A row of cozy knit sweaters in neutral tones hanging on wooden hangers on a clothing rack.

Once your session is booked, the fun part begins. I’ve created these guides to help you feel prepared, confident, and comfortable before we ever step in front of the camera.

I know that choosing what to wear, preparing little ones, and wondering what will actually happen during a session can sometimes feel like a lot. My goal is to take some of that uncertainty away so you can arrive feeling ready to simply be with the people you love. Because every session is a little different, I’ve created separate guides for different stages of life and types of sessions. What works beautifully for a newborn session may not be what works best for a family with energetic toddlers, and senior portraits have their own considerations, too. Your guide is designed specifically with your experience in mind, with helpful suggestions for wardrobe, preparation, and the little details that can make your photographs feel more natural and timeless.

Take a little time to look through the guide that fits your session. And remember—you never have to figure everything out on your own. If you're unsure about an outfit, wondering what to bring, or simply have a question before your session, I'm always happy to help.

Black and white photo of mother holding newborn baby girl with headband, young sibling, and fluffy dog in background.

Motherhood/Newborn

For maternity, Fresh 48, newborn,

and motherhood sessions

A toddler with curly hair nuzzles a newborn baby held by parents in red and blue clothing.

Family

For family, children, milestone,

and connection-focused sessions

Smiling redhead woman in floral sundress standing in a golden autumn field surrounded by wildflowers.

Senior/Graduate

For senior portraits, graduates,

and yearbook sessions

Come as you are. I'll take care of the rest.

Your session isn't about getting everyone to sit perfectly, smile on command, or behave like they're in a photograph. It's about creating beautiful portraits while giving your family room to be yourselves.

I gently guide you throughout the session, so you won't be left wondering what to do with your hands or where to stand. We'll create a combination of beautifully composed portraits and the in-between moments that happen naturally—holding your little one close, fixing a strand of hair, laughing together, walking hand in hand, or simply looking at the people you love.

I also build time into my sessions intentionally. We don't need to rush from one pose to the next. If someone is shy, nervous, energetic, or needs a few minutes to warm up, that's okay. Some children need time to decide that I'm safe. Some families need a few minutes to settle in front of the camera. We'll make room for that.

You don't need to practice smiling or prepare your children to "cooperate." In fact, I'd much rather meet them exactly as they are. We'll play, move, talk, take breaks when we need to, and follow their lead when it makes sense.

There will absolutely be photographs where everyone is looking at the camera—and there will also be photographs that capture something quieter and more honest. Because years from now, I don't want you to remember whether everyone smiled perfectly.

I want you to remember

how it felt to be together.

My job is to create the space for those moments to happen and preserve them for you to keep.

Silhouetted couple shares an intimate moment against a warm sunset sky during maternity photos.

A couple embraces in a golden field during sunset creating a romantic silhouette against the warm evening light.

A smiling little girl in a sage green dress holds her mother's hand outdoors in a natural setting.

A silhouetted family shares an intimate moment together at sunset with sunlight glowing behind them.

A couple shares an intimate kiss while sitting together outdoors during a fall photoshoot session.

Family sitting together on white couch while reading book by window in living room.

A small child in a gray pullover sweater holds hands with adults while standing on grass with autumn leaves.

Happy family of four sitting together in a field of yellow wildflowers during summer.

Family of four poses outdoors in snow, parents holding two young children, wearing cozy cream sweaters near brick wall.

Close up of two people holding hands while wearing white and cream colored summer outfits.

Couple embracing and laughing in front of white house with red bow decoration.

Woman in plaid coat and hat holds baby wearing bear hoodie outdoors.

A happy family of four poses in a vibrant sunflower field, parents holding two young children.

A joyful family of five sits on a blanket outdoors in autumn, laughing and embracing in casual coordinated outfits.

Family with two kids petting a happy golden retriever dog lying on a blanket outdoors in nature.

Family of three sitting in a lush green field at golden hour sunset with trees in background.

Couple in cozy winter outfits sharing loving moment by storefront window.

Holiday family portrait by fireplace with star decorations and Christmas trees.

Frequently Asked Questions

THIS IS MY FIRST PHOTOSHOOT, WHAT SHOULD I KNOW?

Comfort is key! Wearing something that you know fits well can help you feel confident, eliminates awkward adjusting and helps you and your family focus on the fun you get to have during the session!

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Frequently Asked Questions

COLORS, PATTERNS AND TEXTURES

Colors should compliment not match, patterns should be used in moderation and textures are a great addition to create movement. Every color has a neutral version, and I suggest muted tones over the primary colors or even black and white. Cream, beige and grey are a great option with nearly all color themes and often blend without too much effort.

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Frequently Asked Questions

DO MY SHOES MATTER?

(AND OTHER DETAILS)

Yes. You want to be comfortable and appropriate for the weather, wardrobe and location. If we are doing a family session in nature or at the beach- you are more than welcome to kick off shoes and play in the grass or sand! Little ones love the idea of getting some freedom and it can create some very sweet moments and memories to be captured.

Don't forget jewelry to compliment and removing a fitness watch if it doesn't match the vibe. We live in Michigan, so having layers to add or remove is always a good idea- chunky knit or even sheer lace cardigans are always a great option!

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Frequently Asked Questions

MAKE YOUR PHOTOS UNIQUE

When you bring props or special items that are unique to you, you're able to create something totally personal, so here’s some ideas:

The doggo, a hat, guitar, skateboard, old car/motorcycle, favorite snack, champagne, or anything you can think of that really captures the essence of who you are.

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Frequently Asked Questions

CONSIDER THE WEATHER

I always check the apps a few days before and continue checking up until that morning because we live in Michigan and you never really know how the day will turn out. Wind and clouds can make it feel chillier than expected, especially in the fall.

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Frequently Asked Questions

CAN YOU RECOMMEND WHERE TO SHOP?

You never need to purchase new clothing for your session—some of my favorite photographs come from pieces you already love and feel comfortable in. If you would like to add something new, I’m happy to share a few of my favorite local and accessible places to shop, from boutiques in Plymouth to easy family-friendly options in Canton.

Gigi's Mode — Plymouth, particularly for women's pieces
Bella Mia — Plymouth, relaxed/bohemian women's clothing
Avabelle Boutique — Plymouth, modern everyday pieces
Once Upon A Child Canton, MI — especially useful for children and babies if you want an affordable option
Old Navy — convenient for coordinating several family members in one place

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Frequently Asked Questions

MOST IMPORTANTLY,

STAY TRUE TO YOU

At the end of the day, it’s all about accurately capturing who you are, so the most important accessory is comfort, to make sure your confidence and beauty can shine through.

Although I recommend clothes that have been broken in, new clothes can sometimes bring that extra boost of confidence.

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Frequently Asked Questions

STILL NOT SURE WHAT TO WEAR?

Don’t worry! That’s what I’m here for! Just send me the pictures of what you’re considering and I’ll let you know what works best. This is your time to shine and I'm here to capture it!

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