Welcome Information
You booked your session now what...
I am excited to capture you and your loved ones. My photography is unique because it not only captures what you look like at a certain point in time, it captures who you are. I aim to capture natural photos of your family and children. The goal is not to get a stiff and posed shot with everyone looking at the camera, but to capture the true essence of your family.
Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your session with me.
The Light Factor Effecting Your Session:
As we talked about in the FAQ light can either be a photographer’s best friend or the enemy. Luckily we have lots of tricks up our sleeves if we get dealt a terrible day weather wise. I’d appreciate you taking the time to look at this information Lets Talk About Light which includes samples of images taken in different light scenarios. This is why I might talk to you about having a backup date available. We will touch base the morning of your session and confirm a start time based on the sunset due that day then if the day turns bad we will touch base mid afternoon and chat about where we want to go with the session. It might be we go ahead and take some amazing images even is the sun doesn’t co-operate or we might decide to postpone the session if we can both fit it in.
Location:
Together, we will decide on the best location for your photos. I have many locations that I love to shoot at regularly but I am always open to new locations as well. My regular locations include a beautiful lush green surrounding with lots of trees and cool logs for the kids to play on. An open field type setting which has a select few big trees, a dirt path and lots of lush green grass and open space. A gorgeous little location with an out bush feel. You should choose a location that fits your style and personality or somewhere that means something to you and your family. 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 can help you along with this decision.
Time:
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. The images in my portfolio look the way they do largely because of my use of light and the time of day your session takes place has a huge impact. Many families tell me that they simply have the kids take a late nap or have some down time prior to their evening session. If we are shooting in your home, I prefer late morning, because that is when homes are usually lit up the best.
Length Of Session:
I work quite 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. When it comes to the colour of your clothing think about the surroundings of our destination and the colours of your decor at home if you plan to hang images on your wall. Click here for my what to wear guide that can give you an idea of what I am talking about. I am happy to consult you directly on wardrobe you can send me photos of your outfits spread out on your bed if your really not sure. But keep in mind I capturing your connection not what you wear.
Props:
I do not use props during my sessions, however if you have something in mind you would like to include please let me know. You more than welcome to bring your fur babies along for the session they are also family after all. I do ask that you bring a lead though so we can tie them up throughout the session when I am concentrating on you guys without them in the shot. I don't want you guys distracted worried about where your four legged friend has run off to.
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. If you spend the session telling your child off or telling them to smile and say cheese your frustration will show through in your image and we will be lacking your connection. I will worry about your kids I will engage with them and play games to get the images we want. If a child is looking at the camera and smiling in my gallery its because they were having fun naturally. I wont tell them to smile and I wont tell them to look at the camera. I have lots of tricks up my sleeve if I want their attention. 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. It's best to arrive early.
