Hey There!

First and foremost, these images, we are about to create together, are meant to act as a time machine for you, your children, grandchildren, and those that will come long after you leave this place.

My approach and process is a culmination of 17 years of photographing families as my full time career. I have witnessed and documented familial dynamics and connection at all stages of life… all of them.

I am a very casual, down to earth, playful educator and artist that will meet each individual right where they are. No judgement here.

• I will circle everyone up, introduce myself and give everyone a quick rundown of events and what to expect.

  Please note that very few of those things are in this document.

• Snacks: Please avoid Cheetos, chocolate, or foods with a lot of dye in them.

• Drink a lot of water leading up to your session date

• Have accessible water

• Bring a light sweater or wrap

• Ladies, sparkles on skin do not translate well

• Outfit changes are great but we need to be strategic with timing. Our time together will go by very quickly.

• Allow everyone to wear something they love, feel good in, and that has been worn at least a few times prior. If new clothing has been purchased please wash it at least once. Fold marks are a disaster.

• Montana: Having bear spray handy is wise.

FOOTWEAR:

• Chances are we will be in the forest. If you want to rock high heels, go for it but please be prepared with proper footwear to walk if needed.

• If someone wants to wear flip flops… let them.

It’s about love and creating a safe, playful, connected environment that everyone wants to revisit and look back on fondly.

• It’s the best nonverbal cue that most kids already know. I use it mostly when chaos reaches a certain point, we need to regroup, or I can sense subtle shifts in energy. It also allows me keep shooting with one hand.

• You will get the most out of your investment when you allow me to lead.

• Kids will naturally test boundaries.

• Don’t worry, I love collaboration. Kids have some wacky posing ideas. Play along. It happens quick. There will be a good mix of traditional portraits, candid, and silly shots.

• Please do not be offended if I do not remember your name. My brain is operating different systems, very quickly, and please know that I see you, feel you, and I’ve got your back.

• Sometimes I change direction quickly for a 100 different reasons. Just roll with me.

• As long as kids are not being dangerous or cruel sit back, relax, allow everyone to be exactly who they are.

PLEASE LET THEM:

• Pick up sticks, rocks, pinecones….

• Make ridiculous faces

• Cry

• Be shy or apprehensive

• Hold their bodies in whatever ways that make them feel safe/comfortable

• Stim

• Opt out to take a short break. I will circle them back in.

• Having phones out for any reason.

• Instructing/directing

• Bribes

• Yelling, taunting, teasing, shaming, or threatening, the kids in any way. For example, “Put your hands down! Smile right! Be normal…. Don’t make that face… Threats: Do you want to stay home while we’re at the lake tomorrow?”

• Nothing kills a kid’s authenticity faster than an adult demanding a smile on cue. They feel the pressure of being onstage and it will burn them out in minutes.

• Fake forced smiles will not end up you gallery. So, let’s avoid encouraging that.

When it comes down to it, I am a stranger providing a deeply personal experience. I become part of your family for 2 short hours.

• I will ask permission before touching anyone. May I fix your hair, shirt….

• I will ask questions to foster connection.

• Emotions may come up. Let them. It’s beautiful.

• Sometimes adults prompt hugs as a respectful salutation when leaving. I didn’t like that as a kid so I’ve made it a practice to offer high fives to kids at departure. A solid good game and a high five goes so much farther.

PS. Having a treat prepared for immediately after the session that the kids will be excited about is a fun incentive. Device time, smores, popcorn…. whatever lights them up.

Thank you for trusting me with your family.

Amy

406.261.8152