My philosophy is pretty simple:

Overly-posed photos and fake smiles are not my jam. I’d much rather help direct you into a meaningful moment and capture your authentic emotions than manufacture something that isn’t really there. Your kids can do no wrong at sessions, and please don’t feel like they need to “smile and look at the camera”.

What to Expect During Your Session

I like to think of myself as a “Director” at our session, which is a surpisingly important distinction. I used to pose people (which consists of me telling you exactly where to put your hands, exactly where to look, exactly what to do, etc.,) but my images were falling flat. Once I made the tiny shift from posing to directing, things changed. Instead of fabricating moments and telling you to smile, I now create the opportunity for an authentic moment to happen. And that is where the magic happens.

I know some people hear this and panic because they think I won’t tell you what to do. I promise you, I won’t leave you hanging! Please don’t worry about being awkward in front of the camera. This is something that almost everyone feels before having their photo taken, but helping you get comfortable is part of my job. Once you get used to not having to smile at the camera, you might find you really love the chance to connect with your partner and family.

Now let’s talk about another huge stressor people have before their session: their kids’ behavior. I hear from so many parents about their uncooperative children when it comes to getting photos of their kids. (Believe me, I get this!) But I’m telling you now, your child can do no wrong at our session. Let me repeat that: your kids can do no wrong. As long as they are being safe, they are fine. They want to run around? Cool! I’m going to figure out a way to incorporate that. They’re feeling shy? Also totally okay. That means I’m going to get awesome shots of them snuggling you.

I am going to ask one thing of you though: please don’t tell your kids to smile and look at the camera. I’ll get some smiling at the camera shots for sure— but nothing takes kids out of the magic that we are creating faster than someone telling them to look at me and smile.