By Lori Stead | Wet Silver Photography

One of the questions I get most often from families planning their session is: "Where should we shoot?" Corpus Christi has more variety than most people realize. Depending on the look and feel you're going for, you could have lush greenery, crashing waves, urban murals, or rustic trails, all within a short drive of each other.
Here are my four favorite outdoor locations for family portraits in Corpus Christi, and what makes each one special.

Hans Suter Wildlife Refuge: Lush and Green
If you want that rich, verdant backdrop that looks nothing like a typical South Texas session, Hans Suter is the spot. The refuge has a beautiful network of green trails that photograph with a depth and richness that surprises most people who haven't been there. My favorite feature is the log bridge. It makes for a naturally beautiful setting that adds real visual interest to portraits without feeling forced or staged.

This location works especially well for families who want something organic and nature-forward rather than the classic beach look. The soft, filtered light through the trees is also very flattering, which never hurts.

By Lori Stead | Wet Silver Photography

One of the most common questions I get from families before their session is: "What should we wear?" It sounds simple, but outfit choices can make or break your family portraits. After more than 20 years photographing families here in Corpus Christi, I've seen what works, what doesn't, and what photographs beautifully against the backdrop of the Texas coast.
Here's my complete guide to dressing your family for portraits you'll actually want to hang on your wall.

Start With One Piece and Build Around ItThe easiest way to coordinate outfits without everyone looking like they're in a uniform is to start with one statement piece. Usually that's mom's outfit, since women's clothing tends to have more color and pattern variety. Once you have that anchor piece, pull colors from it for everyone else.
If mom is wearing a flowy dusty rose dress, dad might wear a light grey or navy shirt, and the kids can wear soft whites, creams, or muted tones that complement without competing. You don't need to match. You need to coordinate.

Choose a Color Palette, Not a Single ColorMatching head-to-toe in the same color can actually flatten your photos and make everyone blend together. Instead, choose two or three colors that work well together and mix them across your family.
Some palettes that photograph beautifully here in Corpus Christi, especially for beach and outdoor sessions:

• Soft neutrals: cream, tan, warm white, camel
• Coastal tones: dusty blue, soft teal, sandy beige, white
• Warm earthy tones: terracotta, rust, olive, cream
• Classic timeless: navy, white, denim, soft grey

Avoid neon colors, busy logos, and graphic tees. They pull the eye away from faces, which is really what the photo is about.

Think About Your LocationCorpus Christi has some beautiful settings for family portraits: the beach, the bay, Heritage Park, and local parks and green spaces. Your outfits should complement your environment, not clash with it.
For beach sessions, light and airy fabrics in soft, neutral tones photograph beautifully against the sand and water. Flowy dresses, linen shirts, and bare feet are classic for a reason. For more urban or studio sessions, you have a little more flexibility with richer colors and structured clothing.

What to Know About Fabric and FitA few practical tips that make a real difference in your final images:
Flowy and relaxed wins. Stiff, uncomfortable clothing translates to stiff, uncomfortable people. When everyone feels good in what they're wearing, it shows.
Avoid heavy horizontal stripes. They can be unflattering and distracting in photos. Subtle patterns, soft textures, and solid colors are the safest bets.
Fit matters more than brand. A well-fitting outfit from anywhere will always photograph better than an ill-fitting designer piece. Make sure sleeves are the right length, shirts are tucked if they're meant to be, and nothing is pulling or bunching.
Bring a backup for little ones. If you have toddlers or babies, pack a spare outfit. Spills happen, and the last thing you want is a wardrobe emergency 10 minutes before your session.

A Note on Seasonal Dressing in South TexasWe all know Corpus Christi weather has its own agenda. Even in fall and winter, temperatures can be warm, so dress for the actual weather rather than the calendar. Light layers can work well if you want the look of a fall session. A light denim jacket or soft cardigan over a summer dress can give you that feel without overheating everyone.
Golden hour sessions in Corpus Christi, typically in the last hour before sunset, are my favorite for families. The light is warm and flattering, so slightly warmer color tones in your clothing tend to look stunning.

When in Doubt, AskEvery family session at Wet Silver Photography includes a planning conversation before we ever pick up a camera. I'm happy to look at your outfit ideas and give feedback before your session day. A quick photo sent by email or text can save a lot of second-guessing.
My goal is for you to walk away with images that look like you: natural, warm, and timeless. The right outfits are a big part of making that happen.
Ready to book your Corpus Christi family session? Call me at 361-445-4661. I'd love to work with you.

