When it comes to family photography, you have probably noticed two main options on most photographers’ websites: mini-sessions and traditional (or full-length) family sessions. While both will give you beautiful images of your loved ones, they are designed for very different needs and experiences. Let me break down the key differences to help you decide which option is the perfect fit for your family.

What Exactly Is a Mini-Session?

Think of mini-sessions as the "express lane" of family photography. These are shorter, streamlined sessions that typically last 15-30 minutes and are often scheduled back-to-back with other families on the same day. I usually block out several hours (like a Saturday morning or evening) and photograph multiple families one after another at the same location.

This setup allows me to offer professional family photos at a more accessible price point while creating efficiency for both of us. However, it also means we are working within a more structured timeframe and format.

Traditional Family Sessions: The Full Experience

Traditional family sessions, on the other hand, are typically 1 hour to 90 minutes long and are scheduled with buffer time before and after, so we are never rushed. These sessions are booked individually, meaning you have my full attention for your reserved time slot without other families waiting in line.

This extended timeframe allows for more flexibility, creativity, and the opportunity to capture a wider variety of family dynamics and interactions.

Here's a summary of the the two different sessions:

Mini- sessions

• Quick and efficient
• Great for annual updates or holiday cards
• Less time for kids to get restless
• Families wanting professional photos on a tighter budget
• Focus on classic family poses and a few candid moments
• Limited variety due to time constraints
• Great quality, but less experimentation with angles, locations within the space, or creative concepts
• Efficient for busy families who want great photos without a big time commitment
• You're comfortable with classic family poses and don't need extensive variety
• Your children are generally cooperative with photos (or you're okay with whatever we capture in the timeframe)

Traditional family session

• Time for everyone to relax and warm up to the camera
• Opportunity for multiple outfit changes
• Flexibility to move locations or try different setups
• Space for spontaneous moments and creative shots (life-style photography)
• More time to work with shy children or capture authentic interactions
• More personalized attention and planning
• Greater variety in final images
• More flexibility in timing, locations, and creative direction
• Often include more edited images in your final gallery
• Perfect if you’re thinking about creating wall-art after the session

Making Your Decision

Consider your family and the different personalities, your budget, and what you plan to do with the photos. There is no wrong choice – just different approaches to capturing your family’s story.

If you are unsure, don't hesitate to discuss your specific needs with your photographer. We can help guide you toward the session type that will give you the best experience and results for your particular situation.

Remember, whether you choose a mini-session or traditional session, you are investing in professional images that will become treasured family heirlooms. The “right” choice is simply the one that fits your needs, timeline, and budget.

Questions to ask yourself before making a decision:

• How do my children typically respond to new situations and cameras?
• What is my primary goal for these photos?
• Do I want variety, or am I happy with classic family portraits?
• How important is flexibility and a relaxed timeline to me?
• What is my budget, and what value am I looking for?

Hey All,
Can I be really honest for a second? I’m tired of being asked for reviews. 🙃 Every time I buy something at a store, order an item online, drive home after an oil change and tire rotation, or, even after a visit to the dentist, a text or email is popping up with: “Tell us how we did! Leave us a review! Share your experience!”

It’s a lot, right? That constant stream of “Leave us a review!” can start to feel like noise. And that feeling actually has a name—Review Fatigue.
Basically, review fatigue happens when people get so overwhelmed by requests that they stop leaving reviews altogether. I totally get it, because I feel the same way sometimes.

But here’s the thing: for a small photography business like mine, your review isn’t just another star rating floating in the internet void. It actually means something huge.
When you leave a review after a photo session with me, you’re not just checking a box. You’re helping me:
Stand out from the crowd. People scroll through endless options when looking for a photographer. Your kind words and real experience are what help someone say, “Yes, this is the one for me.”
Build trust. Photos are personal and emotional—families want to know they’re in good hands. When someone writes, “I was so nervous about getting my portrait done, but she made me feel at ease right away,” that gives future clients peace of mind in a way no ad ever could.
Show what makes me unique. Reviews often highlight things I can’t say about myself without sounding braggy. Like when a parent says, “She was so flexible when our toddler had a meltdown,” or a couple shares, “She came up with such creative ideas on the spot that made our photos feel uniquely us.” Those little stories paint a real picture of what it’s like to work with me.
Keep growing. Every single review adds up. It helps me get seen online, and it reassures potential clients that they’ll love their experience, too.

So yes—I totally understand the sigh when you get one more request to “leave a review.” But if you’ve had a session with me and take two minutes to share your thoughts, just know it makes a real difference. Your words don’t disappear into the void—they help my little business thrive, and they help more families capture memories they’ll treasure forever.

It doesn’t have to be long. Even a few sentences makes the world of difference.

Thank you for supporting me in this way—it truly means more than you know!

Some time in July, I had the very sneaky pleasure of photographing a secret proposal on the Marginal Way in Ogunquit, Maine — and let’s just say, things got a little... hectic.
If you’ve ever walked the Marginal Way, you know how stunning it is. The bright blue ocean, cliffs and rugged coastline stretching out, the salty breeze, the sound of waves crashing. It's basically a romantic movie scene waiting to happen. And for one lucky couple, it became the backdrop of a once-in-a-lifetime moment.

My job: capture it without being seen.


My hiding spot: a very questionable patch of bushes just off the main path.

Everything was going to plan. I was crouched down with both my cameras ready, staring at my phone, waiting for the text to come in that said: ”we are on our way and 10 minutes away from The-pop-the-question-Spot”. A bit later my heart started pounding as the couple and their group of friends and family approached. I let the group pass by and then, in a nonchalant way, fell in line behind them. The couple was posing for a photo that the mother of the bride-to-be took on her cell phone. The cue for me to be ready! Just as he reached for her hand and went down on one knee I stepped to my left to get a better angle.

