what to wear
What to Wear for Your Session
#1 — and most important:
Wear what makes you feel comfortable and beautiful.
If you’re tugging, adjusting, or second-guessing your outfit, it’ll show in your expressions. Confidence always photographs best!
Style Tips
Avoid the matchy-matchy look.
Pick three coordinating colors you love and mix in patterns, textures, and solids. This creates a natural, effortless feel. I personally love a pop of color over all-black or all-white!
Keep it simple.
Color and pattern are great, but too many bold prints or accessories can feel busy. Choose one or two statement pieces and let them shine.
Skip shirts with text or logos.
They can distract from your faces and the emotion of the image.
Let your kids be themselves.
If their current “thing” is a sparkly necklace, unicorn earrings, vanity glasses, or a Batman hat—let them bring it! You’ll love looking back on those little details someday.
Bring walking shoes.
If you’re wearing heels, toss in some flip-flops or slides for walking between spots.
Healthy, happy kids make the best photos.
If your child isn’t feeling well, please let me know so we can reschedule. There’s no fee or penalty—we’ll make it a priority to get you back on the calendar quickly.
Need Help Deciding?
If you’re unsure about outfits, text me photos! I’m happy to help finalize your choices so your images feel authentic and true to you.
sessions with toddlers
Photographing Toddlers (a.k.a. the Real Workout!)
I’ll be honest — kids under 4 are by far the most challenging to photograph.
And as a mom of three boys under five, trust me… I’ve had plenty of practice!
1. Patience Is a Virtue
Some are shy and need time to warm up; others are ready to go from the jump. I’ll read the room — are we coaxing out personalities, or are we chasing giggles?
Either way, I’m a stranger with a camera, and they deserve time to get comfortable. No rush — we’ll get there!
2. Cool as a Cucumber
Oh, they can smell our desperation, can’t they?
You’ve done the hard part — outfits, timing, traffic, payments — you just want something frame-worthy.
But here’s the truth: if everyone’s stressed, your toddler will feel it too. So take a deep breath, relax, and roll with it. The best photos come from joy and play — not perfection.
3. Let Them Lead
I’ve got a bag of tricks to keep things fun — little games, silly prompts, maybe even a dance move or two.
But sometimes, especially with toddlers (#boymom), the best plan is no plan. If they need to explore, let’s follow along.
Those curious, adventurous moments often turn into the most beautiful, candid photos — the ones that really feel like them.
4. Prep Ahead
Toddlers do best when they’re well-rested and fed (don’t we all?).
Morning sessions: Put them to bed early, give a good breakfast, and show up ready for fun.
Evening sessions: Maybe push nap a little later, give them a hearty dinner or snack before you come.
Bring water and snacks — they travel everywhere with you anyway!
5. Bribery Works (No Shame)
This is a No judgement zone!! Whether it’s fruit snacks, candy, ice cream after, a favorite movie, or extra playtime — find what motivates your little one and let’s make it part of the fun.
6. Bring THE THING
You know exactly what I mean — the thing.
The lovey, blankie, stuffed animal, or toy that goes everywhere.
You might not want it in every photo, and that’s fine — we’ll do our best to keep it out of the “framers.” But I promise you’ll treasure the few where it appears.
Because one day, they’ll stop carrying it, and it’ll just be part of their story.
So yes — bring THE THING.
newborn sessions
Congratulations on Your New Baby! 🤍
Newborns photograph best within the first two weeks — while they’re still sleepy and naturally curled up — so be sure I’ve got you on my calendar as soon as possible!
Where We’ll Photograph
Most sessions take place in your home, which is usually the least stressful option for new parents. You’ll have everything you need close by, time to get ready, and a calm, familiar space for your baby.
If you feel your home isn’t ideal, no worries — I do have alternative options, so just let me know!
When I arrive, you’ll likely be feeding or about to feed. I’ll quietly unpack, take a quick look around for the best light (usually near a big window), and start setting up. I bring:
A variety of props, baskets, and backdrops
A space heater and heating pad to keep baby cozy
And please don’t stress about your house! You just had a baby — I expect clutter, dishes, and baby gear everywhere. I only need a small space and may move a few things around (but I always put them back).
Before Your Session
A little prep goes a long way!
Keep baby awake for a bit before I arrive if possible. If their first feed is around 6am, try to keep them up gently until their next feeding right before the session.
About an hour before, remove socks or tight clothing to prevent little imprints on the skin.
Keep baby warm and wrapped in a familiar blanket that smells like home.
Have a bottle ready (pumped milk or formula) if you can — it’s not required, but it can help keep things flowing.
Bring a pacifier — even if they don’t usually take one, it can help soothe between poses.
We’ll take as many breaks as needed for feeding, soothing, or snuggles. My sessions are completely baby-led and typically take 1.5-2 hours but it depends on baby (and siblings).
Family Photos
Unless you prefer otherwise, I’ll always include some family and parent photos.
I know you may not be feeling quite like yourself yet — please wear whatever makes you comfortable.
Simple is best: neutral tones like cream, navy, or black are timeless and photograph beautifully. Avoid bold patterns or shirts with text for the most classic look.