I always schedule a few minutes to chat over the phone with my clients before a photo session. I think it helps everyone to feel a little more at ease, and I also like answer any questions they may have as well as give input to outfits, etc. We all know that’s the hardest part in preparing for a family photo session!

Even before we chat over the phone, my clients will have filled out a get to know you form where they can share additional info about their family. This is especially helpful with young kids. I love to hear more about their personalities, likes and dislikes…what gets them to laugh or open up. This family had shared that one of their kiddos was much quieter than the others, and would be al little slower to warm up. Mom also told me that one of these kiddos would be quite the hamm…I’ll let you try and figure out who. I don’t think it will be that hard!

Not all pictures need to capture joy (one of my favorite things to freeze a moment in), but also just as important are those cuddles, and quieter moments where they need that reassurance and love. Honestly, as a mom, those are the images I’m probably drawn to the most.