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The Fall Mini Release

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 Tips for timing, choosing a location, outfits, managing kids, newborns and more!

The Portrait Guide

Planning the perfect family session

THE DETAILS

I am so excited to be working with you, and I can’t wait for our time together during your session. It’s completely normal to feel a little anxious beforehand—life is busy, and most families have a lot on their plates.

That’s exactly why I created this guide. Inside you’ll find helpful tips for choosing the perfect location, coordinating outfits, preparing your kids, and more.

A Calm Start to Your Session Experience

What to Expect &
How to Prepare

time & light • time & light • time & light •

’ve found there isn’t a “good” or “bad” time for photos—every moment can be beautiful. I usually plan sessions based on the look or mood you’re hoping to capture or around your family’s schedule.

Most sessions last about thirty minutes to an hour, and when possible, I love to begin roughly an hour or two hours before sunset. While I understand that this timing isn’t always ideal with little ones, sunset is one of my favorite times for portraits—the light is soft, warm, and magical. I also enjoy capturing portraits at sunrise and in harsh sunlight and shadows when it suits the look and feel of your session. For indoor sessions, I prefer morning or mid-day to ensure the home is filled with plenty of natural light.

Because I prioritize the best natural light, punctuality is important. If we start late for an evening session, we risk losing the soft sunset glow, and for morning sessions, the sun rises quickly and can create harsher light. Being on time ensures I capture your portraits in the most beautiful, flattering light possible, whether it’s soft and dreamy or dramatic and bold.

Is there a "good" time to take photos?

In the warmer months, sunset sessions fall right during what is typically dinnertime and bedtime for little ones — and I get that.

I completely understand the hesitation, that they will be exhausted and not themselves… but I promise, I’ll make it fun. I would choose that dreamy, golden light over an early bedtime again and again.

When you’re looking back on your photos, you’ll remember the laughter, the snuggles, and how it all felt. And you’ll have those moments frozen in the most beautiful light.

If your session is close to dinner, I always recommend feeding everyone beforehand — happy, full kids make all the difference.

And if bedtime will be a little later than usual, consider letting them nap a bit longer that day or bringing pajamas so you can go straight into bedtime when you get home. I promise it will be worth it. 

Sunset & Bedtime

Sunset sessions

ENROLL NOW

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One thing we’ve learned over the years is that our experience of our children is often different from what others see. For example, if you’re at the grocery store with your three-year-old son and he suddenly starts yelling, you probably feel like he’s irritating everyone around you. In reality, most people simply see a cute (maybe slightly loud) three-year-old.

The same can happen during a photo session. Your child is in a new environment, and a stranger is standing in front of them holding a big camera. They may not behave exactly like they do at home. They might show off a little more than usual, or your outgoing child may suddenly feel shy.

Rest assured—it’s all completely okay.

Some of the most genuine images come from the in-between moments—
the giggles, the wiggles, and the perfectly imperfect parts of childhood.

Managing Little Ones

Every season brings its own kind of magic—and its own little challenges too. The key to a beautiful, stress-free session is leaning into what that season naturally offers instead of fighting against it. Whether it’s the warmth of summer, the crisp air of fall, the softness of spring, or the stillness of winter, each one tells a different story, and your photos should reflect that.

It’s also important to come in with a flexible mindset. Weather, light, and even moods can shift quickly depending on the time of year, especially with little ones involved. The best sessions happen when you let go of perfection and focus on connection, movement, and simply being present together.

Lastly, think about comfort—for everyone. Choosing outfits, timing, and expectations that match the season will make a huge difference in how the session feels. When you’re comfortable, relaxed, and enjoying the moment, that’s when the most genuine, meaningful images are created.

Each time of year carries its own feeling—lean into it, trust the process, and let your moments unfold with ease.

