Your Custom Family Portrait Session 

EXPERIENCE: I am beyond 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 stiff and posed shots with everyone looking at the camera, but to capture the true essence of your family. I take a documentary approach to photography and use my understanding of equipment and natural light to create images that will last a lifetime. 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. 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 the way with this decision. If you are someone who is booking a newborn session, these are generally done within your home! You’ve likely already seen this, but click HERE to view some of my most frequented locations!

TIME: If we are shooting in your home, I prefer late morning, because that’s when homes are usually lit by the sunlight best. If we are shooting outdoors (majority of the time), we will shoot in the evening. The light is typically too harsh mid-day. Shooting 1-2 hours before sunset provides a gorgeous light and atmosphere. I am willing to make adjustments with time, however, it’s important that you remember that my photos in my portfolio are shot within this time-frame, so it’s possible there will be differences! The images that are reflected 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 the evening session!

LENGTH OF SESSION: The good news is, I am super fast! My family portrait sessions rarely last more than an hour. Don’t worry, I can easily get a diverse and adequate gallery in that time.

WHAT TO WEAR: Wardrobe should be comfortable and reflect who you are! I do not recommend matching, but rather coordinating your outfits. I am happy to consult with your directly through email on your wardrobe. A few tips I have are working with natural colors, layer up (jackets, scarves, textures etc). Take a look at this PINTEREST board I created for some inspiration! Don’t hesitate to reach out for support, AND know, that I am not a professional stylist! Please avoid vibrant/neon colors and large graphics (as they tend to go out of style).

PROPS: I do not use props during my sessions, however, if you have something in mind, please let me know! I will provide you with my honest opinion!

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 around and being active. Most of the images you see of young children on my site were captured while the child to toddler was busy playing or exploring! To get the family shots, I usually direct the adults to just simple “be” with the child, or hold the child and we go from there. To get the most of your session, make sure that your little one has rested and has had adequate snacks and water. If you need to bring snacks to the session, just make sure they are dry and won’t cause a huge mess if a snack break is needed! 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, but also not to make them anxious that they need to “behave.” I absolutely adore kiddos - even cranky ones, so we will work with what we have!

PLEASE Arrive on time and be ready to start on time: Remember, your session is scheduled according to light. It is very important that we start on time (there is such thing as “losing light!”) It’s best to arrive early (5-10 or so minutes) to acclimate to the location and maybe even earlier if your children need to get their wiggles out!

I cannot wait to capture you and your family! Do not hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have! See you soon!

What to Expect from Your Custom Newborn Portrait Session

EXPERIENCE: I am so excited to capture your sweet newborn. Your custom newborn session is done in the comfort of your own home. There will be only slight posing, but I want to be able to capture your family in their element, especially in this beautiful time of your life.

DAY OF THE SESSION: When I arrive, I will walk around your home and scout out the best lit areas for family and sibling shots. I often use the couch, master bed, and nursery for photos. I know what it is like to have a newborn. Please don't feel like you have to clean the house before I arrive. We can easily clean up an area that we want to use for photos.

LENGTH OF SESSION: Newborn session can take anywhere from an hour to two hours. We account for frequent breaks when needed. I am ALWAYS ok with you asking for a break, so do not hesitate to ask when you need it.

YOUR BABY: Your newborn is perfect just the way he or she is. I don't try and make babies sleep or place them in unnatural poses. I suggest you have your newborn in a simple onesie that is form fitting with no graphics or words. This usually means you will need a preemie or newborn sized onesie. I may take it off and get some nude or near nude newborn photos as well. Also, please gather a few favorite swaddle blankets for baby to be wrapped in. I recommend feeding the baby as much as he or she wants about fifteen minutes prior to my arrival. Newborn sessions can take some time, that is okay. Your baby is perfect as he or she is. I do not do major posing or have any expectation on how the baby should behave (alert or asleep). We let the baby guide the session. What is important is that we capture this beautiful time in your life in your space.

SIBLINGS: I usually try and get sibling and family photos right at the start because the sibling may lose interest in me quickly. I have no major expectations for the siblings and will never force them into doing anything they aren't comfortable with. It is best to prepare the sibling for the session by telling him or her that a friend is coming to visit and take some photos of your family. It is always best not to surprise them.

MOM & DAD: You are going to be thrilled and exhausted. You will likely be experiencing with the highest highs and perhaps some of the lowest lows. Having a new baby is hard and wonderful all at the same time. My job is not to make this time in your life look perfect, my job is to show you just how beautiful it is. I want you to be relaxed and at ease when I am photographing your family. You don't need to be anything but yourself - I mean that!

