Why are family portraits such a rare occurance? We all love them, we all want them, but we’re not always willing to take the time to have them done. Scheduling conficts, finances, no wall space, Dad doesn’t want to do it?….I’ve heard and used myself, every excuse in the book. But, the fact is, once you have your family portraits taken, those images are a treasure. Plus, Mom is happy! Everyone knows, if Mom is happy, everyone is happy! 
I would love to capture true moments with you and your family. I promise you’ll have fun and love the images captured in that moment, for years and years to come!
Details:
A Family session with me is $250 $150. I prefer shooting immediate family only, not extended. The session fee is for my time and talent as the photographer and is due upon booking. The session fee is a non-refundable fee, should you choose to cancel. This fee ensures your session date is reserved on my calendar. Family sessions generally last 1 1/2 – 2 hours. You can receive a copy of my portrait agreement via email or it can be download here once you have the entry password. You will be asked to read over this, sign it and mail it back to me before your session.
Where and When?:
I do mostly on-location shoots. I like to talk with my clients personally during our pre-session consultation to come up with a “perfect fit” location. This may be in your own home, a park, an urban location, etc. I like to pick locations that really capture the feel and personality of the family. It’s fun to be creative and find unique places for families. I love it when my clients have input in this area and I’m always up for a challenge! I am always scouting out new locations for my clients because I don’t like to shoot in the same location more than once. I like to shoot in the early morning (few hours after sunrise) or early evening (few hours before sunset) to ensure great light and great images! These time will vary based on the time of year your session is booked.
What to wear?:
Clothing can be hard to figure out for some clients, but is a very important aspect of your session. During our pre-session consultation we can discuss all the options for your family. Don’t be afraid of color! I tell my family clients to pick some complimentary colors and to stay away from anthing too “matchy-matchy”. It is important to look like yourself, but find a fun, classic look that fits each individual’s style. I’m always available to discuss options in this area, so please feel free to call or email me with your questions. Here are few clothing options/ideas that you should consider when choosing clothing for children:
1. Layers (Adds dimension and interest plus, in CO can sometimes help keep you warm. Also, removing or adding a layer off can give whole new look and feel to a portrait.)
2. Accessories (hair clips, scarves, hats, jewelry, cute shoes, etc) These always look great on children and adults alike, and can bring out their personalities as well!
3. Texture! (cordoroy, sweaters, jackets, leggings, ruffles) Texture is great for adding some depth and interest to your portraits!
4. NO logos or character prints! (Logos can be distracting and can add hours to the editing process.)
5. Avoid busy prints!
After the Session:
After the session, if they allow, all clients can choose to view a “Sneak Peek” on my blog a few days after their session. Please allow up to 2 weeks for editing and final images to be posted in a password-protected online slideshow gallery. Once posted, clients will have 3 weeks to view images before making their order.