Sessions typically run 1 hour for outdoor sessions, but can last up to 2 hours for in-home sessions. Although I allow plenty of time for breaks if needed for little ones and newborns. I want the time we spend together be relaxing, fun, and to not be rushed; as it takes time to get comfortable in front of the camera and this in turn helps you to look relaxed in the final images. The images do not have to be perfect to turn out beautiful; I find that the imperfect photos are often my favorite! So try not to stress before or during your session if you can. Kiddos and toddlers can sometimes feed off of your stress/energy so letting go of any expectations can help them feel less stress as well. Try your best not to force or bribe your child to smile/act a certain way as we want to capture their authentic and true selves! We can play the session by ear and let your kiddos lead the session; this means if your one year old wants nothing to do with being still we can let them run and play around for a few minutes. Then we can try and contain them by playing games (such as swinging them in between you and your partner) this helps bring out those smiles and giggles! However the session unfolds, we will create beautiful photographs together!

Since I like to keep the focus on you and your family during sessions, I don't bring or use a ton of props in my images (to keep them classic and timeless as possible). Other than maybe bringing a quilt for you to sit in the grass or I have a neutral kid-sized bench that kiddos or babies that can sit up unassisted can sit on. For milestone or portrait sessions, if your child is on the shyer side, you are welcome to bring their favorite comfort toy or stuffy (even if worn) it can be a special keepsake for you to have. It can also help a child to have something to hold, especially in the beginning of our session when we are still getting to know each other. You are also welcome to bring a family heirloom item to your family or milestone session if there is an item that is special to you and helps tell your story. This could be heirloom/vintage clothing (for your baby or child to wear), a special quilt/blanket, bassinet, rocking horse, it could also be a musical instrument like a guitar if you love playing together as a family, etc.

This question depends on season, location, and type of session, but the main thing is what you wear is important and sets the tone for the whole session! (I go into more depth in my family session guide and I also have more visual inspiration in my Pinterest boards!) One of the most important things about choosing outfits for the whole family is to coordinate, not match! Neutrals are always great to start with, and if you have a patterned outfit that one person in the family is wearing, have the rest wear solids that coordinate to not overwhelm. Neutrals like white, cream, tan, beige or grey are great to start with! Adding soft colors such as soft blues, soft greens, blush to add some pops of color. Everyone does not need to be wearing the exact same color(s), in fact, it looks a million times better if you aren't all matching! My advice is to start with mom's outfit first, or if you have a piece of clothing that has a pattern draw out colors from there to coordinate every one else. Maxi and midi dresses are always so flattering on mom and provide beautiful movement in photographs. Long skirts are always beautiful as well. Textures always photograph so well (lace, swiss-dot, chiffon, smocking, etc.) to add interest especially if you are wearing mainly neutrals. Layers also look great in photographs for outdoor sessions! Sweaters, denim jackets, hats, knee high socks and bonnets (for the baby - my weakness) that add texture and interest. Last but not least, keep comfort in mind as well, no one wants a gumpy dad or toddler, lol. Especially for a lifestyle shoot in your own home, being comfortable and being yourself can make or break your session, even more so if you have little kids. If you need further help, don't be afraid to contact me or visit my Pinterest boards under Carson Leigh Photography for ideas!

A lifestyle in-home session is when I come to your home and photograph you and your family just as you are. Being photographed in your own home allows for more natural and athentic photographs, as well as emotion. Lifestyle captures a taste of what your current season looks like and everyday life. Time goes so fast and I love capturing those little details of daily life that often goes unnoticed. I want to capture your toddler making pretend spaghetti for their baby sister, and the little baby shoes in the nursery. I will give you a variety of prompts and we will just play and have fun. I will photograph you snuggling your new baby, tickling your toddler, and just hanging out. I shoot with natural light as much as I can, so don't be surprised if I start opening up blinds and window coverings to get as much light as possible! I also turn off any artfical lights in the home: ceiling lights, lamps, etc. As this reflects unwanted orange casts onto skin. I do have a flash I can use if I need to add extra light to the room. We can also venture into the backyard or onto the porch to spend some time outside if you would like! You do not have to clean your whole home top to bottom for these sessions, a little tidying up wherever we will be shooting will be just fine. I can always move something if necessary (with your permission, of course). This is supposed to showcase a little glimpse into your everday life, so perfection is not needed. Embrace the things that may go wrong, and just embrace the choas!

