Summer 2024 Small Sessions in Colorado Springs
2024 Summer Small Sessions will be held on June 5, 6, 7, 8. To see available dates and times, check the calendar at the link in the blog post. Small Sessions will take place in central Colorado Springs at the locations pictured in this blog. Sessions on June 5 + 6 will take place at Ute Valley Park and Sessions on June 7 + 8 will take place at Garden of the Gods. To secure your small session, complete the calendar section and the form collecting your information. I will set up your client portal for you and get you offically booked into your time and date.
Summer 2024 Colorado Springs Small Sessions
2024 Summer Small Sessions will be held on June 5, 6 7 + 8 in the evenings during the time of lovely light.
To see available dates and times, check the calendar below. Small Sessions will take place in central Colorado Springs at the locations pictured above. Sessions that are on June 5 + 6 will take place at the location in the top nine images (Ute Valley Park) and sessions that take place on June 7 + 8 will be at the location in the bottom nine images (Garden of the Gods).
To secure your small session, complete the calendar section and the form collecting your information linked via the button below. Don’t forget to click the “submit and finish” button. I will set up your client portal for you within 24 hours of your form submission. Your session fee must be paid in full and your contract signed to officially hold your date and time.
You will get a follow-up email from me immediately. If you don’t, check your spam. If you still don’t see it please reach out as it is likely your request did not complete and I want to make sure we get you in babe! Don’t be shy!
The Details
15 Minute Small Session in Central Colorado Springs (see examples of location above)
5 Hand Edited Heirloom Digital Images
Access to Entire Gallery Online for Viewing with Option to Upgrade Your Gallery or Purchase Images Ala Carte
Personalized Wardrobe Styling Service Access to Help with Planning Your Session Clothing
Full Reprinting Rights with Professional Printing Options
Beautiful Session Guide
300.
Some things to note: Session fees for small sessions are non-refundable but are fully transferable to another date with a half or full collection session. In case of inclement weather, Wild Prairie Photography will make a final call on the day of your session and provide you with alternate dates to choose from if we are unable to meet due to weather. Small sessions are intended for immediate family members only and at the location shown above. If you are interested in choosing your own location and having access to my client closet along with a full gallery, consider booking a regular session, you can check them out here.
Come See me on Instagram? So many stories and love going on over there, friends!
Fall 2023 Small Sessions in Colorado Springs
2023 Fall Small Sessions will be held on September 28, 29, 30, and October 1. To see available dates and times, check the calendar at the link in the blog post. Small Sessions will take place in central Colorado Springs at the locations pictured above. Sessions on September 28 + 29 will take place at Blodgett Peak Open Space and Sessions on September 30 and October 1 will take place at Garden of the Gods. To secure your small session, complete the calendar section and the form collecting your information and you are all set!
Fall 2023 Colorado Springs Small Sessions
2023 Fall Small Sessions will be held on September 28, 29, 30 ANd October 1 in the evenings during the time of lovely light.
To see available dates and times, check the calendar below. Small Sessions will take place in central Colorado Springs at the locations pictured above. Sessions that are on September 28 + 29 will take place at the location in the top nine images (Blodgett Peak Open Space) and sessions that take place on September 30 + October 1 will be at the location in the bottom nine images (Garden of the Gods).
To secure your small session, complete the calendar section and the form collecting your information linked via the button below. Don’t forget to click the “submit and finish” button. I will set up your client portal for you within 24 hours of your form submission. Your session fee must be paid in full and your contract signed to officially hold your date and time.
You will get a follow-up email from me immediately. If you don’t, check your spam. If you still don’t see it please reach out as it is likely your request did not complete and I want to make sure we get you in babe! Don’t be shy!
The Details
15 Minute Small Session in Central Colorado Springs (see examples of location above)
5 Hand Edited Heirloom Digital Images
Access to Entire Gallery Online for Viewing with Option to Upgrade Your Gallery or Purchase Images Ala Carte
Personalized Wardrobe Styling Service Access to Help with Planning Your Session Clothing
Full Reprinting Rights with Professional Printing Options
Beautiful Session Guide
300.
Some things to note: Session fees for small sessions are non-refundable but are fully transferable to another date with a half or full collection session. In case of inclement weather, Wild Prairie Photography will make a final call on the day of your session and provide you with alternate dates to choose from if we are unable to meet due to weather. Small sessions are intended for immediate family members only and at the location shown above. If you are interested in choosing your own location and having access to my client closet along with a full gallery, consider booking a regular session, you can check them out here.
Come See me on Instagram? So many stories and love going on over there, friends!
Street Photography Guide with Colorado Photographer
When I was asked to lead a mini session on street photography at the 2018 Dear Photographer Elevate + Grow Workshop in Portland, Oregon, I was humbled and honestly beside myself. The group of photographers that frequent the Dear Photographer community are inspiring, uplifting, and downright amazing (just take a look around their Facebook Page and you will see what I mean). I am blessed to be able to take part in such a lovely group. The Elevate + Grow 2019 Workshop that will take place in Austin, Texas is already sold out and I am excited to say that I will be there. This will be my fourth year running with these girls and can I just say how thankful I am to hang my hat in their group.
Guide to Street Photography
“If you want to be a better photographer, stand in front of more interesting stuff” -Jim Richardson
When I was asked to lead a mini session on street photography at the 2018 Dear Photographer Elevate + Grow Workshop in Portland, Oregon, I was humbled and honestly beside myself. The group of photographers that frequent the Dear Photographer community are inspiring, uplifting, and downright amazing (just take a look around their Facebook Page and you will see what I mean). I am blessed to be able to take part in such a lovely group. The Elevate + Grow 2019 Workshop that will take place in Austin, Texas is already sold out and I am excited to say that I will be there. This will be my fourth year running with these girls and can I just say how thankful I am to hang my hat in their group.
Recently, Adri De La Cruz, founder of Dear Photographer, asked me to provide a video on street photography for their Dear Photographer Instagram TV channel (a new offering from IG that is totally amazing by the way). With this video I felt that I needed to release this guide to everyone who wanted to dip their toes into street photography but was a little unsure of how to do it too. This guide has information for every level of photographer and is approached as more of a confidence boost for those feeling unsure or nervous about stepping out on the streets.
You can download the FREE 7 page Street Photography PDF guide I created specifically for the workshop by clicking the button below and filling out a few details. The guide will be delivered straight to your inbox and you can either download it to your computer or view it straight from your phone. Thank you for stopping by to check out what this guide is all about and I look forward to seeing your street photography images!
The Top Five Reasons You Should Use Dubsado For Your Photography Business
Whew! I have been wanting to write this list for so long and finally, (one year later) I am getting it down! So hang tight, here are my Top Five Reasons Why, as a photographer, you NEED the client resource management software Dubsado in your life…like yesterday (I took the leap three years ago and never looked back)
A Colorado Photographer’s List:
Why I Love Dubsado!
