Motherhood Session-Southern New Jersey

Mommy and me sessions are SO special to me- and I’ll tell you why-

How many memories have you, as mom, been behind the camera photographing your family? How many photos of 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒇 and the kids do you have? So often moms are the one’s behind the camera—they are capturing the moments, but aren’t there in any of the moments when looking back on them! That’s why I always make it a point to get mamas in FRONT of the camera when they get a chance!

Now I completely understand that some mamas hate the thought of being photographed, especially if you are a exhausted and burnt out, but think of this as an opportunity to pamper and treat yourself!

Trust your photographer to get all the right angles, and just enjoy the moment with your kiddos!

This mama came to me originally for an extended family session, but due to multiple reschedules, her session turned into a mommy and me session—which turned into one of my favorite sessions to date!

Any session can be hard with kiddos, especially younger ones, so candids are always the way to go! These girls were full of smiles and laughs, so they made my job super easy! All I had to do was tell them to run and play and the rest was magic!!

Take a look the rest of the images from this session—and if you’re a mama yourself, think about scheduling your own mommy and me session. I promise you won’t regret it!

Fun Alternatives for Displaying Your Photos

Amazing photos deserve an equally amazing display but this doesn’t mean you always have to use a traditional frame to showcase them in your home. Below is some inspiration for deciding how to display your favorite memories.

If your home décor is very contemporary you might want to consider canvas gallery wraps, image blocks or standout mounts to showcase your photos. Going frameless is also a great option if you’re looking for something truly sleek and modern.

If rustic and chic is more your style, then why not turn old pieces of wood into stained photo clipboards, using binder clips to hang the photos against the wood. Another unique option is to hang your photos on a thin cable to make it look like a clothesline. Binder clips also work perfectly for this.

If you are a fan of frames, why not buy different sizes, colors and styles and create one big photo wall that displays a variety of memories. There are so many shapes and designs that you can use to create your photo wall and really make it your own. 

Since we work with so many creative vendors who offer a wide variety of traditional and non-traditional framing and display options, we are able to help you pick a unique option that suites your home and style.

Whether it’s a traditional frame with hand-cut matting, shadow box or canvases, we will help you pick the right option for your home.  No matter which method you choose, get creative. Filling your walls with a lifetime of memories is one of the most special and visual ways to tell the story of your family, so get hanging.

How to Find the Perfect Photo Shoot Location

Choosing a photo shoot location might seem like a big deal but it doesn't have to be difficult! A location usually drives some of the other decisions you will need to make about your shoot so it’s important to choose the right place. Here are a few questions to ask yourself before you decide on a location:

1.      What kind of “theme” do I want? If a particular building or natural backdrop would work well with your theme, look around your area for spots that meet your requirements. If you don't know what kind of backdrop you want, take an afternoon drive around your city for inspiration. It's easy to overlook beautiful spots that are practically in your backyard. Ask your photographer for ideas too.

2.      Are you allowed to take pictures there? Make sure that you can legally take pictures at the location that you have in mind. If it's not public property or available to the public you will need to get permission first.

3.      Is it accessible? Consider that not all outdoor locations may be available all year round or you might not be able to get to them at all. Your safety is also an important aspect to think about before you decide on a location. Taking pictures on a mountain ledge may look neat but it’s best not to put yourself in harm’s way.  

4.      How do you get to your location? Will it be easy to walk to the session location and if not, are you able to change your clothing and touch up your hair and makeup before the shoot? You should also find out whether there is a restroom that’s close enough in case you need it.

5.      Will the photo session be in a public place? If the location you have chosen has a lot of foot traffic, you need to ask yourself whether you are comfortable being photographed in front of others or if you want a more private location.

Make sure that your location doesn’t become a distraction. Your location tells a story so it’s worthwhile to choose a meaningful spot. And if you don’t have ANY idea what you’re wanting….your photographer will be there to guide you ;)

Scott Twins

Meet the Scott Twins!

Noah and Caiden arrived and they were super sleepy and cuddly for their session! They visited my studio about a month ago with their parents and super helpful big sister, Journey. We had so much fun capturing this families love for each other!

This session was so much fun and with the help of my assistant (safety ALWAYS first), we were able to get these guys in and out within 2 hours! Thank you so much for trusting me with your family and I cannot wait these two best friends grow up!

Top 5 Tips for Making a Photo Session with Kids Easier

Family portrait season is upon us and trust me, I KNOW how stressful preparing can be.

If you’re preparing for a photo session with your children, you may be feeling a bit apprehensive. Children aren’t always easy to deal with, which is why the below tips will definitely come in handy before your upcoming photo session.

1. Don't make a huge deal out of it. If you're stressed out and cranky, your kids will usually pick up on it and act accordingly. Their behavior will usually be better if you are relaxed and having fun. You may have to make some compromises to keep the peace such as letting your energetic daughter's hair stay straight instead of curling it into because she won't sit still. Focus on the big picture and don't sweat the small stuff.

2. Make it fun. Let the kids have a couple “fun pictures” where they get to pick their own pose or props. You get to keep the more serious photos while they get to keep their silly photos. This way everyone wins.  If you are struggling to get your kids to sit still, turn the photo session into a game. Simon Says usually works like a charm.

3. Be prepared.  If you're going to be out for several hours, ensure that your children are well rested and have had their nap. Bringing some snacks and activities along is also a great idea. If you are having your own photos taken too then you might want to bring a babysitter or family member along to watch the kids. If you happen to be shooting in a remote location, you never know when you might need something like bug spray, tissues or a first aid kit so bring that along too.

4. Be patient. Save your sanity by trying not to control the photo session too much. Sometimes the best photos come from kids just doing their own thing. Work with your photographer and your photos will look fantastic.

5.  Have a chat. Get your children talking to both you and the photographer about topics such as school or their favorite songs. This allows them to feel more comfortable around your photographer and will also give your photographer a chance to capture a few candid and cute expressions.