So you booked your session, now what?
I am excited to have the opportunity to capture you and your loved ones. My custom photography is unique because it not only captures what you look like at a certain point in time, but who you are. My goal is to capture honest images representing the connection 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.
things you should know about your session.
Nothing goes as planned when children are involved, and that's OKAY! They will never be this little ever again, let them enjoy it, YOU enjoy it! Take this time to talk and play with them. I never force the littles to do anything they do not want to do. I rarely capture any families stiffly posed with everyone looking and smiling, that's not natural and it's awkward. Instead, my goal is to capture the true connection of your family. I will instruct you to stand in a general position and say things along the lines of "group hug, everyone squeeze!" or "tickle time" and the results are genuine laughs, love, and fun! I prefer that you all are looking or interacting with one another not me. Please talk with your significant other about this too.
Never stress about what the kids are doing or if they're looking and smiling, I'll take care of them, that's why you're here. When mom and dad are trying to get the little ones to look and smile it only lasts for a second and then mom and dad are the ones not looking and smiling. Truth be told I LOVE when your little one is wrapped around someone's leg staring right at the camera with no emotion, I always wonder what their innocent mind is thinking.
If there is a meltdown, diaper blow out, spit up, or any of the million things that could "go wrong" let it be! It's life, its parenting, IT HAPPENS! We'll work through it together! We're now a team.
I want you to enjoy this time together as a family, as if it were an evening at the park. Nothing about this experience should stress you out, if you feel stressed TALK TO ME I will gladly help you through it.
What will my session be like?
Once we arrive to our location, I will take the time to introduce myself and get to know the children. If you have small children in your arms, I will often ask if I can hold them to help them feel comfortable with me. I'll then grab my camera allowing the kids to roam around and get comfortable with the area. depending on the children I might grab some quick action photos, this will usually warm them up to the me and the camera.
Location
Together we will both decide on a location that best suits your family. I have many locations that I love to shoot at regularly, but I am always open to new locations as well. You should choose a location that fits your style and personality. I can help you along with this decision.
Time
I generally always schedule at sunset. If you've looked over my work, you know that sun flares are my jam! If were doing an indoor session at your home, I like to plan for late mornings or early evenings as that's when the light is best in the home.
Length of session
I account for our session to last an hour in case of any hiccups. Most sessions are over in 30 minutes-1 hour. If your session does not last the full duration no worries, I'm sure you'll love your gallery!
Props
You and the natural earths elements are my props, however if you have something important to you, please let me know.
Your Children
Keep in mind 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.
Prepare your child for the session in a fun way by letting them know a friend will be taking some photos of them, it's not best to surprise them. Please note that if you are negatively or obsessively disciplining your children, I will end our session.
What do I wear?
I have provided a guide exclusively for my clients to help guide them through deciding their wardrobe. Don't stress about it, as long as you're feeling comfortable and confident I assure you'll love your gallery. I do ask that you prewash any new clothing to get rid of wrinkles and coordinate your colors rather than match one another.