Whew! Dubsado is celebrating its 7th year in business! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, FRIENDS!
So, naturally, I wanted to pull this blog post up to the top of my list and talk to you again about why I LOVE Dubsado and what it has done for my business.
So, hang tight, here are my Top Five Reasons Why, as a photographer, you NEED the client resource management software Dubsado in your life…like yesterday (I took the leap four years ago and never looked back).
Dubsado is on sale for their 7th birthday! Plus, you’ll save an EXTRA 20% off with my referral code!
Yes, the discounts are stackable!!
1. Have you ever had to type the same email over and over again when responding to client inquiries or sending an invoice? Staaap it!
Dubsado allows you to save template emails so you can just select it and send saving time for more important things. Like making yourself a delicious something or other.
2. When a potential client reaches out, how long does it take for you to get back to them? Yes, I get that sometimes you are available to send that email back but sometimes, you aren’t. You know, because you are doing LIFE!
Dubsado helps you keep your interactions with potential clients happening within a timely manner! With workflows you can set up, when you get an inquiry, Dubsado can respond to them with the information you choose! Ahh!! This is where you use your email templates. Handy, right?
3. Have you ever had the conversation with a client where you go back and forth with dates until you both land on one that works? I have and while I love to chat with clients, I want to talk about fun stuff and not what dates we have open.
Enter Dubsado’s calendar function. I can go in, set up different types of calendars for different types of sessions (sunset sessions, mini sessions, etc) and choose what dates and times I want to show available. It’s super smart too. When someone books that date, Dubsado send’s them a confirmation and it’s added to my Google Calendar. If I want to block off personal time and not mess with going back into the calendar to take a date out, I just schedule my activity in my Google Calendar and Dubsado knows that I am busy and takes that date away. This function alone has helped be book more sessions because clients see I don’t have much available when they want to shoot and they are booking faster and earlier.
4. Have you ever shown up to a session and felt like you didn’t really know your client? Like REALLY know them? For me, I love to know my client’s story. It is helpful for me to connect with them and to create an environment for them that will allow them to connect with each other as well. Show. That. Love.
I use Dubsado to get to my client’s “why” through their forms feature. I can create Client Questionnaires (and SAVE THEM for the future, Hoorah!!) and send them to my clients to ask them allll the questions. The forms feature in Dubsado can be used for so many different documents you might want for your business.
5. More on forms! Do you use a million platforms to get all of the info you need when you book a client? Perhaps you are using your gallery service to deliver a contract? I’m looking at you Shootproof users (I still love you though, I just want to HELP you!). Are you struggling trying to keep it all together? I was too.
Dubsado changed all of that for me. I can now have everything in ONE spot. No more trying to remember if someone paid an invoice or signed their contract before their session date. No more trying to remember which platform I had the information on. Here are just a small selection of my favorite features Dubsado has to offer. It’s 2023! Let’s strive to work smarter, and not harder this year, because you know, that’s just not smart.
Lead Capture Forms
These are customized from the ground up.
You can use to them to collect data on potential clients
Create lead magnets and have them auto delivered with the use of a workflow (hello automation!)
Use for your first contact with a potential client
They fill out your lead capture form and a workflow is start to deliver them both a proposal form and your booking calendar with a template email attached with your warm welcome. No more making client wait to book with you because “someone else” responded first.
Proposal Forms
Full customizable on your own or buy a handy template from The Creative Template Shop
Use these to show potential clients information on what offerings you have, what they include and how much they cost
Collect information from clients and have it routed to be saved in your client address book (hello future marketing potential)
Invoicing
Dubsado can connect and collect payments for you via Squareup (my fav!), Paypal, and Stripe
You can set due dates and reminders for clients that include a template email you create, personalized and efficient!
Create packages so you can quickly import your clients choices and not have to type out whats included or pricing each time. One click and it’s there.
Questionnaires
These are fully customizable as well and helpful for getting to know your client
Contracts
Create and save contracts
Include smart tokens so information auto fills such as client name, collection choices and payment due dates
That is just a small portion of the things I LOVE about Dubsado. Not to mention their easy-to-use bookkeeping system and project workflow management. It’s just all around the best way for me to keep it all in order.
Interested? Want to know the cost? I’ll tell you! Normally, Dubsado costs $400 a year (you can easily get that return on investment with just one booking because of how organized you are!)
HOWEVER, THEIR 7TH BIRTHDAY SALE IS ON
FEBRUARY 20 THROUGH FEBRUARY 24 AT 2 PM PT
DUBSADO IS ON SALE FOR $350 FOR THE YEAR
WITH THEIR 7TH BIRTHDAY DISCOUNT!
Pssst…If you enter the code “heyo” or click the button below, you’ll get an extra 20% off your first year!
That makes it only $280 for the first year! what?!
Don’t worry! If you see this post after February 24th, 2023, you can still use my code “heyo” for 20% off the regular price of $400 (that’s $80 off for a total of only $320!)
Ute Valley Colorado Springs Family Session
Laura and her crew (pups too) came and hung out with me after a long time of waiting. We had to reschedule their family session at Ute Valley Park several times due to weather and changing schedules and all the things that come with doing this thing called life. Sometimes that happens, friends. Life gets in the way of doing the things that we want to do, the things we should do, and everything in between.
It has been a while since I’ve blogged anything. If I am being honest, it is because I lack what to say, dear friends. Life has been hard lately. Hard af. I’m in spaces I didn’t think I would be in again. Dealing with changes to life and family. Those things are delicate and figuring them out is like walking a tightrope that has a little too much slack in it when you need it to be solid. So, we do what we do, and we struggle with the end in sight, even if the end is too far to reach out and grasp. It is there. It is always there. Right?
Colorado Springs Family Session in Ute Valley
Laura and her crew (pups too) came and hung out with me after a long time of waiting. We had to reschedule their family session at Ute Valley Park several times due to weather and changing schedules and all the things that come with doing this thing called life. Sometimes that happens, friends. Life gets in the way of doing the things that we want to do, the things we should do, and everything in between.
It has been a while since I’ve blogged anything. If I am being honest, it is because I lack what to say, dear friends. Life has been hard lately. Hard af. I’m in spaces I didn’t think I would be in again. Dealing with changes to life and family. Those things are delicate and figuring them out is like walking a tightrope that has a little too much slack in it when you need it to be solid. So, we do what we do, and we struggle with the end in sight, even if the end is too far to reach out and grasp. It is there. It is always there. Right?
