GENERAL Questions

What type of sessions do you offer? 

In general, I focus on maternity, newborn, child, and family portraits. I offer a variety of themed mini sessions throughout the year and occasionally branch out and photograph other genres like seniors, corporate headshots, and branding sessions. I put a lot of energy into serving my newborn clients and my clients who are a part of my membership, so I offer a very limited number of other portrait sessions throughout each year. Subscribe to my newsletter so you don't miss out on special events and promotions! 

Where do you take the photos? 

I currently offer portraits at my in-home studio or at pre-selected locations for mini sessions. My studio is a beautiful neutral space, with lots of natural light and an array of different lighting set-ups. For newborn sessions, I have plenty of wraps, baskets and bowls, and some other accessories for your new addition! For milestone sessions (sitters and 1-year olds), I have a wardrobe of beautiful and unique outfits available for your use during your session.  

When do you schedule sessions? 

Newborn sessions typically take place on a weekday morning.   

My mini sessions are most often held in the evening in order to get the best lighting, about one to two hours before sunset.  

Currently, I do not schedule sessions on the weekends, except for select mini sessions and my annual Santa sessions. My weekends are typically reserved for time with my family, travel, and my day job as a NICU nurse.  

What should I wear? 

For newborn sessions, I always recommend ivory or white, and I love tops with lace for moms.  It's always a good idea to stay away from busy patterns, and bright or dark colors.  Neutral clothing photographs well and does not draw your attention away from the baby.   

For family sessions, check out my Pinterest boards here.  For sitters and 1 year olds, you have access to my milestone closet. Some of the pieces are on this Pinterest board. There are a some other items not listed on that Pinterest board, so please reach out if you would like to see photos of those.

Make sure you feel comfortable and confident in whatever you choose! 

Do you help pose me or do you take candid photos? 

I like a good mix of both. I'll help you get into positions that are flattering and photograph well, and then you can make it your own. I love a little movement in the portraits we take, so I’ll often get the “perfect shot” and then photography you as we move on to the next pose. I love candid and natural moments, so I make sure to capture you and your family when you don't even think I'm watching. 

How can we make the session go smoothly for my family? 

For newborn sessions, I try to make the portion of the session that includes your husband and any other children as quick and painless as possible.  After the family portion of the session is complete, your spouse and children are welcome to leave or to enjoy a variety of play options inside and outside my home.   

When will I get to see the images from my session? 

Typically, you'll receive proofs of your images within 3 weeks of your session.  Once you have selected your favorites, I will return the final edited images to you within a few weeks. If you need them by a certain date, please let me know and I may be able to accommodate your request. I also offer a rush editing fee if you’d like to be moved to the front of my editing queue. 

Do you put my digital images on a CD? 

Your images will be uploaded to a private online gallery where you can review, share, and download your purchased images.  You'll also have access to a store in your gallery, where you can order additional prints, canvases, albums, and wall art after you receive your final images. 

Do I pay for my session up front? 

For all portrait sessions, a non-refundable session retainer is required to reserve your place on my calendar. For mini sessions, the full cost is required up front to book your session. For any session, you always have the option to add on additional prints or products when you get your proof gallery, or after seeing your final images. From time to time, I do offer incentives for purchasing all of the digital images from your session up front rather than waiting until you see your proof gallery. That’s just a little way to treat you for trusting me with your family and your business! 

What methods of payment do you accept? 

I accept all major credit and debit cards. I will send you an online invoice for your session retainer and any additional invoices will be sent after receiving your proof gallery. 

What if I’m not feeling well the day of my scheduled session? 

Let me know! If you or one of your family members isn’t feeling well it’s best to reschedule your session. When you aren’t feeling your best, you don’t look your best. My family, my NICU patients, and my other clients will also thank you for helping me stay well, so I can keep all of my scheduled appointments!  Read more HERE. 

NEWBORN SESSIONS

When should I book my newborn session? 

It's never too early! It is beneficial to book your session early in your pregnancy to allow us time to plan your session and ensure that it goes smoothly.  Also, if your baby comes early and is admitted to the NICU, I do offer complimentary NICU portraits at certain hospitals. 

Ok, so I've booked my newborn session... Now what? 

We will communicate (usually by email) to plan your session.  We'll talk about style, colors, posing, and your personal preferences when it comes to photography.  We'll also start planning what you will do with your final images, whether it's a gallery wall, one large piece of wall art, or an album.  Most clients have an idea of what they want, and I help their vision come to life.  A few weeks after your session, I will email you a lightly-edited proof gallery. You’ll choose the images you’d like to purchase, and I will help you design and order your wall art, prints, canvases, albums, or other products. We can even set up a time to meet in person if that’s easier for you. I want to ensure that we get your photos printed into tangible art that you can share with your family. 