I saw the low-to-the-ground bushes and vines but had forgotten they are much more woody and twisted than what I’m used to seeing in the woods where I walk around Acton and Concord. All the breeze and spray from the ocean makes for different vegetation I guess. I step on it, got hooked behind something and went down on my behind. It felt like I was falling in slow-motion and kept focusing and clicking that shutter. “Are you okay?", I heard somebody say. “Yeah yeah”, I said and quickly got up. Good thing I’m used to falling down during my weekly volleyball games. No knee pads this time though…
I was up just in time to catch all the moments after he bent the knee. She gasped and stepped back while covering her mouth. The ring is out, tears are flowing and people are whooping. We have a YES!

Seconds later, a flood of friends and family poured in with their phones up, cheering and snapping away. There’s fist bumps, people are hugging each other and tissues are passed around as well. All so lovely to see but it was getting a bit crowed and harder to move around to get shots from different angles. I hadn’t anticipated this very much but it all turned out just okay.

Another thing I had not thought about was the lighting in the spot of droppng-to-one-knee. When you shoot sessions you always check the light and then move the people to where the light is best. But, with a little creative angling and some good old-fashioned exposure bracketing, we got some killer shots. Honestly? The tough lighting conditions added this dreamy, spontaneous feel to the whole shoot. Which was just perfect!

By the end, I was a little scratched up, slightly sunburned, and completely buzzing from the adrenaline. Proposal shoots are always thrilling, but this one had everything — ocean views, genuine emotion, and a good laugh.

When you get together with a photographer for a portrait or a family session, all you see is what happens during the time you spend together. You are busy posing, sitting on boulders or benches, walking down the woods, playing with the kids and dog(s) (and hopefully having fun), while the photographer gets all the precious shots. Then, you say goodbye and wait for the moment you get to see the finished photos. I think most people do realize there’s editing involved after the session but it think it’s fair to say that very few people know about all the other things that happen behind the scenes in the life of a family photographer.

It all starts with the pre-session preparation. When a potential client reaches out, I try to understand what exactly they have in mind for photos. We’ll discuss options for locations, figure out family dynamics, talk about posed photos and life-style photos and, think about what outfits to wear. Scheduling the photoshoot is an important detail as well: making sure we’re finding the right date and time, often working around family schedules, keeping naps for young kids in mind, and discussing if people have their hearts set on golden hour for lighting, yes or no. The days before the session I spend time finding the perfect location, think about what props to bring (blankets, stools, props, dog squeakers etc etc) and research some extra poses so I will always shoot something new during every session! Checking all my gear and charging batteries is also part of prepping. Of course I have extra memory cards ready and I always pack some back up gear. I also make sure I have a variety of lenses.

During the actual photo session I’ll guide families into natural and flattering poses while keeping the atmosphere relaxed. While we’re in the midst of a session I also watch for spontaneous interactions that make the session unique. All these things require constant adjusting of camera settings for lighting changes and different angles. Sometimes I climb onto something to get a higher perspective or I have the kids climb on a big rock on crawl low to the ground. Always fun! And while we’re outside doing all this, I have to be aware of our surroundings too. For example; changing weather (like potential showers, thunder and lighting) busy areas and people passing by in the background (photo bombers) and, changes in lighting (sudden clouds or bright sunlight means adjusting camera settings). I think photographers kinda have ‘eyes in the back of their heads’ :o)

After the session, when everyone has gone home, photographers have the post-session workflow to focus on. We will review hundreds (or thousands) of images to select the best ones for editing. Enhancing photos in Photoshop and/or Lightroom means we are doing a long list of things like; color and lighting correction, cropping and resizing, retouching skin and skin colors, removing distractions from the background, sharpening images and achieving the desired style. All files are being backed-up to avoid accidental loss. Once all the chosen photos have been edited I create an online Client Gallery. In the gallery clients can see all their photos and click through them as many times as they want. After they make a selection and have made their final payment for the digital images, I will create a link for them to download their images.

When I’m not prepping for a session or shooting a session, I’ll always be busy with keeping up with social media posts, writing blogs and newsletters and making changes to my website. In the Spring and Fall I work on teaming up with a local school or organization to do some mini-sessions. Clients love these because they are quick (10 minutes or so -great for kids who are easily distracted) and a cheaper than a full session. Planning mini-sessions is a lot of work though. Communicating with the school or organization I’m working with, finding the right day and times, promoting the event and making sign-up lists is all part of it.

Another thing always on my to-do-list is learning new things about photography trends and styles. I allow myself time to explore and try new things all the time. Luckily I have some (human) Guinea pigs at home who don’t mind modeling for me!

Every photo session is a blend of creativity, technical skill, and people management, requiring effort and patience from start to finish. Photographers have to be able to quickly adapt to unexpected situations (shy or fussy children/ dogs who won’t cooperate) to ensure successful image. It’s a rewarding process, especially when clients cherish the final product!

As a family photographer, I often get asked, “What’s the best season for a family photo session?” The truth is, each season brings its own unique colors, charm and pros and cons. Whether you envision blooming flowers, golden sunsets, rich autumn foliage or a white Winter Wonderland, choosing the right season can help bring your dream photos to life.

Let’s look at the differences between spring, summer, fall and winter family photo sessions so you can decide which one suits your family best!

Spring: Fresh and Vibrant
Spring is a season of renewal, making it a perfect time for family photos full of fresh colors and soft, natural lighting. With flowers in bloom, lush greenery, and a sense of new beginnings, spring sessions offer a bright and airy aesthetic. The temperatures are mostly mild, which is great for little ones who may not enjoy extreme heat or cold. However, keep in mind that spring weather (especially here in Massachusetts) can be unpredictable. Rain showers are common, so having a backup plan is always a good idea! I always tell clients to think about their availability in case it rains or when it is too cold to be outside. Rescheduling does happen sometimes.