Wet Silver Photography is located at 6702 S Staples St, Ste B, Corpus Christi, TX 78413. Serving Corpus Christi and the Coastal Bend by appointment.

So you're pregnant, you're glowing, and somewhere between registering for the eleventh different type of swaddle blanket and trying to decide on a nursery theme, someone asks you about maternity photos. And now you're wondering... when exactly is the right time?

Here's the short answer: around seven months, or about 28 to 32 weeks.
Here's the longer answer, because I think it's worth understanding why - and it'll make you feel a lot better about the whole thing.

Your Belly Is at Its Best
At seven months, that bump has fully arrived and it is gorgeous. It's round, it's full, and it photographs beautifully. There's a shape to it at this stage that is just stunning in portraits - the kind of silhouette that you'll want blown up on a canvas in your living room for the next twenty years.
Earlier in the third trimester, the belly can look a little less defined in photos. And further along, the shape shifts as baby starts dropping and getting ready for the big debut. But right there at 28 to 32 weeks... that's the sweet spot. Trust me on this one.

You Actually Feel Good
Okay, this part is important, and I don't think people talk about it enough.
By seven months, the first trimester fog has lifted, your energy is back, and most mamas are feeling genuinely great. You're strong, you're excited, you're glowing... and you're not yet at the stage where everything swells and your hips feel like they've staged a full revolt.
Maternity sessions involve some movement - posing, walking, sitting on the ground, maybe trekking through some sand at the beach. At 28 to 32 weeks, most women can do all of that comfortably and actually enjoy themselves. And that shows in your photos, it really does. A relaxed, comfortable mama makes for the most beautiful portraits.

Swelling Is Still Pretty Minimal
I hear this concern all the time, and it's a valid one! Swelling is totally normal in the third trimester, but it tends to get much more noticeable in those final weeks.
At seven months, most mamas aren't dealing with significant swelling yet. Your face looks like your face, your hands look like your hands, and that ring you've been wearing all pregnancy probably still fits. These might sound like small things... but when you're looking back at these photos years from now, you'll be glad we captured you before all that set in.

It Gives You a Little Breathing Room
Here's a very practical reason that I feel strongly about: babies do not always arrive on schedule. Shocking, I know.
If you wait until 36 or 37 weeks to schedule your session, you're cutting it really close, and if your little one decides to show up early, you may not get your session at all. Booking around seven months gives you plenty of flexibility, and if something comes up - a conflict, an off day, one of those days where you just don't feel like yourself - we have room to adjust without anyone panicking.

You'll Have More Options
Whether you're dreaming of a golden hour session at the beach, a beautiful studio shoot, or something cozy and in-home, seven months gives us the most to work with. You're mobile, you're comfortable, and you have the stamina to really enjoy the experience.
For outdoor sessions here in the Coastal Bend, we schedule around the best light - sunrise or that magical hour before sunset. At seven months, you'll be perfectly comfortable walking on the beach or through a park at golden hour. A few weeks later... that same walk might feel very different!

So When Should You Actually Book?
My honest advice is to reach out as early as you can, even if your due date feels far away. We can hold a tentative date based on your due date and firm everything up as you get closer. Good time slots fill up fast, especially those sunset sessions everyone loves.
If you're in your second trimester right now and reading this... hi! This is your sign. Reach out!

This Season Is Worth Preserving
Pregnancy moves faster than anyone warns you about. That belly that feels so big and so present right now will be a memory before you know it, and you will want photos of it. Beautiful, professionally done photos that capture how radiant you looked and how much love was already in the air before your baby even arrived.
Seven months is the sweet spot. Let's make it count.

Ready to schedule your maternity session? Give me a call or send a text at 361-445-4661, or shoot me an email at [email protected]. I'd love to work with you!

They’re a Pause Button on a Fast-Moving Season

Senior year has a strange way of speeding up time.

One minute you’re shopping for backpacks and school supplies.
The next, you’re talking about graduation dates, college plans, and what comes after.

Senior portraits exist for one reason:
to slow this moment down long enough to remember it.

This Is a Once-Only Version of Them

Your senior is standing at a crossroads.

They’re still a kid in a lot of ways.
But they’re also becoming someone new.

