More Than Cheese: Finding Natural Smiles

Posted on October 10, 2017October 9, 2017 by Allison

I love cheese as much as the next girl, but only because it tastes delicious. I try pretty hard to steer clear of cheese when I'm doing family or kid photos. While I think it's adorable when they "Cheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeese!!!" themselves...Read More

Mr. Personality: Belle Isle Kid Photography

Posted on October 3, 2017October 2, 2017 by Allison

I heard Carter before I saw him, his little voice carrying across the parking lot. He had seen me, and was calling to his mother to let her know that he knew where I was. His talkative personality shone through...Read More

Diamond in the Rough – RVA Street Art Festival

Posted on September 26, 2017September 25, 2017 by Allison

My Sundays are rarely as full and active as this past was. Our church celebrated 15 years this week with food trucks and cupcakes after the morning service, and I had an afternoon of putting together hygiene kits for Harvey...Read More

Let Me Check My Schedule

Posted on September 19, 2017September 18, 2017 by Allison

Someone asked me the other day about my schedule for the fall and when I'm open for fall family photos. I'm glad she asked, because it made me look at the days between now and December 31, and realize a...Read More

Wardrobe Inspiration for Fall Family Photos

Posted on September 12, 2017September 10, 2017 by Allison

Looking for some inspiration for your wardrobe for fall family photos? I've put together some ideas and tips below that will hopefully get your creative juices flowing. Tip #1: Layer, layer, layer. The cool breezes of fall give us a...Read More

Pop Quiz: What’s Your Ideal Location?

Posted on September 5, 2017September 4, 2017 by Allison

Happy first day of school! As the kids go off to school for their first day, easing (or lurching) back into early morning routines, homework, and tests, I have a quiz for you parents. So often I hear from clients...Read More

Why I Chose Families

Posted on August 29, 2017August 26, 2017 by Allison

I've been doing photography for a long time. I went to VCU (Go Rams) knowing little more than "I want to be a photographer when I grow up" and spent 4.5 years shooting everything (and nothing, don't get me started...Read More

It’s Mini Session Time

Posted on August 15, 2017August 13, 2017 by Allison

It's Move In week at VCU, which means school is right around the corner! A new school year means a fresh start, fresh haircuts, new clothes, new promises to get up early and set a new schedule, and a perfect...Read More

Outdoor Location Myths

Posted on August 8, 2017August 7, 2017 by Allison

Last week, I wrote about five indoor location myths, and I thought it would be fitting to follow that up with some outdoor photo location myths. The majority of my sessions are done outdoors, and overwhelmingly during one part of...Read More

Indoor Location Myths

Posted on August 1, 2017July 31, 2017 by Allison

In case you've been living in the southern hemisphere or a cave lately, I'm here to tell you that this summer has been Hot. Suffocating humidity and heat has made being outside for more than 5 minutes unbearable for a...Read More

Allison Patel Photography

Family Photography and Maternity Portraits in Richmond VA