Family Portrait Experience

Now that your session is on the calendar, here are a few things to help you prepare.

LOCATION

Together, we’ll choose a location that fits your family’s personality and the overall vibe you’re hoping for. Whether it’s the beach, beneath an oak tree, or somewhere completely different, I’m happy to help you decide.

Helpful Resource

→ Choosing the Best Location for Your Family Session



TIME

Outdoor sessions begin about 1½ hours before sunset, when the light is at its softest and most flattering. Many families find it helpful to schedule a late nap or quiet afternoon beforehand so everyone arrives rested and ready to have fun.

SESSION LENGTH

Most family sessions last about one hour. Please plan for everyone participating to stay for the entire session so we can keep the experience relaxed and capture a diverse gallery.

WHAT TO WEAR

Choosing outfits can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! I recommend clothing that feels comfortable, coordinates rather than matches, and reflects your family’s personality.

If you’re not sure where to start, I recommend these resources in this order:

Outfit Inspiration Guide

My complete guide to choosing colors, coordinating outfits, and deciding what photographs beautifully.

→ Read the Outfit Inspiration Guide

Build Your Outfits Online (Optional)

Need a little extra help putting everything together? Use my interactive styling tool to mix and match outfits, experiment with color palettes, and shop directly from a variety of retailers.

→ Build Your Outfits Online Styling code: STYLE

If you’d still like another opinion after looking through these resources, feel free to text me (805-450-4522) photos or screenshots of your outfit ideas. I’m always happy to help.

Tips

• Wear smudge-proof lipstick if you plan on wearing lipstick. There will be kissing!
• If your daughter is wearing a dress, I recommend bike shorts underneath.

YOUR CHILDREN

Parents… This is a no-discipline zone. Seriously. Children aren’t expected to sit still, smile on command, or be “perfect.” Some of my favorite photographs happen when kids are running, exploring, laughing, cuddling, or simply being themselves.

One of the best things you can tell your children beforehand is: “We’re going to meet a friend who’s going to take some fun pictures of our family.” Keeping expectations light almost always leads to a more relaxed experience. Please make sure your little ones are well rested and have had plenty of snacks and water beforehand. Feel free to bring dry, non-messy snacks. Don’t be surprised if I continue photographing during snack breaks!

Helpful Resource

→ Preparing Your Children for Your Session

Tips

• Hug, cuddle, tickle, and kiss one another whenever it feels natural.
• You never have to wait for my direction. Some of the sweetest moments happen all on their own.
• Tell your kids this is going to be fun. I’ll take care of the rest.

YOUR DOG

Dogs are always welcome! Please arrive a few minutes early so your pup can settle in and take care of business. I’ll guide your dog’s attention throughout the session so you can simply enjoy your time together.

Bring:

• Two small bags of treats (one for you and one for me)
• A simple leash that photographs well

Helpful Resource

→ Dog Prep Checklist

PROPS

I generally don’t use props during family sessions, but if there’s something meaningful you’d like to include, just let me know. Please bring as little as possible. I’ll carry everything in my basket while we move between locations.

AFTER YOUR SESSION

Wondering what to do with your photographs once your gallery arrives? I’ve put together a guide full of ideas for displaying your photographs throughout your home.

→ Displaying Your Family Photographs

If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to help. I can’t wait to spend an evening with your family and capture the connection that makes your family yours.

Maternity Portrait Experience

Pregnancy is exciting, emotional, beautiful, and sometimes downright uncomfortable. It passes more quickly than most parents expect, and I’m so glad you’ve chosen to document this remarkable time in your family’s story.

My goal is to create photographs that feel natural and genuine. Rather than stiff posing or elaborate gowns, I’ll gently guide you throughout the session while allowing plenty of room for movement, connection, and real moments together. We’ll celebrate not only your growing baby, but also this moment in your family’s life before everything changes.

