About My Portait Style

When I do a portrait session I keep it relaxed.  We’ll take breaks, play with toys, go out and explore… anything to make you and your family comfortable!  For babies I take extra time to be sure they get all their needs met first so they are content and comfortable.  Children are able to jump, roll, climb, play- just be themselves and be comfortable with the session.  I’ll take every effort to keep an eye on the details too; making sure shirts stay tucked in, hair stays in place, and the background enhances the portrait.   I take special efforts with seniors too to be sure your portraits reflect you and aren’t cookie-cutter poses in boring locations.  I’m up for anything you suggest- try me!

Maternity sessions are best done when you are beyond 33 weeks so that your belly is nice and round; but don’t wait too late since you might not be feeling your best in that last week or two.  (I know this from experience!)  Newborn sessions are best done in the first week or two of their life since they are still snuggly and cuddled up in a ball, and those expressions and gazes are just priceless!  It’s hard to know what a newborn’s schedule will be, so don’t fret if baby needs to be attended to during the session- there will be plenty of time to feed, change, and soothe baby so that they are content for pictures.  Newborn sessions normally last 2-3 hours depending on how baby does.  I’ll keep going until I’m sure you have the best shots possible! 

Your session can be done indoors or outdoors at your location of choice.  I have no charge for locations within 50 miles of my home.  I try to use as much natural lighting as possible, but if you would like an indoor, studio location I have a full studio light setup and many backdrops to choose from at my home.  For outdoor locations it is best to do portraits in the “golden hours” of the day when the sun is closer to the horizon- depending on the season this changes- but generally 1-2 hrs before sunset is my favorite!   Don’t be afraid of the snow… outdoor portraits in the winter can be absolutely stunning!  

People ask me all the time about what to wear for their portraits.  I suggest you wear muted, plain print colors (avoid stripes and loud patterns) so that the focus is on you and not on the clothing.  For group portraits, matching isn’t necessary and doesn’t always look the best.  Try staying in the same color family (shades of blue), or wear complementary colors (pink and green, rust and denim, etc.)   You are welcome to bring clothing changes to try different looks during your session.   For sessions with children or small babies, extra clothes are a must (for the child and the parents!)  You never know when an accident might happen.   High school seniors are welcome to bring several outfits and choose multiple locations.