Tips:
* Opt for light, flowy and airy outfits in pastel shades.
* Be mindful of allergies, as pollen levels can be high.
* Think about having the session around flowers and trees in bloom
* Plan around the golden hour for the dreamiest springtime glow.

Summer: Warm and Golden
Summer offers long, sun-drenched days and golden evenings, making it an ideal season for sunset sessions. Whether you choose a beach, park, or open field, the lush landscapes and bright blue skies create stunning backdrops. The biggest advantage? Longer daylight hours allow for flexible scheduling. However, summer heat and humidity can be challenging, especially for young children. Choosing early morning or late evening sessions can help avoid the harsh midday sun and keep everyone comfortable.

Tips:
* Dress in breathable, lightweight fabrics to stay cool.
* Pick a location with shade or water to beat the heat.
* Stay hydrated and bring extra sunscreen, especially for little ones.

Fall: Cozy and Colorful
Fall is by far one of the most popular seasons for family photos, and for good reason! The stunning (New England) fall foliage and warm earthy tones create a cozy and timeless look. The soft, golden light in the late afternoon adds a magical touch to photos. Plus, layering outfits with sweaters, scarves, and boots can add depth and texture to your images. The only downside? Fall sessions book up quickly, so it’s important to plan ahead!

Tips:
* Coordinate outfits with warm, earthy tones like mustard, rust, and deep green.
* Bring a blanket for cozy sitting shots and added warmth.
* Schedule your session early in the season before the leaves drop!

Winter: Wonder and Serenity
Photography sessions in Winter capture the magic of the season with snow-covered landscapes, twinkling lights, and cozy indoor scenes. While the cold can be challenging, the results are nothing short of breathtaking. Planning is everything. The days are short and once the sun sets, the light fades very quickly! A downside of winter sessions is obviously the temperature. When people can’t stay warm and comfortable it's going to show in the photos!

Tips:
* Try to find a not-super-cold day and have a session in a snowy forest or by a frozen lake. Holiday markets can make for a super fun backdrop with multiple lights and props. A cozy indoor setup with string lights and fireplaces always works well too.
* Layered outfits in neutral or jewel tones and knit scarves create warmth and texture in photos.
* Plan for keeping the session on the shorter side when outdoors and bring extra coats and blankets to stay warm.

Which Season is Right for Your Family?
The best season for your family photo session depends on your personal style, preferred backdrop, and weather tolerance. If you love soft, pastel colors and blooming flowers, spring is perfect. If you want golden, sunlit portraits and carefree outdoor fun, summer is a great choice. And if you’re drawn to rich, warm tones and crisp, cozy vibes, fall is ideal. Winter is magical, but it’s not for everybody.
No matter the season, what truly matters is capturing beautiful memories with your loved ones.

Recap:
Spring is best for: Families who love soft pastels, floral backdrops, and comfortable temperatures.
Summer is best for: Families who love warm, golden tones, beach sessions, or playful outdoor settings.
Fall is best for: Families who love rich, warm colors, cozy outfits, and a classic seasonal aesthetic.
Winter is best for: Families who love the magic and whimsical feel of Winter and can deal with the cold

As a family photographer, one of my favorite parts of the job is capturing the connection and love that are unique to each family. However, I know how nerve-wracking it can be to stand in front of a camera. To be honest, I’m not a big fan myself. Often people worry about “posing right”. They feel awkward and don’t know where to look or what to do with their hands. I can tell you that it is completely normal to feel this way! Here are some tips to help you relax, have fun, and look your best during your session.

Focus on Connection, Not Perfection

The connection you have with your family is what makes your photos special. Don’t worry about a certain pose or a certain look. I will tell you about the ‘walking together pose’ when you are holding hands or linking arms, sharing a laugh (telling some jokes), or looking at your family members while slowly walking towards me. To get the hang of it and forget about me and my camera, we usually do this more than once :o) These photos ALWAYS turn out very nice and show those natural, authentic photos of you and the family. No matter if that’s a spouse, the kids, siblings or cousins or (grand) parents. I’ve seen over and over again that these photos show the special connections people have. These images always turn out to be gorgeous! I truly love these lifestyle shots and do them almost at every session.

Relax with a Pre-Session Chat

Feeling comfortable with your photographer is key! Before our session, let’s talk about your concerns, preferences, and any specific ideas you have. I really like to hear if there are certain poses people have in mind! Through the years I've learned that clients find ideas online or sometimes want to re-enact a moment from the past. I ’ll also walk you through the process of a Family Photo Session and answer any questions so you feel totally prepared. If anyone in your family is particularly nervous (especially kids!), let me know so I can adapt the session to their comfort level. We can take breaks, have a snack or play a game. I have three kids of my own and remember well when they were younger. I know how to adjust and be flexible. And definitely let me know if you bring the family dog. We then discuss the personality of the dog, talk about bringing snacks, water and toys. Very important; I always pack a small squeaker to put in my pocket. This works wonders to get the dog to look my way for that perfect shot.

Plan Outfits in Advance

Choosing outfits that coordinate (but don’t match exactly) can boost your confidence. Go for colors and styles that make you feel comfortable and reflect your family’s personality. Avoid anything too bright or shirts with distracting patterns (think fire trucks, sparkly fairies, dinosaur prints and other big and bright drawings and patterns). I understand clothing like this is fun and the kids love it but unfortunately these kinds of outfits are always distracting in photos! Soft and neutral tones works best. These photograph beautifully, especially outdoors.

Here’s a blog post that can help: https://clicklovegrow.com/what-to-wear-at-your-family-portrait-session/

Bring Props or Activities

Incorporating props or activities can make the session feel more natural and fun too. Whether it’s a picnic blanket (kids love to run under and through it), soap bubbles or a favorite toy or book. Playing, laughing, a tickle fight or cuddling with the kids or dog are great ways to get some movement in the shots and get that not-so-posed-look in images. It usually gives us genuine smiles and natural looking photographs.

