Thank you so much for choosing me to be your photographer! In addition to taking amazing photos of you, I also want you to have a memorable experience. Together, we will create a session that is specifically tailored to you. This guide contains useful tips on how to be ready for your session as well as what to anticipate before, after and during the creative process. Please take a few minutes to browse through these pages filled with tips and tricks to make the whole process go as smoothly as possible. Let’s get started!

 

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What to expect

Step One: Pre Session

Two people hold hands in a playful pose against a bright blue sky.

Soon after you sign the contract, I'll give you a questionnaire to complete. This is a great opportunity for me to learn a little bit about you and for you to start considering locations and other details. We'll have a check-in a week or so before your session to go over all the specifics (time, place, attire, etc.) and make a game plan! 

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What to expect

Step Two: Session Day

A group sits in the snow with two dogs against a backdrop of snow-covered evergreen trees.

We'll meet up at the location you've selected and begin shooting. The time we'll spend together will depend on which package you selected. This is the easy part for you. You just show up and I'll help guide you every step of the way. Nervous about being behind a camera? 99% of the So many people I photograph tell me that. It's normal to be nervous about it, but I'll help ease those nerves and help you feel confident and comfortable!


-Always remember to bring everything you might need during the session, such as extra clothing and accessories, water, chapstick, touch-up makeup, wet wipes, and a brush. 

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What to expect

Step Three: Post Session

A family in coordinated outfits poses together on a tree-lined path.

Within 72 hours of your session, you’ll receive an album of a few sneak peeks. Your final gallery will be delivered within 2-4 weeks depending on the time of year. A link to your gallery will be sent to you through email which will be accessible online for 1 year. Each session includes your digital files as well as access to the a la carte menu through my store in case you decide to purchase any prints, wall art, canvases. or cards. The company I use is Mpix. They deliver the best quality products out of all the companies I have used in the past.

LOCATIONS

 

One of the most fun aspects of organizing any photo shoot is selecting the location for your session. Consider the distance you're willing to travel, the number of locations your session package allows time for, the significance of the location to you, and the vibe you're going for. Here are some of my favorite locations in case you need inspiration on where to go.

A joyful moment captured in a tall grass field on a sunny day.

do you love the open field or outdoorsy look? this location has woods, fallen logs, a field, and is extra great at sunset time. the sun goes down right behind the big open field making for the prettiest golden hour shots (but still looks great for morning and afternoon shoots as well)


Family land in Linn

Three people walking through a serene meadow with tall grass and blue sky.

DO YOU LOVE THE OPEN FIELD OR OUTDOORSY LOOK? THIS LOCATION HAS WOODS, FALLEN LOGS, A FIELD, AND IS EXTRA GREAT AT SUNSET TIME. THE SUN GOES DOWN RIGHT BEHIND THE BIG OPEN FIELD MAKING FOR THE PRETTIEST GOLDEN HOUR SHOTS (BUT STILL LOOKS GREAT FOR MORNING AND AFTERNOON SHOOTS AS WELL)


Family land in Linn

A person twirls in a teal romper in a sunlit meadow.

DO YOU LOVE THE OPEN FIELD OR OUTDOORSY LOOK? THIS LOCATION HAS WOODS, FALLEN LOGS, A FIELD, AND IS EXTRA GREAT AT SUNSET TIME. THE SUN GOES DOWN RIGHT BEHIND THE BIG OPEN FIELD MAKING FOR THE PRETTIEST GOLDEN HOUR SHOTS (BUT STILL LOOKS GREAT FOR MORNING AND AFTERNOON SHOOTS AS WELL)


Family land in Linn

Portrait of someone in a white off-shoulder top posing against a large tree trunk in a natural outdoor setting.

DO YOU LOVE THE OPEN FIELD OR OUTDOORSY LOOK? THIS LOCATION HAS WOODS, FALLEN LOGS, A FIELD, AND IS EXTRA GREAT AT SUNSET TIME. THE SUN GOES DOWN RIGHT BEHIND THE BIG OPEN FIELD MAKING FOR THE PRETTIEST GOLDEN HOUR SHOTS (BUT STILL LOOKS GREAT FOR MORNING AND AFTERNOON SHOOTS AS WELL)


Family land in Linn

Someone wearing a cozy white sweater stands in a field of dried autumn grasses against a blue sky.

