budget, because it’s likely you will fall in love with them and will want to change your budget. It’s better to start off your marriage without any financial setbacks am I right? There’s a venue out there for everyone. Don’t start by looking at the expensive venues.

You will want to make sure the venue you are considering has flexible hours or are open until the time you want your after party to go. Also, keeping in mind the time it will take to take down all the decor, etc.

Make sure you know every single little thing they may charge you for; if they offer you a package, compare their price with vendors you can provide yourself with. Hidden fees are not fun, make sure you ask the appropriate questions to insure the best outcome! Also make sure to ask about cancelations, are you able to get your deposit back? This is very important especially with the uncertain times we are experiencing.

Think about you and your spouse’s values and personalities. Are you super social and love people? Or are you guys more private and like to have your own space? Make sure to take note of how private or non-private the venue you are considering is. If you are like me (more private), you will want to make sure there are no outsiders able to catch a glimpse of your wedding. Your wedding is a very personal moment and some people appreciate the extra privacy!

REVIEWS. REVIEWS. REVIEWS. I can’t stress to you enough how important it is to do your research before considering a venue. Things you will want to know before falling in love with the style, is how friendly the staff is, if they are negotiable, if their prices are reasonable, how the property is maintained, etc. The last thing you want is to absolutely love the style and theme, but end up being disappointed with horrible customer service or to be ripped off. Use your head, not your eyes. Easier said than done, I know. At the end of the day venues are there to serve you and a venue that has put in the work to make their clients feel loved and appreciated will show through the reviews and even word of mouth.

Here are some important questions to ask your venue before you book them:

Is this the right size of venue for the number of guests I have?

- Is it easy to find?
- Where is parking? On-site or nearby? Does it cost extra?
- Are their hotels close by if need be?
- Are there shuttle services or transportation options for guests who have been drinking?
- Is there a dance floor?
- If it’s an outdoor venue, is there an indoor location? (indoor backup plans are a must)
- Do they allow outside vendors or do they have ones that they partner with?

This is an exciting time in your life, a time to celebrate love! I hope with all my heart that the wedding planning process is just another highlight of your story and not a tragedy. These steps and questions will get you that much closer to your happily ever after!

UncategorizedBy reimerFebruary 11, 2021November 10, 2021

5 Best Locations for Photos in Winnipeg, Manitoba

Over the years of shooting different couple sessions I’ve found the perfect locations in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Locations can make all the difference, find the one that matches your likes and personality. Not the outdoorsy type? That’s fine, there’s a lot of amazing city locations. Or maybe you enjoy hikes and the smell of pine trees. There’s a location for you.

It’s important after a location sparks your interest to go check it out. You can even do this from home! Here’s some useful tips for scouting your location.

Research: Look up your location on Instagram, Facebook, and Google. For example if you type into instagram “Birds Hill” It will start to show you a bucket load of photos others have taken there. You might have to sort through a bunch of selfies, but you’ll find some pretty locations. You can also look up “Photo Shoot at Birds Hill” in Google and then you’ll be able to see what other Photographers have done with that location. You can also find a location by downloading a hiking app. This can show you amazing trails and some photos from these locations!
Scout it out! It’s important to take some time to just look around. If you don’t know what you’re looking for then try looking for some shaded areas, or a view, or even some pretty colours.

Check out my list of locations below for some of my favourite recommendations.

Birds Hill Provincial Park

I have to start off with my favourite! Birds Hill is filled with a variety of locations. Want beach photos, a tall forest, or even a beautiful field. What more could you want for your engagement shoot?! I often run mini sessions at Birds Hill because of the variety for my clients to pick from. You also have Pineridge Hollow for a post photo shoot bite to eat. If you are looking for a beige look for your photos I would say Birds Hill is perfect.

2. Assiniboine Forest

This is the perfect spot for your engagement photo shoot! This is a much closer option for those living central Winnipeg. I’ve even seen some wedding photos being taken here! If you’re looking for a rustic outdoors look with plenty of trees then this is a place for you. This location is my favourite in the summer during sunset! Personally I don’t go for the green leaves in my photos but instead I like the wild grass and bushes that grow in some of the fields. Keep in mind that there aren’t that many washrooms and if you’re shooting in winter then there’s not many places to warm up.

3. St. Vital Park

Forest, Bathroom, and Geese! This location definitely has its pros and cons. But it still makes it onto my top three. Here’s why, I love the amazing cleared out forest but I’m not a big fan of all the green. Personally my style has shifted more and more, and I choose to stay away from the green. If this fits what you want then this is perfect. Now in winter this location is my favourite. For one reason and one reason only, It’s the Duck Pond building. This building is used for putting on skates, warming up, and going to the washroom. For winter photo shoots this is amazing. I’ve had so many photo shoots that are always sooooo cold and then the faces start to go pink and it’s never fun. So St. Vital Park is perfect for playing in the snow, skating, and a nice cup of hot chocolate.

4. Exchange District

If you’re looking for those city vibes for your insta you probably have thought of the exchange district. But where exactly in the exchange district is good for the photos you want. Here’s a couple ideas for spots to check out!

City Parking Lot: Top of indigo parking lot at Mcdermott and Rorie
Tunnel: King St. and Bannatyne Ave
Nice Ally with vintage Bar: Bannatyne Ave and Rorie St and McDermot Ave
Red River College – Exchange District Campus

You can’t get the city feel like the exchange district anywhere else. Make sure to scout out the location before scheduling your shoot.

5. Grand Beach

Besides the water always being cold… This location gets the best sunset photos! If you have the time to drive out there and it’s warm out, then I highly recommend this location. You can make a fun day out of your photo shoot by also going for a hike!

Whatever your tastes are, there’s a location for you. I find with a bit of exploring you can find amazing locations anywhere! Even better than Pokemon Go hunting! (Not really) Happy hunting.

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