Little kids are sometimes best in the morning when they're at their happiest, well-rested and fed. A calm, fun energy should make for the perfect shoot time for kids and siblings. If your kids are cooperative in the evening, we offer golden hour sessions about 1.5-2 hours before sunset. This is the optimal start time for maternity portraits if taken outdoors. In-studio portraits are always scheduled between 10am-5pm, depending on the time of year.

Decide before the shoot what look you're going for. Where in your home will your portraits be displayed? If in a more formal room, be sure everyone's clothing is coordinated to this look. If the room is less formal and more casual, extend that to the location and wardrobe.

Stick to a color palette of three to four complementary colors, or all neutrals.

Pick one dress or shirt with a pattern, then pull the other outfit colors from it.

Lay out all outfits, shoes and accessories on a bed to see how they will interact with each other. No scuffed up running shoes next to heels!

Non-glare glasses are helpful!

Build up the session to children as it really is a time for fun and togetherness. One idea is to bring a prop or accessory that they are excited to take photos with, like a bunch of balloons, a special bench or chair, their favorite toy, etc. We understand that bribes are inevitable, but they will put on fake smiles if it's all just about ice cream afterward! No need to tell your kids to look at the camera, as they will get fatigued and start to look inauthentic. Let us lead the show!

We love all the dogs! Dogs are more than welcome to your session, but be aware that you may need a helper to corral your pups so that you can focus on yourself! Consider scheduling an additional session when we can focus more on your pup if this one is about the family.

One way to make Mom feel her best being in front of the camera is to get hair and makeup done. You deserve it! One tip is to delegate the prepping of the rest of the family to your significant other or a friend/family member so that you aren’t stressed and feel rushed.

We will send you a “how to prepare” for your newborn session guide, but remember, the baby is in charge. Come with no expectations except to document this special time.

There’s no manufacturing a good time. There will be plenty of grinning at the camera followed by kisses, hugs, tickles, and laughing for those candid moments. Your child will be overwhelmed with all of the instructions and requests, so let’s try to relax, and let your photographer direct the session.

It takes a minute for little ones to warm up to a the photographer. If there’s a particular song, joke, or game your child likes to play, give us a heads up so we can bond quickly and capture those real smiles.