DO YOU LOVE THE OPEN FIELD OR OUTDOORSY LOOK? THIS LOCATION HAS WOODS, FALLEN LOGS, A FIELD, AND IS EXTRA GREAT AT SUNSET TIME. THE SUN GOES DOWN RIGHT BEHIND THE BIG OPEN FIELD MAKING FOR THE PRETTIEST GOLDEN HOUR SHOTS (BUT STILL LOOKS GREAT FOR MORNING AND AFTERNOON SHOOTS AS WELL)


Family land in Linn

Person in burgundy maxi dress standing in autumn field at sunset with golden trees.

do you love the open field or outdoorsy look? this location has woods, fallen logs, a field, and is extra great at sunset time. the sun goes down right behind the big open field making for the prettiest golden hour shots (but still looks great for morning and afternoon shoots as well)


Family land in Linn

A couple stands together against a lakeside sunset backdrop.

this location has a large, beautiful lake, a wooded area filled with cedar trees, and a rock wall structure that gives your photos a totally unique feel. bonus-it has an open area right where the sun sets! this is one of my favorite locations out of all of them.


Ben Branch Lake- Linn

Two people walk hand in hand along a path near a serene lake at dusk.

THIS LOCATION HAS A LARGE, BEAUTIFUL LAKE, A WOODED AREA FILLED WITH CEDAR TREES, AND A ROCK WALL STRUCTURE THAT GIVES YOUR PHOTOS A TOTALLY UNIQUE FEEL. BONUS-IT HAS AN OPEN AREA RIGHT WHERE THE SUN SETS! THIS IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE LOCATIONS OUT OF ALL OF THEM.


Ben Branch Lake- Linn


Joyful summer portrait by lake with arms raised against blue sky and clouds.

THIS LOCATION HAS A LARGE, BEAUTIFUL LAKE, A WOODED AREA FILLED WITH CEDAR TREES, AND A ROCK WALL STRUCTURE THAT GIVES YOUR PHOTOS A TOTALLY UNIQUE FEEL. BONUS-IT HAS AN OPEN AREA RIGHT WHERE THE SUN SETS! THIS IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE LOCATIONS OUT OF ALL OF THEM.


Ben Branch Lake- Linn


A person in a plaid turquoise shirt leans against a textured rock wall.

THIS LOCATION HAS A LARGE, BEAUTIFUL LAKE, A WOODED AREA FILLED WITH CEDAR TREES, AND A ROCK WALL STRUCTURE THAT GIVES YOUR PHOTOS A TOTALLY UNIQUE FEEL. BONUS-IT HAS AN OPEN AREA RIGHT WHERE THE SUN SETS! THIS IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE LOCATIONS OUT OF ALL OF THEM.


Ben Branch Lake- Linn


A person in teal jumpsuit poses on a hillside overlooking a turquoise lake.

this location has a large, beautiful lake, a wooded area filled with cedar trees, and a rock wall structure that gives your photos a totally unique feel. bonus-it has an open area right where the sun sets! this is one of my favorite locations out of all of them.


Ben Branch Lake- Linn

Fashion portrait of person in flowing white dress standing on dock by still lake.

Wooded areas, tall grass, a pretty pond with a dock that the sun sets behind-this location is perfect for lots of outdoor variety during your session. such a gorgeous location, and completely secluded due to it being private property!


Lee Home- Linn

Dreamy portrait of person lying on white blanket in tall grass.

Wooded areas, tall grass, a pretty pond with a dock that the sun sets behind-this location is perfect for lots of outdoor variety during your session. such a gorgeous location, and completely secluded due to it being private property!


Lee Home- Linn


Elegant pose on concrete pier with reflective lake and trees in background.

Wooded areas, tall grass, a pretty pond with a dock that the sun sets behind-this location is perfect for lots of outdoor variety during your session. such a gorgeous location, and completely secluded due to it being private property!


