Keep it simple! Mom, it's typically best to coordinate (not match) everyone's outfit to yours. Neutral colors like white, cream, gray, light blue, etc work best for creating a light and airy feel. Black tends to suck in light and is usually not recommended. More saturated colors can also work for outdoor shoot to help you pop from the background. Let me know if you need some inspiration!

Of course! Because I am a lifestyle photographer you are not expected to look and smile at the camera the whole time - that just tends to create awkward and stiff photos. I help you set up situations where you feel comfortable and more focused on interacting as a family so that when there are smiles, they are truly genuine. Lifestyle photography is about capturing your family as it is, so if your kid is in a phase where they don't want to smile a lot, that's OK.

Of course! I love animals and understand they are an important part of the family. However, I don't want them to steal the show. For both indoor and outdoor shoots it's best to keep pets out of the way initially so I can focus on the human members of the family and then bring them in at the end to incorporate them into a few family shots.

Photo sessions are for immediate family members - parents & kids (however that looks for you). Additional family members such as grandparents can be included but will require an additional fee. Please contact me for more information.

I love working working with all kinds of families! I understand that every family looks different - single parents, tradtional familes, adopted kids, blended families, etc. If you're a family looking to have a relaxed and fun photo shoot, then I would love to work with you.

Once I have finished editing your photographs you will be invited to a private online gallery. From the gallery you can view and download all the high resolution images as well as order prints. You can also share the gallery with friends and family.

I guarantee a minimum of 30 high resolution images in both color and black & white, but most clients can expect to receive more. (I am a little trigger happy and don't want to deny you any great images).

Midmorning (around 10) is usually best in terms of having the best lighting in your house and kiddos being happiest. Before confirming the final time for your session you should do a little HW and study the light in your house. Sometime early afternoon is best depending on which way your house is facing.

Please contact me at least one month before your due date so I can get you onto my schedule. Newborn photos are typically taken within the first 2 weeks of life when they are more cooperative and still so tiny and new! We can often schedule these for a weekday morning since many new parents and their partners are typically home during this early time.

Tidy up! Since your home will be the backdrop it’s best to clear away distractions that could steal the show away from you and your family. (I know cleaning up with kids around can be tough!). Photos will be taken in various rooms throughout the house, which could include living rooms, child bedrooms/nursery, master bedroom and the kitchen. For example, having everyone snuggle on the bed in the master can often make great shots, so don’t think it’s off limits.

No, I do not bring props to use with newborn shoots. My style keeps focus on the baby and tries to use natural poses. This cuts down on the amount of time for the shoot and helps create memories of your baby in his/her natural state. I prefer baby wearing a simple onesie, diaper or wrap. However if there is a special object you would like to incorporate into a photo, that is perfectly fine. Just be sure to let me know.

No. I am a natural light photographer so making sure there is enough ambient lighting in your home without the use of overhead/table lamps is important. Overhead and table lamps can create a strage tint in the photographs that takes away from my light and airy style.

Free locations include Rock Creek Park, The Glenview Mansion in Rockville, Bluemont Park & Bon Air Rose Garden in Arlington, and Kenilworth Aquatic Park in SW DC. Many locations require a permit for an additional fee. Please let me know if there is someplace you would really like to do your shoot so I can determine whether a permit is necessary.

Lighting is best during "golden hour" which occurs within 1-2 hours of sunrise/sunset. Golden hour creates long shadows and warm glowly light. Depending on the time of year, this magic hour can change so please be sure to check with me about the best time for your shoot. Midday is the worst time for a shoot because of harsh overhead lighting. Cloudy days can make for great photos too as lighting is even and shadows aren't created.