Let the Season
Tell the Story

The next

01/04

The soft tones and bare landscapes allow your connection to truly stand out, creating timeless, cozy images.  Dress in layers with neutral colors and textured pieces like knits and coats. Stay close, embrace movement, and lean into those snuggled-up moments—they not only keep you warm but create the most genuine photos. Winter light is softer and fades earlier, giving us that dreamy, diffused glow.

Winter

THE NEXT STEP

02/04

Spring sessions feel soft, joyful, and full of life. Blooming flowers, fresh greenery, and pastel tones create a naturally beautiful backdrop that adds a light and airy feel to your images.

Flowy fabrics, soft colors, and simple layers photograph beautifully this time of year. The weather can be unpredictable, so flexibility is key—but those in-between moments, with a little breeze or post-rain glow, often create the most magic.

Spring

THE NEXT STEP

03/04

Summer sessions are vibrant, fun, and filled with golden light. Long days and warm evenings give us that dreamy sunset glow, perfect for capturing playful, relaxed moments. Light, breathable fabrics and soft, sun-kissed tones photograph beautifully. Be ready to move, laugh, and embrace a little spontaneity—summer sessions are all about capturing real joy and connection in the moment.

Summer

THE NEXT STEP

04/04

Fall sessions are full of deep color, texture, and that unmistakable cozy feeling. The changing leaves create a stunning backdrop, adding warmth and depth to every image. 

Layered outfits, earthy tones, and textured pieces like sweaters, boots, hats and blankets photograph perfectly this season. It’s a time to slow down, stay close, and embrace the crisp air together. 

Fall

The season

Real life is a little messy, but that’s exactly where the magic is. I’ll capture those real, in-between moments that make your family yours—so you can hold onto them long after this season has passed.

Let’s make it something you look forward to every year: your family, just as you are, and my camera telling the story.

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A simple guideline: pick three main colors and weave them throughout the family’s outfits. Don’t be afraid to mix subtle patterns or textures—think linen, soft knits, or delicate prints—which add depth and visual interest.

Also, always keep your location in mind. If your session is in a lush green field, avoid greens that might blend in too much. Instead, opt for shades that stand out softly against the background, creating a natural, elegant balance.

I am here to help. I can even create style boards, send you links to all the items I put in the style board or just be here for any questions you may have.  

A few Guidlines

When planning outfits for your session, think complement rather than match. Your goal is a cohesive, timeless look, not a uniform. For example, if Dad wears a soft blue and pink plaid, Mom might choose a flowing, muted blue dress. Families often look beautiful when choosing color families, like pastels, neutrals, or jewel tones.

What to Wear for a 
Family Session

Perfect for everyone

02
  • Your home
  • Private farm 
  • Studio 
  • Oregon Ridge
  • Pier 5
  • Hampton Mansion
  • Jerusalem Mill
  • BMA

Just a few local suggestions…

While you truly can’t go wrong with any location you choose, as your session is ultimately about you and your family and the moments we create together, however location does play a role in the overall feel and outcome of your images. The right setting simply enhances the story we’re telling, adding depth, light, and atmosphere in a natural way.

Local Location suggestions

Two

01
  • The season
  • Age of your children
  • The overall aesthetic you are envisioning
  •  Where you will be displaying the images
  • What most feels like you
  • If you are on vacation maybe that is a good time to capture those memories
  • What you want to wear and how it matches the locaiton

how to choose what is best for you…

Your session location plays a huge role in the overall feel of your images. We’ll choose a space that feels natural, comfortable, and true to your story.

What to Look For
in a Location

One

The location matters

Where Your Story Unfolds

Click here for the location Guide

These early days are tender and fleeting, and you deserve to be in the photographs too. Wear something that makes you feel comfortable and beautiful, take a deep breath, and trust that this session is about capturing the love and connection you share with your baby.

This session is all about your little one and the love you share—snuggles, gentle moments, and up-close connections that create the tender, perfect memories you’ll want to hold onto forever.

Newborn sessions are slow, calm, and baby-led. I allow plenty of time for feeding, soothing, and cuddling so that everyone feels comfortable. Some of the most meaningful photographs happen in these quiet in-between moments.  