Lee Home- Linn


Ethereal outdoor portrait in white dress against green meadow and forest backdrop.

Wooded areas, tall grass, a pretty pond with a dock that the sun sets behind-this location is perfect for lots of outdoor variety during your session. such a gorgeous location, and completely secluded due to it being private property!


Lee Home- Linn


Candid moment by lakeside in flowing white dress during golden hour.

Wooded areas, tall grass, a pretty pond with a dock that the sun sets behind-this location is perfect for lots of outdoor variety during your session. such a gorgeous location, and completely secluded due to it being private property!


Lee Home- Linn

Couple shares intimate moment on wooden dock by peaceful lake at sunset, bride wearing flowing red dress.

LOOKING FOR SOMEWHERE THAT HAS WOODSY FEATURES, A BEAUTIFUL LAKE OF WATER, AND OPEN FIELD ACCESS?


Binder Park-Jefferson City


Romantic couple embraces in a golden field at sunset, creating a dramatic silhouette against the cloudy sky.

Looking for somewhere that has woodsy features, a beautiful lake of water, and open field access?


Binder Park-Jefferson City

White maxi dress photoshoot on wooden dock by serene lake.

Looking for somewhere that has woodsy features, a beautiful lake of water, and open field access?


Binder Park-Jefferson City

Person in floral blue dress sitting on dock by lake during sunset.

LOOKING FOR SOMEWHERE THAT HAS WOODSY FEATURES, A BEAUTIFUL LAKE OF WATER, AND OPEN FIELD ACCESS?


Binder Park-Jefferson City


Person in purple maxi dress posing on wooden bridge in forest setting.

Looking for somewhere that has woodsy features, a beautiful lake of water, and open field access?


Binder Park-Jefferson City

Two friends in retro-style jeans laugh while walking along brick pathway near parking structure.

LOOKING FOR MORE OF A CITY LOOK? WHETHER IT'S RUSTIC BUILDINGS AND BRICK WALLS OR CITY VIEWS AND MODERN BACKGROUNDS.EXPLORING THIS AREA WILL GIVE YOU A LITTLE OF EVERYTHING.


Downtown Jefferson City

Stylish couple walking together in front of historic building with church tower during autumn season.

LOOKING FOR MORE OF A CITY LOOK? WHETHER IT'S RUSTIC BUILDINGS AND BRICK WALLS OR CITY VIEWS AND MODERN BACKGROUNDS.EXPLORING THIS AREA WILL GIVE YOU A LITTLE OF EVERYTHING.


Downtown Jefferson City

Couple poses in urban parking structure entrance with exit sign and numbered pillars.

Looking for more of a city look? Whether it's rustic buildings and brick walls or city views and modern backgrounds.exploring this area will give you a little of everything.


Downtown Jefferson City

Someone in casual attire crouches by a brick wall with industrial windows.

LOOKING FOR MORE OF A CITY LOOK? WHETHER IT'S RUSTIC BUILDINGS AND BRICK WALLS OR CITY VIEWS AND MODERN BACKGROUNDS.EXPLORING THIS AREA WILL GIVE YOU A LITTLE OF EVERYTHING.


Downtown Jefferson City

A stylish red dress portrait in front of a black door numbered 324.

Wanting more of an urban look?

rustic buildings, city views, brick walls?


Downtown Jefferson City

Summer portrait in floral dress against white and brick wall.

LOOKING FOR MORE OF A CITY LOOK? WHETHER IT'S RUSTIC BUILDINGS AND BRICK WALLS OR CITY VIEWS AND MODERN BACKGROUNDS.EXPLORING THIS AREA WILL GIVE YOU A LITTLE OF EVERYTHING.


Downtown Jefferson City

A figure in a white sundress poses against a large tree trunk surrounded by delicate white wildflowers in a forest setting.

STRUCTURES UNDER THE BRIDGE, ACCESS UP TO THE EDGE OF THE WATER, OPEN FIELDS, AND WOODED TRAILS. LOTS TO CHOOSE FROM HERE.


