768 Settlers Landing Rd, Hampton, Va 23669
757-630-5860
July 25th-August 5th (select dates) we are holding our annual fundraiser for the Peninsula SPCA; for a session fee of $30 for one pet, $40 for two, or $50 for three pets you will get a short portrait session and one 5x7 portrait! The entire fee will be donated to the SPCA. No additional purchase is required but special pricing will be in place if you do want to buy something else. All species of pets are welcome! Sign up here: tinyurl.com/petportraitshampton
Taking a look at the most frequently asked questions I get as a newborn portrait photographer!
When is the best time to do a newborn session? Ideally the newborn session takes place when your baby is 7-10 days old; they are still sleepy enough to stay calm through different poses and prop changes.
When should we schedule their session with you? If you are reading this while you are still pregnant go ahead and get in touch with us! We’ll talk about your session and I’ll make a note of your due date; when the baby arrives you can call me and set up the session. If your baby has already been born let’s get you scheduled as soon as possible!
What should we bring? Do you provide the blankets, hats and props or is that up to us? All you need to bring is the baby! We have many different blankets, wraps, hats, headbands and props. But if you have a special item, like a blanket or a stuffed animal, that you’d like included in the session please feel free to bring it; we are happy to incorporate personal items into your session to make it special for you.
Does it cost more to do a family portrait as part of the session? It does not! If Mom, Dad (and any siblings) would like to be in some portraits please just let us know and we will plan for that to be part of your session.
What should WE wear? We recommend a black long-sleeved shirt for both parents, simple and slimming. :) But you’re not limited to that! I’ve also captured very nice portraits for families wearing white and other light tones. Siblings can wear similar tones to parents.
How long will the session take? Some newborn portraits sessions run as long as three hours, depending on how well the baby sleeps. If there is an older sibling (or siblings) we will get portraits with them first; then they can go play in the waiting room (we have lots of toys and books!) or if a grandparent or friend can drive separately and take them home that’s sometimes what works best as well.
When do we see our portraits? About a week after your session you will return to the studio to view and choose the portraits you want to order. Anyone who is a part of the decision-making process should be there. Payment is due when ordering; digital files are delivered within 24 hours and printed portraits will be ready in about two weeks.
If you have been to my studio or worked with me before you know I am not a fan of "Say CHEESE!" to elicit smiles. Why? Well, for one reason, after 19 years of photographing children I'm just plain tired of hearing that shouted over my shoulder when I'm working. I know that parents just want great smiles from their kids! And believe me, I want that too; but part a photographer's job is connecting with their subjects, not just pushing a button. Whether I'm at my studio or at a school I work to establish a rapport with children and I have a huge array of words and silly phrases that I will drop to get those natural smiles from them. I've also found with some kids that they've heard "say cheese" so much that it no longer means a natural smile, just a pasted-on fake one. So say no to CHEESE and trust me (or whoever your photographer is!) to get those spontaneous, happy smiles from your children!