Trust the Process

It’s my job to make you look and feel your best! During the session, I’ll provide plenty of direction to guide you into flattering and natural poses. Don’t worry if it feels a little silly at first. Very often these are moments when the best laughs happen. Just keep in mind, the goal isn’t to look perfect but to capture the love and connection that make your family uniquely you and yours. It’s important to remember that a family photography session is about creating memories, not just photos. Relax, be in the moment, and trust me to handle the rest. The most important thing is for you to show up as your authentic selves. I’ll take care of making sure your session is a success.

Ready to book your session or have more questions? Let’s connect! I can’t wait to help you create beautiful memories that last a lifetime.

If you’ve ever booked a family photography session, you might have wondered, “Why does this cost so much for just an hour or two of taking photos?” It’s a totally fair question, and as someone who absolutely loves what I do, I wanted to pull back the curtain and give you a peek into what goes on behind the scenes. Let’s start with the more obvious parts.

Photo gear and Maintenance

Professional cameras, lenses, flashes, and tripods are not cheap! A good camera body alone can cost several thousand dollars. Add in lenses for different types of shots, extra flashes and batteries as backup equipment (because technology can fail), and regular maintenance, and it’s a significant investment. Replacing a camera body is a real thing. The shutter button on a camera can only be pressed down so many times. I remember the time I was shooting and all of a sudden my camera stopped working. It was just done. That’s it. Time to buy a new camera! Ouch.

Editing Software and Computers

After your session, I spend hours editing your photos to make sure they look just right. That means I need powerful editing software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop (both come with fees) and a reliable computer capable of handling those hefty files. Storing client’s images is another subject we take seriously. There should always be back-up. I use a LaCie hard drive for storage and also pay for storage somewhere ‘up there in the cloud’.

Education and Training

Photography trends and technology are always evolving, so I’m constantly learning to stay on top of my game. That means taking some online courses or maybe attending a workshop. This goes for posing, lighting, editing, Search Engine Optimazation (SEO) and many other things. All these things are connected to photography and running a business.

Business Expenses

Just like any other business, I have to cover the basics: website hosting (domain name and website provider, plug ins), gallery delivery software, marketing, accounting tools, insurance, and business licenses. All these things keep my business running smoothly so I can focus on giving you the best experience possible.

Studio Costs

Recently I’ve found a studio space I can use for headshots and smaller photo sessions. It is great for those yucky wet and cold days. We do live in New England after all! Having this space adds to my business insurance fees. Obviously there’s also rent and utilities to pay. To get the studio ready, purchases like chairs,rugs and lamps were made to make it comfortable to hang out and photograph in that space. Some studio lighting, a reflector, backdrops, a stool, power cords and a mirror made the set-up complete.

The Time Beyond the Session

Now, let’s talk about time. While your session might only take between an hour and two, there’s so much more happening.

Pre-Session Prep

Before we even meet, I spend time planning for your session—scouting locations, communicating with you about outfits and ideas and checking the weather. I think about back-up days and places, getting snacks, small waters, bubble blowing liquids, lint rollers, blankets and wipes and dog squeakers ready. I have to check and prepare my gear, charge all batteries, pack everything up and get memory cards ready.

Editing and Retouching

This is where the magic happens! Every image is carefully reviewed and edited to bring out the best colors, lighting, and details. On average, editing can take several hours per session.

Communication and Delivery

From the first inquiry email to delivering your final gallery, there’s a lot of back-and-forth to make sure everything goes smoothly and you’re thrilled with the results. I pour my heart into this work because I know how important these memories are. Capturing your family’s connection, joy, and love is something I don’t take lightly. Whether it’s your first family photo session, a crazy and fun multi-generational family shoot, a senior portrait or a lovely session with your dog, I’m here to make sure you’ll have images you treasure forever.

As a family photographer, I have learned that no two sessions are alike. Each family brings their unique personalities, dynamics, expectations, and unpredictable moments. Even with all my planning and preparation some sessions don’t go as smoothly as I'd hoped. But I think that's okay. When these situations happen, I learn from them. It makes me a better and a more creative (and faster) photographer.

I always stay calm and flexible. It's VERY important to stay calm. If a child is having a meltdown, the weather takes a sudden turn, or someone forgot an essential outfit piece, me being calm can help diffuse tension. Being able to pivot and ‘go with the flow’ is important and sometimes gives us even better photos than I had planned to begin with.

Once, I photographed a family with two young boys. Both the kiddos were not a fan of the camera (understatement). Every time I would lift my camera and point it even slightly in their direction, they would run away or hide behind mom or dad! I had to think fast. After a quick talk with mom and dad we decided that the parents would play with the boys. They would pick up the boys, chase them, swing them in circles and blow bubbles together. I stepped back and put the zoom lens on my camera body. The kids were so busy playing with the parents they didn’t pay much attention to me. The session ended up giving us life-style photos and not the planned posed ones but they turned out great! When things don't go as planned, clients might feel stressed or even blame themselves. I always tell them that these hiccups are normal and manageable. To communicate this is VERY important! If everyone stays flexible and is willing to try a few new things, the unexpected can often lead to photos that show a lot of beautiful emotions and connections between family members! Even when Mother Nature gives you a spontaneous rain shower during a photo shoot, you could try and work with that. I’ve done photos with umbrellas (protect your gear though!) that are super cute. Or, if possible, find shelter and use the rain as a backdrop. The rainbow that comes out after the showers can give you amazing photos too!

Very often it is the smaller things we have to deal with. Situations like, kids not wanting to sit still ( I make them run around for a bit before sitting down again), not wanting to be in e certain pose or not wanting to smile. Just changing up a pose or slowing things down can change a lot. A toy, a snack or playing a game can make all the difference. Even showing a child a photo on the back of my camera is helpful every now and then.

