I love when newborn families choose the first year package. Watching them grow, is the best!
rochester mn family photographer
Rochester, MN Studio photography: Studio or outside
FAQ: Studio or Outdoor
I get ask this question a lot. Should I do our session in studio or outside? I believe there are so many benefits to both! I’ve many times discussed outdoor photos, but I’d like to spend more time on a studio session. Here are some reasons a family may choose a studio session:
They don’t want the weather to dictate their session time. In studio, it’s always cozy and has the perfect light. No rain delays, or waiting on golden hour. You can wear what you want and stay comfortable!
The light is always good. During the year the sun sets at various times. Very early (maybe before you are finished with school or work) in the late fall and winter and in the summer the sun sets far after some little ones are in bed. Mid day sun is not ideal, but noon may be the happiest time for your kids! You want them at their best, so choosing a time that is best for them and not best for the sun may be ideal.
Your children are contained. I have 2 shooting rooms in my lofted studio. So for little runners, we can close doors and keep them contained! For some little ones the studio lights can be overwhelming but for others they enjoy the flashes and are not distracted by nature.
Props. While I do bring some props outdoors, we have an endless supply in the studio. So we can switch chairs as often as your toddler wants to. We can also use bigger items like my bed set up or my Victorian couch for a clean and formal look.
Wardrobe options are as easy as shopping in my storage room and changing in my restroom. So you can go from casual to glam in one setting. For the picky kids, they can pick out a dress that they enjoy or many to play dress up and make the session fun.
A comfortable home look without all the cleaning! Many of my clients love a lifestyle look and so do I! Going in your home can be hard for some kids who are too comfortable in their own space. My bed set has a great lifestyle feel without cleaning or distractions.
Without travel time, we can spend more time on taking beautiful pictures. This is great for short attention spans. I can change out the set in minutes vs walking around on location.
Studio photos may be the perfect option for your family or if you can’t decide choose a session option that accommodates both!
Rochester, MN Family photographer
FAQ: Family sessions
As a Minnesota family photographer based in Rochester. I have seen a lot in my 17 years in business. I have worked with families of all shapes, colors, orientations, temperaments and sizes. I’m proud to say that my experience gives me a unique perspective into working with your family. Did you know that my educational background is in social work and organizational leadership? Fun fact. I grew up in a home where my parents were foster parents and counselors. I’ve have experienced a lot of chaos in my years and some will say I do my best in chaotic situations.
Family sessions are a lot to prepare for. You take the time to select great clothing (I’m always happy to help with this!) Make sure those clothes fit and your kids put up with them! Then you select nap times to work out and snacks on hand. For older kids or adults, you work around busy schedules and then hope that the weather works out!
Sometimes these things don’t go as planned. That perfect dress is backordered, your sunny day turns cloudy, a work event comes up, your 2 year old chooses that day to not nap. I do family photos every year myself so I know how it feels. I know the stress involved. I also know that in the end capturing their face is what is important. If they won’t keep their bow in their hair, or they end up choosing their dress, you have that memory. That imperfect time is captured and is realistic!
I am very understanding to all the pressures involved in family photos. There have been times I’ve called to say the weather may work out better on a day I’m not scheduled to work and then proceed to change my schedule so your day is awesome. In the end, I want your photos to be great. I also know that sometimes over tired kids light up for the camera and give the best smiles. I used to do photoshoots late at night to wear out my daughter for bedtime. :) I also know kids are flexible and adults are so happy to have those times captured. I would be rich if I had a nickel for everyone who was surprised I got so many photos from the session when it felt to them that the session was a wreck with their children. My camera is quick, I’m efficient and I know how to work with families. Let’s chat about your family session. I want you to have wonderful memories to hang on your walls, so let me help you create that!
