for families

At this point, you may be thinking, “I’d like to have photographs of my story, but how does it happen?”    I always spend time with clients before the photo-session to help us plan fabulously fitting ideas. Please schedule a 1 hour consult with me before we schedule your photo-session. Here are a few points we will discuss.

I photograph on location.  So, the first question I like to help you answer is where’s that special place for you? Is there a location that compels you?  Maybe you know of a beautiful field or on the banks of a romantic waterway?  Perhaps, you want to go to the beach where you and your family spend all your weekend getaways.  Often, playtime in an open area or park is all it takes!  Some families have found an urban approach, such as downtown more suitable.  It is important to consider specifics about your desired location.  When will it be frequented by other people?  Is the background pleasing?  Will I be permitted to photograph at the location?  If it’s on private property, can we get permission from the owner?  While it does not have to be outdoors, I will want to assess lighting, space, etc. for inside and outside spots alike.

I photograph that part of life which makes you shine.  Bring the bubbles for your children to blow and expect they will have fun getting dirty.  Don’t forget your guitar so you may serenade your spouse.  Take off your shoes, feel the earth, and play airplane.  Let your princess wear her tutu!  If your child has a toy that makes them really happy, bring it.  Some toys even make fabulous props.  Some examples are tricycles, skateboards, bubbles, dress up costumes, and musical instruments.  Sure we will have some ‘pose and hold’ shots. However, even those will happen naturally when you are enjoying the adventure.  Therefore, plan for fun!  Make sure the events leading up to your photo-session will encourage happy, positive moods.  If your child gets cranky, plan for a nap before the session.  If you have work the day of, try to take enough time to avoid rushing.  Simply put, make the day of your photo-session as stress free as possible.

I always consider lighting, colors, contrast, and environmental factors.  Weather and time of day is always a factor.  The sun, our natural and most beautiful light source, is most flattering in the early morning or later hours of the day.  Many of my clients want late day photos because they appreciate my creativity with the sun as it sets.  We will want to preview the forecast days in advance, because our coastal weather can seriously change our plans.  For example, if we find strong wind is on-the-way, we may have to reconsider certain locations such as the beach.

Ah yes, clothing.  While I want you to feel ‘right’ in what you are wearing, we still need to consider what photographs well.  If you are including several members of your family, try to come up with a color palette which is easily achieved by all.  However, I really want to encourage you to think beyond white shirts.  Look over my galleries.  You will see how other families have incorporated vibrant color, style and personality into their attire.  You can even go a bit overboard as long as your choice will continue to resonate with you in the years to come.  On the flip, you can spruce up simple ideas with layers and accessories.  For example, vests, hats, & scarves are classics.  They can add color, depth, and unlike leisure suites, you won’t soon be embarrassed by them.  Don’t forget the bend and reach!  We don’t want your undergarments making their way into the photographs.

Sentimental or creative furniture pieces can add another dimension to your photographs.  Do you have a bench, rocking chair, or beautiful table you’d like to include?  Fixtures are especially effective when you have considered and planned for them with the theme and colors of the shoot.

This brings me to next set of unmentionables…bugs, blunders and yes, boogers.  If necessary, spray yourself with mosquito repellant.  Bring back-up clothing for sure-fire accidents.  Always have tissues or wet wipes! (Disclosure: I eagerly photograph all children who have proudly wrecked their latest & greatest clothing with mud, bubbles, chocolate, or another syrupy-smile-inducing-treat!)

Think about your purpose.  When planning to decorate a wall or room of your home, you may want to choose a location and clothing which are suitable for the space or design.  If you already have a desire for a custom product such as a storybook, wall gallery, or graduation announcement, let me know.  We don’t want to stage every aspect of the photo-session, but often, I can photograph in a manner best illustrating your ideas.

Let us always consider each other.  I am passionate about photography and I am passionate about serving you well.  I will treat you with respect.  Please extend the same courtesy to me.  If you are unable to attend your session, please let me know immediately.  I have set aside that special time for you in more ways than one.  Because of my personal approach, I schedule sessions keeping in mind the amount of time necessary to present you with a terrific product.  Please talk with me about all your concerns and ideas.

Your thoughts and ideas will be the first draft of your story! Together, we will illustrate it for you!

www.jannellereedphotography.com