What should I expect?

I like to begin our session with a quick chat about what’s going to happen and a tour of your home. I know you want me to be there; at this point it’s really about the kids. They’ll show me their favourite toys, their bedroom, introduce me to their baby brother or sister. We’re not in a hurry and I’ll work with their energy and enthusiasm, not fighting against it.

Now you can relax. I don’t need you to tell the kids to smile or to look at the camera. Let me take charge; I can always ask for help if I need it. I’m there to capture you relaxing, laughing, loving on each other. The more you interact and forget about me, the better.  

I’m going to take my shoes off, fiddle with your curtains, encourage kids jumping on the bed. I’ll provide direction as required but really, it’s about enabling situations for your family to be its incredible, natural self.

We’re going to have fun.

But my house is dark and gloomy?

I’ll let you in on a secret: this session was shot entirely in the living room – on either the couch or about 2 square metres in front of a window. Sure light and bright houses make my work easier but I’ve yet to see a home without at least one space that will work.  

Or if an in-home session doesn’t suit, let’s meet at the beach. Or a national park. Your favourite café. Man, the options are endless. Where does your family go to relax and play together? Where are you most ‘you’? If you have an awesome idea, I want to hear about it. Not quite sure, then let’s chat.

I’m still waiting for someone to invite me out on their boat, but I’m so there.

When is the best time?

Outdoor sessions are timed for sunrise or about an hour before sunset. With a young daughter myself, I get that this isn’t always the easiest. It’s worth it.

In-home sessions are generally scheduled for 10am or 2pm, but there is so much more flexibility so let me know what time works for your family’s routine.

And for maternity and newborn sessions?

Maternity sessions are ideally held when you are between 32 and 36 weeks pregnant.

And as for newborns, there is never a bad time to take photos of your baby!

I can come to your hospital for a Fresh 48 session, capturing some precious details from those first amazing hours with your new little person, or anytime in the first two weeks is ideal for photos of your sleepy newborn.

If you’d like baby to be a little more interactive, or robust for cuddles with young siblings, up to 12 weeks of age works wonderfully for a newborn session.

I tend to be there a little longer for newborn sessions, allowing plenty of time for feeding, nappy changes and snuggles. (Modest breastfeeding photos, if that’s what you are doing, can be lovely and I would never share online without your express permission.)

I do book ahead, so ideally you would be in touch before your baby is born. With you pencilled in, we can confirm details once the baby is here.  

What should we wear?

You want to be co-ordinated, but not matchy-matchy. Think neutrals and beautiful textures – linen, lace, denim, knits, silk – then add in some complimentary colour. Big logos are best avoided.

Mum’s outfit can be a good place to start; something you feel comfortable and lovely wearing.

I’ve gathered a few photos on Pinterest for inspiration.

And if you are looking for a maternity shoot outfit, Mama Rentals has some gorgeous options for hire, from petite to plus size, and they offer a discount for my clients. 

Do I need to prepare my house?

Your lounge room, bedrooms and anywhere there is beautiful light is where I am most likely to shoot. Rooms looking lived in and loved is awesome, but if you could spend just a couple minutes hiding clutter in a cupboard or junk room it can make a big difference. I promise not to look!

What happens after a session? 

Shortly after your session I will share a sneak peek on Facebook. You will receive a link to your online gallery within three weeks. This is where you select which photos you would like printed. Following, they will arrive on your doorstep with the USB of all the photos.

I want to book, so what now? 

Awesome! Here’s how to get in touch with me.

Once we have settled on a date and time, I will email through a questionnaire to learn more about what makes your family wonderfully you.

There will also be a contract, confirming some simple expectations of each other, and invoice attached. The deposit is required at the time of booking and can be paid via direct debit or Paypal.

What if it's raining? 

If you’re booked in for an outdoor session, we’ll reschedule.

What if we’re sick?

No worries, we’ll reschedule. Same if I’m sick; I’m not going to share my germs. Oh, and I’m up to date on all immunisations.

Can we invite the grandparents along?

Absolutely, grandparents are wonderful! We’ll aim to take some photos with them at the start of the session, then I’ll encourage them to grab a coffee so we can relax with just us.

For a big extended family, with all the various combinations of family groups, the session runs quite differently. If that’s what you are after, let me know and we can discuss.  

More questions? Ready to book? Get in touch.