Senior photos aren’t about pretending they’re already an adult or clinging to childhood.
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They’re about capturing exactly who they are right now: style, personality, confidence, quirks and all.

Because this version?
You don’t get it back.

What Makes a Senior Session Different

This isn’t a rushed, cookie-cutter photo shoot.

A senior session should feel:

~Relaxed, not awkward

~Personalized, not posed for the sake of posing

~Confident, not forced

~True to who they are

~We talk beforehand about:

~Locations that actually fit their vibe

~Outfits that feel like them, not a costume

~How they want to be remembered at this moment

~And yes, guidance is built in. No one is expected to know how to pose or what to do.

For Parents: This One’s for You, Too

Let’s be honest.

Senior portraits hit parents differently.

These photos aren’t just announcements or yearbook submissions.
They’re the last professional portraits before everything changes.

They become:

~The image on the graduation announcement

~The framed photo in your home

~The one you look at when the house feels a little quieter

That’s why quality matters.
That’s why intention matters.

For Seniors: This Is Your Moment

This session isn’t about looking like anyone else.

It’s about:

~Confidence without pressure

~Style without trends dictating everything

~Feeling seen instead of “just smiling”

~Walking away knowing, “Yeah… that actually looks like me.”

Senior portraits should feel empowering, not embarrassing.

You deserve photos you’re proud to share.

The Goal Isn’t Perfect. It’s Meaningful.

Trends will change.
Haircuts will change.
Styles will evolve.

But the confidence, emotion, and authenticity captured in senior portraits?
That’s what lasts.

This season deserves more than a quick snapshot.

It deserves to be remembered well.

--

If you’re starting to think about senior portraits—whether graduation feels far away or suddenly way too close—I’d love to help you plan a session that actually means something.

Because senior year doesn’t slow down.
But photos can make sure you don’t forget it.

When you book a family session, one of the first questions that comes up is, “What should we wear?”
It’s a fair question because your wardrobe sets the tone for your images. But here’s the secret: you don’t need to match. You need to coordinate.

Why “Matching” Dates Your PhotosGone are the days of everyone in white shirts and jeans. Matching outfits can make your photos look flat, overly posed, and dated.
Coordinating, on the other hand, brings harmony and visual interest to your images. It allows each person’s personality to shine while keeping the group cohesive.
Think of your family’s clothing choices like a color palette made up of different tones, textures, and layers that complement one another.

Choose a Color Palette, Not a UniformStart by picking two to three base colors and one or two accent tones.
For example:

• Soft neutrals: ivory, beige, sage, and denim
• Earthy warmth: rust, olive, cream, and navy
• Classic cools: gray, chambray, white, and soft blush

This approach ensures your images look balanced without everyone wearing the same thing.

Texture Adds DepthMixing materials like knits, linen, denim, lace, or corduroy adds richness and interest to your photos. Texture photographs beautifully, especially in outdoor light.

Coordinate, Don’t CompeteEvery outfit should look like it belongs in the same story but not like it came from the same rack. If someone wears a patterned dress, balance it with solids on the others. If one child wears a bold color, let everyone else’s tones be softer.
The goal is to create a cohesive visual flow, not a distraction.

Consider Location and SeasonOutfits should make sense in the setting. Flowy neutrals work beautifully on the beach or in open fields. Cozy sweaters and boots fit perfectly for fall sessions. Always keep the environment in mind when planning your wardrobe because it will help your photos feel natural and intentional.

Comfort Over PerfectionIf you’re uncomfortable, it shows. Choose clothes that fit well and allow movement, especially for kids. Avoid anything too tight, shiny, or covered in large logos. The best photos happen when your family can just be themselves.

When in Doubt, Ask Your PhotographerI am always to help my clients finalize their wardrobe choices before their session. Whether that’s reviewing outfit photos or helping you refine a color palette, I’m here to make sure your family looks incredible together. Simply reach out at any time!

Ready to book your next family session?
Let’s create portraits that feel as natural as they look beautiful.

Your Headshot Speaks Before You Do
In today’s digital world, your headshot is often your first impression. It appears on your website, your LinkedIn profile, your company bio, and even in your email signature. Whether you are a business owner, real estate agent, executive, or creative professional, your headshot tells the world who you are long before you meet in person.
A professional headshot is not just about looking good. It communicates confidence, trustworthiness, and authenticity. At Wet Silver Photography, we specialize in creating headshots that reflect your unique personality and brand while maintaining a polished, professional look.

