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How to Plan a Birthday Party | Houston Event Photographer

Tara Flannery is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) based in The Woodlands and Conroe, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in event photography and can help with how to plan a birthday party.  See more event photography in the gallery.  Contact me to book your event today!

How to Plan a Birthday Party

Planning a party can be a lot of fun!  With a few prepared steps, you can breeze through the planning and enjoy the party.

  1. Select a date for the party and the venue.  This is the critical first step so that everyone can put a date on their calendars and join you for the fun.  Send out invitations to guests.
  2. Secure vendors like photographers, party rental and supplies, entertainment, etc.  You’ll want to book these in advance so that the vendors can also put the event on their calendars.
  3. Prepare for food and drinks.  Every party needs food and drinks, or at the very least, cake!!  You can make food yourself or have it catered.  Either way, plan ahead and adjust as RSVPs come in.
  4. Plan the details.  This step can be done in the weeks leading up to the party but it’s an important one.  All of those tiny details like party favors (if you’re having them), and water for guests, and where people will store purses, etc.

Aliza’s Second Birthday

I’m so honored to have been asked to capture Aliza’s second birthday party.  To date, I have photographed her baptism, first birthday party, family photos, and now her second birthday party.  I feel like part of the family!  And this family knows how to plan a birthday party!  Attention is paid to every tiny detail, from the personalized water bottles to the food and beverages to the cake and dessert.  Family and friends gathered to celebrate Aliza’s second birthday this past weekend.  As you walked into the home, you were greeted with a personalized book for Aliza that guests could sign and wish her a happy birthday.  She will love to look at this when she’s older!  Guests then mingled while the kids played in the bouncy house and with the bubbles.  Elmo made a special appearance and was a delight for the kids!  After lunch, Aliza dug into her very own cake.  Then it was time for the pinata and candy galore.  At the end of the party, there was time for a few more family photos.  Happy birthday, Aliza!  Your family loves you very much.

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Tara Flannery is a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) based in The Woodlands and Conroe, TX.  Tara Flannery Photography specializes in event photography.  See more event photography in the gallery.  Contact me to book your event today!

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@taraflanneryphotography

- Do this instead 👇🏻

Most people focus on their outfit or expression — but your background plays a huge role in how others perceive you. It sets the tone for your personal brand before you even introduce yourself.

Your space tells clients what working with you feels like.

Here’s how different backdrops communicate different messages:

🏢 Corporate office → traditional, established, and formal.

🌿 Natural outdoor setting → approachable, creative, and warm.

🏙️ Urban or architectural environment → modern, edgy, and innovative.

🎨 Solid color or studio backdrop → clean, versatile, and timeless.

Even subtle shifts in tone, texture, or color can completely change the mood of your headshot — which is why the location is just as important as the lighting or pose.

And here’s the exciting part: with the help of professional AI editing, you don’t have to choose just one. We can create on-brand variations that fit different platforms — like LinkedIn, your website, or your marketing materials — while keeping your headshot cohesive and authentic.

Because when every detail works together — from your expression to your background — your headshot becomes more than a picture. It becomes your first impression.

📩 Ready to plan your next session? Message me and let’s find the backdrop that tells your brand story best.

#headshotlocations #headshottips #corporateheadshots #photolocationshoustontx

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Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18078263909156290
- Do this instead 👇🏻 Most people focus on their outfit or expression — but your background plays a huge role in how others perceive you. It sets the tone for your personal brand before you even introduce yourself. Your space tells clients what working with you feels like. Here’s how different backdrops communicate different messages: 🏢 Corporate office → traditional, established, and formal. 🌿 Natural outdoor setting → approachable, creative, and warm. 🏙️ Urban or architectural environment → modern, edgy, and innovative. 🎨 Solid color or studio backdrop → clean, versatile, and timeless. Even subtle shifts in tone, texture, or color can completely change the mood of your headshot — which is why the location is just as important as the lighting or pose. And here’s the exciting part: with the help of professional AI editing, you don’t have to choose just one. We can create on-brand variations that fit different platforms — like LinkedIn, your website, or your marketing materials — while keeping your headshot cohesive and authentic. Because when every detail works together — from your expression to your background — your headshot becomes more than a picture. It becomes your first impression. 📩 Ready to plan your next session? Message me and let’s find the backdrop that tells your brand story best. #headshotlocations #headshottips #corporateheadshots #photolocationshoustontx

Here’s how to fix that 👇🏻

If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable in front of the camera — especially when someone else is taking your picture — you’re not alone. It’s completely normal.

