YOUR SHOOT

Sessions are never rushed, and normally take anywhere from an hour to three, depending on the mood of your child. Please be sure to schedule a time in the day that is best for your child, and when they are happiest. If your child isn’t feeling well the day of or before your session, please give us a call to reschedule, as we want your child at its best.

I also encourage moms and dads to bring a special blanket, toy or stuffed animal of some sort that your child may be in to right now for added security. If your child is older, and in to dance or sports of any kind, you’re more than welcome to bring something that reflects who they are today for your portraits.

My photography company operates differently than many others; here is the process of how it all works:

SHOOT PROCESS:

1. The shoot usually takes place at your home as the baby feels more comfortable. Clients call or email me to book a shoot. You can usually get weekday shoots a few days in advance; however weekends have to bebooked up 3 weeks in advance. I reserve 1 to 3 hours for every shoot depending on your package (I leave the extra time to not rush changes or feedings etc.), and often shoots are back to back. So please aim to be ready on time (a little late is ok – I know how hard it can be with kids), to make the most of your time slot.

When we come down for your shoot, the first thing we do is go through specific styles you are looking for, if you want particular poses or props please let me know. We will also take time to get to know your child, so once we start photographing, your child will be very comfortable.

2. We then shoot through all the poses on my list. I always shoot way more than I need (100-300 shots) to make sure I have a variety to choose from. Children’s expressions tend to change very quickly from one second to the next, so by over shooting I can capture a mix of expressions.

3. After the shoot, I confirm the package you ordered (based on how well your family did). Payment is due on the day of the shoot.

EDITING PROCESS:

1. When I get to your package (I have a waiting list for my turn around), I look through every photo and resize all the images with good facial expressions. I don’t worry about hands; drool etc. because when I am done with the edits it can all be removed.

2. I duplicate the images in to a new folder (so I always have the master files to go back to). From here I trim down the best choices and make sure to give a good mix of poses. I choose the BEST photos, and there is no benefit in me giving you anything but the best. I do not allow clients to pick out their shots due to the time involved as well as the difference between the raw and the edits. (As I can see the potential with every pose, that others may not)

3. I work on EVERY photo – to take out the backdrops, remove acne, drool, scratches, as well as converting black and white, adding glows and borders etc. When these are complete, I then create your digital album (if you have opted) from the finished photos.

4. Once I have completed all the photos, I email you a private web link to your finished photos to view and send to family and friends. These are compressed for online, so DO NOT print from the web link.

5. The prints /album with the DVD containing print quality files is then delivered to your door step.

CLOTHING:

One word, SIMPLE! By staying simple the focus is on you, and not what you are wearing. Some clothing recommendations are overalls, Jeans, khakis, solid colour shirts, and simple dresses. Please stay away from anything that has designs, logos, or characters of some sort on them.

Black and White Portraits:

For black and white portraits either black, navy, brown, maroon or grey turtle necks forwomen and long sleeved shirts for men work best. If you don’t have turtle necks, or long sleeved shirts, short sleeved will work. Black pants or jeans are preferred. For children, darker toned clothing is best for black and white. If you are doing a family portrait, have everyone come in the same tone, for a more uniformed look. Please look to my galleries for examples.

Colour portraits:

Anything with colour! Again, stay simple. Choose something that has a timeless, classic look to it. If you are doing a family portrait in colour, a good example would be white t-shirts and jeans.

Newborns:

No recommendations here. They will be pretty much naked the whole session. If your newborn doesn’t like to be naked, please bring simple white clothes. For the family being photographed with the newborn, please wear darker colours, as stated in the B & W clothing section. Also don’t forget to bring extra changes of clothing due to newborn accidents that may happen.

Babies:

We like to photograph them naked. If you would like to bring some outfits, Please limit it to 2-3, as the more changing, the more irritable a baby will get.