I’m really looking forward to meeting you and your family for our upcoming Christmas Tree Farm photography session.
Mini Sessions are a great way to get updated family photos every year without breaking the bank and having to keep the kids happy for a full 1 hour session. After you’ve booked your mini session, you may be wondering about the best ways to get the most out of those 15 minutes. So I’ve put together some tips and useful information on how to prepare and what to expect for your mini session. If you have any questions, please contact me any time.
What to expect
Our mini photography session will last 15-20 minutes.
I will take a variety of photographs – individuals, pairings and family groups. If you’ve got something specific in mind, please do let me know!
I will guide you through the session to help you feel relaxed – most of my images with children are based on fun and games to keep everyone relaxed and capture natural expressions.
The session will revolve entirely around the children, please try to ensure they are well rested and fed.
I might ask for your assistance in capturing the attention of younger children
For sessions with babies or young children, please bring wet wipes, spare clothes and nappies, and a favourite toy.
Arrive Early
Please do your best to be on time. Mini sessions are short and I have several clients scheduled one after the other. If you arrive late, you may lose session time and impact the number of images you receive. Arriving about 10-15 minutes early gives you plenty of time to get everyone out of the car, and to the photo shoot area, especially with social distancing rules in place.
The farm is very large and you will be able to drive to my location. Please msg me on 289-204-3777 when you arrive so we can locate each other.
What Should We Wear?
*Try to plan your outfits well in advance*
Neutrals and/or Christmas colours will look best. Muted tones like white, beige, ivory, grey, and navy. Christmas colours like reds, greens, ivory/white, golds look amazing at the tree farm. Add a little pattern, like plaid, to one person in the group.
Dress appropriately for the weather. If it says it's going to be -10, dress so you won't be cold. You don't want to be uncomfortably cold because it'll show in your photos. The sessions are short so you can always bring your coat and take it off for a few shots.
Preparing Your Child
If you know that your kids aren’t great in front of the camera or with meeting new people, bring along a few tricks that may help. This could be a toy that you can hold to get their attention, or a treat. You know your kids better than I do, so it’s always nice to come prepared. The only downside to mini sessions is that we just jump in with no warm up time.
Let the kids know you are doing a photo shoot a few days before so it is not a surprise for them. A great way to get them excited about the session is to practice some poses together. Remember this day is about you and your family (well mostly your kids) so try not to stress. Children can sense stress and it will show in the photos. A little bit of goofiness and giggling can actually make some of the best photos. Relax, be happy and have fun!
I like casual shots that feel natural, which in my opinion are usually the most beautiful. I can direct as needed, but also feel free to just be in the moment with your family.
P.S ... Don't surprise dad at the last minute! ;)
Social distancing
I will maintain 6ft or more distance from your family at all times. I will be shooting with a zoom lens that will not require me to get close to you.
I won’t be shaking your hand, straightening your child’s t-shirt, or tickling tiny toes.. but I will be greeting you from a safe distance with a big smile and a wave. I’ll be asking you to straighten that t-shirt, or maybe just ruffle it up even more to get the giggles flowing.
I’ll be washing my hands carefully before and after, and wiping down my equipment – just in case. I will also be vigilent and postponing our session if I, or my family members, should display any symptoms – and I ask that you do too. Together, we can make it work.
I do ask that you bring your own blanket for seated poses. I will be bringing a few blankets, however I will only allow one family per blanket.
I am looking forward to working with you!
If you have any questions at all, please don't hesitate to let me know :)