Winter family scene in snowy forest with warm clothing and playful poses.
Couple showing off engagement ring while sitting outdoors.

 

tips & tricks

 

Mini guides to help you prepare for our session.

 

 

 

 

 

Small child in striped sweater holding hands with adults while standing on brick pavement.
Autumn outdoor photo with pumpkins showing playful moment on picnic blanket.
what to wear
outdoor locations
Indoor Locations
best time for outdoor lighting
posing
bringing a newborn
bringing a child
what to wear
outdoor locations
Indoor Locations
best time for outdoor lighting
posing
bringing a newborn
bringing a child
Fall scene with pumpkins and mums as a family enjoys an autumn picnic outdoors.
  • Dress for the season.
  • Dress for the location.
  • Compliment - don't match
  • Wear something comfortable that you feel like yourself in!
  • Natural fibers and earthy colors look amazing in most settings.
  • Avoid large prints, logos, and patterns (unless it helps tell your story).
  • Bring extra accessories!
what to wear
outdoor locations
Indoor Locations
best time for outdoor lighting
posing
bringing a newborn
bringing a child
Couple holds ultrasound photo in front of Chicago skyline during pregnancy announcement.

When you book with me, you will receive an Illinois location guide that has many great hot spots to choose from. From the beaches, forests, gardens & green houses. Picking the perfect location can be hard! Here are some apps that can also help you pick the right spot.

-All Trails

-Instagram

-Facebook

-Pinterest

-Google Earth

what to wear
outdoor locations
Indoor Locations
best time for outdoor lighting
posing
bringing a newborn
bringing a child
Silhouette of woman in red lace dress during maternity photoshoot.

I currently do not have a studio but have many to recommend! Here are some apps that you can rent spaces from.

  • Peer Space
  • Airbnb
  • Vrbo


what to wear
outdoor locations
Indoor Locations
best time for outdoor lighting
posing
bringing a newborn
bringing a child
Person sits on rocky shoreline overlooking distant city skyline at sunset.

Of course Sunrises & Sunsets are the best for photos because of the pretty skies. But there is a deeper reason on why it is actually the best time for photos! The sun isn't so harsh! Shooting around Noon or in the direct sunlight can create harsh lighting on the photos. Using the weather app on your phone will you keep track of the sun!

what to wear
outdoor locations
Indoor Locations
best time for outdoor lighting
posing
bringing a newborn
bringing a child
Woman in white outfit poses gracefully by Lake Michigan with city skyline in background.

Some people tend to get awkward in front of the camera, or even freeze up, and that's ok! Its completely normal! Before our session, I will send over a posing guide with different poses to help you learn and I will help guide you during our session. There is so many resources online to help you feel confident as well - Pinterest, Unscripted and YouTube.

what to wear
outdoor locations
Indoor Locations
best time for outdoor lighting
posing
bringing a newborn
bringing a child
Tender moment between mother and newborn baby with pink flower accent.

For the best results, feed your child at the session! Most babies are aware when they enter a new atmosphere and that can make them fussy. To help calm the baby, the studio will be warm for comfort.

what to wear
outdoor locations
Indoor Locations
best time for outdoor lighting
posing
bringing a newborn
bringing a child
Baby in fuzzy coat sits with pumpkins during autumn photoshoot.

It's common that most kids get antsy, fussy or side tracked during a shoot! Bringing your Childs favorite toy, blanket, or comfort item that can help during a session. If you have a teenager, we can "bribe" with candy (with your permission of course)!