What to Expect

What to wear
Clothes should be fun and reflect who you are... browse the gallery for ideas, it's different for everyone. Urban/edgy photos are great with lots of bright colors and accessories. Plain solids work well for traditional, formal settings. I also like to tell my customers to think about what colors they want hanging in their house...but really, there are no rules...just have some fun! Personally, I love color. The more, the better. And I also love accessories and different textures. If you have all boys, they don't necessarily all have to be in matching polos. One could be in a button-down with a tie, one could have a jacket, etc. Get creative with combining different patterns too. Obviously I don't want you to wear something you wouldn't normally wear or that you would be uncomfortable in, so these are merely suggestions because again, your clothes should reflect you.

If you have a couple of ideas, bring both along and I can help you choose, or we can try both if we have the time. I would also suggest that kids wear the boldest and brightest patterns as they are the ones you are focusing on. If Dad is wearing a loud Hawaiian print and everyone else is wearing solids, your eye is going to go directly to him...and usually you want the focus on the children. If you are all wearing bold patterns, then it's no biggie.

Props
I do love props, whether it's a hat, a suitcase, a chair, a frame, or a vintage stool...I love the little bit of interest it adds. The juxtaposition of a metal tub in a golden field is just eye-catching, I think! I have various props to choose from, but feel free to bring your own.

Families
When I first meet your family, I will usually spend a little time getting to know you all and especially your children... talking and joking with them, trying to get them comfortable. Usually it is better if parents step back for a bit so your child won't be overwhelmed with two sets of requests, ie "smile bigger, look happier, put your hand down, sit up straight, etc." However there are some children who need their parents to loosen up, so be ready for whatever!

Babies
With babies I expect to spend time waiting for them to fall asleep, for feedings, fussiness, etc. Parents remember to have your infant fed and comfortable if at all possible before coming, but like I said before, you just have to be patient. I have four kids of my own, so I am used to it. I am also used to "accidents" during a session. I just wash the props, no big deal.