So, with my lack of words, here I am, trying to get some beauty out in the world that was created with my hands, my mind, and my heart. This sweet family connected and I was there to witness it. The struggle of being a family. The struggle of pets, of kids, of things we can’t see on the surface. I am struggling too, but, I am here. I will continue to be here. Coming out of my shell slowly. Dipping my toes into the turbulent waters of life inch by inch until I can either learn to swim in the wreck or the sea gives me mercy. Either way, I am here.
Fall 2022 Small Sessions in Colorado Springs
2022 Fall Small Sessions will be held on September 6, 7, and 8. To see available dates and times, check the calendar below. Small Sessions will take place in central Colorado Springs at the location pictured above. You will receive the exact location after booking. To secure your small session, complete the calendar section and the form collecting your information below. Your session fee must be paid in full to officially hold your date and time and an invoice will populate for you after you submit your information.
Fall 2022 Colorado Springs Small Sessions
2022 Fall Small Sessions will be held on September 6, 7, and 8 in the evenings during the time of lovely light.
To see available dates and times, check the calendar below. Small Sessions will take place in central Colorado Springs at the location pictured above. You will receive the exact location after booking.
To secure your small session, complete the calendar section and the form collecting your information linked via the button below. An invoice will populate for you after you submit your information. Don’t forget to click the “submit and finish” button on the final invoice screen after you have paid your invoice with the “pay now” button. Your session fee must be paid in full to officially hold your date and time.
You will get a follow-up email from me immediately. If you don’t, check your spam. If you still don’t see it please reach out as it is likely your request did not complete and I want to make sure we get you in babe! Don’t be shy!
The Details
15 Minute Small Session in Central Colorado Springs (see examples of location above)
5 Hand Edited Heirloom Digital Images
Curated Slideshow and Instagram Story Set
Access to Entire Gallery Online for Viewing with Option to Upgrade Your Gallery or Purchase Images Ala Carte
Personalized Wardrobe Styling Service Access to Help with Planning Your Session Clothing
Full Reprinting Rights with Professional Printing Options
Beautiful Session Guide
300.
Some things to note: Session fees for small sessions are non-refundable but are fully transferable to another date with a half or full collection session. In case of inclement weather, Wild Prairie Photography will make a final call on the day of your session and provide you with alternate dates to choose from if we are unable to meet due to weather. Small sessions are intended for immediate family members only and at the location shown above. If you are interested in choosing your own location and having access to my client closet along with a full gallery, consider booking a regular session, you can check them out here.
Come See me on Instagram? So many stories and love going on over there, friends!
Brainard Lake Motherhood Session
These two girls. These friends. These magnificent beings. KC and Saylor adventured at Brainard Lake, through the chilly water and silly bugs, to have a mother and daughter session with me. KC wanted a gallery that reflected the nature of her motherhood story. She wanted to feel this time in her life. Really feel it to her core. I’m here for it girl. Thank you for sharing yourself and your story with me. Your bond is one that needs no proof. But, because it’s what I do, here you go babes. Love you to the moon.
Motherhood Session at Brainard Lake
These two girls. These friends. These magnificent beings. KC and Saylor adventured at Brainard Lake, through the chilly water and silly bugs, to have a mother and daughter session with me. KC wanted a gallery that reflected the nature of her motherhood story. She wanted to feel this time in her life. Really feel it to her core. I’m here for it girl. Thank you for sharing yourself and your story with me. Your bond is one that needs no proof. But, because it’s what I do, here you go babes. Love you to the moon.
Pikes Peak View Connected Family Session
Connecting with your photographer is essential: Creating rapport and making the photo session experience time enjoyable helps you relax, resulting in candid images that tell stories. Building a relationship with your photographer prior to your session allows us to get to know each other, get to know each other's personalities, and will enable me to understand your needs more deeply. The more we know about what makes you tick, and what is important to you in your life, the easier it will be for me to authentically document your story. I want you to reflect on your photos and remember your gallery as a whole, not just the images, but your feelings, your soul.
When you have a good connection with your photographer, they will be able to understand and capture the highlights of your life. They should be able to create for you a gallery that reflects your personality, as well as your personality as a family. For me, the perfect gallery captures the physical details of our time together and the emotions and personalities of your children that you know and love. Finding someone you feel comfortable with and can trust to document your authentic love and connection is essential when looking for a photographer.
Connected Family Session with a Pikes Peak View
Connecting with your photographer is essential: Creating rapport and making the photo session experience time enjoyable helps you relax, resulting in candid images that tell stories. Building a relationship with your photographer prior to your session allows us to get to know each other, get to know each other's personalities, and will enable me to understand your needs more deeply. The more we know about what makes you tick, and what is important to you in your life, the easier it will be for me to authentically document your story. I want you to reflect on your photos and remember your gallery as a whole, not just the images, but your feelings, your soul.
When you have a good connection with your photographer, they will be able to understand and capture the highlights of your life. They should be able to create for you a gallery that reflects your personality, as well as your personality as a family. For me, the perfect gallery captures the physical details of our time together and the emotions and personalities of your children that you know and love. Finding someone you feel comfortable with and can trust to document your authentic love and connection is essential when looking for a photographer.
Life isn't about the number of experiences, but the quality of memories. Whoever you choose as your photographer, be it me or someone else, it's essential that you feel a sense of connection. Find a photographer who gets you and turns your story from words and big smiles into instances in time that live forever. I promise that making that human connection is key when we spend time with you in front of our lens. Then, we can see your soul, and the more context we have, the more beautiful it will become.
Will you tell me your stories? Will you share your love with me?
Black Forest Family Session
The Talluto family and I have hung out before. The last time, it was freezing, snowy, and wet, and miserable. This time, it was golden and warm and wooded and all the things for their family session in Black Forest. I love the galleries from both sessions but they are very different. Not only different in location and colors but these kids have grown! In body and in mind. Their family endured long-distance living so the kids could get the best education they each deserved. It was an experience they all loved but they are stoked to be back together as a unit again, especially because the family dog gets to be loved by all now and the kids are excited about that!
Doing what I do, I connect with all different types and styles of families both in size, nature, and inner workings. I mean, that makes sense. Everyone is unique, and I like it that way. I love this part of the “job”. Getting to know the passions and quirks and lives of the people I am spending time with. Personalities are the best to see evolve, especially over the years when photographing families again and again. I love seeing parts of my children in the children I photograph. It makes it feel super personal and for those moments, I feel what they feel it seems. Empathy can be heavy but it can also be the best thing in the world to be able to pick up on feelings and navigate those strange seas with direction.
Summer Family Session in Black Forest Colorado
The Talluto family and I have hung out before. The last time, it was freezing, snowy, and wet, and miserable. This time, it was golden and warm and wooded and all the things for their family session in Black Forest. I love the galleries from both sessions but they are very different. Not only different in location and colors but these kids have grown! In body and in mind. Their family endured long-distance living so the kids could get the best education they each deserved. It was an experience they all loved but they are stoked to be back together as a unit again, especially because the family dog gets to be loved by all now and the kids are excited about that!