Noren River Access-Jefferson City

Couple shares playful moment while sitting on driftwood by riverside on sunny day.

STRUCTURES UNDER THE BRIDGE, ACCESS UP TO THE EDGE OF THE WATER, OPEN FIELDS, AND WOODED TRAILS. LOTS TO CHOOSE FROM HERE.


Noren River Access-Jefferson City

A figure in a brown dress holds a vibrant autumn bouquet while standing in a golden field at sunset.

STRUCTURES UNDER THE BRIDGE, ACCESS UP TO THE EDGE OF THE WATER, OPEN FIELDS, AND WOODED TRAILS. LOTS TO CHOOSE FROM HERE.


Noren River Access-Jefferson City

A person in a teal sweater and jeans smiles while standing near an industrial overpass structure.

STRUCTURES UNDER THE BRIDGE, ACCESS UP TO THE EDGE OF THE WATER, OPEN FIELDS, AND WOODED TRAILS. LOTS TO CHOOSE FROM HERE.


Noren River Access-Jefferson City

A figure in white dress sits on rocky shore holding book with colorful flower bouquet beside them.

STRUCTURES UNDER THE BRIDGE, ACCESS UP TO THE EDGE OF THE WATER, OPEN FIELDS, AND WOODED TRAILS. LOTS TO CHOOSE FROM HERE.


Noren River Access-Jefferson City

An autumn portrait by a river with a bridge and fallen leaves in the background.

Structures under the bridge, access up to the edge of the water, open fields, and wooded trails. lots to choose from here.


Noren River Access-Jefferson City

Person leaning against large tree trunk wearing ripped jeans and white top near a lake.

STRUCTURES UNDER THE BRIDGE, ACCESS UP TO THE EDGE OF THE WATER, OPEN FIELDS, AND WOODED TRAILS. LOTS TO CHOOSE FROM HERE.


Noren River Access-Jefferson City

Young woman in a floral dress poses in a sunlit park setting.

CLEAN PAVED TRAILS LEADING AROUND A HUGE LAKE MAKES FOR THE PRETTIEST LOCATION. THICKER WOODSY AREAS LINE THE PERIMETER, AND A LITTLE DOCK LEADS YOU RIGHT TO THE EDGE OF THE WATER SO YOU CAN HAVE A VARIETY OF BACKGROUNDS HERE.


Jaycees Fairgrounds Park

A figure in white dress crouches thoughtfully by calm lake under cloudy sky.

CLEAN PAVED TRAILS LEADING AROUND A HUGE LAKE MAKES FOR THE PRETTIEST LOCATION. THICKER WOODSY AREAS LINE THE PERIMETER, AND A LITTLE DOCK LEADS YOU RIGHT TO THE EDGE OF THE WATER SO YOU CAN HAVE A VARIETY OF BACKGROUNDS HERE.


Jaycees Fairgrounds Park

A person in blue sweater sits cross-legged on paved path during golden hour sunset.

CLEAN PAVED TRAILS LEADING AROUND A HUGE LAKE MAKES FOR THE PRETTIEST LOCATION. THICKER WOODSY AREAS LINE THE PERIMETER, AND A LITTLE DOCK LEADS YOU RIGHT TO THE EDGE OF THE WATER SO YOU CAN HAVE A VARIETY OF BACKGROUNDS HERE.


Jaycees Fairgrounds Park

A woman in a white dress stands in a field of tall grass during golden hour.

clean paved trails leading around a huge lake makes for the prettiest location. thicker woodsy areas line the perimeter, and a little dock leads you right to the edge of the water so you can have a variety of backgrounds here.


Jaycees Fairgrounds Park

A figure in denim jacket and floral dress poses cheerfully on metal dock walkway over serene lake.

CLEAN PAVED TRAILS LEADING AROUND A HUGE LAKE MAKES FOR THE PRETTIEST LOCATION. THICKER WOODSY AREAS LINE THE PERIMETER, AND A LITTLE DOCK LEADS YOU RIGHT TO THE EDGE OF THE WATER SO YOU CAN HAVE A VARIETY OF BACKGROUNDS HERE.


