I’ll guide you through the entire process

family sessions should always be child-led.

Every session will start with introducing myself to the kids and engaging them in an activity they lead. Don't stress about posing. I will provide guided poses as a jumping off point with the goal of capturing natural, candid interactions through movement.

My most introverted clients frequently end up having the best experience in the end. There is nothing better to me than hearing you had a great experience. Well maybe when you tell me you love the photos and shout it from the rooftops (joking. kind of).

inquire about a session

01. PICK A LOCATION

What environment would suit you or your family best? Are you willing to travel? The coast? A mountain or river environment? Are you up for a little adventure? Or do you prefer a more local flower farm, field or a place personal to you? If you have small children, consider how they will do in that environment. Sometimes simplicity is the right choice for you. Washington has it all, and i'm happy to help you decide.

Mom wraps her toddler in a blanket to keep warm during a family photo session at Gold Creek Pond.

02. CONSIDER SEASON & TIMELINE

Season changes everything! In the Pacific Northwest, timing is everything. Are you open to the possibility (or likelihood) of fog, rain, dark skies, cold weather, etc? Im up for anything. However, moody, spontaneous-style pics may not be the vibe you're looking for. Mountain locations will be reasonably chilly, even in the summer months during golden hour when I prefer to shoot for optimal lighting.

A family pose for photos in a field of endless purple lupine in Puyallup, Washington.

03. STYLING

Preparing for your session can be daunting. I highly recommend mixing patterns and solids, sticking with 3-5 complimentary colors. Throwing 1/2 bold colors into the mix really grabs attention and makes the photos pop. A vibrant red, dark yellow even a saturated brown are great options. If you need any guidance, i'm here to assist. I also have a small Client Closet you can peruse for short or full sessions.

Click this image for a direct link to my style guide for some flattering outfit color palettes that wont be too "matchy matchy"

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO TAKE YOUR PHOTOS FROM OK TO OMG?

I. use MY STYLE GUIDE

What you wear matters! You want to follow a few basic "rules" for a really cohesive look and frame-worthy photos. It can be a simple as choosing the right colors.

family Style guide

II. STAY positive

Believe it or not, uncooperative kiddos are not going to bring your session to a halt. It's how you interact throughout your session. LET the kids play. Let them be kids. Don't get frustrated. Or rather, don't let the camera see it. Try not to sweat it when they run off, frown, or fuss. I promise, as long as you stay engaged in a positive way, I will find a way to get candid interactions that don't look cheesy or forced.

III. show the love

I know it seems obvious, but I see many people struggle with feeling like they have to perform to get great images. My guided posing is only a jumping off point. Feel the love and run with it. Don't tell the kids to do what I said or else. We let REAL interactions guide the shoot, whatever they may be. As long as you bring the love, your images will bring back real emotions for many many years, and possibly many future generations to come.