So you’re thinking of working with me – yay!
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions that should help you figure out what kind of session will work best for your family.
General Questions
What is your style?
My work is about relationships, connection, moments, and honesty. It is casual, relaxed, and about capturing my subjects' real personalities. You can read more about my style here.
What kind of photography do you offer?
I offer documentary family photography, family portrait sessions, mini sessions, and event photography. I photograph birthday parties, baby showers, family reunions, anniversary parties, and any type of event your family is hosting.
Where do you work?
I am based in Natick, MA and photograph families and events throughout Massachusetts. I work mainly in Boston and the metro west area. I take clients within an hour of Natick, and am happy to brainstorm convenient locations with families who are outside that radius.
Documentary Family Sessions
What is a documentary family photo session?
Documentary family sessions are my most popular offering! I come to your house for 1.5 hours and photograph everything that’s happening while I’m there. These sessions are documentary, so you’ll probably hear me say “You don’t need to look at my camera!” more than a few times.
When should my documentary family session take place?
These sessions take place any time! Morning sessions with pajamas and pancakes are adorable, and afternoon shoots when everyone’s hanging out and playing are great too. It’s totally up to you, and I offer suggestions during the planning process!
Some people plan documentary sessions around family activities – jumping in leaf piles, building a snowman, decorating for the holidays, moving into a new home, going on a weekend adventure, etc.
What happens during a documentary family session?
I come to your house, chat for a bit, and get to know the kids so that they are comfortable with letting me into their space. I smile while documenting everything that’s happening. I focus on moments, emotion, humor, and most importantly, connection. I interact with your family throughout the shoot, thought I don't direct the action. I've been know to stop shooting to do a puzzle, read a book to, or draw with my new friends.
You don’t necessarily have to have anything planned for the time I’m there. Sometimes we go with the flow, and sometimes things are more structured.
How do I prepare for my session?
I will send out a questionnaire two weeks before your session that will help me get to know you and your family. Your answers will give me a sense of how we’ll spend our time together. I’ll also confirm the shoot date and time a week before we meet.
Should I clean my house before the session and should we dress up?
Sure! But don’t feel that you need to go overboard. It’s good for your home to be neat, but I also love the chaos of toys scattered around a loved home.
Feel free to dress up if you want to, but I love when people don't get dressed up because it contributes to the authenticity of the photos.
Family Portrait Sessions
Do you offer on-location posed family portraits?
I do! We can meet at your home or other beautiful outdoor location. I'm happy to offer suggestions of spots to meet, but also love checking out new spots if you have one in mind. I take a mix of posed photos and candid photos during the session.
On Location Sessions take place about an hour and a half before sunset (if possible). This isn’t always easy with little kids, so we can plan around your schedule if that time of day doesn’t work.
Do you photograph newborns?
Yes, and I love to, because I love new babies! I can meet your new baby in the hospital the day after he or she is born, or I can come to your house when you bring the baby home for a Documentary Family Session.
Do you photograph extended families?
Yes, and it's one of my favorite types of sessions! You get your whole family together, either at someone’s home or another outdoor location, and I will take photos of everyone together, individual families, and the kiddos alone.
Do you offer mini sessions?
I do! I generally schedule between two and four mini sessions dates per year, at different locations between metrowest MA and Boston. Please drop me a line if you'd like to get on my mailing list so that you can be notified when I announce dates.
What should we wear?
I suggest wearing coordinating colors rather than matching colors. I’m happy to help you choose outfits beforehand!
After Your Session
What happens after our session?
I go home and look through the photos with a huge grin on my face.
I back everything up in three places, and then edit the images for exposure, color, and contrast. I convert some to black and white as part of my Artistic Edit.
Within two weeks of your shoot you’ll receive a password-protected online gallery that will have all of your session photos. You’ll be able to purchase prints and files there.
What should I do with the photos once I've seen them?
I offer prints and digital downloads for purchase via the online gallery that is included with all sessions.
I also encourage you to print and display photos in your home. Kids love to see photos of themselves, especially photos with their loved ones. Studies show that seeing their images displayed in their homes make children feel more confident, valued, and connected.