Sometimes, if nothing is working, the best option is to pause or reschedule. If a child is overtired, or the weather is completely uncooperative, it might be best to think and talk about the possibility of trying again. Most clients will appreciate the honesty and the photographer's dedication to delivering the best results.

As said before, every challenging session is a chance to grow as a photographer. I always reflect on what happened and think about what I could do differently next time. For photographers, these experiences will build confidence and resilience.

No matter what happens, I try to make sure my clients leave the session feeling good. There are always a few fun or candid moments I will have captured, they can see. I’ll let them know I’m excited about the next session and the final results. When a photo session doesn’t go as planned, it’s an opportunity to show my creativity, adaptability, and professionalism. I’m grateful for my background as a social worker and having studied the developmental stages of children. Raising three kids of my own is sure coming in handy too :0)

By staying calm, communicating openly, and embracing the unexpected, photographers can create a session experience that is as memorable as the photos themselves. After all, life is full of imperfect, beautiful moments—and that’s what family photography is all about!

Photography is more than just taking a snapshot. it’s about capturing life’s best and most special moments and preserve them for many years to come.

As the saying goes; time flies when you're having fun. This is especially true when watching our families grow and change over time. Those kiddos sure do grow up quickly (even though it doesn’t always feel that way when you’re in the middle of raising a few little ones…)

It’s why capturing special family moments through photography is so important. Family photography lets us freeze time and hold onto those precious memories forever.

Now, these days, everybody has a cell phone with a pretty good camera inside and we’re all snapping away every day to document daily, random moments. But, a professional family photo session can give you so much more than snap shots.

Trained photographers have a keen eye for detail and know how to capture the essence of your family in a way that amateur photographers simply can’t. Not to mention, all family members are actually in the photos. I cannot tell you how many photos we have of our kids but always with either mom or dad missing in the shot. Somebody has to take that picture, right?

A skilled photographer knows how to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable being themselves, resulting in natural and beautiful photographs. Photographers think about posing, lighting, movement, composition, the list goes on and on.

I think that the art of family photography lies in capturing genuine emotions and connections between family members. The impact of these photos can be profound, reminding us of the love and joy we share with our families, even during difficult times.

When people are thinking about booking a family session, I would recommend finding somebody who’s style you like. Always discuss with your photographer what you're looking for in terms of location, outfits, and props.

During the photo shoot try to be flexible and open-minded. Sometimes the best shots come from unexpected moments or poses. Very often I have people hold hands or link arms and walk toward me. I tell them to pretend they are on a movie set. Walk and talk, laugh, look at each other, look at me, tell silly jokes and so on. I know this might feel weird for some people but it usually makes for some good laughs. The photos that come from these moments are always amazing. The genuine smiles are wonderful and the way people look at one another shows real connections. I love it!

Besides documenting growing families in a family session (which very much are life’s special moments!), there are many more occasions when photographers can preserve memories.

For example, some people decide to have the birth of their baby photographed. Most do a session with the little one when he or she is a few weeks or months old.

There are engagement shoots (surprise ones too!), senior portraits for the high school kids, mile stone birthdays, baby showers, birthday cake smashes for that 1st birthday, reunions, multi-generational big family sessions, weddings, anniversaries, parties, dog portraits and friendship photo sessions.

Basically, any reason to get together with family or friends or your beloved pet is worth documenting. Today is when we make memories for later in life!

Hi there, fellow pet lovers and family enthusiasts! Today, I thought it’d be fun to give you a little behind-the-scenes look at what I carry around in my camera bag when I head out for a photo shoot. You might be surprised at all the goodies I bring along. Not just for capturing those perfect moments with your furry friends, but also to make the whole experience fun and smooth!

THE CAMERA GEAR

Camera Body


This is the heart of my setup! I use a Canon 60D and a Canon 5D, which are great for capturing both the details and those spontaneous moments. These cameras handle different lighting conditions beautifully, ensuring your family and pets look their absolute best.

Lenses


I always have a couple of lenses on hand. My go-to lens on my Canon 60D is a 24-70mm so I can capture some more wider shots and larger groups. On my 5D I like t have the 70-200mm so I can zoom in and get some nice portraits as well. If I want to capture some action shots of your dog running around, I use my zoom lens (on the fast sports setting) to get closer without interrupting the fun.

Flashes


While I love shooting in natural lighting, I always bring a couple flashes in case we’re working in the shade or when the time of day doesn’t give us enough sunlight to work with. I usually put a softbox on the flash to defuse the light. When inside and lighting up a certain space, I put one flash up on a stand and have the other one on the camera.

Extra Batteries and Memory Cards


The last thing I want is to run out of battery or memory space while capturing your family’s precious moments. I always bring spares, so we can keep shooting without any hiccups.

EXTRAS FOR COMFORT AND FUN

Snacks and Water


Whether it's for the humans or the pups, I always come prepared with treats! For the kids, some healthy snacks keep their energy up, and for the dogs, a few tasty bites can help them stay focused and happy during the shoot.

Toys


Speaking of keeping pups engaged, I have a small bag of toys to bring out their playful side. A squeaky toy or a ball can work wonders to grab their attention and elicit those adorable, candid shots!

Blankets and/or props


If we’re shooting outside, I love having a cozy blanket to sit on. It gives a nice touch to the photos and makes everyone feel a little more comfortable. During certain seasons we use pumpkins or Christmas props to get some photos for holiday cards for example. Usually I also have some wipes and a hand towel with me as well. Great for quick cleanups and wiping those muddy paw prints off your clothes!