Doing what I do, I connect with all different types and styles of families both in size, nature, and inner workings. I mean, that makes sense. Everyone is unique, and I like it that way. I love this part of the “job”. Getting to know the passions and quirks and lives of the people I am spending time with. Personalities are the best to see evolve, especially over the years when photographing families again and again. I love seeing parts of my children in the children I photograph. It makes it feel super personal and for those moments, I feel what they feel it seems. Empathy can be heavy but it can also be the best thing in the world to be able to pick up on feelings and navigate those strange seas with direction.
Can I hang out with you and your crew and dive into the connections of your family and show you some authentic love and happiness? Pretty please? Let’s connect!
The Fruits of a Long Marriage
Where to begin? Dana and Tom, this is what 30 years together looks like, friends. Take a moment and soak it all in. Thirty years of laughter, all-nighters, frustration, blissful times, sad times, downright hellish times. I am sure that you two have seen it all with so much tread worn in your journey. When you connect so deeply that you don’t know how else to feel or think. What a world to live in. A world where you are each other’s anchor. Rooted in the ground so firmly that nothing can disturb the solid foundation.
Maybe those are just wild dreams? What if love isn’t any of that? What if love is simply the choice to keep choosing each day to do what moves you. To keep with the vibe until the vibe isn’t what you want anymore? I know that people say that relationships are hard. Damn fact, friends.
Tokens from a Long Marriage,
an Anniversary Session
Where to begin? Dana and Tom, this is what 30 years together looks like, friends. Take a moment and soak it all in. Thirty years of laughter, all-nighters, frustration, blissful times, sad times, downright hellish times. I am sure that you two have seen it all with so much tread worn in your journey. When you connect so deeply that you don’t know how else to feel or think. What a world to live in. A world where you are each other’s anchor. Rooted in the ground so firmly that nothing can disturb the solid foundation.
Maybe those are just wild dreams? What if love isn’t any of that? What if love is simply the choice to keep choosing each day to do what moves you. To keep with the vibe until the vibe isn’t what you want anymore? I know that people say that relationships are hard. Damn fact, friends.
These two have it figured out and being so, they have a lifetime of memories between them to share. I invited Dana and Tom to bring along with them tokens of their 30-year marriage to remember all of the choices they made and keep on making with each other. I love this part of our time together. Going through all the beautiful and important items you’ve brought along. Their daughter, Kayla brought along a sweet surprise. She had collected letters from those close to her parents that share stories about how Dana and Tom influenced their own relationships and lives. I’m not crying. You're crying. Okay, Kayla, Dana, and Tom are crying. It was pretty damn beautiful and I appreciate the vulnerability they had sharing that moment with me.
Sunrise Elopement at Brainard Lake
Emily and Chase reached out to me shortly before they began their cross-country van trip from the east coast. They had decided they wanted to forgo the big wedding idea and elope during their time in Colorado while on the trip. When they had first reached out, they were interested in eloping at Garden of the Gods, which is a beautiful place! It is close to me and I visit there often. Emily and I had our video call shortly after she reached out and I could tell they wanted this elopement to be something epic (duh, as you SHOULD!). I suggested that she look at some other locations I have listed in my Location Catalog and she fell in love with Brainard Lake.
I had shot at Brainard Lake several times last year and I loved the space so much, I was excited to be going back again. Emily and Chase needed a sunrise elopement because they had plans that evening and it would work better for their schedule. I had never shot at sunrise at Brainard Lake but damn, I was down for it. From my side, this elopement coverage required some special planning. The location is about 3 hours from my home and sunrise was at 5:30 am that day, you do the math. Sleepover! I turned this sunrise elopement into a travel date with my kids and we had the best time visiting RMNP and sleeping someplace new. Best thing about it? I didn’t have to get up extra early and worry about fighting traffic or missing sunrise because I was less than an hour away in Estes Park. I won that day. For sure.
Brainard Lake Sunrise Elopement
Emily and Chase reached out to me shortly before they began their cross-country van trip from the east coast. They had decided they wanted to forgo the big wedding idea and elope during their time in Colorado while on the trip. When they had first reached out, they were interested in eloping at Garden of the Gods, which is a beautiful place! It is close to me and I visit there often. Emily and I had our video call shortly after she reached out and I could tell they wanted this elopement to be something epic (duh, as you SHOULD!). I suggested that she look at some other locations I have listed in my Location Catalog and she fell in love with Brainard Lake.
I had shot at Brainard Lake several times last year and I loved the space so much, I was excited to be going back again. Emily and Chase needed a sunrise elopement because they had plans that evening and it would work better for their schedule. I had never shot at sunrise at Brainard Lake but damn, I was down for it. From my side, this elopement coverage required some special planning. The location is about 3 hours from my home and sunrise was at 5:30 am that day, you do the math. Sleepover! I turned this sunrise elopement into a travel date with my kids and we had the best time visiting RMNP and sleeping someplace new. Best thing about it? I didn’t have to get up extra early and worry about fighting traffic or missing sunrise because I was less than an hour away in Estes Park. I won that day. For sure.
I almost like a sunrise over sunset at Brainard Lake, albeit an extremely early wakeup call, the alpine glow is something of magic as you can see for yourself. That soft orange glow is alluring and mystical and all the things of fairy tales for an elopement in the mountains with your bae. Each couple is special and holds a space in my soul because each brings to the table uniqueness in their love and their story. I am so thankful that Emily and Chase let me help guide them to a location that could tell that story best for them. Creating a space for your love is important to me when helping you plan your elopement.
Planning your own elopement? Let’s do that together? I would love to connect.
Castlewood Canyon Newborn Creek Session
Ashley and her crew were so beautiful to hang out with during this newborn session to celebrate baby Drew (and Ashley!) in the creek at Castlewood Canyon. If you venture just a little bit farther downstream there is a beautiful part of the creek that is perfect for splashing and exploring, without feeling too overwhelmed with littles in/near the water. Easy enough to get to for this new mama while carrying her newborn and her small boys. This is just the second time I have used this location and I can already tell it will be one I will travel to often in the years to come. I’m okay with that.
Baby Drew was a few weeks old during our time together. Colorado weather kept doing its thing and we had to change our date a few times. By the time we met, Ashely and her crew were in a beautiful groove with their new family member. The dance of being a new parent is one I think we quickly forget. It is a mesmerizing flow of love and trust, sacrifice and selflessness, empathy and humility. It is a gift to be able to watch families grow and transform from their small nests, to place roots like trees in the ground and become sturdy forms, strong in the winds of the world. Growing those little babes into strong, just, tolerant people is hard work. Ashley and Bryan you guys are doing it right.
