Picture time should be special and not overwhelming!  For some, hiring a photographer can be a little daunting.  You want those perfect images.  Who should you choose?  When is the optimum time to take pictures?  Will my kids (or husband, wink wink) even cooperate?  The process of taking pictures should be filled with amazing experiences and one that is easy and enjoyable.  Let us help dispel some myths and reveal the backstage of what to expect when you book your session.

1)  WE ARE FUN!  Anyone that has worked with us will tell you...we are fun!  No guys, I do not personally wear that traditional beret and fancy silk scarf nor heave big "artist sighs" when things are not going perfectly.  I believe that when you hire a photographer, it should be with someone who you connect with and feel comfortable with.  Someone that is there for you and can easily shift gears and redirect when necessary.  This is truly the secret to a successful session.  If you are on edge or uncomfortable with the person directing your shoot, your kiddos will pick up on the mood also and likely project it in the session.  We've done lots of sessions with kids, trust us.  And let's face it, if you had to promise the hubby a hunting or fishing trip if he came along without incident, he may do a complete 360 if your chosen photographer does not mesh with your family's style.  We strive to make sure your session is relaxed yet well orchestrated.  As a busy parent myself, I try to ensure that your session is as efficient as possible so that you can get back to your busy schedule.  

2)  WE ARE A MIXTURE OF TRADITIONAL AND LIFESTYLE POSING.  I completely understand the importance of traditional poses and love to incorporate those.  But, I also love to incorporate those natural moments - in between - when a family is really connecting.  And, that happens when you are just plain relaxed!  Quite frankly, I believe the best images are the ones that come naturally.  So, we begin with getting everyone relaxed and the photo session jitters out.  Then, we spend time lining up everyone for the traditional shots but then also including prompts to encourage those natural interactions.  Trust us, you will look wonderful.  Like, Christmas card wonderful.

3)  WHAT DO WE WEAR?  Oh boy.  This is one of the top questions we get!  And, we have plenty of Pinterest Inspiration Boards to help.  My favorite advice is to please make it easy on momma.  She's got a lot on her plate already getting this all organized!  Wear coordinating colors and not necessarily the same outfits (unless you are a mom wizard and found all the sizes you needed for all the kiddos).  It makes it so much easier to pick colors to work around that rather than making sure everyone gets the same shirt but in five different sizes.  Also, consider the location and type of shoot.  Are you doing a Fall session in the park?  Then, wear burgundy's or deep yellow tones.  Now is not the time to break out that hot pink jumpsuit (sorry guys).  Side Tip - A popular trend is for everyone to wear white shirts.  BUT, wearing white shirts tends to wash faces out as the color white projects up when photographed.

4)  WHEN DO WE BOOK?  Our schedule runs approximately 3 - 4 weeks in advance.  We occasionally have last minute slots available, but please don't leave those important occasions to chance.  This time of year becomes extremely busy for us with Fall sessions being booked and those Christmas card sessions getting nailed down.  Our favorite time of day to shoot?  The "golden" hour which is near sunset and makes for superb soft lighting that everyone just loves.  But, we have tricks for those other rebels who want to shoot during the day - gasp. 

5)  WHAT LOCATION SHOULD WE USE?  Sessions are at a location that you choose unless we are doing mini sessions at a designated location.  And quite frankly, our best advice is to not stress too much about a certain location with spectacular architecture but more so an interesting location with good lighting.  Primarily we do "on location" shoots that are typically outdoors.  And, angles can be your best friend when the Governor's Mansion is booked but you found an interesting brick wall downtown.  In fact, the picture above was taken on the side of an attorney's office!  The primary focus should be on the subjects and how to make them look their best.  Of course, we also do shoots indoors or at your home - i.e. newborn session -  and utilize beautiful natural light.  Is there a place that is meaningful for you and your family?  Do you like a city vibe?  Park or garden look?  Need ideas?  We have a list of suggestions to help!

Most importantly, we are here to help.  We can walk you through the process step by step.  We pride ourselves in keeping you informed along the way and treating your family as if you were our family.  You should not expect less when you hire a photographer.  We'd love the opportunity to meet you!