Before, During and After the session
A quick Highlight of what to expect
Booking the Date
Once you've decided on the right photography package for your family, I'll go ahead and get the date booked for your photo session! I'll work with your schedule to find a perfect day and time for the session. In order to reserve your day, the non-refundable retainer and a signed contract are required.
At Your Session
On the day of your session, we'll meet at the agreed location and time and start snapping away! Portrait sessions typically take about an hour. There's really no rush - or general time limit - just what feels natural. It generally takes about 20 minutes for us to "warm up" together, meaning getting comfortable and feeling relaxed in front of the camera. After that, it's really up to the photographed subject as to how long the session will last. This is the fun part - relax and let me do the work!
After Your Session
The photos have been taken, and lightly edited, and now it's time for you to choose your favorites! At this point in time, I’ll send you a proof gallery where you'll have the opportunity to choose your photographs. Once you’ve selected your images, they will be individually retouched, then uploaded to a private gallery where you can decide which images you would like to have as prints, albums, canvas, or digital. The gallery can be shared with friends and family, but it does expire so don’t forget to download and save your images!
What to Wear
Simple ideas to get your family camera ready.
What to Wear
One thing I get asked about a ton, is what to wear. Putting together outfits that look good in photos can be stressful, but it doesn't have to be! I'll be the first to admit that I am no expert in fashion, but I do know that coordinating outfits can make or break your photos. For my families, I always recommend this blog:
http://sarainshanghai.com/2015/09/19/what-to- -for-family-portraits-a-fool-proof-guide/
She really takes the guessing game out of coordinating outfits for your family. Just remember to choose clothes that you feel good in!
The Day of Your Session
An in depth look at what to expect the day of your session.
“It’s the day of my session...
what exactly can I expect?”
Keeping it Positive
It can be difficult to get kids to cooperate in the best of circumstances, and many times they may feel uncomfortable with a photographer they don't know well in an unfamiliar place. I work hard to get those perfect moments, but never with negative reinforcement or discipline. I use only positive, confidence-boosting methods to gain your child's trust and cooperation during the photoshoot, and ask parents that they do the same.
A Comfortable Pace
Children are unpredictable - a characteristic that makes them so lovable - but also difficult to plan around. It's something I completely understand! For this reason, I always carve out a large chunk of time to make sure your session isn't rushed. If baby needs to be changed or fed, take your time. If a toddler is getting tired or frustrated, we can take a snack break to relax and regroup. If you and your family are feeling uncomfortable or exhausted, we can pause for a drink of water and a rest in the shade. This is your photo session and I'll work at the pace of your family! There's no need to rush - just relax and enjoy the experience.
Safety First
When working with babies and children, safety is my first priority. When I photograph babies and newborns, I ask that mom and dad stay at arm's length to make sure baby's kept safe and sound under all circumstances. When planning an outdoor, on-location shoot with kids, I make sure the site is safe and suitable for children ahead of time. If there's any question as to whether or not a location, pose, or prop is safe for your family, I always err on the side of caution. And if mom or dad feel uncomfortable with the situation, I’m happy to find alternatives to make sure everyone is kept safe and sound.
Weather
If we've chosen an outdoor location for your photos, we will most likely be at the mercy of the weather! If the day turns out to be extremely hot, which can be dangerous and frustrating for the family, we'll find an alternate date for the photos. Similarly, for rainstorms, high winds, or extreme cold, I'd rather reschedule than push everyone into an uncomfortable place! We will be in communication the day before and day of the session to discuss any challenges that may arise and deal with them in the most convenient way possible for your family.
Any Questions?
I hope this helps answer any questions you might have, but I'm always here to help! Please feel free to call, text or e-mail with any other questions, wardrobe advice, etc. you may have. Communication is key to a fun, relaxed and successful session.
I can't wait to work with you and your family!
-Danielle Zumwalt