Location

Most maternity sessions take place outdoors in beautiful natural light. Together, we’ll choose a location that best reflects your style, whether that’s the beach, beneath an oak tree, or one of Santa Barbara’s many beautiful open spaces.

Helpful Resource

→ Choosing the Best Location for Your Session

Time

Outdoor sessions begin about 1½ hours before sunset, when the light is at its softest and most flattering.

Who’s Included

Your maternity session includes you, your partner, and your children if you’re already growing your family. And yes… dogs are always welcome!

If your children will be joining us, don’t worry if they’re energetic or a little silly. I have lots of experience photographing children of all ages, and some of the sweetest photographs come from simply letting kids be themselves.

Tip

• Feel free to hug, cuddle, kiss, and laugh together whenever it feels natural. You never have to wait for my direction.

What to Wear

The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident. Flowing dresses photograph beautifully because they create movement and highlight your beautiful growing belly, but there’s no right or wrong choice. Wear something that feels like you. You’re also welcome to borrow pieces from my client closet at no additional cost.

If you’re unsure where to start, I recommend these resources:

Outfit Inspiration Guide

My complete guide to choosing colors, coordinating outfits, and selecting clothing that photographs beautifully.

→ Read the Outfit Inspiration Guide

Build Your Outfits Online (Optional)

Need a little extra help putting everything together?

Use my interactive styling tool to coordinate outfits, experiment with different color palettes, and shop directly from a variety of retailers.

→ Build Your Outfits Online Styling code: STYLE

If you’d still like another opinion after exploring these resources, feel free to text me (805-450-4522) photos or screenshots of your outfit ideas. I’m always happy to help.

Tips

• If you’re planning to wear lipstick, I recommend choosing a smudge-proof formula (here’s my favorite). There will be lots of kisses!
• Feel free to bring a favorite hat, meaningful jewelry, or another sentimental accessory if it feels like you.
• Please bring as little as possible to your session. I’ll carry everything in my basket while we move between locations.
• If you’re not ending at the beach, consider making a date night out of it and heading to dinner afterward. You’re already dressed up!

Your Dog

Dogs are always welcome! Please arrive a few minutes early so your pup has time to settle in and take care of business. I’ll guide your dog’s attention throughout the session so you can simply enjoy your time together.

Bring:

• Two small bags of treats (one for you and one for me)
• A simple leash that photographs well

Helpful Resource

→ Dog Prep Checklist

After Your Session

Wondering what to do with your photographs once your gallery arrives? I’ve put together a guide with ideas for displaying your photographs throughout your home.

→ Displaying Your Family Photographs

If you have any questions before your session, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to help. I can’t wait to celebrate this exciting time with you and create photographs you’ll treasure long after your little one arrives.

Newborn Portrait Experience

Welcoming a new baby is one of life’s biggest transitions, and it’s an honor to document these first days with your family. Newborn sessions take place in the comfort of your home and are designed to feel relaxed, natural, and unhurried. My approach is lifestyle-based, which means I’ll gently guide you throughout the session while leaving plenty of room for real connection, cuddles, quiet moments, and genuine interaction.

Below are a few things to help you prepare.

Scheduling

I typically recommend photographing newborns within the first 5 to 15 days, but I’m always flexible. Babies are beautiful at every stage, and I don’t believe there’s a “wrong” time for newborn photographs. That said, little ones change incredibly quickly during their first few months, so I recommend scheduling your session before your baby is around three months old if possible.

Time

Most in-home newborn sessions begin at 10 AM, when homes are usually filled with the most beautiful natural light. Sessions typically last 1 to 2 hours, giving us plenty of time for feeding, diaper changes, cuddles, and breaks whenever they’re needed. There is never any pressure to rush.

Preparing Your Home

When I arrive, I’ll take a quick walk through your home to find the rooms with the best natural light. I often photograph in the nursery, primary bedroom, and living room.

Please don’t worry about having a perfectly clean home. I know exactly what life with a newborn looks like, and we can easily tidy a small area together if needed before we begin photographing.