Great question! Once you book a newborn session we will not choose an actual date to schedule your session until baby arrives (I just reserve your spot via your estimated due date). Once baby is born we can decide what day would be best, usually on a weekday but I can do a weekend date too (depending on availability). I prefer to photograph newborns when they are around 1 to 2 weeks old whenever possible. During this timeframe they are sleepier and we can capture how tiny they are and their sweet tiny features. Babies past this two week window usually start developing baby acne and start waking up. Baby acne tends to pop up around the 3-4 week mark, but this can be edited out of the images (it will just be a longer turnaround.) Keep in mind babies also start to be more alert the older they become. The oldest newborn I have photographed was around 2 months old, so it is doable! We just might not be able to photograph those sleepy, swaddled images and that is okay. We can still capture beautiful memories.

For a newborn session, it is best if baby is fed right before our session (if possible), so baby is happy and has a full tummy. Every session (and baby) is different so I follow baby's lead! If baby ever shows signs of being hungry or fussy during the session, we can always take breaks to ensure we get the best photographs. I have a lot of patience when it comes to photographing newborns (and toddlers!) It also helps if the room is nice and warm, this helps our chances of having a nice and sleepy baby, so either turn up the heat in your home (warmer the better) or turn on a space heater nearby. If baby happens to be awake when I arrive I suggest swaddling them in a snug neutral swaddle to start with, this way they will (hopefully) fall asleep and stay asleep longer. Loud white noise or shushing also is helpful (it reminds them of being in the womb).

Yes and no. I do take at least a couple of everyone smiling and looking at the camera at the beginning, but after that, it is a free for all. I love to capture genuine moments between families, and this includes families cuddling together, tickling, laughing, and playing together. I will give some direction, but everyone should come to the session ready to play and have fun!

If your child (or children) arrive at the session fussy and just not feeling it, I don't force it. If they need time to warm up to me that is totally okay! (I don't recommend scheduling a session when your child is sick or just received shots, etc. We can reschedule when your little one is feeling better!) One thing to do is to not get upset when your child/toddler isn't feeling it or is on the shyer side; instead take a deep breath and relax. If they want to be held we can start the session with them in your arms and go from there. Those snuggly images are always precious. If they are upset or start to cry at any point, we can stop and take a break or we can get creative with it! Either way, we can follow your child's lead. Kiddos and toddlers can sometimes feed off of your stress/energy so letting go of any expectations can help them feel less stress as well. Try your best not to force or bribe your child to smile/act a certain way as we want to capture their authentic and true selves! We can play the session by ear and let your kiddos lead the session; this means if your one year old wants nothing to do with being still we can let them run and play around for a few minutes. Then we can try and contain them (if they will let us, lol) by playing games and little prompts (such as swinging them in between you and your partner) this helps bring out those genuine smiles and giggles! However the session unfolds, we will create beautiful photographs together!

I am completely fine with rescheduling if it comes to a child having a complete meltdown (it happens!) or is sick the day of the session. Trust me, it happens to the best of us.

Documentary sessions, unlike lifestyle, means I do not interfere in what is happening. I become a fly on the wall and just observe what is occurring in front of me. Lifestyle photography is also more "refined" which means there is usually some direction and styling, but with documentary, as the name implies, I just document. Whether it is a child being born, children running and playing in the backyard on a summer day, whatever it is, I would love to capture an ordinary day for your family.

Once your session is done and your images are ready, I will send you an email (and usually a personal text as well!) You will receive all of the best edited images in an online gallery. Most sessions are delivered around 2-3 weeks after your session, turnaround time can be longer in the spring/fall. They will be delivered to you via email in a beautiful online gallery with the ability to download your images directly to your computer (not your phone). For all your printing needs, I highly recommend Mpix for their amazing quality and they have sales quite often on a variety of products.

Yay! I'm so excited to photograph you and your family during this super special time for you. Whether you are getting ready to welcome your first baby, or are wanting to photograph your family in your home; whichever stage you are in, I am ready to capture it! Okay, so what next? All you need to do is click that "contact" tab or "book a session" button and I will send you an email to get all the exciting details about what you would like captured! When you are ready to take that leap and contact me to inquire about booking a session I will try my best to respond as soon as I can. I typically reply in an hour or two. Once we go over all the details and you are ready to book, I will send you your invoice and contract to get you on my calender. So don't be shy to book as soon as you are able! A deposit of 50 dollars reserves your spot. Once the contract is signed and the date is set, we are ready to go! As we get closer to session day I will send a quick questionnaire to get to know more about what you envision for your session and to get to know more about you and your family! I also send out a guide and information with what to wear and what to expect/how to help prepare. If you are booking a lifestyle newborn session I will put you down for your estimated due date. Once your baby arrives just let me know as soon as you are able and we will schedule a date that works best for you. I am here every step of the way, and will send you information about how my sessions flow, ideas on what to wear, and whatever else you need to make this a smooth and fun experience! I am so excited to meet you and photograph these priceless and precious memories! What are you waiting for?! Let's chat!

