Before . . .

• Clothing should be simple; solid colors in dark (my preference) or light tones. Stripes or small checks are fine but for black and white photography, it’s important to avoid broad stripes, bold patterns or logo. Denim, knits or anything with texture photographs beautifully.

• Clothes should be comfortable and simple; something they can play in. Shorts, t-shirts, a favorite dress…I’ve had children show up in their bathing suits or favorite Halloween costumes… Cinderella even showed up once draped in pearls with her favorite handbag. My sessions are fun and relaxed…so be sure to dress appropriately.  Keep things easy and if it’s a large group of kids, try to keep everything in the same tone. If you have one child, the sky’s the limit…whatever is fun, frivolous and years later will remind you of who your child really was at this age. For older kids, same rules apply…and one note to mom’s of older kids, make sure you like what they’re wearing and how their hair looks. With a 13 year old daughter of my own,  I know the drill of the too short skirt so just be sure you check!

• Shoots are scheduled either first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon to capture the best light. The shoot should be scheduled around naps for little ones and high energy times for older ones. Early mornings are the best time for little kids (ages 0 – 4). And, be careful about scheduling after school if your child has had long day.

• What to bring . . .for little kids, a favorite toy, balls to play with, bubbles to blow, Frisbees…anything that makes it fun. Family pets are more than welcome.  They don’t need to be in all the pictures but should be in some…they are a definite slice of family life and tend to liven things up, particularly for older kids. For little kids, don’ forget: hairbrush for wispy flyaway hair; extra tissues and kleenex for runny noses; snacks ( we always have time, just make sure it’s not too messy).

• Make sure you like what you’re wearing..even if you don’t plan on being in any of the shots, kids often want their parents to be a part of the action so just be prepared.  I also insist moms (and dads) to have at least one picture with their kids…if not for you than for your kids as they grow up…I’m a stickler about this. (Read the mom thing on my blogsite…)

• If you or anyone in your family isn’t feeling well or if the weather is bad, we always reschedule. However, the session will still take place if it’s overcast; cloudy skies offer a diffused light which photographs beautifully in black and white.

. . . and after

• Your images will be available on-line within 2 weeks and can be accessed by a password which will be emailed to you.

• The gallery will be online for one week. During that time feel free to email to family and friends.

• You have the option of ordering online or scheduling an appointment with me to order in person.

• Prints take 3 – 4 weeks for delivery;  the Session Album takes  5 weeks for delivery. If you would like a book for the holidays, your order must be received by October 25th.

•  Orders must be received within four weeks of your slideshow being posted online. If an order is not received, or prior arrangements made,  your work is archived after 4 weeks and there is a $150 retrieval fee applied to your order.

• A 50% deposit is required at the time your order is placed with balance due prior to shipping. You have the choice of either picking up in person or having your order shipped by UPS, shipping and handling charges will be applied.