Jaycees Fairgrounds Park

Family group portrait on white porch of vintage building with classic architectural details.

are you looking for a complete rustic feel? old, RUN-DOWN buildings, faded brick structures, and plenty of variety in backdrops? there's no better location for that than this one. as an added bonus, there's a pretty little river access right down the road.


Bonnots Mill

Nostalgic architectural shot with someone posing in a doorway of a rustic brick building with faded text.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A COMPLETE RUSTIC FEEL? OLD, RUN-DOWN BUILDINGS, FADED BRICK STRUCTURES, AND PLENTY OF VARIETY IN BACKDROPS? THERE'S NO BETTER LOCATION FOR THAT THAN THIS ONE. AS AN ADDED BONUS, THERE'S A PRETTY LITTLE RIVER ACCESS RIGHT DOWN THE ROAD.


Bonnots Mill

Vintage-style photo by a weathered doorway of a person in white boots and jeans against white siding.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A COMPLETE RUSTIC FEEL? OLD, RUN-DOWN BUILDINGS, FADED BRICK STRUCTURES, AND PLENTY OF VARIETY IN BACKDROPS? THERE'S NO BETTER LOCATION FOR THAT THAN THIS ONE. AS AN ADDED BONUS, THERE'S A PRETTY LITTLE RIVER ACCESS RIGHT DOWN THE ROAD.


Bonnots Mill


A picturesque lakeside portrait featuring a long red dress and reflection of autumn trees in calm waters.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A COMPLETE RUSTIC FEEL? OLD, RUN-DOWN BUILDINGS, FADED BRICK STRUCTURES, AND PLENTY OF VARIETY IN BACKDROPS? THERE'S NO BETTER LOCATION FOR THAT THAN THIS ONE. AS AN ADDED BONUS, THERE'S A PRETTY LITTLE RIVER ACCESS RIGHT DOWN THE ROAD.


Bonnots Mill

A black and white portrait of someone in cowboy hat standing in a rustic doorway.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR A COMPLETE RUSTIC FEEL? OLD, RUN-DOWN BUILDINGS, FADED BRICK STRUCTURES, AND PLENTY OF VARIETY IN BACKDROPS? THERE'S NO BETTER LOCATION FOR THAT THAN THIS ONE. AS AN ADDED BONUS, THERE'S A PRETTY LITTLE RIVER ACCESS RIGHT DOWN THE ROAD.


Bonnots Mill

WHAT TO WEAR

Prioritize comfort first and foremost


Clothing that is too tight or restricting can make you feel uncomfortable and take away from the photos. You want to wear something that feels great on you that allows you to move around easily, because there are times when we will be laying down, sitting on the ground, walking, running and possibly even twirling.


Consider Color


 You can never go wrong when choosing neutrals for your outfit. Tans, whites, browns, and any earth tones always look great in photos. Looking on Pinterest to see what colors work well together is always very helpful! If you're wanting a more colorful look, that's great too! Just try and pick colors that don't clash with each other. It also helps incorporating color into just a couple of the outfits, so it doesn't take away from the photos!


Accessorize!


 Adding or removing accessories can completely alter the appearance of an outfit without changing your entire style! Consider hats, scarves, bracelets, statement necklaces, earrings, and for you boys; watches, chains, a nice pair of shoes, or a jacket can help give some variety.


NEED SOME INSPO? CHECK OUT MY PINTEREST BOARD WITH OUTFIT IDEAS!


https://pin.it/1wyztHBRl

 

tHINGS YOU SHOULD WEAR

  • Clothes that represent you.
  • A strapless bra if you want to wear a strapless top or dress Shoes that fit the outfit you're wearing. (bonus points if you wash them first
  • Layers (jackets, vests, scarves, flannel shirts)
  • Clothes that are comfortable because you need to be able to sit, squat, walk, stand, etc.
  • Interesting textures (leather jackets, fur vests, sequins, etc)
  • Neutrals. Neutrals. Neutrals. 

