Thank you for thinking of me to document your next session of family photographs.
In this guide you will find more info on what sessions with me look like, as well as tips that have been helpful to clients for their sessions.
//Lisa
If it’s intimate and candid you’re looking for, you’ve found the right place. Let’s put the iPhone away and update that camera roll (and those walls) with the images that tell your story. Everything you do at home- from the quiet moments with each other to that excited we're-going-to-be-parents energy- bring all of that to our session.
// How I shoot
I understand that photos can be stressful, but I'm here to remind you that they don’t have to be. The centre focus of my sessions is to tell your story with simplicity and honesty. My objective isn’t just to take pretty pictures, but to capture the genuine interactions within your family. Rather than always looking at the camera (though we do aim for a small amount of those as well!). I encourage a lot of movement with each other to bring out those natural reactions and capture those candids we all love.
For my families with littles, this often includes allowing your kids to run, to dance, bouncing them, and a lot of tickles. What little one doesn’t like to be bounced around on mamas hips or dads shoulders? It’s also important to allow your littles time to open up to me and allow a stranger in their space, especially after the last few years we’ve had. It may be very intimidating to have someone be near them, so make sure to embrace them, because those comforting moments will also make for some beautiful documented moments.
My favourite time to create outdoors with my families is one hour before the sun sets, which varies greatly throughout the year. We can explore while soaking in a beautiful prairie sunset, and give your gallery that warm golden glow. Indoor sessions will typically begin mid-late morning for the best indoor lighting.
PREP + PLAN
// What to bring
My sessions typically don’t involve props, but if there are heirlooms or special items you’d like to incorporate I will always try to accommodate those requests. Please just let me know ahead of time. Some ideas: an ultrasound photo, a onesie or florals.
// What to wear
Photo sessions are an event and should be dressed as such. Ensure it’s an outfit you’ve worn before and you know it's comfortable- a dress, jeans with a bralette and cardigan or a cozy, oversized chunky knit sweater, etc. Something you'll be comfortable in that doesn't restrict your movement too much. Men might simply wear jeans and a plain top or of course dress that up as well. I suggest to stay away from any clothing with too many patterns or large, bright logos as they tend to be very distracting. Please remember to remove things like fitness watches, scrunches, etc. if you do not want them in your images.
When it comes to colours, dress for the season. Spring may involve more florals or soft toned options, early fall may bring more deep earthy tones like dark reds, evergreen shades, and burnt oranges for some examples. Instead of dressing the family in the same colours (think all black, all blue, etc.), opt for different pops of colour for the season to compliment one another. Pick one colour from one outfit to work into an outfit for another family member. Have a look through some of the images here- or you can always feel free to send me any outfit ideas you have if you'd like my feedback! Please remember to remove things like wallets, phones, fitness watches, scrunches, etc. If you do not want them in your images.
I hope you've found the information in this guide helpful in preparing for your session, and remember that you can always contact me with any questions you have.
View my Instagram page here to get to know a little more about me, what I'm up to, or view recent work + availability updates.
I look forward to working with you very soon!