Taking professional photos can feel surprisingly vulnerable. You’re being seen, literally, and that can stir up a lot of nerves.

But here’s the thing: feeling awkward shouldn’t stop you from getting photos you love. My job as your photographer is to help ease that discomfort so you can show up as your best, most authentic self.

Here’s how I help clients do just that:

1️⃣ The Consultation

Before your session, we’ll chat about your goals, style, and how you want to be seen. I also connect clients with trusted stylists who can help you choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable (if needed).

2️⃣ A Calm, Supportive Environment

Whether we’re in my studio, your office, or an outdoor location, my priority is to create a space where you can relax, laugh, and genuinely enjoy the process. When you’re at ease, it always shows in your photos.

3️⃣ A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

Get plenty of rest, hydrate, and plan your wardrobe ahead of time. When you feel prepared, you walk into your session with a completely different kind of confidence.

Because the truth is — professional photos can feel vulnerable, but with the right guidance, they can also be empowering. 💛

📩 Ready to feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera? Message me to schedule your session today.

#professionalheadshots #corporateheadshots #headshotphotographer #headshottips

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Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 17961749040003344
Here’s how to fix that 👇🏻 If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable in front of the camera — especially when someone else is taking your picture — you’re not alone. It’s completely normal. Taking professional photos can feel surprisingly vulnerable. You’re being seen, literally, and that can stir up a lot of nerves. But here’s the thing: feeling awkward shouldn’t stop you from getting photos you love. My job as your photographer is to help ease that discomfort so you can show up as your best, most authentic self. Here’s how I help clients do just that: 1️⃣ The Consultation Before your session, we’ll chat about your goals, style, and how you want to be seen. I also connect clients with trusted stylists who can help you choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable (if needed). 2️⃣ A Calm, Supportive Environment Whether we’re in my studio, your office, or an outdoor location, my priority is to create a space where you can relax, laugh, and genuinely enjoy the process. When you’re at ease, it always shows in your photos. 3️⃣ A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way Get plenty of rest, hydrate, and plan your wardrobe ahead of time. When you feel prepared, you walk into your session with a completely different kind of confidence. Because the truth is — professional photos can feel vulnerable, but with the right guidance, they can also be empowering. 💛 📩 Ready to feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera? Message me to schedule your session today. #professionalheadshots #corporateheadshots #headshotphotographer #headshottips

Here`s what you can expect at a headshot session with me 👇🏻

✨ Pre-session consultation to understand your brand and team dynamics
📋 Wardrobe guidance that aligns with your company culture
🎯 Multiple looks and expressions to give everyone options
⏰ Efficient workflow that respects everyone`s busy schedules
💼 Professional retouching that maintains authenticity
📱 Digital gallery delivery within 48 hours

Be honest—when was the last time your team photos actually represented who you are today? Most companies wait 3-5 years between updates, but your people (and your business) evolve much faster than that.

Your team`s headshots aren`t just photos—they`re the first impression potential clients, partners, and talent get of your company culture. When they`re outdated or inconsistent, what message does that send?

Ready to show the world the dynamic team you`ve built? Let`s create imagery that matches your company`s growth. 🚀

#headshots #corporatephotography #teamheadshots #professionalphotography #houstonphotographer

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Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18097105072802709
Here's what you can expect at a headshot session with me 👇🏻 ✨ Pre-session consultation to understand your brand and team dynamics 📋 Wardrobe guidance that aligns with your company culture 🎯 Multiple looks and expressions to give everyone options ⏰ Efficient workflow that respects everyone's busy schedules 💼 Professional retouching that maintains authenticity 📱 Digital gallery delivery within 48 hours Be honest—when was the last time your team photos actually represented who you are today? Most companies wait 3-5 years between updates, but your people (and your business) evolve much faster than that. Your team's headshots aren't just photos—they're the first impression potential clients, partners, and talent get of your company culture. When they're outdated or inconsistent, what message does that send? Ready to show the world the dynamic team you've built? Let's create imagery that matches your company's growth. 🚀 #headshots #corporatephotography #teamheadshots #professionalphotography #houstonphotographer

I get it—parents worry their kids won’t sit still, won’t smile, or will get tired too quickly. But here’s the truth: that’s exactly what makes the photos beautiful.

