1.

Have your wardrobe chosen way in advance and make sure that your outfit choices are comfortable and attractive.  What do your dream family photos look like?  Are you thinking soft and dreamy? Try choosing neutral colors with soft, flowing fabrics…. think creams, very soft pastels, oatmeals, light browns, tans, grays, and slate blues.  Do you want to show off the fun and spontaneous side of your family?  Choose coordinating colors (but not too matchy) with bold accent colors. Adding fun accessories like scarves, headbands, hats, etc. can add a modern twist and sassy flair to your images as well. Visit my WHAT TO WEAR PAGE for more info!

2.

Be certain not to schedule your photo session around your child’s nap or bedtime.  Keep in mind that the best time for lighting is the two hours before sunset, so if this is a bad time for your children, feel free to ask for a better time that works best for you and your kids.  Also, if possible don’t show up to a photo shoot on an empty stomach and make sure your kids are well rested and well fed! Full bellies= happy kids! Although treats are helpful to bribe if you want to pack some :)

3.

What can I expect after my session is finished?
Within a few days you will get a sneak peak of your photos posted on Facebook.  Your full gallery of images will be posted to an online gallery within 2 weeks. I will email you the link once it is available.  You will be able to share with family and friends for up to 14 days. Once your gallery is finished you will be able to download  your chosen images straight to your computer, and your USB flash drive (purchased at additional cost) will be available for pickup at the studio/or can be mailed to you.

4.

Moms are often rushing around before a photo shoot, making sure that their family is dressed and ready. Leave plenty of time for showers, baths, dressing, and grooming.  When a family shows up to a photo session rushed and disorganized, it sets the tone for a rushed and disorganized session.  Give yourself extra time so that you are ready before it’s time to head out the door.

5.

Dads, please cheerfully participate.  I know that many dads dread the family photo session, but fathers, please understand how important it is to capture your family in photos.  These images will be left as a legacy, when your children are grown, with families of their own one day. Family photos are treasured forever and they are so important.  Please, please, dads… cheerfully participate in your family photo session.  Once you see your happy wife and amazing photographs, you will be so glad that you gave this time to your family.

6.

Don’t be afraid to pick up your children and toss them in the air, or tickle them! Give your wife a sweet kiss on the check.  Tell your husband how much you love him and appreciate him for being there with your family.  Have fun.  Laugh. Giggle. Joke. Embrace.  Kiss.  Snuggle.  Play.  Doing these things will allow me to capture the emotion and true beauty of your family.  I love candid moments as well as sweet posed ones too!

7.

Incorporate things that are meaningful to you and your kids! Do you love to read together?  Bring some books.  Do your kids love being tossed in the air or piggy back rides? Love picnics? Let me know before your session and i'll be sure to prompt some of these things! :) It makes the process fun and will help get some genuine smiles!

8.

The best photographs are often the ones where everyone is engaged or interacting with each other.  Understand that not every picture needs to have everyone looking at the camera and smiling at the same time.  If you are engaged as a family and loving on each other, your eyes will be on your family members and your smile will be natural.  These are the photographs that you will cherish most because they depict your family connection and your love.