What to expect from a family lifestyle session
My shoots typically last 45 minutes to 1 hour. I try my best to make my sessions a fun experience! We will adapt to your family and I will take care of all posing and directing. You can relax! I do not like to make families feel too posed or frozen. I want them to feel as natural around me as possible. My hope is that clients will focus on the authentic connection of their family and I will merely be on the sidelines (or up in their grill) capturing these precious moments that can be printed, shared and admired for years to come. I will rarely ever ask you to look at the camera. Occasionally, we will try to capture that money shot to send to grandma but my primary focus is capturing authentic family moments!
What to wear for your family lifestyle session
It really doesn’t matter! My goal is to capture you and your family in the moment. I want you to feel great and confident about yourself! Besides being you, I do recommend neutrals and solids as the best clothing option. It is helpful to coordinate instead of match everyone because this is easier on the eyes. Staying away from stripes and louder colors (ex: red plaid) can be a good idea, but if a stripe is your jam we will run with it!
Usually if mom picks an outfit that she loves and feels great in, it is easier to then throw some coordinating kids and hubby clothes in the mix and call it good.
Family Lifestyle Session Locations
I love the outdoors and feel that this is the best for kids. My favorite places are a woodsy/stream area at the foot of the Smoky Mountains, Cades Cove and the Botanical Gardens in Knoxville. I also welcome the urban challenge as well like the Old City or Market Square in Knoxville, TN however, urban is a bit difficult with very little ones.
I prefer to book my clients for a particular weekend and then as the weekend gets closer we look at the weather and decide on a day Saturday or Sunday. Once the day is decided, we pick a specific time that will work best with the family’s schedule.
What if my kids are crazy?
I try to schedule around naps and recommend a snack beforehand if possible. However, if need be we will throw a blanket down by the riverbank and capture a fun family snack in the great outdoors!
Kids will be kids and that is the beauty of these sessions! As a mom I know that small children can be a handful. And that is ok! I firmly believe in children led sessions. If the littles aren’t feeling it, we will find something they do like. Playing, dancing, running. That’s what a fast shutter speed is for!
So relax and come prepared to have fun!