WELCOME!

I am so happy you booked a session with me! I want your family to enjoy your time together and feel relaxed to be themselves, so knowing what to expect provides the best foundation for success. You will find more details to prepare for your family session below. You can also visit the following blog posts, for tips on choosing what to wear and more on what you can expect from a lifestyle session. See below for more details.

I am excited to photograph your family. Lifestyle photography is unique because the focus is on your family’s connection and unique dynamic. The goal is not to get a stiff and posed shot with everyone looking at the camera, but to capture your natural family interactions. I believe this style of photography evokes genuine emotion and my goal is to bring you back to that moment and feeling when you view the images. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your session with me.

Location: Through your session questionnaire you selected a location preference. I have a list of my top locations in Western Mass. Locations include mountains in Amherst, MA, parks in South Hadley, MA and Holyoke, MA. You should choose a location that fits your style and personality. I am open to new locations if you would prefer, just let me know and I can help you finalize your choice via email.

Time: This session is scheduled during golden hour, the hour before sunset, the light at this time provides gorgeous sunlit images which is ideal for my style of photography.   

Length Of Session: My sessions are well planned ahead of time with an easy flow. If a pose or grouping doesn’t go according to plan, there is no pressure and we will move on to something new.  My family portrait sessions last around 45-60 minutes.  I usually have a whole gallery of images in that time, which also tends to be the time when kids, and dads, start to get restless.

What To Wear: Wardrobe should be comfortable and reflect who you are. I do not recommend matching but rather coordinating, pale jewel tones pair well with golden hour sunlight, but the most important thing is comfort and confidence for all. Click Here for tips on what your family should wear for your session. 

Props: I do not use props during my sessions, however if you have something in mind please let me know.  

Preparing Your Children:  It is best to give children time to get acclimated and feel comfortable to be themselves, as some children may not be comfortable being told to pose or smile. I want to capture their natural personalities. Don't worry if your child is active, many images in my portfolio were taken while playing and exploring. For family photos, I usually direct the adults to simply "be" with the child, or hold the child and we go from there. To get the most out of your session, make sure that your little ones have rested and had adequate snacks and water. Prepare the child for the session by letting them know that a friend will be taking some photos of the family. Many families recommend some down time prior to their session.

Please arrive early to park and be ready to start on time: Remember, your session is scheduled according to light, which fades fast before sunset. We don’t want to miss it!  

I can't wait to capture your family!  Please let me know if you have any questions.  See you soon!