Newborn Family Session in Castlewood Canyon
Ashley and her crew were so beautiful to hang out with during this newborn session to celebrate baby Drew (and Ashley!) in the creek at Castlewood Canyon. If you venture just a little bit farther downstream there is a beautiful part of the creek that is perfect for splashing and exploring, without feeling too overwhelmed with littles in/near the water. Easy enough to get to for this new mama while carrying her newborn and her small boys. This is just the second time I have used this location and I can already tell it will be one I will travel to often in the years to come. I’m okay with that.
Baby Drew was a few weeks old during our time together. Colorado weather kept doing its thing and we had to change our date a few times. By the time we met, Ashely and her crew were in a beautiful groove with their new family member. The dance of being a new parent is one I think we quickly forget. It is a mesmerizing flow of love and trust, sacrifice and selflessness, empathy and humility. It is a gift to be able to watch families grow and transform from their small nests, to place roots like trees in the ground and become sturdy forms, strong in the winds of the world. Growing those little babes into strong, just, tolerant people is hard work. Ashley and Bryan you guys are doing it right.
I loved our time together in the canyon. Ashley, her boys, and their sweet Golden, Sadie, put in the steps with me and we created a gallery they can cherish forever. I would love to connect with you and your family, in whatever stage that looks like, to document the moments that matter to you. Be it a quiet creek or a vast mountain side, I promise, I will be there, ready to make time stop and show you that love you hold in your hearts for each other.
GOG Family Session Prep Using Color Theory
Color Theory. What is it, how is it useful for your family session with me (or any other photographer), and how can I help you figure this whole thing out. That’s what I want to talk about today while bringing you this beautifully styled family session at Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, Colorado. I am new to color theory, thanks to my friend, Stormy Solis who has her own epic photography and photography education business just north of me in Denver, Colorado. I enrolled in her course two years (or more) ago but haven’t really actually taken it yet, oops. That is okay, I’m in groups with amazing people from my connection with her and the AHA community and sometimes those people mention things I hadn’t really heard of before and I get curious. Color Theory was one of those topics and here we are, hi, hello!
Color Theory is essentially a roadmap for combining, manipulating, and mixing colors. I am sure everyone who had art in elementary school has heard of the color wheel and primary, secondary, and tertiary colors. If we dig a little deeper we will discover there are also complementary colors as well as analogous colors. Looking at the color wheel and all of these combinations can help us figure out what type of look you are going for and what will work best in the environment we will be shooting. For Lisa, she wanted neutrals that would help create a cohesive style that matched well with their location, Garden of the Gods. The subtle tones and colors she picked for her family worked well because the colors are similar in temperature and create harmony when paired together with the landscape.
Color Theory and Family Photography
Color Theory. What is it, how is it useful for your family session with me (or any other photographer), and how can I help you figure this whole thing out. That’s what I want to talk about today while bringing you this beautifully styled family session at Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, Colorado. I am new to color theory, thanks to my friend, Stormy Solis who has her own epic photography and photography education business just north of me in Denver, Colorado. I enrolled in her course two years (or more) ago but haven’t really actually taken it yet, oops. That is okay, I’m in groups with amazing people from my connection with her and the AHA community and sometimes those people mention things I hadn’t really heard of before and I get curious. Color Theory was one of those topics and here we are, hi, hello!
Color Theory is essentially a roadmap for combining, manipulating, and mixing colors. I am sure everyone who had art in elementary school has heard of the color wheel and primary, secondary, and tertiary colors. If we dig a little deeper we will discover there are also complementary colors as well as analogous colors. Looking at the color wheel and all of these combinations can help us figure out what type of look you are going for and what will work best in the environment we will be shooting. For Lisa, she wanted neutrals that would help create a cohesive style that matched well with their location, Garden of the Gods. The subtle tones and colors she picked for her family worked well because the colors are similar in temperature and create harmony when paired together with the landscape.
Now, I want to clarify, you don’t have to know Color Theory in order to get amazing color results during your session like these, that’s why I am here! Lean on me. Lean on the tools I provide for you. My online wardrobe styling service is pretty dope when it comes to helping you choose colors that are going to be amazing for you. First, you should probably figure out your location. Green and trees and grey rocks are super different than a lake with red and orange or a space that is mostly white, like our beautiful Paint Mines just 40 minutes east of Colorado Springs. Once you have that location, and what it looks like during the season you will be visiting, then you can confidently start choosing your color palette and gathering ideas for what you want to wear.
Color Theory is a new idea in my brain so, of course, you can totally look good without knowing any of this stuff. A lot of the time we can tell if something looks amazing on its own and we are good to go. Looking snazzy and pretty swell. However, it’s when we want to reach for something a little bit extra with color that we can visit the color wheel and check out what different color theories we can apply to your particular location. Sounds a little intimidating but I am here to help you every step of the way. Reach out to me, talk to me about clothing, send me photos, help me, help you, babe! Together we will make this whole family session thing something you look forward to and as easy as breathing. Promise.
Castlewood Canyon Creek Family Session
This creek family session in the center of Castlewood Canyon was made possible by this kick ass mama and some location scouting by me a few weeks ago. In Colorado, we have crazy weather where sometimes it will be lovely and warm and sunny and then, we will have a snowstorm (like this weekend, and it’s nearly June!). I have sincere love for scouting new locations, even better when I can do it with my family. My boys and I headed out on a beautiful Saturday morning for a hike someplace new. I had been to Castlewood Canyon, but not down on the trails at the bottom. Wow, that’s all I can say. Certainly, a longer hike than most all of my other locations (save a few) but, the crystal clear creek and golden light are absolutely worth the trek down to this amazing spot.
Olivia and her crew met up with me this past fall for family photos and I was over the moon to get a chance to hang out with her and her babes again. This time, with mama along too! Olivia showed up at the park with their “session clothes” in tow as the hike down to the canyon bottom is a bit dirty and you need to have on hiking shoes. Ready to go, we took off down the trail. With each step, the kids were getting more and more excited to play in the water, which made me super excited too! We were all giddy to get in and play, especially Blake. That girl LIVES for the water and we have the proof right here in this gallery.
Creek Family Session at Castlewood Canyon
This creek family session in the center of Castlewood Canyon was made possible by this kick ass mama and some location scouting by me a few weeks ago. In Colorado, we have crazy weather where sometimes it will be lovely and warm and sunny and then, we will have a snowstorm (like this weekend, and it’s nearly June!). I have sincere love for scouting new locations, even better when I can do it with my family. My boys and I headed out on a beautiful Saturday morning for a hike someplace new. I had been to Castlewood Canyon, but not down on the trails at the bottom. Wow, that’s all I can say. Certainly, a longer hike than most all of my other locations (save a few) but, the crystal clear creek and golden light are absolutely worth the trek down to this amazing spot.
