Relax, and get a good night's sleep!

Discuss with me, ahead of time, your visions for your photos.  Are you looking for a relaxed look or a formal portrait?  Remember that these photos will be treasures, reflecting this period of your life.  Will your portrait show that?   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 just general information! 

    Comfortable clothing for children can help make a photo session go a bit smoother.  If you wish to have something more formal, I suggest bringing this outfit with your, 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, we will try to book an  appointment at a time when children are happy and not in need of their nap.   Bring some  favourite toy or book, music, etc...  A small drink or snack may help relax the child.

Bring a hairbrush and face powder/make up, lipstick etc.., if you feel you may need to freshen up. 

Also, bring your PATIENCE AND SMILE!  J

Discuss with me, 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!