Props:

We do not generally use props during my sessions unless it is a themed mini or seasonal session or newborn, however if you have something in mind please let us know. If you would like to a custom stylized session with props there may be an additional creative fee.

Your Children:

Many children are not usually fond of being told to pose or smile. It is best if we just give the children time to relax and try to capture their natural self. Don't worry if your child is running about and active, the best images are of your child or toddler busy playing and exploring.

To get the family shots, you should simply "be" with your child or hold your child and we go from there. Remember, your child will only be this small once so relish in it and breathe them in.

To get the most out of your session, make sure that your toddlers or little one has rested and has had adequate snacks and water. We can take breaks for snacks and play; however, I will probably still shoot during the breaks. Bring dry, non-messy snacks so their little faces stay clean during the session.

Prepare the child for the session by letting them know that a friend will be taking some photos of them, it's best not to surprise them.

Newborns:

As a new parent this advise for your session might seem crazy and will be hard, but to create the best dreamy images of your newborn we highly recommend this. Please keep your newborn awake for 2 hours and wait to feed them until right before the session. This will help keep your newborn asleep during the session. We also recommend that during the session, where baby will be away from Mom, that parents may observe the session but do not talk or touch baby unless absolutely necessary. We know this may be difficult but babies when they hear or smell Mom they will crave to be held or feed by Mommy. This will greatly help the session go smoother and faster.

Please arrive on time or be ready to start on time:

Remember, your session is scheduled according to light. It is important that we start on time. Please plan for traffic or parking constraints, especially if we are going to be in historic St. Augustine, the Beach or Downtown Jacksonville. It's best to arrive early.

If you are having an in home Newborn session, we will arrive at your reserved time and have a 15-30 set up time before your session will start. This will be the best time for feeding and snuggles before the session begins.

Weather: Since we do live in Florida and there is always the chance of extreme weather. If there is going to be rain or the heat index over 98* we will notify you of the need to reschedule at a minimum of 2 hours prior to our scheduled time with a reschedule calendar.

We can't wait to capture your family's moments! Do not hesitate to ask us any questions you have. See you soon!

Prep Guide for Family or Couples Sessions

We are so excited to be capturing the moment of you and your loved ones. A moment with photography in your life is so unique because it captures not only what you look like at a certain point in time, it captures who you are. We aim to capture honest images of art with you and your loved ones. The goal is not to get a posed shot with everyone looking at the camera (these often come out stiff and unnatural), but to capture the true spirit and dynamic of your family. We take a lifestyle documentary approach to photography and use our understanding of our equipment and light to create images that will become works of art that you can hang in your home and pass down for generations.

Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your session with us.

Location:

Together. we will decide which location works best for your family. Choose a location that fits your style, We have many locations that we visit regularly. A location should be a place where you feel comfortable. See my locations list for ideas.(Click Here)

Time:

Ideally shoot time is one to two hours after sunrise or before sunset. If your children are up for it, shooting one to two hours before sunset provides gorgeous light and atmosphere.

Length of Session:

Sessions rarely last more than an hour, exception being Newborn session (babies are on their own time, LOL). Generally, we plan for a gallery of approximately 25 images, most times there are more!

What to Wear:

Your clothes should be comfortable and reflect who you are. We do not recommend matching but rather coordinating. We recommend to start with Mom, if you are doing a family session… what is Mom most comfortable in and arrange everyone else from there. See our PINTEREST (Click Here) board for some what to wear guides and inspiration that can give you an idea of what we are talking about. We are happy to consult you with directly on wardrobe or recommend a personal stylist if you are interested. Just let us know.

If this is a newborn family session, we recommend that Dad be in a simple soft toned shirt with no buttons or logos (greys or browns are great), same for Mom or if comfortable a simple soft toned towel/sheet that can be clipped in the back. This will create a timeless look which will look beautiful in any home.