Where do we Go? What do we Where? Hopefully I can answer it all here…
A custom photography session is something everyone should experience at least once. This is not formula photography, as you get with most mall and chain photographers. During our session you can expect a relaxed and fun atmosphere. I want you to feel at ease and enjoy yourself during our time together. With families and children you can expect both posed shots and candids.
From coordinating your session day, to our adventures at the session itself, to the hours spent in my digital darkroom hand-processing each image, and the personalized service customized just for you. Sessions can last anywhere from 60-120 minutes and are ideal for those who want to have a relaxed, customized photographic experience no matter the session location!
Please expect to take breaks if infants and small children are involved. Infants often need breaks to nurse or feed and just get some love from mom and dad. Toddlers sometimes have meltdowns and don’t want to cooperate. That is okay! This is expected with children of this age and this is the norm with sessions with small children. I know, I have one fiercely independent 2 year old daughter (and a husband who doesn’t like his picture taken).
Session Location:
I offer four types of session categories; please keep in mind that this excludes the Custom Themed Children Portraits. All four of these session categories are covered, there just may be a small travel fee if its further then 30 miles from the studio at Chesterfield Mall.
In the Studio:
Studio photography done right is the only way I do it. I do not like cheesy white or black backdrops and silly poses and I surly stay away from blank expressions and boring backdrops. With investing in the right props and backdrops and not overdoing it comes up with some beautiful images. We do not do large families in the studio, but smaller families with young children work perfect.
Urban and/or Downtown St. Louis:
Urban doesn’t necessarily have to mean grungy; think texture, color and architecture. Urban Locations work great for seniors, families with other children and couples. I love combining the vibe of Saint Louis into the session and giving those that want their images to have a funky, hip flare a unique experience.
Natural:
Saint Louis has such an amazing collection of natural settings, think Forest Park or even Tower Grove Park. An open field with a brilliant blue sky, a patch of wildflowers, a lush park with bubbling creek all make great locations for any photo session. I have several go-to spots that make beautiful settings for your images and I even have a great finders bonus if you know of a place that is just stunning and introduce it to me.
At Home or a Special Location:
Ah, home sweet home! Sessions at home tend to be more intimate, relaxed, and more personal. Think about it how more personal and unique can you get with your photos when they are done at home. They’re the perfect setting for all kinds of sessions and home doesn’t have to look like a Pottery Barn Catalog…it should reflect you, imperfections at all. You will be surprised with what we can do at home and are especially ideal for families with babies or toddlers. Are you still looking around your home and thinking I’m crazy? How about a special location for your family, such as Grandma & Grandpa’s Cottage, where your husband proposed to you under that tree in a field or any location that means something special to your family.
Date, Time, What to Wear, Etc.
Here are a few suggestions for what to wear/bring for your session…
(I will also have my collection of fun hats, tutus and newborn props on hand)
Newborns
-nude is best
-fun hats
-a simple onesy if you have a favorite
-For mom, a simple black or white tank, short-sleeved shirt or tube top is perfect. Simple is best, avoid patterns.
-For dad, a black or white t-shirt. For those dads that are comfortable bearing their chest please do because these can make for some of the most precious images with father and child.
Maternity
-denim jeans (maternity jeans or an old pair that you can button down or unzip for photos)
-basic tank top
-flirty sun dress
-white button down blouse
-bathing suit top and fun skirt (if the weather is warm)
-yoga pants
-just remember, simple goes a long way
-blocks that spell baby’s name
-sonogram photos(s)
-baby shoes
-special items you would like to be photographed with
Families and Children
-accessories, such as headbands, scarves, jewelry, jackets and hats can really add to your look
-avoid all white or all black color combos
-Avoid matching outfits, but rather try to find outfits that compliment each other
-Avoid clothing with logos and busy patterns that will distract
-Color! Splashes of color really make your photos pop!
-denim
-dress up shirts
-cowboy boots
-rain boots
-striped or patterned stockings/tights
-fun, flirty dress
-tutus
-props – if you have fun props, such as antique family items or items with special meaning you’d like included, please feel free to bring them
Time
Well, if you are doing a studio session or pictures of a newborn baby we can do the session anytime of the day! Please keep in mind we only do location sessions in the evening hours and only schedule one location session a day. Typically we plan on any location session about two hours before sunset which allows room for weather and breaks!
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