I am excited that you chose me to photograph your family! Please know that my approach is very unscripted, sometimes a bit of high energy, and usually a tad goofy.
Let's talk about location: I have several spots that I love to shoot at. First we need to narrow it down by the look you like. When you look through my images, is there something that stands out? Mossy trees? Tall, weedy field? Manicured landscape? City/urban/downtown? Flower garden? Let me know what you like, or if a particular image in my portfolio stands out to you. Then we will pick our spot that is perfect for you! Click here to see some location ideas.
Time is of the essence: I am so very picky about the time of my sessions. I only photograph full sessions close to sunset. This can change a tad, depending on the location we use, but this is the ballpark. Spring and Summer sessions can start as late as 7-7:30 p.m. Fall and Winter sessions can sometimes be as early as 4:00-4:30 p.m.
What to wear: Wardrobe can be so fun, and it can be so stressful. Please ask me any and all questions about wardrobe. Truly, what you wear can make a huge impact on the look of your images. Please avoid anything fluorescent or super bright. These colors can cause color casts on the skin and I don't edit them to bring the skin back to a normal color. Shoes are also important. Bold and bright colors can be distracting. These are all my styling opinions. Of course, you don't have to follow any of my suggestions because these are your images and I want you to love them, so please dress comfortably. Please keep in mind that wardrobe can greatly impact the look of your images. Coordinating is good, matching exactly - not so much. Mom, start with your outfit. Wear something that you feel like a million bucks in. Then build the family's wardrobe around that. Imagine your family being a complete piece of artwork. Each person and outfit will bring together a feeling of formality and coordination. *Wardrobe changes during a session require a $100 additional fee and must be paid 1 week prior to session*
Click here to see a Pinterest board that I have pinned with wardrobe ideas.
Tips and tricks: Please make sure your kids eat prior to the session. Hungry kids usually aren't thrilled. Let your kids know that a session with me will be quick and easy. And, if your kid doesn't care and decides to have a meltdown, I am totally cool with that. I have 4 kids, and I have meltdowns myself, so don't worry. I haven't had a session yet where I couldn't get a full gallery due to a child's behavior. And yes, there have been plenty of meltdowns. Don't feel stressed about getting your kids (or husband) to smile. I want you to relax, and let me do my thing. I usually get the most genuine smiles when I fake toot, so if I completely mortify myself, it's all for the sake of your pictures. Please don't stress. If your kids see you talking happily, they usually feel more relaxed. Also, it's easy to get distracted during photos, so try to remember to keep good posture, and try to keep your chin out a bit. These allow for the most flattering images.
Please feel free to email me with any questions you have. I look forward to working with you.
- Brenda