Sessions typically run 1 hour for outdoor sessions, but can last up to 2 hours for in-home sessions. Although I allow plenty of time for breaks if needed for little ones and newborns. I want the time we spend together be relaxing, fun, and to not be rushed; as it takes time to get comfortable in front of the camera and this in turn helps you to look relaxed in the final images. The images do not have to be perfect to turn out beautiful; I find that the imperfect photos are often my favorite! So try not to stress before or during your session if you can. Kiddos and toddlers can sometimes feed off of your stress/energy so letting go of any expectations can help them feel less stress as well. Try your best not to force or bribe your child to smile/act a certain way as we want to capture their authentic and true selves! We can play the session by ear and let your kiddos lead the session; this means if your one year old wants nothing to do with being still we can let them run and play around for a few minutes. Then we can try and contain them by playing games (such as swinging them in between you and your partner) this helps bring out those smiles and giggles! However the session unfolds, we will create beautiful photographs together!

Since I like to keep the focus on you and your family during sessions, I don't bring or use a ton of props in my images (to keep them classic and timeless as possible). Other than maybe bringing a quilt for you to sit in the grass or I have a neutral kid-sized bench that kiddos or babies that can sit up unassisted can sit on. For milestone or portrait sessions, if your child is on the shyer side, you are welcome to bring their favorite comfort toy or stuffy (even if worn) it can be a special keepsake for you to have. It can also help a child to have something to hold, especially in the beginning of our session when we are still getting to know each other. You are also welcome to bring a family heirloom item to your family or milestone session if there is an item that is special to you and helps tell your story. This could be heirloom/vintage clothing (for your baby or child to wear), a special quilt/blanket, bassinet, rocking horse, it could also be a musical instrument like a guitar if you love playing together as a family, etc.

This question depends on season, location, and type of session, but the main thing is what you wear is important and sets the tone for the whole session! (I go into more depth in my family session guide and I also have more visual inspiration in my Pinterest boards!) One of the most important things about choosing outfits for the whole family is to coordinate, not match! Neutrals are always great to start with, and if you have a patterned outfit that one person in the family is wearing, have the rest wear solids that coordinate to not overwhelm. Neutrals like white, cream, tan, beige or grey are great to start with! Adding soft colors such as soft blues, soft greens, blush to add some pops of color. Everyone does not need to be wearing the exact same color(s), in fact, it looks a million times better if you aren't all matching! My advice is to start with mom's outfit first, or if you have a piece of clothing that has a pattern draw out colors from there to coordinate every one else. Maxi and midi dresses are always so flattering on mom and provide beautiful movement in photographs. Long skirts are always beautiful as well. Textures always photograph so well (lace, swiss-dot, chiffon, smocking, etc.) to add interest especially if you are wearing mainly neutrals. Layers also look great in photographs for outdoor sessions! Sweaters, denim jackets, hats, knee high socks and bonnets (for the baby - my weakness) that add texture and interest. Last but not least, keep comfort in mind as well, no one wants a gumpy dad or toddler, lol. Especially for a lifestyle shoot in your own home, being comfortable and being yourself can make or break your session, even more so if you have little kids. If you need further help, don't be afraid to contact me or visit my Pinterest boards under Carson Leigh Photography for ideas!

A lifestyle in-home session is when I come to your home and photograph you and your family just as you are. Being photographed in your own home allows for more natural and athentic photographs, as well as emotion. Lifestyle captures a taste of what your current season looks like and everyday life. Time goes so fast and I love capturing those little details of daily life that often goes unnoticed. I want to capture your toddler making pretend spaghetti for their baby sister, and the little baby shoes in the nursery. I will give you a variety of prompts and we will just play and have fun. I will photograph you snuggling your new baby, tickling your toddler, and just hanging out. I shoot with natural light as much as I can, so don't be surprised if I start opening up blinds and window coverings to get as much light as possible! I also turn off any artfical lights in the home: ceiling lights, lamps, etc. As this reflects unwanted orange casts onto skin. I do have a flash I can use if I need to add extra light to the room. We can also venture into the backyard or onto the porch to spend some time outside if you would like! You do not have to clean your whole home top to bottom for these sessions, a little tidying up wherever we will be shooting will be just fine. I can always move something if necessary (with your permission, of course). This is supposed to showcase a little glimpse into your everday life, so perfection is not needed. Embrace the things that may go wrong, and just embrace the choas!

