The most important tip: Share this information with every adult who will be present at the photo session so that we are all on the same page and you all know how my process works and what to expect.

Time of shoot:  My Lifestyle Photography style relies on the use of natural light. This means we will meet in the hour after sunrise or in the hour or so before sunset.  The lighting is typically too harsh at other times, however if the location some good shade we can make it work just fine.  While I can’t guarantee a gorgeous sunrise or sunset, I will do my best to work magic with the light available the day of your shoot and create stunning photos for you. 

Session process:  I will spend some time at the beginning getting to know the kids and maybe playing some games or running a bit. I find it helpful to give the kids time to explore the environment. We will do some group photos, and then I'll break out sub-groups (ie, parent and children, parent and each child, siblings, couples - this depends upon the package you purchased). I like to have play time after the posed shots. Be prepared: you will get sandy and wet!  I will guide you every step of the way, telling you how to stand, where to look, what to do with your hands, and what to say.  I often give prompts, such as telling stories, singing songs or dancing, spinning, or having a tickle fight to encourage your family to interact with each other. There may be hugging, kissing, dancing and snuggles. (If you are not the touchy snuggly type there will be joke telling and more running and action activities).  

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Your children: You can help prepare your children for the session by letting them know that a friend will be taking some photos of them. I will take many photos of your children playing and being their natural selves.  At times I may direct one of the adults to simply “be” with the child or hold the child and we go from there. We may take breaks for non-messy snacks and water and play. I will continue to shoot during these breaks. You don’t need to worry about a thing and you don’t need to tell your child to smile or to look at the camera.  

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The best advice I can provide is to give your kids  kids some  rest and some food before the session and to clear your calendar of activities that day.  Make the photo session the day's highlight.

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Please do not worry if your child is running around like a crazy person, or won’t smile, or is acting like a little stinker or won’t stop crying.  I’m a mom of three and a grandmother of five and I have been there. We will do this and it will be wonderful. CLICK HERE for my guide on how to prepare your children for your shoot.

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The adults: This is a special time for you and your spouse/partner/lover.  It is an opportunity to have some one guide you into deep interaction and create emotive memories of your love and commitment.  It requires you to be open and vulnerable. I take this very seriously.  If you trust me and allow me in, I promise to use my heart to capture yours.​