Relax, and get a good night's sleep!

We will discuss ahead of time,  your vision for your photos.  Are you looking for a relaxed look or a formal portrait?  Remember  these images  will be treasures, reflecting this period of your lives.    If your family's fondest times are those spent enjoying nature, in your jeans & comfy T-shirts, most likely a formal portrait in "black tie" wouldn't be your choice.  Consider this when gathering up the "kids" for the family portrait.  Some love to dress up, & some don't ....  choose clothing that will make them feel good about themselves, as this will reflect in the photos.   Our main objective is to capture this time in their lives.

A "general" guideline is to choose clothing  that doesn't have a strong design.  Solid, muted colors do nicely.  This is especially so with family portraits, as we wish to create an image, "all about you" not your outfit.  Of course, there are glamour portraits where the sky is the limit, and it is all about the fantasy, so remember, this is a general guideline!

    Comfortable clothing for children can be a positive step in creating a happy experience for a child, or anyone for that matter.  If you wish to have something more formal, I suggest bringing this outfit with you, for a wardrobe change.  As mentioned before, some are comfortable in formal wear, and some are not.  For small children,  we can make a game of "dress up" for those particular shots. 

For young children, I recommend we plan  an  appointment at a time during an "up and active" time of day,  when children are happy and not in need of their nap.   Bring a  favourite toy or book, music, etc...  Just remember this object "may" become a part of the photo....   A small drink or snack may help relax the child.

Bring a hairbrush and face powder/make up, lipstick etc.., as you may wish to  freshen up. 

Also, bring your PATIENCE AND SMILE!  J

We will discuss ahead of time, your visions for your photos.  I wish to hear about your pet.  Some are more outgoing than others, and if I have an idea what makes them happy before the appointment, this will help to keep your pet, and you happy.   We will want a location that your pet is most comfortable in.  There are beautiful locations nearby, if you wish to have your pet photographed outdoors.  We can keep the leash on & erase it from the finished photos.   The safely of your pet is very important!

Dogs with basic obedience training will be much more comfortable getting their photos done, as you can give them a job and they will be happy, knowing they are doing what is expected of them.  Simple commands such as "sit" and "stay" can greatly help a photo session, and everyday life with your dog.  It is perfectly normal for them to take a little while to settle into the session, and then once they realize what is expected of them, they are happy to oblige and please their human.   They also tend to love the attention. 

You will want your pet looking their best, with a nicely brushed coat and trimmed nails.  Bring along your brush for touch ups.  Bring along your favourite collar, a leash, some of your pet's favourite treats, toys, and a bowl with water.  If possible a friend or two, especially if you have more than one pet to be photographed.  

If your dog is quite hyper, let him have a nice long walk before your session.    If they are the opposite, be careful not to exhaust him before you come. 

It is extremely important to bring your PATIENCE AND SENSE OF HUMOUR! 

I will bring mine!