Your Baby

Your baby is perfect exactly as they are. I don’t try to make babies sleep or place them in complicated poses. Instead, I let them guide the session and photograph them naturally, whether they’re awake, asleep, stretching, feeding, or simply being held.

I recommend dressing your baby in a simple, well-fitting newborn or preemie-sized onesie without graphics or logos. During the session, I may remove the onesie for a few natural, wrapped, or minimally clothed portraits.

Please have a few favorite swaddle blankets nearby, and if possible, feed your baby about 15 minutes before I arrive. A full baby is often a happy, sleepy baby, but there’s absolutely no pressure if feeding schedules change.

Siblings & Pets

Older siblings are always welcome and are an important part of telling your family’s story. I usually photograph sibling and family portraits near the beginning of the session while everyone is feeling fresh and engaged.

The best way to prepare siblings is simply to tell them that a friend is coming over to take some fun pictures of your family. Keeping expectations light almost always leads to a more relaxed experience. Dogs are welcome too!

Helpful Resource

→ Newborn Photography with Dogs

Mom & Dad

These first days can be both beautiful and overwhelming. You may be exhausted, emotional, and adjusting to life with a new baby, and that’s completely okay.

My goal isn’t to make this chapter look perfect. My goal is to document it honestly and beautifully.

You don’t need to perform or have everything together. Simply relax, love on your baby, and let me take care of the rest.

What to Wear

Comfort always comes first. I recommend soft, neutral colors and clothing that feels comfortable and natural to wear.

If you’re unsure where to start, I recommend these resources:

Outfit Inspiration Guide

My complete guide to choosing colors, coordinating outfits, and selecting clothing that photographs beautifully.

→ Read the Outfit Inspiration Guide

Build Your Outfits Online  (Optional)

Need a little extra help putting everything together? Use my interactive styling tool to coordinate outfits, experiment with different color palettes, and shop directly from a variety of retailers.

→ Build Your Outfits Online Styling code: STYLE

If you’d still like another opinion after exploring these resources, feel free to text me (805-450-4522) photos or screenshots of your outfit ideas. I’m always happy to help.

Tip

• If you’re planning to wear lipstick, I recommend choosing a smudge-proof formula (here’s my favorite). There will be lots of kisses!

After Your Session

Wondering what to do with your photographs once your gallery arrives? I’ve put together a guide with ideas for displaying your photographs throughout your home.

→ Displaying Your Family Photographs

You may also enjoy reading a few of my newborn blog posts below for additional tips and inspiration.

If you have any questions before your session, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to help. I can’t wait to meet your newest family member and document these first days together.

Fresh 48 Experience

Congratulations! The first hours with your new baby are unlike anything else. They’re filled with quiet moments, tiny details, overwhelming love, and the beginning of a brand-new chapter.

Fresh 48 sessions are completely documentary. There is no posing, no pressure, and nothing you need to do except soak in these first moments with your baby while I quietly document them as they naturally unfold.

Below are a few things to help you prepare.

Scheduling

Simply text me once your baby arrives, and we’ll coordinate the best time for your session.

If you deliver in a hospital, I’ll photograph your family before you’re discharged.

If you deliver at a birth center, discharge is often quite quick, so we typically meet at your home instead. Depending on the timing of your birth, I may still be able to photograph you at the birth center.

If you deliver at home, I’ll come to your home within the first 48 hours.

Time

Late morning typically offers the most beautiful natural light and tends to work well for both parents and baby. Whenever possible, we’ll plan your session around that time.

What to Expect

These sessions are beautifully simple. I’ll quietly document your family’s first hours together exactly as they unfold, capturing tiny fingers and toes, first snuggles, feeding, siblings meeting the baby, grandparents if they’re visiting, and all the little moments you’ll want to remember years from now. There is no expectation that anyone is dressed up or that your room looks perfect. These photographs are about preserving your story exactly as it happened.