Every session begins by following your baby’s lead, determining what feels best in that moment—whether it’s solo portraits, cozy snuggles with mom, tender moments with dad, or family photos. I make it a priority to capture solo shots of your little one as well as special connections with each family member: mom and baby, dad and baby, siblings with baby, and the whole family together whenever possible.

Dear Mama 

Before your session, try to feed your little one and change their diaper shortly before I arrive so they’re comfortable and ready to settle in.

Of course, newborns have tiny tummies and their own little schedules, so it’s very common for them to need another feeding (and possibly a diaper change) during the session. Please don’t worry about pausing whenever your baby needs you—this is completely normal. I intentionally allow plenty of extra time so everything can unfold slowly and comfortably

Your entire home doesn’t need to look Pinterest-ready, but we do recommend tidying up the nursery and any spaces where we may photograph. This might include your bed, the couch, or a spot in your home with beautiful natural light.

Truly, that’s all you need to worry about. We know you’re in the middle of newborn life, and we won’t judge the dishes in the sink or the baby gear that has suddenly taken over the house.

Lifestyle 
Newborn Sessions

• just the beginning • Your Story •

- Bern Pizzi

She captured exactly the vibe I was looking for. The most stunning pictures and truly cares about her clients. Couldn’t recommend enough! "

I would give 10 stars if I could!! Truly the nicest, caring, most talented! photographer!

“

- Rylee

Can not thank you enough. And thank you for picking up the hat, it really pulled the outfit together. Love these photos so much!"

Absolutely Stunning gallery and the session was so much fun!

“

Show up a few minutes early to give the kids sometime to run around and get settled and so you can have a moment to breath.  Trust the process and let your 
focus be on connection over perfection

The day of the Session 

Let them know how much fun this is going to be. We can play and snuggle and even have time for a snack break.  Bring snacks, water or anything that may help. 

For the kids

We will touch base beforehand to make sure you have your outfits chosen, answer any questions you may have, and ensure you feel excited and confident heading into your session.

Outfits

Before your session, this simple checklist is here to help you feel prepared without overthinking the details.  A little preparation goes a long way in creating a calm, relaxed experience so you can simply show up and enjoy your time together.

A simple guide to help everything feel easy, natural, and stress-free.

Session Preparation

you’ve go questions we have answers

Yes — I can absolutely create a style board for you!

Style boards are a great way to visually plan your session and take the stress out of choosing outfits and colors. I put together a curated collection of wardrobe ideas, color palettes, textures, and inspiration based on your location, season, and the overall feel you want for your photos. It helps you see everything come together so your session feels cohesive, natural, and aligned with your vision.

You can absolutely include as many people as you’d like at your session!

Just keep in mind that the more people we have, the more I recommend booking a full session so we have enough time for variety, group combinations, and a full gallery of images without feeling rushed. Full sessions allow us to slow down, get creative with posing, and make sure everyone is beautifully included.

A lifestyle newborn session is a relaxed, natural photography experience that focuses on capturing your baby in their first days at home, along with the real connections and emotions within your family.

Instead of posed studio setups or heavily styled props, these sessions are documentary-inspired with gentle direction. I guide you into soft, natural interactions—snuggling on the bed, rocking your baby in the nursery, tiny details like fingers, toes, and yawns, and those in-between moments that happen effortlessly at home.

The goal is to tell your family’s story exactly as it feels in this season: calm, real, emotional, and beautifully unposed.

If there are weather issues or we’re unable to hold your session on the scheduled date, we’ll simply reschedule to the next available date that works for both of us.

I always keep flexibility in mind for weather, especially for outdoor sessions, because lighting and conditions are such an important part of the final gallery. We’ll stay in touch leading up to your session and make the call together if a change is needed.

Your session and retainer are never lost due to weather—we just shift things so you still get the best possible experience and images.


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