What should we do to prepare for the session?

First of all, relax. Take a deep breath. Everything will be ok :-) I know photo shoots can be a stressful event, but I want this to be a fun experience for you! There are several things you can do to prepare:

• Send me a photo of your outfit choices if you aren't sure. I'll be happy to help you!
• Inform your children and your spouse about the photo shoot and make sure they aren't stressing out about it, it is supposed to be a fun event!
• Try not to wear sunglasses right before the shoot, as they often leave marks on the nose.
• Offer the children a reward for good behavior, but don't try to "scare" them into behaving well. Example: Don't threaten to take their toys away etc., as this often leads to tears.
• Make sure everyone is well rested and fed. 
• Send me a list of your must-have shots, as well as visual examples if possible. It really helps me to have an idea of the shots you want before the shoot, so I can make sure I bring the proper equipment. 

What should I wear?

Wardrobe is one of the single largest contributors to a successful photo shoot.  It is all about the right selection of color, textures and accessories.  Select colors from the same color family and avoid tiny print patterns or clothing with words printed on them. Stick to one type of pattern (plaid or stripes ect). Be Comfortable.  You don’t want to be hampered by uncomfortable clothing.  Plus, we'll be moving around, standing, walking, and sitting - wear something that makes you happy. 

What should I expect at my session?

The mood at your session will be welcoming, personalized, and relaxed.  Sessions are scheduled to allow more than enough time for a shy two-year old to warm up, a tense high school senior to settle down, or a hungry baby to be fed.  I am skilled at making children feel comfortable in front of the camera. Sessions will be filled with laughter, smiles, and a playful, light-hearted energy.  I don’t take myself too seriously and don’t expect you to either!

Where will the session take place?

Finding the perfect location is an important part of planning for the photo shoot of your dreams. I have my favorite places, and usually make a recommendation during our consultation based on your personality and style, but I always welcome your location ideas. I’d love to know if there is a place that is sentimental to your family so we can discuss our options and plan the best location to suit your family.

How far in advance do we need to book? 

I prefer to book at least 2 months for portraits, but if I have the date free it's all yours. I have 2 children who are very involved in sports so I can only take so many on weekends around their activities. I fill up very fast so the sooner the better.

What time is best for pictures?

The evening is the BEST time for pictures. That is when you will get the best photos and the best light. Four o’clock to six o’clock depending on daylight savings time is when most sessions will be scheduled. If you have a conflict with an evening  session let me know and we can discuss other session times.

How many people can be included in the photos?
It depends on the kind of session you book. Family sessions include up to 6 people, additional people are $25 each. 

Can I request specific photos to be taken?
Yes! I love hearing your requests and ideas, and I always do my best to honor and/or incorporate them. I always do many different combinations of shots and single shots as well. You will receive a wide variety of different shots to choose from.

Can our pets be a part of our photos?
Absolutely! This is a pet-friendly business and you are free to include up to two pets in your photos. We have 4 dogs of our own. Contact me if you want photos of just your pet, or want to include more than two pets in your session.

Posed or Candid’s?
Why not BOTH? Posed are always great, but people don't always like the stiff look. I like to get a combination of posed and candid shots Candid’s usually turn out to be my clients favorite shots.

What happens if the weather isn't great on the day of the shoot?
If it is raining and the ground is very wet then we will rearrange the shoot
for another convenient time with you. Overcast skies and sun are the best
lighting conditions to work in.

What if my kids will not cooperate?

I know. Kids are CRAZY! And, I love it! Rest assured that I’ve been doing this for a while, and I’ve have two of my own little monsters. We’ll find something that will work. Noise makers, bubbles, candy, bells, monkeys, talking birds…we have a wide assortment of tried and true tactics.

What if my kid does not want to smile?

I love to photograph genuine excitement and laughter. Try not to "train" your kids to smile, that usually only leads to forced smiles that can often look fake. Instead, tell me some things about your kids before the session, so I know how to get their attention and make them laugh. I love making kids laugh and I don't mind making a fool out of myself to get that perfect image :-) If your kid absolutely refuses to smile or laugh, that is fine by me! My goal is to capture a child's personality, and it's not a crime if that personality includes not being all smiles and giggles all the time.

How long until our photos are ready to view?

When your photos are ready, you will receive a link via email to your own private online gallery. Within this gallery you can view all the images from your portrait session, order prints, share images with loved ones and download onto your computer. I quote up to 3 weeks to receive your gallery. Many times it’s a lot sooner it just depends on how many sessions are behind you.

Do we get the digital files? 

Yes, you will receive all of the final edited images for your session and or wedding via online gallery, where you can directly download the images onto your computer. The link to your online gallery will be sent to you through email. You can even place print orders on your gallery. I guarantee at least 30 images but it almost always WAY more than that.

Where can I print images? 

You can either place print orders directly from your online gallery or you can place your print orders to mpix.com – which is started on the print release.

Do we get every image taken?

No, I will sort through all of the images and find the best ones to edit. Don’t worry I will not leave out any good ones. I will only give you the edited photos in jpeg format. I do not give any raw files to my clients.

If I missed anything or you have Any other question please feel free to send me a message!!!