What to Wear

Comfort comes first. Whatever you’re already wearing is likely perfect. If you’d like to bring a simple swaddle or a special outfit for your baby, you’re welcome to do so, but there is absolutely no pressure. These sessions are about documenting this moment authentically.

If you’d like a little guidance beforehand, I recommend these resources:

Outfit Inspiration Guide

→ Read the Outfit Inspiration Guide

Build Your Outfits Online  (Optional)

→ Build Your Outfits Online Styling code: STYLE

A Few Things to Remember

• There’s no need to clean or prepare your room before I arrive.
• Don’t worry if your baby is awake, asleep, feeding, or crying. Every stage is beautiful and worth remembering.
• Take your time. There is never any rush during a Fresh 48 session.
• Most importantly, enjoy these first hours together. I’ll quietly document everything as it naturally unfolds.

If you have any questions before your baby arrives, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to help. I can’t wait to meet your newest family member and preserve these unforgettable first moments together.

Proposal Portrait Experience

Congratulations! You’re about to experience one of the most memorable days of your lives, and I’m honored you’ve trusted me to document it.

My goal is for everything to feel effortless. We’ll plan the details ahead of time so that when the moment arrives, you can stay fully present with your partner while I quietly document everything as it unfolds.

Below are a few things to help you prepare.

Location

Together, we’ll choose a proposal location that feels personal and fits the experience you’re hoping to create. Whether that’s a quiet beach, beneath an oak tree, or somewhere meaningful to your relationship, I’m happy to help you find the perfect spot.

Helpful Resource

→ Best Proposal Locations in Santa Barbara

Time

Most proposals are photographed about 1½ hours before sunset, when the light is at its softest and most flattering. The timing of your proposal has a huge impact on the final photographs, so we’ll work together to choose the best start time.

Session Length

Proposal sessions typically last 45 to 60 minutes. The proposal itself usually lasts just a few minutes, followed by time for you both to soak everything in before we begin creating relaxed portraits together.

How the Session Flows

Every proposal is unique, but here’s the general plan:

• I’ll arrive early and get into position before you arrive.
• You’ll walk to the predetermined proposal location together while I photograph discreetly from a distance.
• If you’re planning to kneel, try to stay down for about 20 seconds. This gives me time to capture the moment from several different angles.
• After the proposal, I’ll introduce myself and give you both a few quiet moments to celebrate together.
• If you’ve arranged champagne, flowers, or another surprise, we’ll enjoy that next.
• Finally, we’ll spend about 30 to 45 minutes creating relaxed portraits while the excitement is still fresh.

Helpful Resource

→ What to Expect During Your Proposal Session

A Few Things to Remember

• Double-check that the ring is in your pocket before you leave. It sounds obvious, but it’s worth one last look!
• Put your phone on silent so there are no interruptions during one of the biggest moments of your lives.
• If you’re planning to kneel, try to stay down for about 20 seconds. This gives me enough time to capture the proposal from several different angles before you stand up.
• Stay present. After you propose, don’t worry about looking at me. Hug, laugh, cry, kiss, and enjoy those first few minutes together. I’ll quietly document everything as it naturally unfolds.
• Don’t worry if things don’t go exactly as planned. If someone walks through the background, your partner notices something, or you forget a few words, that’s okay. Those little imperfections often become part of the story and never take away from the moment.
• Take a deep breath and enjoy it. This is one of the biggest days of your lives. You’ve done the planning. Now it’s time to simply be present.

What to Wear

Wear something that feels comfortable, coordinated, and true to who you are.

I generally recommend lighter, softer colors whenever possible. Creams, whites, tans, soft blues, sage greens, and other muted tones tend to photograph beautifully, especially during golden hour. If you can, try to avoid very dark colors like black, navy, or maroon, as they can feel heavier in photographs and don’t reflect light in the same way.