WHAT TO WEAR: I recommend neutral colors and comfort. What is most important is that you are comfortable. I am happy to discuss wardrobe with you further if you would like. Just let me know. Check out this PINTEREST board for inspiration! Please avoid vibrant/neon colors and large graphics (as they tend to go out of style).

PROPS: I do not use props during my sessions, however, if you have something in mind, please let me know! I will provide you with my honest opinion!

I cannot wait to capture you and your family! Do not hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have! See you soon!

What to Expect from Your Custom Maternity Portrait Session

LOCATION: Together, we will decide on the best location for your photos. 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 the way with this decision. I am also very open to shooting within your home, if you prefer that!

TIME: If we are shooting in your home, I prefer late morning, because that’s when homes are usually lit by the sunlight best. If we are shooting outdoors, we will shoot in the evening. The light is typically too harsh mid-day. Shooting 1-2 hours before sunset provides a gorgeous light and atmosphere. I am willing to make adjustments with time, however, it’s important that you remember that my photos in my portfolio are shot within this time-frame, so it’s possible there will be differences! The images that are reflected 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 the evening session!

LENGTH OF SESSION: Maternity sessions are about an hour, but tend to be around 30-45 minutes!

WHO IS INCLUDED IN THE SESSION: Your maternity session is for you, your significant other and children, if this isn't your first pregnancy. Yes, fur babies are welcome too. If children will be included, please know that I am very experienced with working with kiddos of all ages. It is okay if they are active or silly. 

WHAT TO WEAR: Wardrobe should be comfortable and reflect who you are! I want you to feel your best. I find that long dresses seem to be the most comfortable and allow for easy moving, however it is entirely up to you. I am happy to discuss this with you further if you would like. Check out this PINTEREST board I created to get some inspiration! Please avoid vibrant/neon colors and large graphics (as they tend to go out of style). Please avoid vibrant/neon colors and large graphics (as they tend to go out of style).

PROPS: I do not use props during my sessions, however, if you have something in mind, please let me know! I will provide you with my honest opinion!

PLEASE Arrive on time and be ready to start on time: Remember, your session is scheduled according to light. It is very important that we start on time (there is such thing as “losing light!”) It’s best to arrive early (5-10 or so minutes) to acclimate to the location.

I cannot wait to capture you and your family! Do not hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have! See you soon!

What to Expect from Your Custom Milestone Portrait Session

LOCATION: Together, we will decide on the best location for your photos. I’m happy to do these at your home or at a different location of choice.

TIME: If we are shooting in your home, I prefer late morning, because that’s when homes are usually lit by the sunlight best. If we are shooting outdoors, we will shoot in the evening. The light is typically too harsh mid-day. Shooting 1-2 hours before sunset provides a gorgeous light and atmosphere. I am willing to make adjustments with time, however, it’s important that you remember that my photos in my portfolio are shot within this time-frame, so it’s possible there will be differences! The images that are reflected 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 the evening session!

LENGTH OF SESSION: Milestone sessions are very quick! They only take around 30 minutes.

WHO IS INCLUDED IN THE SESSION: Just your kiddo! Your child has the spot light for this one!

WHAT TO WEAR: A cute outfit that can get MESSY if you are going the cake smash route!

PROPS: I do not use props during my sessions, however, if you choose to do a cake - I ask that you provide that and let me know ahead of time! :)

I cannot wait to capture your little one’s milestone! Do not hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have! See you soon!

Your Custom Senior Portrait Session 

I am beyond excited to capture you during this special time in your life! Being a senior is such an awesome accomplishment - trust me, you will not regret investing in quality senior photos!

LOCATION: Together, we will decide on the best location for your photos. I have many locations that I love to shoot at regularly click HERE to view them, 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 the way with this decision.

TIME: We will shoot in the evening. The light is typically too harsh mid-day. Shooting 1-2 hours before sunset provides a gorgeous light and atmosphere. I am willing to make adjustments with time, however, it’s important that you remember that my photos in my portfolio are shot within this time-frame, so it’s possible there will be differences! The images that are reflected 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.

LENGTH OF SESSION: About an hour.

WHAT TO WEAR: Two outfit changed are offered during this shoot! If you need support choosing, please reach out! Check out this PINTEREST board for inspiration! Please avoid vibrant/neon colors and large graphics (as they tend to go out of style).

PROPS: I do not use props during my sessions, however, if you have something in mind, please let me know!

PLEASE Arrive on time and be ready to start on time: Remember, your session is scheduled according to light. It is very important that we start on time (there is such thing as “losing light!”) It’s best to arrive early (5-10 or so minutes) to acclimate to the location.

I cannot wait to capture you! Do not hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have! See you soon!