✨ We start playfully — no pressure, just letting your kids warm up at their own pace.
📸 I’ll guide you into natural interactions, like walking, snuggling, or playing together.
😊 Expect tickle fights, giggles, and even a little silliness—it’s all part of the fun.
🍂 Kids need breaks? We roll with it. The best smiles usually come after they’ve had a chance to relax.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Every child gets their moment to shine—without forcing fake poses.

There’s no “perfect behavior” required. The most memorable family portraits happen when your kids are just being themselves—and you’re right there with them.

Because this isn’t about stiff poses or saying “cheese.” It’s about capturing the real magic of your family in this season of life.

📩 Ready for a session your kids will actually enjoy? DM me to get started!

#familyportraits #behindthescenes #whattoexpect #thewoodlandstxphotographer #familyphotosession

7 0
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18058614485560833
I get it—parents worry their kids won’t sit still, won’t smile, or will get tired too quickly. But here’s the truth: that’s exactly what makes the photos beautiful. ✨ We start playfully — no pressure, just letting your kids warm up at their own pace. 📸 I’ll guide you into natural interactions, like walking, snuggling, or playing together. 😊 Expect tickle fights, giggles, and even a little silliness—it’s all part of the fun. 🍂 Kids need breaks? We roll with it. The best smiles usually come after they’ve had a chance to relax. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Every child gets their moment to shine—without forcing fake poses. There’s no “perfect behavior” required. The most memorable family portraits happen when your kids are just being themselves—and you’re right there with them. Because this isn’t about stiff poses or saying “cheese.” It’s about capturing the real magic of your family in this season of life. 📩 Ready for a session your kids will actually enjoy? DM me to get started! #familyportraits #behindthescenes #whattoexpect #thewoodlandstxphotographer #familyphotosession

Here`s the hard truth about acting headshots that most photographers won`t tell you 👇🏻

If a casting director can`t immediately see what role you`d play just by looking at your photo, you`ve already lost the audition.

Corporate headshots show professionalism. Acting headshots show CHARACTER—and that requires a completely different approach.

Most actors think they need one `perfect` headshot with a generic smile. But casting directors aren`t looking for pleasant—they`re looking for types. The lawyer, the best friend, the villain. And they need to see it instantly.

That`s why specificity wins:
✨ Confident and commanding for lawyer roles
✨ Warm and approachable for parent characters
✨ Hint of mischief for villain parts

But here`s the bigger mistake—thinking one headshot is enough. One headshot = one role. Multiple headshots = multiple opportunities.

You need range: commercial-friendly, dramatic, playful, maybe edgy. When casting directors see variety, they`re thinking about how you fit their ENTIRE project.

Not every photographer understands acting industry standards. When I work with actors, we plan multiple `looks` in one session—because every shot needs to feel intentional.

Ready to create acting headshots that actually get you cast? Let`s plan a session that shows your full range.

#actingheadshots #headshots #professionalheadshots #houstonphotographer #modelingheadshots

4 0
Open post by taraflanneryphotography with ID 18086244871763501
Here's the hard truth about acting headshots that most photographers won't tell you 👇🏻 If a casting director can't immediately see what role you'd play just by looking at your photo, you've already lost the audition. Corporate headshots show professionalism. Acting headshots show CHARACTER—and that requires a completely different approach. Most actors think they need one 'perfect' headshot with a generic smile. But casting directors aren't looking for pleasant—they're looking for types. The lawyer, the best friend, the villain. And they need to see it instantly. That's why specificity wins: ✨ Confident and commanding for lawyer roles ✨ Warm and approachable for parent characters ✨ Hint of mischief for villain parts But here's the bigger mistake—thinking one headshot is enough. One headshot = one role. Multiple headshots = multiple opportunities. You need range: commercial-friendly, dramatic, playful, maybe edgy. When casting directors see variety, they're thinking about how you fit their ENTIRE project. Not every photographer understands acting industry standards. When I work with actors, we plan multiple 'looks' in one session—because every shot needs to feel intentional. Ready to create acting headshots that actually get you cast? Let's plan a session that shows your full range. #actingheadshots #headshots #professionalheadshots #houstonphotographer #modelingheadshots

- STAY IN TOUCH -

Serving the Greater Houston, Texas Area

tara@taraflannery.com

713-412-5437

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Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers of America PPA.
Tara is a Certified Professional Photographer.
Tara is a member of TPPA Texas Professional Photographer's Association.
Tara has earned her Master of Photography degree.
Tara has earned her Photographic Craftsman certification.
Tara is a member of the Professional Photographers Guild of Houston PPGH.