Olivia and her crew met up with me this past fall for family photos and I was over the moon to get a chance to hang out with her and her babes again. This time, with mama along too! Olivia showed up at the park with their “session clothes” in tow as the hike down to the canyon bottom is a bit dirty and you need to have on hiking shoes. Ready to go, we took off down the trail. With each step, the kids were getting more and more excited to play in the water, which made me super excited too! We were all giddy to get in and play, especially Blake. That girl LIVES for the water and we have the proof right here in this gallery.
When you book a session with me, you get access to my client exclusive location catalog. This catalog hosts a wide variety of locations in and around Colorado Springs. On occasion, I will find a new spot like this and if it’s good enough, I will add it to the catalog, which is super exciting! I am constantly on the lookout for new spaces that show off the beauty of our state AND ones that are off the beaten path. I don’t really like crowds and I definitely don’t like taking turns to take a photo in a certain spot. Sessions just don’t flow well that way and I want everyone to feel pressure free. Anyway, let’s hang in a new spot, maybe this one? Hit a girl up.
Cheyenne Mountain State Park Newborn Session
The family session that was two years in the making. That’s what you are seeing here. Gerald and his family had seen my work long ago, when Gerald’s son Lucas and his mama, Soraya, would hang out with me each year. They lived in the midwest and being so, we didn’t quite get the chance to connect. A few years back Soraya, purchased a gift certificate (yes, I have those!) for Lucas’ dad. Fast forward a few years, they moved here AND had a sweet baby girl. It was fate that our paths did not cross until this very moment. Getting to this moment was like a careful dance. Reschedules dues to COVID, colds, and the weather. It was meant to be on this day. Perfectly beautiful in all the ways. The universe provides.
This is the first time I have worked with a blended family like this. Seeing my little friend, Lucas with his mom and now with his dad, it’s a beautiful thing to take part in. To see the people that sculpt his mind into one that is always curious, inquisitive, respectful, and kind. Co-parenting at its finest, friends. You can see the love that Kayla (his bonus mama) has for Lucas and it reminds me of the love I have for my husband’s children. The kind of love that is so big it hurts in a good way. Kayla and I were chatting about date nights and she said the only person she feels okay with leaving baby girl with right now is Lucas’ mama. How sweet is that? Soraya, I see what happens when you aren’t there mama, trust me when I say, he’s in the best hands.
Colorado Springs Newborn Session at Cheyenne Mountain State Park
The family session that was two years in the making. That’s what you are seeing here. Gerald and his family had seen my work long ago, when Gerald’s son Lucas and his mama, Soraya, would hang out with me each year. They lived in the midwest and being so, we didn’t quite get the chance to connect. A few years back Soraya, purchased a gift certificate (yes, I have those!) for Lucas’ dad. Fast forward a few years, they moved here AND had a sweet baby girl. It was fate that our paths did not cross until this very moment. Getting to this moment was like a careful dance. Reschedules dues to COVID, colds, and the weather. It was meant to be on this day. Perfectly beautiful in all the ways. The universe provides.
This is the first time I have worked with a blended family like this. Seeing my little friend, Lucas with his mom and now with his dad, it’s a beautiful thing to take part in. To see the people that sculpt his mind into one that is always curious, inquisitive, respectful, and kind. Co-parenting at its finest, friends. You can see the love that Kayla (his bonus mama) has for Lucas and it reminds me of the love I have for my husband’s children. The kind of love that is so big it hurts in a good way. Kayla and I were chatting about date nights and she said the only person she feels okay with leaving baby girl with right now is Lucas’ mama. How sweet is that? Soraya, I see what happens when you aren’t there mama, trust me when I say, he’s in the best hands.
I cannot wait to see your family grow Gerald and, Soraya, Lucas sure looks a lot like you in these photos. Thank you for trusting me all these years to provide you with tangible proof that you were there, in the thick of motherhood. Gerald, I am forever grateful that you have placed your trust in me too. No longer an “admirer from afar”, I got to hold your baby and I still can’t get over how sweet she is. Eeee!! It’s secretly my favorite part of newborn sessions. I’m like, “this is how we do the couples portraits” but really I just want to snuggle the babe. Ya’ll looked cute though so it works. ha.
I can feel that summer is trying to peek through the clouds and cold days friends. I cannot wait for everything it has in store. I have so many new and seasoned families and couples on the books this year already and I am stoked to get to hang out with them all. I do still have limited availability for summer sessions so it’s been on your mind, be sure to reach out soon so we can start our journey together. I want to be the person that you can rely on to document the messy, the love, the real real.
Wyoming Family Session in Colorado Springs
Kris and her family met with me in Cheyenne Canyon for their family session. Kris and I hit it off straight away when we had our video call and I just knew that I was going to enjoy her company during our time together. I was right. Plenty of laughter and exploration was had the evening we got to meet up. This was the first time Kris and Mike had taken photos since Lachlan was born so it was extra special that they traveled down to see me from Wyoming.
Getting ready for a family session with me involves a few things that I feel are imperative to us having the best time possible. One of those things is completing a questionnaire that I have curated to get to know you and your family a bit better. In this questionnaire, Kris expressed to me that she wanted their gallery to focus on authentic interactions and she was worried about looking “off” in photos. I am so glad when a client shares with me their doubts and worries, this gives us space to talk about them before it’s too late. Kris and I visited about her worries and concerns during our video call and I was able to pay extra attention to those specific things for her and deliver a gallery that she is in love with. I will call that win.
Cheyenne Canyon Family Session with Wyoming Family in Colorado Springs
Kris and her family met with me in Cheyenne Canyon for their family session. Kris and I hit it off straight away when we had our video call and I just knew that I was going to enjoy her company during our time together. I was right. Plenty of laughter and exploration was had the evening we got to meet up. This was the first time Kris and Mike had taken photos since Lachlan was born so it was extra special that they traveled down to see me from Wyoming.
Getting ready for a family session with me involves a few things that I feel are imperative to us having the best time possible. One of those things is completing a questionnaire that I have curated to get to know you and your family a bit better. In this questionnaire, Kris expressed to me that she wanted their gallery to focus on authentic interactions and she was worried about looking “off” in photos. I am so glad when a client shares with me their doubts and worries, this gives us space to talk about them before it’s too late. Kris and I visited about her worries and concerns during our video call and I was able to pay extra attention to those specific things for her and deliver a gallery that she is in love with. I will call that win.