If you’d like another opinion beforehand, I’m always happy to help with outfit selections.

Vendors & Add-Ons

If you’d like to make your proposal even more memorable, I work with several wonderful local vendors who can help with:

• Picnic setups
• Florals
• Live musicians
• Hair & makeup
• Champagne
• Horseback rides
• Other unique proposal experiences

Helpful Resource

→ Favorite Santa Barbara Proposal Vendors

After Your Session

Wondering what to do with your photographs once your gallery arrives? I’ve put together a guide with ideas for displaying your photographs throughout your home.

Helpful Resource

→ Displaying Your Photographs

If you have any questions before your proposal, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to help. I can’t wait to help you preserve one of the biggest moments of your lives.

Couples Portrait Experience

Whether you’re celebrating an engagement, anniversary, honeymoon, vacation, or simply this moment in your relationship, I’m so glad you’re here.

My goal is to create photographs that feel relaxed, natural, and authentic to the two of you. Rather than stiff posing, I’ll gently guide you throughout the session while leaving plenty of room for genuine laughter, connection, and all the little moments in between.

Location

Together, we’ll choose a location that feels like the right fit for your session. Whether it’s the beach, beneath an oak tree, or somewhere meaningful to your relationship, I’m happy to help you decide.

Helpful Resource

→ Choosing the Best Location for Your Session

Time

Outdoor sessions begin about 1½ hours before sunset, when the light is at its softest and most flattering. This beautiful golden light plays a big role in creating the warm, natural look you see throughout my portfolio.

Session Length

Most couples sessions last about one hour, giving us plenty of time to explore, relax, and create a diverse gallery together.

A Few Things to Remember

• Don’t worry about knowing how to pose. I’ll gently guide you throughout the session.
• Focus on each other rather than the camera. The best photographs happen when you’re simply enjoying time together.
• Feel free to hug, laugh, kiss, dance, or be playful whenever it feels natural. You never have to wait for my direction.
• If there’s something meaningful you’d like to include, such as a bottle of champagne, a blanket, or another sentimental item, just let me know ahead of time.

What to Wear

Wear something that feels comfortable, coordinated, and true to your personalities. I generally recommend coordinating rather than matching, and choosing lighter, softer colors whenever possible. Creams, whites, tans, soft blues, sage greens, and other muted tones tend to photograph beautifully, especially during golden hour. If you can, try to avoid very dark colors like black, navy, or maroon, as they can feel heavier in photographs and don’t reflect light in the same way.

If you’re unsure where to start, I recommend these resources:

Outfit Inspiration Guide

My complete guide to choosing colors, coordinating outfits, and selecting clothing that photographs beautifully.

→ Read the Outfit Inspiration Guide

Build Your Outfits Online  (Optional)

Need a little extra help putting everything together? Use my interactive styling tool to coordinate outfits, experiment with different color palettes, and shop directly from a variety of retailers.

→ Build Your Outfits Online Styling code: STYLE

If you’d still like another opinion after exploring these resources, feel free to text me (805-450-4522) photos or screenshots of your outfit ideas. I’m always happy to help.

Tips

• If you’re planning to wear lipstick, I recommend choosing a smudge-proof formula (here’s my favorite). There will be lots of kissing!
• Please bring as little as possible to your session. I’ll carry everything in my basket while we move between locations.

Your Dog

Dogs are always welcome! Please arrive a few minutes early so your pup has time to settle in and take care of business. I’ll guide your dog’s attention throughout the session so you can simply enjoy your time together.

Bring:

• Two small bags of treats (one for you and one for me)
• A simple leash that photographs well

Helpful Resource

→ Dog Prep Checklist

After Your Session

Wondering what to do with your photographs once your gallery arrives? I’ve put together a guide with ideas for displaying your photographs throughout your home.

Helpful Resource

→ Displaying Your Photographs

If you have any questions before your session, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to help. I can’t wait to photograph the two of you and capture this special chapter in your lives.