How soon after the baby is born will we do the newborn session? 

Newborn sessions will take place in the first few weeks of your baby’s life. Younger babies tend to sleep for longer periods and are able to be positioned in those sleepy, curly poses. I can’t always guarantee that your baby will cooperate, but the chances are a little higher! Taking the photos earlier in life also allows us to avoid the time when the baby starts to develop acne, which makes editing MUCH easier!  

How do we schedule the newborn session? 

I will add your due date to my calendar once you have formally booked your session. It's a good idea to add me to your list of family and friends to notify when you go to the hospital in labor. This allows me to adjust my schedule if necessary. If you forget, just let me know when the baby is here, and I will pencil you in for your session.  Once you're home and settled, we'll finalize the date and time. 

How long will the newborn session take? 

The session can take up to 3 hours depending on how comfortable the baby is and how often we need to stop and feed.  I want the session to be fun and relaxing for you, so we pause and take a break whenever needed.  If there are no siblings or parents being photographed, the session may be as short as 2 hours. 

What time of day will we be photographed? 

Most newborn sessions take place in the morning.  Babies tend to sleep for longer periods and get more restful sleep in the morning.  If there are young siblings, they are often happier in the mornings, as well. 

Do you provide props or should I bring my own? 

I provide blankets, wraps, headbands, hats, and a few outfits.  I also have baskets and bins to put the baby in.   

Do you only take pictures of the baby or do you include the parents and siblings? 

I love including parents and siblings.  It just completes the experience.  Even though you're probably not feeling as beautiful as you were just 9 months ago, you'll be glad you were involved during the session.  I always tell clients, if you don't do it for yourself, do it for your children.  I personally love looking back at photos of me, my siblings, and my parents.   

Do you offer any packages or discounts? 

Being a part of my luxury membership is the best way to save! Ask me about the perks of being a member, including discounts, special events, and preferred booking! 

When should I book my maternity session? 

It is best to take your maternity photos when your bump is a nice size, but while you're still feeling confident, comfortable, and beautiful.  When you're at your largest, you're probably not going to be interested in being in front of the camera.  I would recommend scheduling your maternity session somewhere near 30 to 34 weeks. You will want to make sure that your maternity photos highlight the most beautiful segment of your pregnancy.

LUXURY MEMBERSHIP

What does the Luxury Membership include? 

The Membership fee reserves your spot on my calendar for 3-5 sessions before your baby turns two. After each session of your membership, you’ll choose the combination of prints or digital images you desire from my Heirloom Collections options or the "a la carte" menu. This allows you to customize your artwork from each of your sessions rather than being locked into specific products. Membership also includes a 20% discount on products, members-only specials, access to my studio wardrobe, free gifts throughout your membership, and more! Trust me.  The perks are definitely worth it.  

The biggest benefit is that you will stay on top of documenting your child’s milestones throughout his or her first few years of life.  

What's in it for me? 

While the discounts alone might encourage you to join the membership, you'll also have your next few years of photography somewhat planned.  When you have a baby, you'll be surprised how fast they grow and how time slips right through your fingers!  You may think you will remember to book a photographer, but often times it gets pushed to the side.   

In addition to the membership perks listed above, you'll also get to hang out with me several times over a 2-year period!  I love getting to know my families and I never want to let them go after the newborn session.  Getting to know your photographer and feeling comfortable is paramount in getting natural photos that make you and your family feel beautiful.   

Do I have to remember to schedule my sessions? 

I know you're busy.  You just had a baby and chances are you can't even remember what you had for dinner last night, or if you even got dinner.  That's the beauty of the Membership!  I do all of the work for you.  I send you little reminders when it's time to schedule your next session.  We can coordinate dates and times, and then you're on my calendar.  That's it.  There is no additional payment needed to reserve your dates. I won't let this busy time pass you by! 

Are memberships only for families with newborns? 

Nope! Memberships are open to anyone. I would love the opportunity to capture your family at several different times over the next two years. This is a great way to guarantee your place on my calendar while receiving a little savings along the way. I often have to turn away clients when I begin receiving too many inquiries, so if you know you’ll want a few sessions within a 2-year time frame, this is your best way to reserve my time! 

If you have a question that you don't see answered here, please feel free to contact me.