So there you have it! My camera bag isn’t just filled with equipment—it’s packed with everything needed to create a fun and relaxed atmosphere during our photo session. Whether it’s making sure your kids and pets are happy or ensuring we get the best shots possible, I’m all about capturing those genuine moments that tell your unique story.

If you have any questions about what to expect during our shoot or want to chat about how to prepare, feel free to reach out! I can’t wait to create some beautiful memories together.

Here's an example of a day when I forgot to bring my big reflective screen. I use it to bring in more light and shine it onto a subject but, also to block unwanted sunlight. Luckily there was somebody to help blocking out the light!

What is your style?
Where did you learn photography?
How long have you been working as a photographer?
How are the photos delivered?
How many images will I receive after the session?
Is retouching available?
Are your prices listed online?
Are there sessions/subjects you don't photograph?
Where should we meet?
Can I bring the dog?
What about the best light?
What if it rains?
Do you have a studio?
What if the kids don’t cooperate?
what should we wear?
How do I book a session?
What about payment?

What is your style? Even though I like doing (posed) portraits, I also love the more candid and spontaneous shots. Photos that show emotions and connections between people. Nowadays it’s called Life-Style Photography. It’s less posed and often subjects are not looking at the camera but at each other. It makes for beautiful photographs. I try to do both during a session.

Where did you learn photography? I studied photojournalism and covered local news in Silicon Valley for a little while. When my kids were little I stayed home but when I came back to work I realized I really gravitated towards taking family photos. Looking back I know why. I was always photographing my own kids and family members :O)
Being a mom I know how valuable it is to have some really good quality photos of the kiddos. they grow up quite quickly and are changing all the time! Those moments, frozen in time, become memories and are great to document and have forever.

How long have you been working as a photographer? I have been working behind the camera on and off for about 20 years now. As mentioned, I was shooting in a different way when working in the newspaper business. Town events, high school and college sports, local politics and arts and culture were subjects I was photographing. It wasn’t till much later that I found my passion for portraits, kid, family and pet photography. Fortunately the way photographers works with their gear, the way we think about light in general and camera settings and composition are the same no matter what we shoot! To keep learning all there is about photography I keep taking classes every now and then. This could be for example about studio lighting, posing, social media, new gear or Photoshop and Lightroom tricks.

How are the photos delivered? After your session your photos will go up on my website. Just go to the home page and click Galleries. Or go here: https://www.forestvibephotography.com/galleries You might have to scroll all the way down. Once you see all your images you can pick the ones you like. Those images will be delivered to you via a special link.

How many images will I receive? A senior portrait session and a head shot session have their digital images included. For all other sessions clients can pick from three different packages. You can see the differences here: https://www.forestvibephotography.com/investments

Is retouching available? In the past I have done retouching but only on minor things like taking out an eyesore in the background. A fence post or part of an ugly lamp post for example. Out of principal I don’t retouch faces and bodies. My motto: we are beautiful as we are. Every line, wrinkle and pimple tells a story!

Are your prices listed online? They are. You can find them here: https://www.forestvibephotography.com/investments Most sessions (except the Senior Portrait session) have a sitting fee and then a separate fee for the digital, high resolution digital images. We have different packages for different amounts of photos. If you’re booking for a small event, we should discuss all details before an estimate can be given.

Are there sessions/subjects you don’t photograph? I don’t photograph births, First Birthday/cake smashes, big events, sports and newborns. I do, however love working with families and slightly older kiddos. Most of my work is centered around family and child photography. As mentioned in my About section, https://www.forestvibephotography.com/about I’m a big dog lover and really enjoy photographing man’s best friend as well! An occasional engagement in the park is always fun too. I really enjoy working with seniors. They are super fun and easy going and always up for trying new poses. Senior portrait sessions are awesome!
Sometimes I document small events but only if it’s the right fit with the client.

Where should we meet? I usually ask what a client has in mind. Sometimes there are certain spaces that hold a special place in our hearts. If clients don’t have any idea, I’ll have plenty of suggestions. I’m very familiar with the woods in and around Acton so can always suggest a place to go.
The important thing is to find a spot where everybody is comfortable and so I’m flexible if we have to switch last minute or use a backyard as our backdrop. Here is a different blog post with some ideas: Here is an older blog post with some ideas:
https://www.forestvibephotography.com/blog/finding-new-photosession-locations

Can I bring the dog? YES PLEASE! I loooooooove dogs and truly enjoy spending time with them and taking photos of them. They do count as an extra family member (in real life and for my sessions) so there could be a small, extra fee for an additional member in your party.
Also, I do sessions specifically for the dog(s). These are fun and quick and will create memories for life. Sometimes these sessions include a human :o)
https://www.forestvibephotography.com/dogs

What about the best light? It all depends on what time of the year the photo shoot is happening. The time of day is pretty important too. Some people really like Golden Hour which is much later in the day in the Summer than in the Fall for example. I don’t really like taking photos in the middle of the day because the light is so harsh. Unless we can find a big shaded area. Days with overcast are really great. The sky and clouds almost work as a very large soft box in the sky.

What if it rains?
Working with a bit of light rain can still work if people are up for it. Sometimes we pick up an umbrella and that can make for some special photos. I tend not to photograph when it’s really raining (cats and dogs).
I always touch base with clients before the session when the weather looks iffy. There will always be a chance to reschedule.

Do you have a studio?I have a little studio with lights and a backdrop. It is great for those smaller sessions (like mommy and me, head shots, individual portraits, small family portraits) during the cold New England months.

What if the kids don’t cooperate?I usually tell parents not to worry. We can always take a break or play a little game. Very often the best photos come from the situations when people are not posing. I’ll ask the kids to run to mom or dad, tickle a sibling, spin around, pet the dog, play airplane or climb a tree. It always works out and beautiful photos are the result.
For those who need to recover after a session, here’s a local massage therapist who is just simply amazing!!
https://www.marceline.massagetherapy.com

What should we wear? It’s best to pick soft colors and stay away from bright (including neon) colors, black and white. Clothing with shiny fabrics and big prints like dinosaurs and fire trucks are fun to wear but unfortunately they are distracting in photos.
Try to find outfits that are somewhat similar or compliment each other.

