7 Common Questions About Family Photography Answered

Now that the weather is warming up here in Ohio, I thought it might be nice to share some common FAQs for family photography sessions! I will be starting sunset sessions again in April and cannot wait!

1. WHAT TIME DO SESSIONS TAKE PLACE?

Sessions take place at sunrise and at sunset at most locations. If you have young children with early bedtimes, I highly recommend booking in September or October when the sunset is earlier! Check out another blog post of mine here for more tips about sessions with young children!


2. WHERE DO SESSIONS TAKE PLACE?

Family sessions generally take place at a Metropark location in the Columbus, Ohio area. When you book your session, if you are the first session of the evening, you will be provided with a list of park options for location. I have created this list based on years of experience for which parks work best at certain times of the day! If there is a special location that is sentimental to you, of course please let me know and with a little planning, we can usually make it happen!


3. WILL YOU TAKE ANY POSED PHOTOS OF US?

Yes, I take a few looking-at-the-camera-portraits of you together as a family, and an individual portrait of each child. I know these types of photos are important to document, too. The remainder of your session is all about capturing moments more naturally as they unfold and documenting your family connection.


4. CAN I PRINT MY PHOTOS?

Yes! You have printing rights and online personal use rights to your photos.


5. WHAT HAPPENS IF IT RAINS?

I will contact you in the days leading up to your session and if it looks like rain we can either reschedule (if you're keen to have some photos outside) or play by ear and make a same-day decision to hold your session or not. There are a couple of indoor locations can move to as well including the Franklin Park Conservatory!


6. HOW DO I VIEW MY PHOTOS AFTER THE SESSION?

Within one week of your session, I will send you an online proofing gallery. From this gallery, you will choose which photos you would like. Once your favorites are selected, I get to work editing the photos and will send them to you once they are ready. Usually within two weeks. You will be able to download the full-resolution image files from this final gallery. The image files are ready for print and online personal use!


7. HOW DO I BOOK A SESSION WITH YOU?

If you are ready to book a family photo session, please visit my booking site by clicking here! This site allows you to select your family photo package and see my availability calendar! Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions you may have!

Essential FAQs for Newborn Photography: What Every Parent Wants to Know

Thinking about newborn photos is an exciting part of the planning process for your new family member! As you navigate the world of capturing adorable baby yawns, tiny fingers, and peaceful slumbers, it's natural to have questions. In this blog post, I have made a list of the top 10 frequently asked questions about newborn photo sessions to give you insight and practical tips. Whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned pro, read on to discover everything you need to know to make your newborn photo session a seamless and memorable experience.


  1. When is the best time for newborn photos?

    It is best to have your newborn session within two week of your baby’s birth date. This helps ensure we capture all the newborn details that we know change so quickly. Photographer secret: it also helps us because babies are usually still sleepy those first two weeks, which means a smoother and quicker session for everyone!


  2. How do I prepare my baby for the photo session?

    We all know babies are on their own schedule, however, it is helpful to feed and change them as close to the session as possible. Keep your home warm. Turn off ceiling fans, turn up the heat a couple degrees or turn off the air-conditioning. White noise machines are also helpful.

  3. What should My baby wear? Do we need props?

    A neutral-colored onesie or outfit makes for timeless photos. Small headband for girls (big bows hide their dainty features in photos) or knitted hats and accessories are always adorable. When selecting colors, try to avoid red and orange as this may make baby appear too orange. Try to select neutral or earth tones such as ivory, beige, rose gold, soft blues, or sage green. If you need help with colors, I am always available to chat!

    Props are generally not a part of my photography unless you have a special item or heirloom you would like to have included in the photos! I always love when clients have a bonnet or blanket knitted by a family member. I have even included family-made cribs, bassinets, and rocking horses. These items help tell your family story and make your photos even more special.


  4. How long does a newborn session typically last?

    Typically 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on how settled baby is.


  5. What if my baby is unsettled or crying during the session?

    If at any point during the session your baby needs soothed, fed, or changed, we will take a break to do so! It is never a bother at all. I work with newborn babies and these things are expected to happen!


  6. Can siblings or grandparents be included in newborn photos?

    Absolutely! I am notorious for making grandma or grandpa get in the pictures!


  7. Are you vaccinated for whooping cough and/or the flu?

    Of course. This is a very important question to ask any newborn photographer. I would never want to get your sweet baby sick. I am up-to-date with my whooping cough vaccine and also receive my flu shot and COVID-19 booster every year. I also will wear a mask during your session during cold and flu season and am ALWAYS willing to wear a mask on request. I want you to feel at ease during your session!


  8. How many photos will we get from our session?

    After your session, you will receive an online proofing gallery of about 30 images that have not yet been edited and are watermarked. From this proofing gallery, you will choose which images you would like for me to edit. My base newborn package includes 6 images. You will have the option to purchase additional images if you would like more than 6.


