Session Notes
Timing
Our session is untimed but typically lasts 1-1.5 hours. There is no pressure to rush. We will have a ton of time to catch the beautiful moments of connection and love. If your little one(s) need a break, or if you do, we can always just relax and take a few moments to fuel up on snacks or water. I want everyone to feel relaxed and have fun to build beautiful memories together!
Show up with a carefree attitude
I know this is difficult. I really do. I have been there! But the very best family photography sessions come from parents going with the flow and not stressing over their kids' behaviour. Basically, just pretend like everything your children do during your session is THE CUTEST THING YOU'VE EVER SEEN! If you can do that, your photos will turn out awesome! I can't tell you you how many times I've taken photos where the kids are laughing and happy (possibly over something naughty) and the shot is ruined by parents scolding their kids and having annoyed faces. But imagine if those parents were gazing at their kids like they were doing the CUTEST THING THEY'VE EVER SEEN! See what I mean?
Think of things that make your kids laugh
Before your session, think of things that make your kids laugh. Study that list and during the session, do or say those things. Yes, I have a few tricks to make them laugh too. But parents know their kids and the little inside jokes, funny memories, or weird noises that bring on the giggles, so if you can use those, it will make the experience much more fun! And it will show in the photo. So make a note on your phone now and keep it handy!
Capturing tender moments
One of the key ingredients in powerful photography is authentic expressions of love and connection. So wrap your arms around your loved ones, tickle them, and kiss them with the same intensity you would after a long day apart.
If your child is upset, hug and comfort them; snuggle close and whisper how much you adore them. Tell them a joke or share their favourite story.
Embrace this fleeting moment!
Styling
Layering & textures for family members
Try color blocking with different textures and minimal patterns. Example of beautiful textures: silky, ribbed, waffled, knitted. I suggest knitted sweaters, denim pieces, cozy sets, flowy dresses or skirts.
Layering gives depth to your photographs and helps ensure not everyone is matching. I recommend adding a cardigan or small accessory. Variance is important! I do not recommend that everyone be dressed the same.
Avoid clothing with logos and words.
Make time for yourself before your session
Joy and confidence shines through when we take the time we need to feel good about ourselves. Make sure you schedule in the time you need before the session to get ready, and your focus will shift to being about making memories.
Colour pallet suggestions
Don’t be afraid of colour! It is beautiful when family members are dressed in different colours that compliment each other (use those below as a guide) as opposed to being dressed the exact same. Each person can wear 2-3 colours from the chosen pallet. 1-2 family members can wear soft and discrete patterns that match the colour pallet. Avoid very bright, flashy, neon colours (notice the colours below are mostly earthy tones, even the bright oranges and pinks are earthy).
during the session
Follow the Light
I always follow the light so you will notice we will move from place to place to ensure that the lighting enhances the moment and contributes to the overall emotion and connections of the photographs.
Circle of Connection
My work is grounded in connection and it is the one true way to elicit authentic and emotive photographs. The connection comes from you and your family- which means the closer you are physically and emotionally, the better your photos will be. Cuddle with your children or spouse, keep your eyes on the ones you love and not on my lens, and play with your children in the way that you normally do. Keep your hands on each other. I will remind everyone to get closer and keep in contact, but it’s always best that everyone participating knows that this is a full on snuggle session.
Love on one another and keep each other as close as can be.
Your love and connection is the art.