What’s more, I got to spend this past weekend exploring some pretty amazing outdoor spaces with Kris and Lachlan in Wyoming, where they hang their hats. I love when relationships with my clients blossom into something beautiful like this. It’s really what makes me the happiest. Connections with good people. You can’t go wrong. Our hike at Vedauwoo quickly turned into boulder and rock scrambling across flats, water, and a scattering of snow. Nearly 8 miles later, we had made it back to the car with everyone’s limbs intact. #winning. Kris had these amazing Skippy peanut butter balls along with juice and it was like the world had laid its jewels at my feet. So. Good. Thank you, friend.
Making connections with the people I work with makes sense. After all, we are connecting over the thing that moves us most, our authentic connections with the ones we love. It takes a special heart to seek authenticity AND to show it. Believe me, when I say, you’ve come to the right place. My heart is (sometimes) painfully open and ready to love on yours. I want to know your story and I want to know your why. I feel so lucky to be able to contribute to the world in the way that I do. Showing that there is love and I can prove it. I can’t think of anything else I would rather be doing with my life.
Engaged at Garden of the Gods
A Garden of the Gods engagement session in Colorado Springs featuring sweeping views of Pikes Peak and the Front Range. I took Jordyn and Matt to my secret spot over at Garden of the Gods. Not too many people hang out over where I like to go and I like it that way. This engagement session was extra special because Jordyn is the niece of one of my favorite people in the world. I swear, their genes run strong because Jordyn and her Aunt Courtney look so much alike. So beautiful in all the ways.
Jordyn and Matt are extra special people for yet another reason. They are pediatric nurses. Matt is diabetic and he didn’t say it but I am sure that his profession probably has something to do with his experiences as a child and wanting to help those babes who need all the love and understanding they can get while in his care. Navigating whatever new thing has come their way is super scary and having someone on your side is the absolute best. What they do is amazing work and I love that I got to witness their love firsthand.
Garden of the Gods Engagement Session
A Garden of the Gods engagement session in Colorado Springs featuring sweeping views of Pikes Peak and the Front Range. I took Jordyn and Matt to my secret spot over at Garden of the Gods. Not too many people hang out over where I like to go and I like it that way. This engagement session was extra special because Jordyn is the niece of one of my favorite people in the world. I swear, their genes run strong because Jordyn and her Aunt Courtney look so much alike. So beautiful in all the ways.
Jordyn and Matt are extra special people for yet another reason. They are pediatric nurses. Matt is diabetic and he didn’t say it but I am sure that his profession probably has something to do with his experiences as a child and wanting to help those babes who need all the love and understanding they can get while in his care. Navigating whatever new thing has come their way is super scary and having someone on your side is the absolute best. What they do is amazing work and I love that I got to witness their love firsthand.
When I got finally got to go through their gallery, COVID, I am looking at you, not. my. friend, I was in love with the authentic moments that I was able to document for them. They had never had photos done before and I could tell they were both super nervous and “didn’t know what to do with their hands”. Well, Jordyn, Matt, as you can see, ya’ll did amazing. Look at your love. You are ENGAGED and the world knows! Ahhh!!!!
Babes. Congratulations on your engagement and a HUGE thank you for waiting to take your photos until you visited Colorado! I feel super grateful for you and know that your wedding will also be something that dreams are made of. Can I come too? xo
First Birthday Family Session Best Tips
This family session at Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs commemorating Arthur’s first birthday was perfect in all the ways. I was hoping to document all of his personality and I think it’s safe to say, I succeeded. Arthur was shy at first but quickly warmed up with some shy bouts in between. Which was totally cool with me. I want kiddos (and their parents) to feel relaxed during their time with me so we can get to all the sweet moments that your babe is bound to throw your way. Sometimes it takes time, but we get there, promise.
So, how do we keep babe happy and the session a successful one? I have a few tips to keep them smiling and you stress-free. Bring along a few of your child’s favorite things to help them feel comfortable. Arthur brought his pacifier holder, Walton, and also brought along one of his favorite stuffies, Star Bunny. Relax and let your child explore – the best shots will be the candid ones! Notice that some of the shots I included are of Arthur exploring his environment. I bet you a dollar his mama is going to treasure those. Oh, and I can’t forget Snaaaaacks. Bring them. You will thank me later.
The Best Tips for a First Birthday Family Session
This family session at Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs commemorating Arthur’s first birthday was perfect in all the ways. I was hoping to document all of his personality and I think it’s safe to say, I succeeded. Arthur was shy at first but quickly warmed up with some shy bouts in between. Which was totally cool with me. I want kiddos (and their parents) to feel relaxed during their time with me so we can get to all the sweet moments that your babe is bound to throw your way. Sometimes it takes time, but we get there, promise.
So, how do we keep babe happy and the session a successful one? I have a few tips to keep them smiling and you stress-free. Bring along a few of your child’s favorite things to help them feel comfortable. Arthur brought his pacifier holder, Walton and also brought along one of his favorite stuffies, Star Bunny. Relax and let your child explore – the best shots will be the candid ones! Notice that some of the shots I included are of Arthur exploring his environment. I bet you a dollar his mama is going to treasure those. Oh, and I can’t forget Snaaaaacks. Bring them. You will thank me later.
Location is something else to think about when planning your time with me and it was an important factor for this birthday family session. I wanted a location that would be safe for Arthur and his family. I have been to this location often and it was perfect for Arthur’s mobility (he is not quite walking yet) because I knew he would be safe in his mama’s arms. It was also important to make sure the location had good lighting and wasn’t crowded. Babes tend to get distracted; you know they do. So, I try to make it so we are able to really soak it all in together, without outside distractions.
Last tip for a successful first birthday session with me (or any photographer). No matter your style, it's important to create a cohesive look for your shoot. This can be done by considering the location, outfit choices, and colors to include in your session. Jess and Arthur came over and tried on several outfits before they found “the ones” that looked the best in the location Jess wanted. After we had their clothing picked out, Jess picked a complementary color for Andy and the proof is in the gallery. Check out the pretty tones in their images below. Riiiiight? Arthur’s hair has a mind of his own but I am not mad about it one bit.
Think you are ready to hang out and document your babe’s first birthday with a family session like this one? Super laid back, stress-free, and photos you can hold in your hand at the end of it all. Worth it mama. Worth it.
Support Your Community with Small Sessions in Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs Small Sessions are open! This year I am offering an indoor and an outdoor option for Spring Small Sessions. Small Sessions is another way of saying Micro or Mini sessions but I took a note from my friend Jocelyn Collins (hey babe!) and are calling them small sessions this year because it’s fun!
For the indoor sessions, we will hang out at Cultivate Studios in Old Colorado City and for the outdoor sessions, we will adventure in an urban creek located in South Springs. Yes, that means we don’t have to travel into the mountain and it won’t be (as) freezing.
Small Sessions are taking place both April 29th and 30th. Read the post for all the details and to book. See you there babes!
