WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR SESSION
Stress free
First off, try not to stress. Everything doesn’t have to be perfect. We’re capturing moments- and our lives are full of imperfections, right!? That’s what makes it so interesting and beautiful. Kids misbehave. Nerves may set in. Clouds may roll in and the wind may blow. We are are capturing real life moments. If we happen to catch a grumpy face, a tongue sticking out, or a fly-away hair- so be it! That's who your child is in that moment. That's what happened in that loving moment. Let's embrace it! These moments are fleeting in the grand scheme of things. You'll look back in a few years and laugh and admire them.
Our session will be a fun, laughter inducing good time. At the beginning of the session we will do posed style of pictures and any specific ones you have in mind. Children, especially young ones have a short attention spans. For this reason I plan my sessions to have more candid ones after the posed, "Christmas card" ones are through.
We will run around, explore, tell silly jokes and play games. These types of activities engage even the grumpiest of children and dads! I love to incorporate tender, quiet moments when possible. Most of all, we will just go with the flow.
STYLING
Darling, you look marvelous!
This session is all about you and your family. I want your family's personality to shine through! Please choose clothes that you will be comfortable in. Try to coordinate clothes without being overly "matchy". Avoid wearing all of the same colors and instead find a color palette you love!
Accessories are a great way to add sass or a pop of color. They are a way to add a bit of color in a small dose. This can be done with necklaces, scarves, headbands, or hats.
Layering is another way to add a flare of style. Jackets, vests, leggings, or tights are a great way of doing this.
Patterns are not to be discouraged. I love them! They can add interest to the pictures as well as texture.
Check out my Pinterest boards for inspiration.
Some of my favorite places to shop for children's clothes are Zara, Baby Gap, and Boden. For the adults Joyfolie, Francesa's, Amazon, Banana Republic, and the Gap.
Avoid shirts with logos, characters, and neon colors.
YOUR SESSION IS APPROACHING
Practice those giggles!
A week or so before the session, it's a good idea to prep the kids for it. Mention fun, adventure, and silliness. Let them know my name. The bribe of an ice cream date afterwards isn't completely unheard of! Overall our goal is to have a fun time creating beautiful photographs for your home and family. It is not perfection that we are seeking, but the sweet tender moments between you and your family. If your children are feeling your stress and worry, it will show in the pictures.
A lot of dads do not look forward to picture day. With that being said, reinforce the fun, easy-going time we're going to have. I will guide everyone on what to do with your hands, where to look, etc. He can just relax and love on his family.
Mom get out and pamper yourself! Maybe get your nails done or get a new pair of earrings! If something is really stressing you out about the session, give me a call. I'm here to assist in anyway I can!
The Day has Arrived!
Let's Roll!
We've picked a perfect location, selected the outfits, and now the time is here! I'm just as excited as you! Just a couple of tips for the day. Feed everyone well before the session. Hangry people are no bueno! At least I know that I'm not! Depending on the time of year, bring bug spray and a jacket. A hair brush for fly-a-ways and wipes for messy faces are good to have, as well. Water and an easy to eat snack can come in handy too. Many of the locations I shoot at don't have bathrooms nearby. Please have everyone take a bathroom break before leaving. Lastly, don't stress and most of all have fun!!
AFTER YOUR SESSION
The Wait is Killing me...
In the next couple of days I will post a couple of sneak peak pictures on social media. Please feel free to tag them! Within 2-3 weeks I will email you a link to your personal online gallery with a password for entry. From there you can admire the beauty of your gorgeous family, select favorite pictures, download your selected number of digital files, and order products from my professional print lab. If there is a type of product you don't see for purchase that you're interested in, please let me know. More than likely I can get it for you. You may also share this gallery with family and friends!
THANK YOU!
Merci beaucoup, gracias, grazie, danke sehr, domo arigoto!
I am truly humbled that you chose me to capture these precious times with your family. I sincerely hope your time with me was fun and what you expected (and maybe not expected!). I love what I do and I hope it shines through in my work!
~Tara