When to Update Your Headshot
If your current photo is more than two years old, it is time for a refresh. Our faces, styles, and personal brands change over time, and your image should change with them.
Here are a few signs that you may need to update your headshot:

• You have changed your hair color or style
• You have grown or shaved a beard
• You have lost or gained weight
• You have updated your personal or business brand
• Your last photo was taken more than two years ago

If someone might not immediately recognize you from your headshot, it is probably outdated.

Why Choose Wet Silver Photography
Our sessions are designed to make you look confident and approachable. We use flattering lighting, expert posing, and professional direction to capture your best angles and expressions.

You can choose between studio sessions for a timeless, clean look or on-location branding sessions that tell a fuller story about your work and personality.

Book Your Session
An outdated headshot can hold back your professional image. Visit Wet Silver Photography Headshots to book your session today.

Your next opportunity might be just one updated image away.

It’s a question that comes up more often than you’d think: Should I tip my photographer? Whether it’s a boudoir session, a family portrait, or professional headshots, clients often wonder what the etiquette is when it comes to tipping for photography services.
The Short Answer:
No, tips are not expected. But are they appreciated? Absolutely.
Photography is a professional service, and most photographers (myself included) price their sessions to reflect the full value of their time, talent, and work. That includes not only the time spent during your session, but also the hours editing images, preparing galleries, placing orders, and handling communication before and after your shoot.
So if tipping isn't expected, why do some people do it?
Tipping is a personal decision, and it usually comes from a place of gratitude. Maybe the photographer went above and beyond to make you feel confident, calm your toddler, or deliver an incredible final product ahead of schedule. A tip is one way to say, “Wow. That was amazing, and I see the extra care you put into this.”
Other Ways to Show Your Appreciation (That Aren’t Monetary):

• Leave a thoughtful review on Google, Facebook, or wherever you found your photographer. It helps more than you know.
  
• Refer your friends or family. Word-of-mouth is gold.
  
• Tag your photographer when sharing images (with permission, if applicable). It’s a compliment that also supports their work.
  
• Send a thank-you note or email. A few kind words go a long way.
  

Bottom Line:
There’s no obligation to tip your photographer. We don’t expect it, and you’ll get the same care and creativity regardless. But if you feel moved to do so, we receive it with genuine appreciation.
Have questions about what’s included in your session or how to best prepare? Feel free to reach out—I'm always happy to walk you through it.

Welcoming a new baby is one of life’s most precious moments. Those first few days fly by in a blur of snuggles, sleepless nights, and overwhelming love. That’s why capturing your newborn during their first 5-10 days is so special—this tiny, delicate stage doesn’t last long!
Why is the 5-10 day window the best?

• Babies are still naturally curled up and super flexible for those adorable, womb-like poses.
• They tend to sleep deeply, allowing for peaceful, dreamy images.
• Their skin is smooth, fresh, and free from the baby acne that sometimes appears a few weeks later.
  
  

When Should You Book? The best time to book your newborn session is while you’re still pregnant! Here’s why:
✅ We pencil in your due date to secure your session.
✅ Once baby arrives, we adjust the date accordingly.
✅ You won’t have to scramble to book last-minute when you're in the thick of new parent life.

New Fabrics, Timeless Memories. We’re thrilled to have just added beautiful new fabrics and textures to our collection, ensuring that your baby’s first portraits are as soft and stunning as they deserve to be. Whether you love earthy neutrals, airy pastels, or rich, deep tones, we have the perfect backdrop for your newborn’s first photo session.

Places to shop. 
Goo Goo Boujee Boutique
Carters

💫 Let’s create something beautiful together. Don’t wait—secure your newborn session today!

📅 Book now

Just found out you're pregnant? 
Here's a list of local OBGYNs
Corpus Christi Women's Clinic
OBGYN & Associates
Coastal Bend Women's Center

Congratulations on your pregnancy!

 Life moves fast—especially when you have kids. One moment, you're cradling your newborn, marveling at their tiny fingers and sleepy yawns. The next, they're running full speed ahead, chasing dreams (and probably a snack). It all happens in a blink, and if there’s one thing every parent will tell you, it’s this: they grow up way too fast.

That’s why family portraits are more than just pictures; they’re time capsules. They freeze a moment in time that you can never get back—but you can hold onto forever.