Colorado Springs Small Sessions + Community
We can hang out at Cultivate Studios in Old Colorado City snuggling up on your babes during the day or…..
We can hang out at an urban creek around sunset getting dirty (and looking pretty). You pick, friend. I’ll be there.
Not only will you be there too, you’ll also be supporting the Success Collective in Colorado Springs’ endeavor to provide feminine hygiene products and undergarments for homeless women in need when you book your small session.
For EVERY small session booked, Wild Prairie Photography will donate $50 to the Success Collective of Colorado Springs to help them reach their goal of 100,000 items this year, which will fully supply our local Colorado Springs homeless women friends with the products they need to keep clean and comfortable for one year. Pretty rad, right?
You can learn more about the Colorado Springs chapter of the Success Collective on their Facebook Page and also check out the organization as a whole on their website.
The Location Details
Indoor Studio Spring Small Sessions are held at Cultivate Studios in Old Colorado City. Their new street-level studio is open and wow, is it pretty. There are plants galore, a soft squishy bed to lounge (or jump on), several couches and chairs we can utilize (including a beautiful wicker egg chair), and plenty of space for you and your loves to relax.
Think authentic connection in a temperature-controlled environment, perfect for those new babes, small babes, or friends who just aren’t into going outside quite yet with the weather.
Outdoor Creek Small Sessions are held at an urban creek in south Colorado Springs. This location is one I have been seeking since I moved to Colorado and when I found it, I jumped around like a kid (ask my son, he was with me). Location scouting is something that I love to do and when it pays off, it’s amazing. This location is a guarantee to get wet as we cross a low stream to get to the prime spots.
Full details and tips to make the most of this location are shared prior to your session.
Investment and Inclusions
15 Minute Spring Small Session either at the studio or the creek
5 Hand Edited Heirloom Digital Images
Curated Slideshow and Instagram Story Set
Access to Entire Gallery Online with Option to Upgrade Your Gallery or Purchase Images Ala Carte
Personalized Wardrobe Styling Service Access + Client Closet Access
Full Reprinting Rights with Professional Printing Options
Beautiful Session Guide
300.
Don’t forget, with each small session booked, Wild Prairie Photography will donate $50 to the Colorado Springs Chapter of the Success Collective to help them reach their goal of providing 100,000 feminine hygiene products for local homeless women in need. That’s something to feel good about, friends!
Dates + Times
April 29th + April 30th
April 29th Sunset Creek Sessions
April 30th Studio + Creek Sessions. Studio Sessions take place between 12 NOON and 2:40 PM in Old Colorado City. Creek Sessions take place at sunset.
Please see the calendar below for available times for each date. Please note, Creek Sessions are ONLY booked in the evening time slots.
A Few Important Things to Note
Rain dates for Creek Sessions are May 2nd and May 5th. I will make the call the day of the sessions if this is needed.
To book your date + time, select from the calendar below and complete the form that populates. Your invoice will show automatically. Invoices must be paid in full to reserve your date + time.
These sessions can include your entire family (not just mamas and their babes).
I love doggos but being that these are small sessions, so sorry, we just don’t have enough time to include them. You can always reach out to book a full session and bring puppers along! You can check out info on my regular sessions here.
All small sessions are non-refundable but are transferable to a full or half collection session on an alternate date.
Tips for Documenting Your Growing Family
AnneMarie and her crew have changed so much over the years. Their family has grown and I am thankful to have been there for the changes. When I first met them, their youngest boy was only two or three at the most and now they have a baby sister to hang out with too! As a mama to five babes, I completely get that documenting your family as it grows can be a daunting task. I will tell you, friend, it is so worth it. To help ease the stress I have some suggestions on the best way to get started (and some reasons for a session, so you don’t have to find your own, haha!).
Decide what story you want to tell. Do you want to document every year of your children's lives? Or do you want to focus on specific milestones? Knowing what story you want to tell will help you narrow down which photos are most important to document and that will help guide your decisions around photography and professional sessions versus home photos. Some clients love to meet up with me every few years to document their children’s growth. Some meet up during pregnancy and birth and then when babe is a bit older. This family met with me when they were a family of four, then when mama was pregnant, and now they are a fam bam of five! There are so many reasons to jump in front of the lens. They are all valid and you are worthy of having your family’s love documented in an authentic way.
Your Family is Growing, Let’s Document it
AnneMarie and her crew have changed so much over the years. Their family has grown and I am thankful to have been there for the changes. When I first met them, their youngest boy was only two or three at the most and now they have a baby sister to hang out with too! As a mama to five babes, I completely get that documenting your family as it grows can be a daunting task. I will tell you friend, it is so worth it. To help ease the stress I have some suggestions on the best way to get started (and some reasons for a session, so you don’t have to find your own, haha!)
Decide what story you want to tell. Do you want to document every year of your children's lives? Or do you want to focus on specific milestones? Knowing what story you want to tell will help you narrow down which photos are most important to document and that will help guide your decisions around photography and professional sessions versus home photos. Some clients love to meet up with me every few years to document their children’s growth. Some meet up during pregnancy and birth and then when babe is a bit older. This family met with me when they were a family of four, then when mama was pregnant, and now they are a fam bam of five! There are so many reasons to jump in front of the lens. They are all valid and you are worthy of having your family’s love documented in an authentic way.
Find a style that works for you. Whether it's traditional posed photos or more candid shots, find a style that you're comfortable with and that captures your family's personality. If you are looking for a more candid, photojournalist feel, I am your girl! Get everyone in the frame. As your family grows, it can be harder to get everyone together for a photo. But it's worth it to try to include everyone, even if it means getting a little creative with your framing orrrrrr working with a photographer. Mama, you deserve to be IN the frame, not just taking the photo. Promise. As a parent, it is natural to want to document and remember every moment of your child’s life. However, it is important to have realistic expectations when it comes to documenting your family. It is not possible to capture every moment, and that is okay. Be patient. Kids (and adults!) can be unpredictable, so don't expect every photo to be perfect and you will most likely find you love the unplanned “in-between” shots the most. I do!
As your family grows, it becomes more and more important to document your life together. Here are some ways you can utilize technology and printing services to keep your memories at your fingertips. Keep a family photo album. This is a great way to keep all of your photos in one place and to have them organized. This can either be a pre-printed book, like the ones I include in my half collections or photos you print out and then paste or insert into a photo album. I personally use and love Artifact Uprising. Check them out! Use a photo sharing service. This can be a great way to share photos with family and friends who live far away. You can upload to Facebook and Instagram of course, but you can also use photo sharing services like Google Photos, Dropbox and PhotoCircle, all available as phone apps and online with your computer. You can also use these services as a tool to back up your photos. Super important!
I want to help you with this task babe. Let me worry about the details and you just show up with that sweet fam of yours. Don’t stress. I got you boo.
