THE SESSION
Your session will typically take 1 to 2 hours. This leaves plenty of time for snacks, breaks, a change of clothes, or even a short nap. As the mother of three little boys, I know how important this is! Outdoor sessions take place at the location of your choice in both the morning and in the late afternoon/evening. (I have suggestions if you aren't sure of a suitable location.) For newborns and young babies, I prefer to photograph indoors near a sunny window. I am a natural light photographer – I never use a flash or studio lighting.
If the weather is bad or your child is sick on the day of the shoot, we will find a time to reschedule. Your session fee will be applied to the make-up date.
THE CLOTHING
Whether your goal is a formal portrait or something more casual, keep in mind that you do not want the clothing to overpower the child in the photograph. For this reason I suggest simple, comfortable, classic clothing with no bold prints, stripes, or logos. Overalls, flowing sundresses, khaki's, or jeans are always good choices. When weather permits, bare feet are preferable, as it adds to the timelessness of your photographs. It is not necessary that the clothing be white; any solid color will work well in a black and white photograph. If more than one person will be photographed, please dress those being photographed in complimentary outfits.
For newborns, just a diaper (or his or her birthday suit!) is preferred.
Please dress children in comfortable, washable clothing. Sessions include lots of playing and running.
THE STYLE
Documentary portraiture allows your child to be a child; for this reason, I will not wait for a smile to snap the picture. A sleeping newborn, a toddler who has just learned to walk, a child delightfully discovering something new - these are my most cherished photographs. This natural style of photography will make your child feel more comfortable with the camera, as they will not have to sit in a stiff, posed position with a forced smile for the entire shoot... we'll play and laugh, and the smiles will come naturally! Feel free to look through the photographs in the galleries on my website to see if this style of photography is for you. |