Senior Portrait Experience

Senior year is an exciting milestone, and I’m so glad you’ve chosen to celebrate it with a portrait session.

My goal is to create photographs that feel natural, relaxed, and authentic to who you are right now. Whether you’re outgoing or a little nervous in front of the camera, don’t worry. I’ll gently guide you every step of the way so you never have to wonder what to do.

Below are a few things to help you prepare.

Location

Together, we’ll choose a location that reflects your personality and style. Whether that’s the beach, downtown Santa Barbara, beneath an oak tree, or somewhere meaningful to you, I’m happy to help you decide.

Time

Outdoor sessions begin about 1½ hours before sunset, when the light is at its softest and most flattering. That beautiful evening light plays a big role in creating the look you see throughout my portfolio.

Session Length

Most senior sessions last about one hour. This gives us plenty of time for 2 to 3 outfits, a couple of nearby locations (when appropriate), and lots of variety throughout your gallery.

A Few Things to Remember

• Don’t worry if you’ve never had professional photos taken before. I’ll guide you every step of the way.
• Relax and have fun! The best photographs happen when you’re simply being yourself.
• Feel free to laugh, move, twirl, dance, or just enjoy the experience. You never have to wait for my direction.
• Bring anything meaningful that represents this chapter of your life, such as a college sweatshirt, varsity jacket, sports equipment, musical instrument, cap and gown, or another sentimental item.

What to Wear

Choose clothing that feels comfortable, flattering, and true to your personality. I generally recommend lighter, softer colors whenever possible. Creams, whites, tans, soft blues, sage greens, and other muted tones tend to photograph beautifully, especially during golden hour. If you can, try to avoid very dark colors like black, navy, or maroon, as they can feel heavier in photographs and don’t reflect light in the same way.

If you’re unsure where to start, I recommend these resources:

Outfit Inspiration Guide

Start here! My complete guide to choosing colors, coordinating outfits, and selecting clothing that photographs beautifully.

→ Read the Outfit Inspiration Guide

Build Your Outfits Online  (Optional)

Need a little extra help putting everything together?

Use my interactive styling tool to coordinate outfits, experiment with different color palettes, and shop directly from a variety of retailers.

→ Build Your Outfits Online Styling code: STYLE



If you’d still like another opinion after exploring these resources, feel free to text me (805-450-4522) photos or screenshots of your outfit ideas. I’m always happy to help.

Need Outfit Ideas?

A combination like the one below usually creates a beautiful, well-rounded gallery:

• Look One: Casual (jeans with a favorite top or sweater)
• Look Two: A little more dressed up (a dress, button-up shirt, blazer, etc.)
• Look Three (Optional): Something that celebrates this milestone, such as a college sweatshirt, varsity jacket, sports uniform, dance attire, cap and gown, or another meaningful item.

The goal isn’t to create three completely different versions of yourself. Instead, choose outfits that reflect your personality and tell the story of who you are right now.

Tips

• Bring comfortable shoes if we’ll be walking between locations.
• Accessories like hats, jewelry, or a favorite jacket can add personality and variety to your photographs.

Parents

Parents are absolutely welcome! If you’d like, we can take a few family photographs at the beginning or end of the session. Once we get started, I may ask you to step back a little so your senior can relax and enjoy the experience. This often leads to more natural expressions and authentic photographs.

Your Dog

Dogs are always welcome! Please arrive a few minutes early so your pup has time to settle in and take care of business. I’ll guide your dog’s attention throughout the session so you can simply enjoy your time together.

Bring:

• Two small bags of treats (one for you and one for me)
• A simple leash that photographs well

After Your Session

Wondering what to do with your photographs once your gallery arrives? I’ve put together a guide with ideas and inspiration for displaying your photographs throughout your home.

Helpful Resource

→ Displaying Your Photographs

If you have any questions before your session, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always happy to help. I can’t wait to capture this exciting chapter in your life!