  9. What is the Best Setting for Newborn Photography – Studio or IN-Home?

    I think there is a place for both styles of newborn photography. Some clients choose to do both and some families choose one or the other for various reasons. I appreciate studio photography and had studio newborn photos done for both of my children. Personally, I wish I would have done both in-home and studio. It really is up to you and what you value! There are benefits to both styles. In-home sessions are all about telling the story of those first few weeks with your newborn.. and can include some documentary-style images that really capture what the early days were like. I really strive to focus on love and connection for my in-home newborn sessions.


  10. When Should I Schedule and Book a Newborn Photography Session?

    If you are set on a newborn photographer, I highly recommend getting on their schedule as soon as possible. Most newborn photographers have a limit for the number of newborn clients they take each month. This ensure they can be available for each family.

I hope you have found this blog post to be helpful in planning your newborn sessions. I am always here to answer any questions you may have!

Home Sweet Home: Embracing the Magic of Newborn Photos in Your Home

There's something truly magical about the arrival of a newborn, and as parents, you're undoubtedly eager to freeze those precious moments in time. While professional newborn photography is a common choice, opting for photos in the comfort of your own home adds a unique and invaluable dimension to the experience. Here's why newborn photos taken at home are not just convenient but also incredibly meaningful.

1. Natural Comfort and Familiarity

Home is where the heart is, and it's also where you and your newborn will be most comfortable. Capturing these early moments in the familiar surroundings of your home allows for genuine, relaxed expressions and poses. Your baby can peacefully sleep in their own crib, cuddle up on your favorite couch, or even be photographed in the nursery you carefully decorated for them.

2. Personalized Backdrop

Your home tells a story – your story. Incorporating elements of your home into the backdrop of your newborn photos creates a personalized touch. Whether it's a cherished family heirloom, a cozy reading nook, or a sunlit living room, these details make the photos uniquely yours.

3. Timeless Memories in Everyday Spaces

Professional photographers can work wonders with lighting and props, but there's something extraordinary about capturing the beauty of everyday moments. From the morning sunlight streaming through your bedroom window to the quiet moments in the nursery, these photos encapsulate the timeless beauty of your day-to-day life.

4. Siblings and Pets Inclusion

For families with older siblings or fur babies, home sessions offer the perfect opportunity to involve everyone. Siblings can be captured interacting with their new brother or sister in a space they're comfortable in, and pets can be part of the frame, too. There is nothing sweeter than seeing your family pet adoring their future playmate.

5. Reduced Stress for New Parents

Venturing out of the house with a newborn can be a daunting task, especially for sleep-deprived parents. By choosing an in-home photoshoot, you eliminate the stress of packing up baby essentials, ensuring a more relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

To sum it up

Welcoming a newborn into your home is a transformative experience, and documenting these early days with professional photos is a gift that keeps on giving. The beauty of in-home newborn photography lies not only in its convenience but in the authentic and personal moments captured within the walls of your own haven. So, let the camera click away as you create lasting memories in the heart of your home.

Moms in the Frame: The Undeniable Importance of Capturing Timeless Moments

Hey there, fellow moms! We need to talk about something that often takes a back seat in the chaos of parenting – you being in the picture. Yep, we're shining a light on the importance of not just being behind the camera but proudly being in the frame with your kiddos. It's time to celebrate the beauty of motherhood by embracing the click and capturing those timeless moments.

  1. Creating Lasting Memories:

    Moms, you are an integral part of your family's story, and that story deserves to be captured in its entirety. Being in pictures with your kids creates lasting memories that go beyond posed perfection. It's about freezing moments in time, the laughter, the snuggles, and the everyday magic that makes your journey uniquely yours.

  2. Building a Visual Legacy:

    Your presence in photos contributes to building a visual legacy for your children. Imagine the joy they'll experience flipping through albums or scrolling through digital memories, seeing you right there beside them through the different stages of life. It's a priceless gift you give to your family and generations to come.

  3. Affirming Connection and Love:

    There's something powerful about seeing the love between a mother and her children captured in a photograph. Those candid shots, the stolen glances, the shared giggles – they affirm the unbreakable bond you share. Photos become a tangible reminder of the warmth and connection that defines your relationship.

  4. Fostering Positive Self-Image:

    Being in pictures with your kids isn't just about them; it's about you too. Embracing the camera helps foster a positive self-image and self-love. Your kids see you, not just as their caregiver, but as a vibrant, integral part of the family narrative. It sets a beautiful example of self-acceptance.

  5. Moments You'll Cherish:

    Time flies, and kids grow up in the blink of an eye. Being present in pictures ensures that you have tangible memories of the fleeting moments. One day, you'll look back and be grateful for those pictures that transport you to a time when tiny hands held yours and bedtime stories were a nightly ritual.

In conclusion, dear moms, it's time to step into the frame. Embrace the imperfect, the messy hair, the mismatched socks, and the joyous chaos that defines motherhood. You are an essential part of the family narrative, and your presence in pictures adds depth, love, and authenticity to your story. Let's capture the moments, celebrate the journey, and remind ourselves that, in every frame, there's a beautiful mom creating a lifetime of memories with her kids.