So, you booked your session.
Now what?
Via e-mail you will receive a questionnaire that will introduce me to your family before hand. This will allow me to personalize the experience for each individual being photographed. I love reading the questionnaires so please be as detailed or forth coming as you’d like! Once I’ve received your completed questionnaire we will discuss location selection, wardrobe selection, and answer any questions you have. Next I will send you an email including your Portrait Contract and Model Release. Please read through them. If you have any questions just ask, I am more than happy to help! Whether you’ve booked two months or two weeks in advance; once your questionnaire and signed contracts have been receive, any and all questions you’ve asked have been answered, the next time you hear from me will be the Monday before your session. That Monday we will confirm your session time and location and go over any last minute questions you may have.
I am so 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. (Although I do like to get that mantel piece shot of everyone looking for Grandparents!) 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. You should choose a location that fits your style and personality. Don't be afraid to think outside the box! I encourage you to brainstorm unique places that you might have special access to that most people don’t. For example, maybe you (or someone you know) have access to an amazing location that would otherwise be off-limits, like a beautiful private estate, family ranch, exclusive country club or luxury resort. Spend a few minutes thinking about it and checking around with people in your personal and professional network. You’ll be surprised with what you come up with! If something seems out of reach, just remember: you never know until you ask! You can also consider Airbnb or other property rental sites. We just may get permission to shoot in a pretty incredible place!
If you need some location ideas and inspiration, I have plenty! Check out my previous sessions. If there’s a certain session you really love, just let me know which one and we can check if it’s available!
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 in the evening. The light is typically too harsh mid day. Typically 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 and the time of day your session takes place has a huge impact. Many families tell me that they simply have the kids take a late nap or have some down time prior to their evening session.
Length Of Session: Your time matters! My portrait sessions last about an hour. Don't worry, I can easily get a diverse and adequate gallery in that time.
What To Wear: Don’t be afraid to dress up! You don’t get pictures every day so pamper yourself! (Maybe even plan a nice dinner afterwards) I do not recommend matching but rather coordinating. I am happy to consult you directly on wardrobe. You can contact me however works for you; email, text, call, FaceTime - you name it! To get you started check out my STYLE GUIDE HERE.
Props: I do not use props during my sessions, however if you have something in mind please let me know. I do have a few blankets I like to use. If you have one that goes well with your outfits, bring it along!
Your 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. I have a few tricks up my sleeve to get them to participate in fun activities.
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.
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. And please, LET THEM BE LITTLE. I am a mother so I know how stressful it can be wanting to make sure everything goes smoothly. Fear not about the kids misbehaving; My family, we are real people, with real emotions. I see and experience it all. What your kids bring to the table will not surprise me. It is part of my job to create a conductive environment for their unique personalities to shine!
Please, please, please do not bribe your child(ren). Here is what happens: You tell your child “If you behave, I will take you for ice cream when the session is over.” Your intentions are pure! However, what happens is your child(ren) will then become anxious and ask both you and me several times “Are we done yet?”. This sets your little one up for a meltdown! Instead, if you’d like, bring a surprise to give afterwards or make the session the reward ahead of time! My goal is to make this as fun and stress-free as it possibly can be for you and your family! This season of life feels long right now, but in the grand scheme of things, it's short. So even if things don't go exactly as planned or as you'd hoped in terms of your kids’ behavior, one day, you’ll be so glad you took these photos.
Please arrive on time or be ready to start on time: Remember, your session is scheduled according to light. The sun won’t wait for us!
Payment: I collect all payment using PayPal. Once we have finished your session, I will send you a PayPal invoice via email that evening. I will send you a message once sent to make sure you received it.
I will go over in person what you can expect after your session. Please allow 4 week to receive your final gallery. I will send you a preview within a few days of your session!
I CAN’T WAIT TO CAPTURE YOUR FAMILY! DO NOT HESITATE TO ASK ME ANY QUESTIONS YOU HAVE.
SEE YOU SOON!
Warmly,