How do I book a session? If you go to my home page you’ll see a button to each out to me, or you can go here:
https://www.forestvibephotography.com/contact
Or, you can email me at forestvibephoto@gmail.com or give me a buzz 408-857-7179

What about payment? After we have discussed what your session is going to look like and where we will meet, I’ll email you a contract that you can sign electronically. Typically clients pay half of the sitting fee upfront. This is to secure your spot for the date and time agreed upon. Most photographers make this payment a non-refundable fee. This is the only way to get somewhat compensated for when people cancel. We have already done our research for the session, penciled clients into the calendar and maybe scouted out the location and other prep work.
Part two of the payment (the rest of the sitting fee and the fee for the images) gets paid after the session.
Check, Venmo or cash is the best way to pay.

Life Style Photography features people (family, kids, and yes, even the dog) while trying to photograph real-life situations and/or events in a creative way. You could kind of describe life style photography as 'candid' but with a plan. Or, somewhere between portrait photography and documentary.

For example; when I photograph a young family I always try to set up a situation in which they can sit down with their baby or toddler(s). Then, I ask them to get comfortable and play with their children, tickle the little ones and lift them up in the air. I usually tell them to ignore me and just play. While they are interacting and forgetting about the camera and the photographer, I move around them. I get low, shoot from higher up (stepping stool), zoom in, zoom out and get a nice variety of life-style images.

There are many other things you can do as well. Have the kids run towards mom and dad, have parents lift the kiddos high up into the air or ask everyone to get close for a big family hug. Parents holding hands with the children between them, swinging the kids back and forth always makes for great shots too! Siblings can hold hands, lean back and swirl each other around in circles.

If there's a dog involved, it's always nice to have the kids interact with their best friend as well.

When I think about Life Style Photography I think about photos that show emotion, connections between people and fun moments that will turn into memories. I'm looking to capture their expressions and the way they look at each other.

I don't want people looking into the camera lens (or just one person does but the others are looking away or at each other). People should be interacting, laughing, hugging or even sticking out a tongue (mostly cheeky, little kids).

I've noticed that Life Style Photography is still a bit of an unknown or unfamiliar concept for most. During a photo session I sometimes have to remind people to not pose and don't look at the camera. I guess it's a habit we all have :o) Redirecting always helps. The trick is to guide an action, not a pose.

Even though Life Style Photography isn't what first comes to mind when families book a session, they always love the images when they see them upon delivery.

Here's a website with some more examples: https://lifestylephotographers...

And this one seems more geared towards advertisement but also gives a good idea about life style photography: https://workbook.com

When I chose the name for my business I had to think for a long time. Will I just use my own (unusual) name and add photography.com to it? Would I focus on the area in New England I live in and tie that in somehow?

After some research I noticed that many things around Acton, Littleton, Westford and Concord have Indian tribe names, like Nashoba for example. This made me think about the places where I usually photograph my sessions. The woods! Being in the woods really puts me in my happy place! The name Forest Vibe was born!

Now, even though I love any kind of woods, I’m always looking for a variety of backdrops. Areas where my clients are surrounded by deep green trees give a different look and feel than an open field with tall grass and/or wild flowers. An arboretum is different with board walks and surrounding people appearing in the background. Yikes! Lighting on the beach is totally different again too!

When photographing families with children I like to look for things to sit, lean or climb on. Big boulders, trees, rock walls, little bridges, arches and fences are always great. I usually only have to ask once ‘who can climb that tree, rock, fence?’ and most kiddos are on their way up there.

I’m lucky to have an awesome walking buddy at home who goes with me into the woods every day. When I go to explore a new area, she’s always with me. Usually she is running a couple yards ahead of me on the trails and through the fields. Scanning the woods for chipmunks and chasing the little critters up a tree when she sees one! Great fun, I suppose, when you’re a dog. As I walk I make mental notes of these new locations and add them to the list of options for ‘photo session locations’.

So far, I’ve never gone to a location that hasn’t worked out for a shoot.

What a lot of people don't know about me is that when I was younger I worked in a very different field. I was trained as a nurse to work with patients who had physical and mental disabilities. From when I was 18 till the age of 23 I took care of people in wheelchairs, people with Down Syndrome, people who hallucinated and/or had epileptic episodes, big strong guys who had full-blown adult-size tantrums, people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorders and patients with self-destructive behavior.

It was an interesting time in my life. I learned a lot about the human brain and behavior, how to care for these amazing clients and the joy it gave me and them. The happy and fun times of my patients always outweighed the difficult moments.

Now, working in photography I realize that in my earlier job I was already being trained in watching and observing others. The slight difference in somebody's face and speech could be the beginning of a seizure. The slow smile appearing on the face of the older man in a wheelchair who was deaf and blind when he was being put in a sunbeam with a cup of fresh coffee in his hands.

During photo sessions and portrait sessions I enjoy looking at how the light falls on people's faces, how they have a relaxed expression or maybe just the opposite. It helps me to adjust and give directions. I might have to change someone's pose or my own position or adjust the settings on the camera, help somebody relax a bit.

So, maybe it's not that strange I ended up choosing photojournalism when I went back to school. Even though I really enjoyed that semester of Radio I took in my second year! And during my third year I thought I would most likely end up writing for a magazine after graduating. But when I got behind that camera and was sent on assignments during my internships, I knew there would always be that special connection between me and photography!

