DO bring little things to do with your kids if you think they’ll enjoy a little activities. Think bubbles, a little bucket to pick up shells, or bringing a favorite stuffed animal if that brings them comfort.

DON’T stress or apologize if your kid suddenly becomes a feral animal in the presence of my camera. It’s completely normal for them to start performing or being extra silly for a new person with a big camera, and I relish that silliness. I wear clothes I can move around in to family sessions so I can keep up with quick little feet and get down on their level to check out a rock or something they found. All that being said, you do not need to stress if your kid is not on their best behavior. As a parent myself, I’ve seen a wide range of child emotions, and none of them scare me.

DO channel your inner “Bandit and Chili Heeler” and be the fun parents for the session! If you’re having fun with your kids, you’re both going to have a good time. And people who are having a good time look so much better in photos than people who are forced to smile via bribery or scolding.

DON’T forget about yourself. If you put this session together and are the main planner of it, chances are you’re the default parent. As a fellow default parent, I can relate when I say you are on the bottom of your own totem pole. Give yourself a chance to be on that pedestal, you deserve it! And when you arrive at the session, relinquish control to your favorite photographer, me :)

DO text me with any questions you have regarding your session. I know your time is precious, and sometimes its just easier to shoot off a text.