So you booked your session. Now what?

Via e-mail we will discuss location selection, wardrobe selection, and answer any questions you have.
I am excited to capture you and your loved ones. Custom photography is unique because it not only captures what you look like at a certain point in time, it captures who you are. I aim to capture honest photos of your family and children. The goal is not to get a stiff and posed shot with everyone looking at the camera, but to capture the true essence of your family. I take a documentary approach to photography and use my understanding of my equipment and natural light to create images that will become works of art that you can hang in your home and pass down for generations. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your session with me.

 

Location:​ Together, we will decide on the best location for your photos. We can shoot in your home as long as your home has adequate natural light or outdoors.  Some clients prefer their home because of the intimate and personal feel it provides. I have many locations that I love to shoot at regularly but I am always open to new suggestions as well. I will let you know if they can be a possibility.  You should choose a location that fits your style and personality. I can help you along with this decision.

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Time:​ If we are shooting in your home, I prefer late morning, because that is when homes are usually lit up the best. If we are shooting outdoors we will shoot either in the morning or in the evening. The light is typically too harsh mid day. Shooting one to two hours before sunset provides gorgeous light and atmosphere. The images in my portfolio look the way they do largely because of my use of light.  The time of day your session takes place has a huge impact. 

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Length Of Session:  Sessions can last anywhere between an hour to two hours depending on how fast we get through things.  I try to move quickly so the kiddos don't loose interest while being sure to get a wide range of images for your gallery.

What To Wear:​  Choosing attire for a photo session is a bit more complex than pulling a few favorites from the depths of your closet. Why? Things that look great in person, don't always translate on camera. And let's be real here... Professional photos? They're an investment! You don't want to leave your outfit to chance.The goal is to find a style that's authentic to your family, but feels special at the same time.Wardrobe should be comfortable and reflect who you are.  Your outfits should be cohesive not "matchy-matchy."  If you like the coordinated look then have a color that runs through everyones outfit or a theme of color. Summer pictures should reflect the season as well as fall and spring.

 

I have an entire page dedicated to this so be sure to look there. 

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Outfit Inspiration Guide 

 

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Here are some highlights:

• LAYERS: More is more here, folks (unless it’s a bazillion degrees outside.)

• NEUTRALS: Build your outfits around a neutral base and pop in colors.

• MATCHING: Identical or “themed” outfits – no bueno!

• FOOTWEAR: We’re trudging through the best of mother nature has to offer, so make good choices!

• PETS: Of course, bring them! And also have a ‘helper’ along to take them when they’re done.

Add a variety of subtle patterns .
They say that variety is the spice of life right?  To add depth and interest to your photos, create dimension by having primarily solids with a few coordinating subtle patterns and textures. Patterns are great in small doses and add a lot of your photo. Avoid bold, large prints that can distract from the photo though. You want your family photos to be about you and not merely your outfits.
Layers are another way to add variety with cardigans, shawls, scarves, etc.

Props:​ I do not use props during my sessions, however if you have something special in mind please let me know.

Children:​ Remember that children are not usually fond of being told to pose or smile. It is best if we just give the children time to relax and try to capture their natural self.  Don't worry if your child is running about and active, most of the images you see of young children on my site were captured while the child or toddler was busy playing and exploring.
To get the family shots, I usually direct the adults to simply "be" with the child, or hold the child and we go from there.
To get the most out of your session, make sure that your little one has rested and has had adequate snacks and water. We can take breaks for snacks and play, however I will probably still shoot during the breaks. Bring dry, non messy snacks so their little faces stay clean during the session.
It's a good idea to prepare the child for the session by letting them know that a friend will be taking some photos of them, it's best not to surprise them.

Please arrive on time or be ready to start on time:​  Remember, your session is scheduled according to light.  It is important that we start on time.  Please plan for traffic or parking constraints. It's best to arrive early.

I can't wait to capture your family! Do not hesitate to ask me any questions you have. See you soon!