I want you to expect more from a photo session with me, because that is what you’ll get. Sure, I come to your house to take photos of your family, but it’s more than that. I am all about capturing the wonderful times you share with your family.
The summer before junior high, my mom begged me and my older brothers Chris and Greg to go to Olan Mills Portrait Studio and get a photo of the three of us. It was a hassle. Mom got upset because we couldn’t coordinate our schedules, and we really didn’t want to get all dressed up to do this. Well, finally Greg took Chris and I there, and we got our picture taken. One photo. Despite my mom and dad having all kinds of family photos on display in their house, this one is nowhere to be found. The problem is, that this photo isn’t us.
It’s not genuine. We were dressed up, though Greg preferred his jean jacket and Adidas, and I would have been much more comfortable in my Airwalks and skater clothes. Mom wanted a picture of us. She got it, but she didn’t get any memories of it. She wasn’t even there. I remember it, but only because it was so out of character for us.
This is not the type of experience I want people to have. I want you to just be together, while I witness the giggles and love that y’all share. Several times during our sessions, I have heard clients remark “It’s been a while since we’ve been able to spend an afternoon together!” That is one of the greatest compliments I can get (at least I take it as a compliment). I want this to be a positive memory for you, and I want the photos to remind you of that day, and those times you shared.
I’m stepping into your life rather than you stepping into my studio where you have to be on stage performing for the camera. Please, lounge on the sofa with your morning cup of coffee while I photograph your newborn exploring the world, or let’s stroll down to the park and play, above all, be yourself.
I’ve met many kids wary of the big guy with the beard, but after a few minutes with me, they see that I am fun to play with (I am just a big kid, after all, just ask my wife!). I’ve often heard from clients how good I am with their children (this is another of my favorite compliments to get). For me, it’s all about engaging them on their level, both figuratively and physically. Get them interested, get them relaxed, then they mostly ignore me, which provides for much more genuine moments between them and their family.
All I ask is that you have something planned you like to do. Do you want to organize a treasure hunt, go for a walk or take a ride to the playground or the pool? Think about what’s most fun and relaxing for your family, the every-day moments you want to look back on and remember for years to come. Just be yourself, act natural, and I’ll do the rest!
I had my wife come along on a couple recent shoots to show how I work. It’s me in action (along with the photos I took)! 🙂