Newborn Photography: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity Newborns change by the day. That sleepy, curled-up stage? It lasts mere weeks. Their impossibly tiny toes, the way they fit perfectly in your arms, the newness of it all—it’s fleeting. That’s why capturing professional newborn portraits is so important. These aren’t just pictures; they’re memories preserved, a way to remember just how small they once were when they fit into the crook of your arm.

If you’ve ever thought, I’ll book newborn photos later, this is your reminder—there is no later. This stage is now, and once it’s gone, it’s gone.

Childhood: The Evolution of Personality As kids grow, they change in ways you can’t always see in real-time. The toddler belly laughs, the toothless grins, the freckles that seem to multiply overnight—these phases pass like the seasons. And just like you wouldn’t want to forget the first steps or the first day of school, you’ll want to remember the way they looked at this moment, exactly as they are.

Annual family portraits allow you to document these milestones and see, year after year, how much they’ve grown and changed. But more than that, they show the love, the connection, and the story of your family.

Why Family Photos Matter More Than You Think Let’s be honest—getting everyone together for family pictures isn’t always easy. There are schedules to juggle, outfits to coordinate, and at least one kid who refuses to smile. But you know what? The chaos is part of the moment. Real-life moments, real laughter, real love—that’s what makes a family portrait meaningful.

Because one day, you’ll look back at these photos and realize just how priceless they are. They won’t just be pictures; they’ll be reminders of a life well-lived, of kids who grew up too fast, and of a love that stood still, even if just for a moment.

Don’t Wait—Book Your Session Today If you’ve been putting off family photos, let this be your sign—it’s time. Whether you’re welcoming a newborn, celebrating another year together, or just wanting to freeze time for a little while, a portrait session is an investment you’ll never regret.
Let’s capture your today before it turns into yesterday. Learn more about the pricing and process or Book your family session now.

In the fast-paced world of digital snapshots and smartphone photography, the significance of professional family photos might seem a bit old-fashioned to some. However, investing in a professional family photoshoot at least every couple of years offers timeless value and benefits that far outweigh the convenience of a quick selfie.

Here’s why:
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1. Quality That Lasts a Lifetime
Professional photographers have the skills, equipment, and artistic eye to capture high-quality images that stand the test of time. Unlike the often fleeting and low-quality nature of phone photos, professional images are carefully composed, expertly lit, and crisply focused. These photos are not just images; they are art pieces that capture the essence of your family in a way that is worthy of being displayed in your home and passed down through generations.

2. Capturing Growth and Change
Families are constantly evolving. Children grow up, new members are added, and appearances change. Professional family photos provide a beautiful timeline of these changes and developments. By having photos taken every couple of years, you can create a visual story of your family’s journey, capturing the essence of each stage of life and the dynamics that make your family unique.

3. Professional Guidance
One of the most significant advantages of professional photography is the guidance provided by the photographer. From choosing the perfect location and outfits that complement each other to posing in a way that feels natural and looks great, a professional photographer knows how to bring out the best in your family. This expertise ensures that everyone looks their best and feels comfortable, resulting in photos that are not only beautiful but also authentic.

4. A Moment of Togetherness
In today’s busy world, it can be challenging to find time when the entire family is together, without distractions. A professional photoshoot provides an opportunity for families to bond and enjoy each other's company. It’s a moment to pause, focus on the love and connections that bind you, and create new memories together. This experience itself is invaluable and worth capturing.

5. The Gift of Memories
Professional family photos are more than just pictures; they are tangible memories that evoke emotions and tell the stories of our lives. They serve as a reminder of the love, joy, and bond that family members share. As time passes, these photos become priceless treasures that bring back cherished memories and moments, serving as a legacy of your family’s history.

6. Customization and Creativity
With professional photography, the possibilities are endless. Photographers can offer a range of styles, from candid and casual to highly styled thematic shoots. This flexibility allows families to express their personalities and preferences, creating unique and personalized images that reflect who they are.

While technology allows anyone to capture moments at any time, there’s a profound difference between everyday snapshots and the timeless beauty of professional family photographs. Investing in professional family photos every couple of years is not just about getting everyone in the same picture; it’s about capturing the essence, personality, and growth of your family in a way that nothing else can. It’s a celebration of your family’s journey, a legacy in the making, and an investment that grows more valuable with time.