The Journal
Stories, musings, inspiration, tips for great images, and behind-the-scenes at Nicole Gates Photography.
Because boring photos don’t sell. People decide in seconds whether to trust you or not, and 94% of that first impression comes down to how you show up visually. For my fellow Texans, it’s like walking into H-E-B and choosing wine. The label matters. If the label looks good, it’s going in the cart.
Every family that walks into my studio brings their own dynamic, their own energy, and their own love story. Whether you’re celebrating a new addition to the family, marking a milestone like graduations or anniversaries, or simply want to freeze this moment in time before the kids grow another inch, I’m here to create portraits that will become treasured heirlooms for generations to come.
They come home with laundry and stories… laughter sitting around the dinner table. Siblings teasing each other, mom and dad are in heaven just watching it unfold, watching their kiddos becoming who they are meant to be, and then, just like that, they’re gone again. The house that was filled with laughter and sound and movement is empty again. Waiting for the next time.🥹
People always ask my why I got into photography… How I got started and what drives me to be a photographer…. The simple answer is “I love photography and taking beautiful empowering portraits of women.”
Here is the long answer…
When I started my photography career I vowed to never shoot boudoir! Can you believe it? I saw so much out there that was called boudoir and I honestly didn’t like it. Some of it was just a little cringe worthy…
It’s good that Taylor was able to hold this pose as we perfected the placement of her legs and feet to highlight the boots, and her elbows needed to be in the right spot so she could have the proper room to hold her legs, and head and neck…
…every once in a while it is great to photograph someone’s profile, and have them look away…
McAllen Photographer Nicole Gates is inspired by fashion of all kinds when she creates her looks for her photo shoots. A simple jean and t-shirt is All American girl cool. Check out her blog and portfolio for her jeans and t-shirt series. What should we call this?
Let’s talk about the selfie and why you should hire Nicole Gates Photography in McAllen, Texas to take your portraits. No experience required!
Who the hell do you think you are, wearing leather pants!? Who are you anyway? What happened to you?