I like to look back and think that everything we do and experience in life, teaches us something and helps us with all the next things that come our way. We just have to 'see' it

About 3 years ago I was at an event in Boston. It was a pleasant evening of mingling with several strangers. Many times when people don't know each other, the question; "what do you do for a living" comes up. When I explained to a lady who I was chatting with that I'm a family photographer, she laughed hard! "There's no future in that anymore", she said. " Everybody has a cell phone now with a camera built in".
In a way she is right. Everyone can take a picture at any time. We have these devices at our fingertips pretty much 24/7. Who hasn't seen people pull out their phones to photograph a plate of food, decadent coffee drink, street scenes or a cute animal? We all do it! And even though it's nice to have that option and use these images quickly for social media the same doesn't go for portraits. Of course, people make Selfies. But with that arm sticking out, holding up the camera and people angling their necks in an unnatural way for a pose, I always think it looks a bit silly.
A professional family portrait session is done with a professional camera and includes images of much higher resolution than taken on a phone. This means the images are sharper and are suitable for making prints and enlargements.
Also, with a photo camera one has control of the shutter speed, aperture and ISO. Meaning you can influence things like; a more or less blurry background, the amount of lighting coming into your lens (super important when photographers are shooting in low-light or very sunny situations) and 'freezing' objects/people in motion when a high shutter speed is used. An additional flash can also create a lovely photo that would be otherwise completely underexposed due to a lack of lighting.
Another option most phones don't have is the possibility to change lenses. A portrait lens for example is something I cannot work without when photographing individuals or groups. A wide angle lens is great for shooting larger groups of people. And a 'fast' lens is a must-have for action shots like sports and running dogs!

The last remark I'd like to make is about the experience and trained eye of the photographer. We know how to pose people, how to position ourselves and others, how to work with the light and equipment, what angle to choose to photograph from and how to work the settings on the camera. Not to mention giving instructions, making people feel at ease and how to be patient and creative when it comes to working with children and dogs! Retouching images in Photoshop or Lightroom is also a skill not everyone has mastered.

Look at the photographs below. The photos on the left were taken with a professional camera and the same shots on the right were taken by a phone. The difference is obvious.

Photographing dogs is really fun but very often not an easy task. Even a well trained dog will get distracted by sounds and smells or will look at the owner for directions (instead of looking at me). After meeting the pup for our photo session, I usually leave him/ her alone for a bit to settle down. Just watching a dog can help with predicting a bit what they will do next and gives me a change to check the lighting.

My dog ripped open her stuffed animal a while ago and I kept the squeaker that was inside. It's always in my back pocket when I go out on a doggie shoot. So far I haven't met a dog who won't look up or cocks its head when I push the squeaker! Making weird noises with your mouth works well too.

When photographing a human and dog together I try to capture the bond they have. Which means that they don't have to stare at the camera. Just looking at each other and their expressions can be magical!

Dogs who are active are great for getting some nice action shots. I always make sure to crank up my ISO and use a shutterspeed of at least 1/500. Get low and have the dog run towards you (have the owner stand behind you and call the dog), catch a Frisbee out of the air or jump into a pool or some body of water.

A wonderful dog photographer to check out is Emily Abrahams. She's made it a true specialty. https://inspawrationphotograph...

Emily also gives workshops. https://inspawrationphotograph...

A family portrait session, senior portrait or head shot and even a session with a pet are all, in a way, photographing 'events'. But when we talk about "small events" we usually talk about a celebration which involves more people, more activities and lasts longer.

The first time I was asked for a (somewhat bigger) event, I photographed a Bat Mitzvah. There were a lot more people attending than what I was anticipating! A good tip is to always ask about the number of guests attending the event so you know what to expect. Discuss with your client what planned activities they have in store for the day/evening. Do they want specific shots? Certain people that cannot be missed? The photo where the girl gets lifted up in her chair high above the crowd (the Hora) for example, is a must-have shot during a Bat Mitzvah.

Ask yourself if you need to bring an assistant?. Is there a lot going on all at once? Too much for one photographer to cover by herself? Or, do you want to document certain activities from two different angles?

Shooting with two cameras is a no-brainer as well. Changing lenses every couple minutes is very time consuming and leaves you frustrated. Not to mention you are likely to miss some important moments while doing so. Have a longer lens ready to go on one camera and something like a 24-70mm on the other camera body. If you're just starting out and own just one camera, you can always rent a camera for a day or two at a local camera store.

Carrying two cameras around gets a little tricky but there are special harnesses around that let your screw in both cameras for easy transport.

Small events are a little stressful but also super fun. They can be fast-paced at times. The part where you are creating lasting memories for your clients is the best! We, photographers, have to keep that in mind! No matter if it's a milestone birthday (sweet 16 or 100/ centenary birthday), a religious or cultural celebration, a baby shower or doing headshots and team pictures for a sports team. We are here to document for others!

When photographing in the woods the lighting works both ways. It's
beautiful and accommodating but at the same time it is also tricky to
work with because it can be too bright (when in full sun light) or too
dark (when too much in the shade). And when the light filters through
the leaves it will cause these ugly sunspots on people's faces. I
remember when I first started photographing people in wooded areas or
close to trees, I didn't see the sunspots on their faces while I was
taking the pictures. Later, when looking at the images in Photoshop I
would kick myself! These sunspots are VERY difficult (impossible) to fix
in Photoshop! I guess I was very occupied with composition and the
settings of my camera and therefore didn't see the.
I've learned to
look closely at faces and bodies and hands to make sure there's no harsh
light on my subjects. I really like finding the beautiful light BEHIND
the person I'm shooting. I make sure they are always in the shade. With a
flash and a diffuser I light up the subject's face while keeping the
natural light as is.
This particular High School student wanted a
photo session in the woods because he used to ride his dirt bike in
areas like this when he was a lot younger. For posing options I like
guys putting their hands in their pockets or do a soccer player
cross-armed. For girls It's fun to have a hand under the chin or to the
side of the head.