THINGS YOU SHOULD NOT WEAR

  • Clothing that is wrinkled
  • Bra straps that are visible
  • Worn-out or dirty footwear
  • Clothes with large logos or lettering
  • Uncomfortable or too tight clothing
  • Everyone wearing the exact same color
  • Colors or patterns that clash
Couple shares tender moment in park setting with golden autumn trees in background.

Hair & Makeup

Your hair and makeup are an important component of your session as well! Things to think about include whether you will do your own hair and makeup or hire a professional. If you plan to have your hair and makeup done by a professional, make sure to schedule those appointments well in advance and pick a time that will allow for some flexibility if the appointment takes longer than expected.


If you prefer to do your own hair and makeup, I would recommend not trying anything you haven't done before. Family pictures might not be the best time to experiment with heavy liner and red lips if you're more of a natural girl. Just make sure you feel like you:)


Don’t forget your nails too (both fingers and toes)! Your hands will be up near your face for some of the poses, so even if you aren't the type to go get a manicure, make sure you don't have leftover, chipped polish on them. French tips or polishless always looks super classy!


Guys- Try to avoid wearing a hat the day of your session so you don't arrive with hat hair. Also, when your wife begs you to shave your face or trim your hair before the pictures, make her (and your photographer) happy and do it :)))

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OTHER TIPS


*There might not be a space for you to change your clothing during outdoor sessions in specific locations so plan beforehand. 


*To ensure that your outfit is flattering and comfortable, try it on before the session.


*A pimple that appeared overnight or a few imperfections won't matter because they'll be erased during retouching!

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OTHER TIPS

*Please make an effort to wear your contact lenses during the session if you are concerned with glare. Lenses may develop an undesirable glare from the light that is difficult to remove. If this is not an option, I will try to minimize glare but I cannot promise it. 


*If your session falls on a very cold day, bring an oversized coat or jacket to throw on in between poses. You'll thank me later :D 


*If you have a summer session, try your hardest to not get sunburnt beforehand. And if at all possible, even out those tan lines

Couple laughing together in a snowy winter landscape wearing casual clothing.
Vintage black and white photo of a family relaxing on a blanket in a grassy field.

Lastly, trust your photographer.


Believe me, this is really important! I know that working with a photographer one-on-one may be something you have never done before. So it's only natural that you feel nervous and a little uneasy about the whole process given that you have no idea what to expect, how to pose, or even what to do in front of the camera. But, while this is your first experience, this isn't my first rodeo. It's actually like my 400th rodeo :D In order to make sure every little detail is taken care of, I will guide and coach you each step of the way. You don't have to come prepared with poses or prompts. I've got it all under control. Just come ready to smile and have a good time!

Woman enjoying sunset in white shirt sitting outdoors with golden light.

FAQ

What is your turnaround time?

Turnaround time is typically 3 weeks for family sessions. This may fluctuate a bit depending on the time of year. (Fall is very busy and may take longer. Winter is slower and may take less time.)

How are the images delivered?

You will receive a downloadable link that is active for a full year. This has all the edited images on it. You can download them and purchase prints on your own, or through my store.

What if I don't know how to pose?

Don't worry! I will help guide you throughout the entire session. I'll tell you where to put your hands, where to look, and how to position your legs for those posed photos and then give you the perfect prompts for those candid/carefree photos. :)

Does the drive between locations come off of our total time?

Yes! If you choose 2 locations that are 15 minutes apart, that 15 minutes comes off of your total time. I recommend locations that are fairly close, so you aren't spending all of your time driving!

Where do you recommend printing the images?

My number one recommendation is always Mpix. It is the company I use through my store. The quality is awesome, delivery is very fast, and the coloring is the most accurate. PLEASE don't use walmart, walgreens, or shutterfly. They alter the colors and quality significantly, making the images look bad. (like, REALLY bad)

Do you provide a location?

If you have a specific location in mind-let's go! You aren't sure where you want to take your photos? I have LOTS of locations that I love shooting at. If you don't have one in mind, you can look through my Welcome Guide and choose a location or 2 that you love.