Everything you need to prepare for a relaxed, beautiful experience is right here.
WELCOME TO YOUR SESSION
Your session is officially on the calendar, and I couldn't be more excited!
From this point forward, my goal is to make everything feel simple. Whether you're wondering what to wear, where to go, how to prepare the kids, or what happens if the weather changes, you'll find it all here.
You don't have to have everything figured out, that's what I'm here for. I'll guide you every step of the way so that when your session arrives, all you have to do is show up, love on your family, and enjoy the experience.
CHOOSING YOUR LOCATION
We'll choose the perfect spot together.
Where should we have our session?
One of the best parts of working together is that you don't have to search endlessly for the perfect location. I will send you approximately 4 of my best locations based on your vibe, time of year and day and what will work best for your session.
Every place I recommend has been personally photographed by me. I know exactly when it looks its best, how the light works throughout the year, how much walking is involved, and which locations work best for young children, dogs, and different family dynamics.
Whether you picture an open field at sunset, a quiet wooded trail, charming downtown streets, or the comfort of your own home or our studio, we'll choose a location that feels like you.
STYLING
You don't have to figure this out alone.
What should we wear?
Choosing outfits is often the part parents worry about most, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. The goal isn't perfectly matching outfits. It's creating a timeless, coordinated look that feels natural, comfortable, and truly reflects your family. I recommend soft, complementary colors, subtle textures, and clothing that allows everyone to move comfortably. When you feel confident in what you're wearing, it shows in every image.
You'll also receive my complete Style Guide filled with color palettes, inspiration, and examples to make planning easy. If you'd like a second opinion, simply send me photos of your outfit ideas, I'm always happy to help.
My biggest advice?
Dress for connection, not perfection.
WEATHER
The forecast doesn't have to ruin your session.
What if the weather doesn't cooperate?
Weather is one of the few things we can't control, but it's also one of the things I worry about so you don't have to.
Cloudy skies often create some of my favorite light, and a gentle breeze can add beautiful movement and emotion to your photographs.
If heavy rain, wind or extreme temps/weather are in the forecast, we'll make the decision together to reschedule. I'll monitor everything closely and keep you updated.
Your comfort and your family's safety always come first.
PREPARING THE KIDS
Children don't need to be perfect to make beautiful photographs.
What if my child doesn't cooperate?
If you're worried about this...
You're in very good company.
Almost every parent asks me this question.
The truth is, I never expect children to sit still, smile on command, or behave perfectly for an hour.
Children are happiest when they're allowed to play, explore, snuggle, run, laugh, and simply be themselves. That's where the real magic happens.
A few things that help:
Feed everyone before your session.
Bring water, but I recommend leaving snacks in the car if possible.
Once snacks come out, they're often all little ones can think about!
Avoiding them during the session helps prevent tears, distractions, sticky hands, and food-covered faces,
allowing us to keep the focus on creating beautiful, connected images.
Let your kids know you're going on a fun family adventure, not a photoshoot.
Leave the pressure at home.
A few things not to do:
Don't practice saying "cheese."
Don't promise rewards for smiling.
Don't threaten consequences if they don't cooperate.
Don't apologize if they have big feelings.
We are PLAYING not POSING here.
I've photographed hundreds of children over the years (and have a good amount of my own).
I promise, whatever your child does, I've seen it before.
And some of my favorite images happen in the beautifully imperfect sometimes chaotic moments.
Bringing Your Dog
Four-legged family members are family, too.
If you'd love to include your dog in your session, I'd be happy to if it's the right fit. Because every location has different rules, I can't guarantee dogs are permitted anywhere other than your own home. Many parks, preserves, and private properties have their own policies that can change without notice, so we'll always confirm whether a location is dog-friendly before making plans.
For the best experience, your dog should be comfortable around new people, well-trained, and able to follow basic commands. A session is full of new sights, sounds, and distractions, so it's important that your pup can remain calm and manageable throughout.
I also highly recommend bringing a friend or family member who can take over once we've finished the images that include your dog. Dogs are only part of the gallery for a portion of the session, and having someone available to walk them or take them home allows us to focus on the rest of your family without unnecessary distractions.
Don't forget to bring:
✔ A leash (a 6 foot non-retractable is best)
✔ Water and a bowl
✔ Waste bags
✔ A few favorite treats or a toy
✔ A helper to care for your dog or take them home when they're not being photographed
With a little planning, including your furry family member can add so much personality and joy to your session while keeping the experience relaxed and enjoyable for everyone.