Welcome to the client lounge

Your Custom Family Session:

Congratulations! You booked your session. I'm thrilled about the opportunity to photograph you and your loved ones. So let’s discuss what you can expect:

Custom photography offers a unique perspective by not only freezing a moment in time but by also revealing your true essence. My focus is on capturing genuine, heartfelt images of your family and children. Instead of rigid, posed shots where everyone is simply looking at the camera, I aim to portray the authentic spirit of your family. Employing a documentary-style approach, I utilize natural light and my technical expertise to craft images that are not just photographs, but timeless pieces of art. These are the kind of images that you'll proudly hang in your home and treasure for generations to come. To help you prepare for our session together, here are a few helpful tips.

Location Choice:

When it comes to location, we're in this together. We'll figure out what works best for your photoshoot, whether that means capturing moments in the cozy comfort of your own home (as long as there's plenty of natural light, of course) or exploring other spots that resonate with you. While I do have some favorite shooting spots, I'm totally game for new adventures too. It's all about finding a backdrop that speaks to your vibe and character. Don't stress though—I'm here to lend a hand in making that decision. If you need a little nudge in the right direction, feel free to check out this guide I put together. It's filled with tips to help you pick the perfect location for your family's shoot.

Session Length:

Regular session last about an hour. Any more time than that, kids get bored and worn out. I get everything we need (for the most part) in 25 minutes, and then the rest of the session we play games, focus on the details, and your loving connection. Kids get to have breaks throughout the session, so that all the attention is not on them all of the time, and if I notice your kid displaying restless or bored behavior in a location, we move on or take a break. I want you to enjoy the experience fully.

Timing of Your Session:

When it comes to outdoor shoots, timing is key. We'll aim for either the morning or the evening to make the most of that beautiful natural light. Trust me, midday sun can be a bit too intense for those dreamy shots. If your little ones are game, shooting an hour or two before sunset can really work wonders—picture-perfect light and a magical atmosphere. You know, the kind of vibe you see in my portfolio? Yep, that's all about mastering the light. The timing of your session truly makes a world of difference. Many families find it helpful to schedule their evening sessions after a late nap or some chill time to keep everyone feeling fresh and ready to shine.

Be on Time:

We are often working with diminishing or increasing intensity in the light. Timing is everything. So make sure that you are on time for your session. With that said, things can happen that cause you to be late or miss your session time. In these instances, staying in contact is key. I will give you my cell phone number the week of your session. Just let me know if you run into a snag and we will reschedule your session.

What to Wear:

I want you to wear clothes that reflect you and your family. Clothing should coordinate and have a mixture of textures and fabrics. For more information on what to wear to your session, check out this blog post: Family Session Style Guide.

Behavior:

Photo sessions can be hard for children, especially if they are busy or spirited. That’s why, we take our time together and prioritize the session being a fun-filled family experience. I give lots of breaks and encourage snacks throughout the session. I also discourage discipline or over-committing to other activities on the day of your session. For more information, check out these two blog posts:

1. The Importance of Play in a Session

2. What if My Child Doesn’t Behave

Extra Items and Props:

Some props are amazing and help to tell your story in a way that is uniquely you, but some props don’t add to a session and can be distracting. Some of my favorite props are instruments. I will always get excited to shoot a moment with instruments, so bring your guitar, French horn, saxophone, or base and we will have a family jam session.

How to Prepare:

The best way to prepare for your session is to be well-rested, have full bellies, and to not overcommit to activities the day of your session. But being the most prepared you can will go a long way towards helping you have a very successful and fun day in front on the camera. For a full list of ways you can prepare yourself and your family, check out How to Prepare for My Family Session here.

I am so excited to capture your memories. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!