How does the session work? What is your style?

Prepare to be yourself and have a good time. Our style is relaxed, clean, and modern with a focus on joyful expressions. You’ll pose in front of a white background with soft, flattering light. Since we’re working with Stitch House, we’ll have some special punches of color: hand-crafted and hand-knit items that you can choose to include as props (more on that below). For the adults and older children, we will help with posing to capture you at your best. For children, the approach is more playful and open. Forced smiles and unnatural positioning are never part of the program!

What does the session fee include?

We offer two types of sessions: the standard session includes a half-hour of the photographer’s undivided time; the deluxe lasts 45 minutes to an hour. A standard session costs $40. This includes one free 8x10 print, plus a $20 print credit good for a second free 8x10 or to be applied to any items in your order. A deluxe session is our best value at $60, and includes two free 8x10 prints, plus a $30 print credit. The session fee also includes an individual, password-protected online viewing gallery, where you and your invited family and friends can view images from the shoot.

What kind of session should we choose?

In a standard session, typically three ‘set-ups’ can be accomplished. This might mean two children, each alone and then together. Or it might mean one child or adult, with time for a change of clothing or props. The deluxe session allows more time to get creative. Multiple set-ups can be completed: each family member alone, the whole family together, a ‘couple’ shot of the parents, or clothing changes. Note: families with more than two children are encouraged to schedule a deluxe session if each child is to be photographed individually.

What should we wear?

Wear something that makes you feel good. White clothes on white backgrounds is cute for children, or bright colors are always fun. Something you’ve personally knitted or sewn would be great. For holiday-themed photos, children in the pajamas are adorable. Familiar, soft clothes will suit this shoot best. For family groups, an exact match isn’t necessary. But do ask yourself, would these clothes be featured together on the same page of a catalogue? If so, you’ve got it right. Feel free to bring more than one choice and decide with the photographer. Or if you’ve got enough time in the session, change!

Will the photos include props? Should we bring anything special along?

Stitch House is generously providing an assortment of beautiful artisan objects and clothing to include in the shoot. Knitted hats, designer pillows, and handmade toys are available if you choose to include them. You can also bring your own items. For children, a well-loved toy not only makes them more comfortable in front of the camera, the photo then provides a lasting memory of a fleeting moment of childhood.

Is this portrait session just for children?

Absolutely not! While we anticipate that many of those who choose to book a session will be families, we have a lot to offer others as well. Individuals can have their portraits done for work, inclusion on a blog, or to feature in a holiday card. Posing together is a fun, romantic option for couples young and old, new or long-familiar. We love to shoot pregnant bellies! Anything goes.

When can we see our photos?

Viewing sessions—also held at Stitch House—will be scheduled at the time of your session. Viewings will take place November 19-23, with print orders available for pick up in time for the Thanksgiving holidays! You will receive your free 8x10 enlargement(s) at the viewing session.

How can we use our photos?

So many ways! Of course, traditional enlargements will be available. We also offer canvas gallery wraps, portrait folios and albums, holiday greeting cards, and custom-designed image presentations. Musical image slideshows for television or youtube as well as digital negatives—allowing you to post portraits to a blog, myspace, or facebook—are also available.

What about putting our photos online?

Every portrait sitting includes a free, password-protected personal web gallery. Images will remain online for 90 days, allowing you—plus family and friends who you invite—to look at the photos as often as you like and make addition print orders. Digital negatives and web-ready slide shows are also available.

Do you have any special items for the holidays?

Of course! We are pleased to offer a beautiful line of holiday photo cards, printed on fine art paper. We also offer custom return address label featuring your photos. And, what better gift for moms, dads, aunts, uncles, and grandparents than portrait of that special someone? Several of our print packages were created with the holiday presents in mind.