Great question! Once you book a newborn session we will not choose an actual date to schedule your session until baby arrives (I just reserve your spot via your estimated due date). Once baby is born we can decide what day would be best, usually on a weekday but I can do a weekend date too (depending on availability). I prefer to photograph newborns when they are around 1 to 2 weeks old whenever possible. During this timeframe they are sleepier and we can capture how tiny they are and their sweet tiny features. Babies past this two week window usually start developing baby acne and start waking up. Baby acne tends to pop up around the 3-4 week mark, but this can be edited out of the images (it will just be a longer turnaround.) Keep in mind babies also start to be more alert the older they become. The oldest newborn I have photographed was around 2 months old, so it is doable! We just might not be able to photograph those sleepy, swaddled images and that is okay. We can still capture beautiful memories.

For a newborn session, it is best if baby is fed right before our session (if possible), so baby is happy and has a full tummy. Every session (and baby) is different so I follow baby's lead! If baby ever shows signs of being hungry or fussy during the session, we can always take breaks to ensure we get the best photographs. I have a lot of patience when it comes to photographing newborns (and toddlers!) It also helps if the room is nice and warm, this helps our chances of having a nice and sleepy baby, so either turn up the heat in your home (warmer the better) or turn on a space heater nearby. If baby happens to be awake when I arrive I suggest swaddling them in a snug neutral swaddle to start with, this way they will (hopefully) fall asleep and stay asleep longer. Loud white noise or shushing also is helpful (it reminds them of being in the womb).

Yes and no. I do take at least a couple of everyone smiling and looking at the camera at the beginning, but after that, it is a free for all. I love to capture genuine moments between families, and this includes families cuddling together, tickling, laughing, and playing together. I will give some direction, but everyone should come to the session ready to play and have fun!

If your child (or children) arrive at the session fussy and just not feeling it, I don't force it. If they need time to warm up to me that is totally okay! (I don't recommend scheduling a session when your child is sick or just received shots, etc. We can reschedule when your little one is feeling better!) One thing to do is to not get upset when your child/toddler isn't feeling it or is on the shyer side; instead take a deep breath and relax. If they want to be held we can start the session with them in your arms and go from there. Those snuggly images are always precious. If they are upset or start to cry at any point, we can stop and take a break or we can get creative with it! Either way, we can follow your child's lead. Kiddos and toddlers can sometimes feed off of your stress/energy so letting go of any expectations can help them feel less stress as well. Try your best not to force or bribe your child to smile/act a certain way as we want to capture their authentic and true selves! We can play the session by ear and let your kiddos lead the session; this means if your one year old wants nothing to do with being still we can let them run and play around for a few minutes. Then we can try and contain them (if they will let us, lol) by playing games and little prompts (such as swinging them in between you and your partner) this helps bring out those genuine smiles and giggles! However the session unfolds, we will create beautiful photographs together!

I am completely fine with rescheduling if it comes to a child having a complete meltdown (it happens!) or is sick the day of the session. Trust me, it happens to the best of us.

Documentary sessions, unlike lifestyle, means I do not interfere in what is happening. I become a fly on the wall and just observe what is occurring in front of me. Lifestyle photography is also more "refined" which means there is usually some direction and styling, but with documentary, as the name implies, I just document. Whether it is a child being born, children running and playing in the backyard on a summer day, whatever it is, I would love to capture an ordinary day for your family.

Once your session is done and your images are ready, I will send you an email (and usually a personal text as well!) You will receive all of the best edited images in an online gallery. Most sessions are delivered around 2-3 weeks after your session, turnaround time can be longer in the spring/fall. They will be delivered to you via email in a beautiful online gallery with the ability to download your images directly to your computer (not your phone). For all your printing needs, I highly recommend Mpix for their amazing quality and they have sales quite often on a variety of products.

Yay! I'm so excited to photograph you and your family during this super special time for you. Whether you are getting ready to welcome your first baby, or are wanting to photograph your family in your home; whichever stage you are in, I am ready to capture it! Okay, so what next? All you need to do is click that "contact" tab or "book a session" button and I will send you an email to get all the exciting details about what you would like captured! When you are ready to take that leap and contact me to inquire about booking a session I will try my best to respond as soon as I can. I typically reply in an hour or two. Once we go over all the details and you are ready to book, I will send you your invoice and contract to get you on my calender. So don't be shy to book as soon as you are able! A deposit of 50 dollars reserves your spot. Once the contract is signed and the date is set, we are ready to go! As we get closer to session day I will send a quick questionnaire to get to know more about what you envision for your session and to get to know more about you and your family! I also send out a guide and information with what to wear and what to expect/how to help prepare. If you are booking a lifestyle newborn session I will put you down for your estimated due date. Once your baby arrives just let me know as soon as you are able and we will schedule a date that works best for you. I am here every step of the way, and will send you information about how my sessions flow, ideas on what to wear, and whatever else you need to make this a smooth and fun experience! I am so excited to meet you and photograph these priceless and precious memories! What are you waiting for?! Let's chat!