Real Family | Dockins Crew

November 2, 2017

02 Nov 2017

Welcome back, everyone, and Happy November!

I just have to share the spectacular photo session I recently had with the Dockins family. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – I truly have the best clients ever! This family was no exception, either.

I met John and Alia Dockins at one of my brother’s annual parties. We soon scheduled a shoot near the National Museum of African American Culture and History. I loved shooting on the National Mall in DC because every direction offers a great scene.

For our shoot, the Dockins’ brought sweaters for their young sons, and even a sports coat for 3-year-old Ian. I was able to work in the props and the outfits they chose, which really made for some amazing photos. I mean, how cute is baby Kyle?

It truly was a fun photo shoot. And if any of you are considering a family session or are prepping for an upcoming session, heed the words of Alia:

“I enjoyed taking the pics with you and would do it again,” she says. Solid advice!

Okay, on to pictures of the Dockins family!

I’m currently booking holiday photo sessions! Email me at insana@insanacollins.com for your own portrait session or holiday party. My clients also love that they are able to text me at 202-738-9007, and I’m happy to accommodate. Until next time,

Insana

0 Comments/in african american, Black History, child, Children, Collins Photography, family, love /by Insana Collins

Real Family | Shinavia & Logan

July 26, 2017

26 Jul 2017

Hola, everyone!

Oh how I just adore the family I’m blogging about today. I’m lucky enough to say I’ve been photographing Shinavia’s family for eight years now! I truly can’t believe how much her son, Logan, has grown and changed since I first met him, especially since I’ve known Shinavia for over 20 years.

Today, Logan is 9 years old and on his way to the 4th grade. And, it goes without saying, his mom Shinavia and I have become even better friends over the time we’ve worked together. It’s hard to not become friends with someone like Shinavia, frankly; she’s such a peach!

SanaLoganShea1-2

When Shinavia called me to take their photos again, I immediately began counting down the days to our session! And as for the day of the shoot, I had a blast! They had a pretty great time, too, posing between running around the playground and making funny faces.

About our shoot, Shinavia said, “I liked that [our session] was very spontaneous and free. We didn’t have to pose a lot because with kids, they don’t focus for long so ask them to keep posing isn’t going to work but capturing those cute moments are key.”

Location: Watkins Park
Shinavia’s Wardrobe: Marshall’s
Logan’s Wardrobe: Children’s Place

Once Shinavia saw her photos, she said, “I love the photos because I think they capture our personalities. They show how loving and playful we are towards each other. You can tell he’s my only child and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”

Okay, enough text. Check out the awesome mother/son duo, Shinavia and Logan.

I’ll be scheduling another family session like this in August. If you’re interested in your own individual or family portraits, shoot me an email at insana@insanacollins.com or a text to 202-738-9007 to book. Until next time!

Insana

1 Comment/in family, portraits /by Insana Collins

Portraits | Madison the Dancer

November 3, 2015

03 Nov 2015

Hey guys!

Today I have a real treat for you, which comes in the form of 8-year-old Madison. She’s a dancer, and her mom wanted to showcase her talent in the best way possible, especially since she’s beginning to dance more competitively.

You can tell from the pictures that this little girl is energetic–an important trait for a young dancer. She’s a constant performer and seems to enjoy herself…a lot!

We met up at a private studio in Fairfax, which I loved because of the range of indoor scenery. Madison’s mom, Monica, handled Madison’s hair and makeup herself.

Not only is Madison a talented dancer, she’s also received voice training from Shirley Ables, a member of the Grammy-award winning gospel group, Shirley Ables and the Joy Gospel Singers. As you can see, Madison’s parents have a lot to be proud of.

Her parents also did a really wonderful job choosing outfits for our session.

“We wanted her head shots to accent her natural look, and the dance shots to allow the focus on her dancing ability so we chose a bright pink shirt for the head shots, but a more muted color, simple leotard for her dance shots,” said Monica. I second that info!

Okay, moving on to what you’ve been waiting for. For your viewing pleasure, pictures of Madison, the dancer!

This family was just awesome to work with. I totally look forward to shooting with Madison in the future. “Overall, it was a great experience. Insana is very patient and kind and can really capture beauty with the lens,” said mom, Monica.

Until next time,

Insana

0 Comments/in african american, Children, Collins Photography, daughter, event, family, Insana, Insana Collins, Photographer, photography, Photos, portraits, Published, Washington DC /by Insana Collins

The Family Photographer’s Family Reunion

August 5, 2015

05 Aug 2015

I began my career in photography the way many others have. First, I started taking pictures as a hobby, so much so, that people requested that I take their event photos. Then I learned more about photography and purchased the best camera. More people requested photos. Then I wanted to get better, so I read books, took classes, attended conferences and studied on YouTube. Even more people requested photos. Then I practiced, practiced, and practiced. Got better equipment. Upgraded my camera and lenses. And just like many photographers before me, my easiest subjects were none other than my family members, out of sheer availability.

It’s been eight years since I’ve decided to dedicate my time and energy to professional photography, but my family photography experience hasn’t changed one bit. This means that when we have special events like family reunions, I’m the first in line to capture the day. This summer’s Collins Family Reunion was no different.

On duty.

Line dancing at the white party.

My cousin Monica and uncle Joe.

My newest niece, Alyssa, and cousin Tameka.

My cousin Dennis and Andrea, from Little Rock, Arkansas.

My beautiful mother (in pink) and her friend, Mary.

My sister-in-law and two nieces.

My mom and her 11 brothers and sisters.

The children and grandchildren of my grandparents, Harvey and Mary. I hope they can see us and are proud that we continue this family tradition.

I’m honored that I can take professional photos of my family. It requires the right equipment, of course, the skill to make people smile, stand up straight, look thinner, and above all, corral large groups of people who are constantly distracted by one another. This is a family reunion after all!

The reunion went off without a hitch and I can’t wait until next time! The smiles of aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters and cousins made it all worthwhile. I hope you cherish your family the way that I cherish mine,

Insana