Family

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. We can shoot in your home as long as your home has adequate natural light. Many clients prefer their home because of the intimate and personal feel it provides. 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 with this decision. 

Time: If we are shooting in your home, I prefer late morning, because that is when homes are usually lit up the best. If we are shooting outdoors we will shoot either in the morning or in the evening. The light is typically too harsh mid day. If your children are up for it, shooting one to two hours before sunset provides gorgeous light and atmosphere. Many families tell me that they simply have the kids take a late nap or have some down time prior to their 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. I am happy to consult you directly on wardrobe or recommend a personal stylist if you are interested. Just let me know.  Neutral colors are your friend. Neutral colors are typically not found on the color wheel and can also be referred to as earth tones. They go with almost anything, and suggest using a lot neutrals, and only a small amount of bold colors.

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

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 about and active, most of the images you see of young children on my site were captured while the child or toddler was busy playing and exploring. To get the family shots, I usually direct the adults to simply "be" with the child, or hold the child and we go from there. To get the most out of your session, make sure that your little one has rested and has had adequate snacks and water. We can take breaks for snacks and play, however I will probably still shoot during the breaks. Bring dry, non messy snacks so their little faces stay clean during the session. 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. 

Please arrive on time or be ready to start on time: Remember, your session is scheduled according to light. It is important that we start on time. Please plan for traffic or parking constraints. It's best to arrive early.

Newborn in-home

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. 

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 will likely 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. 

 I do have one set in neutral/beige color with blanket, swaddle and more, that I always bring with me. Then we will see if we use any of it.

Siblings:  Again, I know exactly what it is like to have a new baby, I have three of my own, and I know exactly how big this change is for the siblings in the house. I usually try and get sibling and family photos right at the start because the sibling may loose 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. Having a new baby is hard and wonderful all at the same time. Remember that I am a birth and postpartum doula, so I understand exactly what you are going through. 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. 

Wardrobe: I recommend neutral colors and comfort, if you are breastfeeding I would love to capture that as well, so if you have any comfortable clothing for feedings, are welcomed. 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. 

Feel free to e-mail with any questions you might have. Thank you and I look forward to capturing you soon! 

Maternity

As you might have seen in my portfolio, my images are organic and natural, capturing who you are right now. I will never ask you to wear an uncomfortable gown or place you in uncomfortable positions. My goal is to capture the beauty that is your pregnant body and to also capture the connection between you and the little soul inside you. We will also celebrate these last moments as a family of two, three, or whatever size your family is right now. I think it is special to have memories of what your family looked like right before the baby arrives. 

Location: Together, we will select the best location for your session. Most women want to take advantage of one of the many outdoor locations Selfoss has to offer, however some prefer the intimacy of their home or my studio. It is up to you. 

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. 

Wardrobe: 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. What is important is that you feel beautiful. I do have some pregnancy dresses in multiple sizes, if you are interested just let me know.

If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to ask. I look forward to capturing you during this very special time.