Goals
My goal is to capture the natural essence of the subject being photographed. Whether I am photographing your child, pet or you I love to get involved during the photo session to make the subject more at ease and natural. For children I'll play peek-a-boo or sing or bark, for your pet I suggest bringing a ball or favorite toy, or rely on that special word like "cookie" to capture the prefect expression. By doing this I will be able to capture the true personality of the subject being photographed and make their session the best it can be.

Your Photo Session
Before we get started I would like to talk to you about what you want to get out of the photo session. Deciding what kind of photo session is very important so I know what to focus on. I also would like some time to get to know the subject being photographed. This way, once we start photographing, you, your child or pet will be at ease. I never rush photo sessions and generally take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending upon the subject. It's best to make sure to capture them at their happiest. This means, for example, a child is probably happiest after a good nap or after eating. You know when to best photograph them so I will work around your schedule. If your child isn't feeling well the day of or before your session, please call me to reschedule. I want you to be happy with the end results.

Additionally, I will introduce you to the various printing options you have. This includes size, type of print papers, matte and framing options and other services available.

Also, the less people there the less distracted your child and/or pet will be. It is recommended that only those being photographed be present. You are welcome to bring someone to help. If your child or pet has a blanket or toy that makes them happy please bring it. If your child is older, and they're into dance or sports, then please bring something that reflects who they are today.

Clothing Suggestions
Simple and timeless. Keeping it simple allows the focus to be on the subject and not what they are wearing. Some recommendations are overalls, jeans, khakis, solid shirts and dresses. Black and white is not recommended, trendy clothes and no busy patterns such as stripes, logos and lots of designs on them. I love bare feet over shoes but it is entirely up to you.

Newborns
No recommendations here. They will pretty much be naked the whole session. If your newborn doesn't like to be naked, please bring a simple onesie preferably in a light color. For a family being photographed with the newborn please wear darker colors. And do not forget to bring extra changes of clothes.

Babies
I like to take some clothed shots and some nude. But limit the changing to 2-3 as the more you change them the more irritable they are likely to become.

Maternity
I recommend tank tops and pants (or jeans). A colored button down shirt is recommended so it can expose your belly. If you have any other outfits you like that expose your belly feel free to bring it too.

Pets
Bring anything you like to see them in or with such as a favorite toy, bed or collar.

For pets and children I like to take pictures in the studio and on location for an additional fee. A favorite place is a special memory for you and them. We are available to shoot on location. Inquire with us for further details. If you have other questions feel free to contact me or look through my gallery pages for other ideas.

After Your Session
Before you leave I will create a photo gallery of the session to CD-ROM for you to take home and keep or put it on the website for you to access. This way you can share the images with others to assist you in the final decisions you make. The images will be compressed small enough for email but not for print. I recommend you prepare yourself with a list of people you will need to buy for. Proofing session will be schedule about 1 - 2 weeks after the shoot. Please bring anyone who will need to be involved in the buying process. This session typically lasts about 1 - 1 ½ hours. Once you decide on the prints you would like, including size and print options, it will take about 5 business days to complete your order. Please note that if your order will take longer you will be notified well in advance. Your images will be archived for future orders.

Prints are museum quality prints that should last under the proper care. Click here to view our display suggestions.

Also offering prints in black and white or sepia toned. Contact us for more information.