Session Information & FAQ

Let me start by saying that I am so glad you are here! I would love to photograph your family, but I know it can be daunting and a little intimidating to plan for photos, but as we all know, it is priceless to have tangible memories of you with your family, not just the ones taking the photos, am I right, mamas?

 

I am here every step of the way to help make this process as easy as it possible, so below I have a description of each session I offer and towards the end I have some common questions answered that might help calm those fears (like what if my child doesn't cooperate?)  We have all been there! So sit back and let me do all the work, I would love to photograph your family! Time goes too quickly to not be in photos!! 

 

Session Info

What should we expect for our session together?

Sessions typically run 1 hour for outdoor sessions, but can be longer for in-home sessions, (and for posed newborn sessions can last up to 2-3 hours). Although I allow plenty of time for breaks if needed for little ones. 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. Feeling stressed often leads to stressed kids, and parents (Dads I'm looking at you, too! Lol) If your child (or children) go crazy and want to run around; it is perfectly okay to let them. I encourage it even! Do not worry if they are not in the best of moods, as I can still get beautiful photographs with them snuggling against your neck. Let go of your expectations, and we will create beautiful photographs together!



What is a Fresh 48 session?

A Fresh 48 Session is an option for those not looking to capture the whole birth of their baby, but still want to remember and relish those first precious days in the hospital with their new baby. If you book a Fresh 48, I come up to the hospital during either the first or second day of your hospital stay. Fresh 48 sessions are very lifestyle in nature, meaning I capture you and your significant other with baby in the hospital evironment, (if you are giving birth in a hospital) to capture all those special moments and memories that you don't ever want to forget. I typically photograph baby in the iconic hospital blanket, in the bassinet, as well as any other special outfit you would like baby photographed in. Such as baby's going home outfit, etc. I will capture baby with the joyful parents (you!) as well as all the details that you might have passed by the first time: fresh baby toes, wrinkly fingers, baby cries, that head full (or not!) of hair! I also can use this time to capture big brother(s) or sister(s) meeting baby for the first time. The first 24-48 hours can be a blur--so you won't regret capturing your baby (or babies!) when they are still so wrinkly and new.



What does your style of "posed" newborn photography mean?

If you love classic and simple, I'm your girl! I tend to pose my newborns in a minimal and simple way. I pose baby mostly on their back or side, mainly for safety and style reasons. I use baby-led posing, which means I go by what baby likes, so if they don't like something I don't force it! I love keeping my newborn photos classic as much as I can, so I tend to gravitate towards using neutral colors such as white and/or cream. I do use other accent colors as well such as blush, navy or gray. If you have a preference on what colors you would like don't be afraid to let me know! I want to create images of your baby that you will love! I don't do alot of the "typical" poses that some newborn photographers do, such as the "froggy pose" (where the baby looks like his head is in his hands), or putting babies in buckets or other props. Although there are amazing photographers who rock that style! If this is you let me know and I can refer you to other local photographers in our area. I do use neutral soft wraps to cover baby's sensitive areas and to add texture and interest; and I do have a select number of tiny adorable headbands available for use, but my favorite shots are usually just baby without anything on their head (unless you prefer otherwise of course). I love to include parents and siblings as wel! My style for posed, "studio" style newborn sessions are simple, natural, and organic in nature. Meaning, I like the baby to be the focus, short and simple. I strive to give parents classic and timeless images of their little ones to treasure for the years to come! If you have any questions just let me know!



How should I prepare for our newborn session?

For a newborn session, it is best if baby is fed right before our session, so baby is happy and has a full tummy. Every session (and baby) is different so I follow baby's lead; so if baby gets hungry, or fussy during the session, we can always take breaks to ensure we get the best photographs. It also helps if room is nice and warm, to keep baby nice and cozy for a lifestyle session in your home, but I do bring along a heater to keep things extra comfortable for baby if it's a posed newborn session.



What is a lifestyle in-home session? And what does it entail?

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 (so I don't bring lighting equipment); 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. 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. Plus it is impossible, so embrace the things that may go wrong, and just embrace the choas! Haha.



What should I bring to our family or portrait session?

I don't bring or use a ton of props in my images, (to keep them classic and timeless as possible) but if there is a special object or keepsake you want to include in your session, I would love to include it. For a child being photographed, this could be a special blanket or lovey (even if worn) can be a special keepsake and it also helps a child to have something to hold, especially in the beginning of our session when we are still getting to know each other. This could also be a musical instrument like a guitar if you love playing together as a family or a special family heirloom item, etc.



What should we wear to our family session?

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 shoot! 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, or grey are great to start with! Everyone does not need to be wearing the exact same color(s), in fact, it looks a million times better if you aren't matching! Layers always look great in photographs! Sweaters, denim jackets, hats, and bonnets (for the baby - my weakness) that add texture and interest. Last but not least, wear something you can be comfortable in! Maxi dresses for mom are always a win, jeans and a cute shirt, a cute twirly dress, etc. For a session in your home, I reccomend nuetral or soft colors: white, cream, beige, gray, blush, soft blues, greens, etc. 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 for ideas!



Do you take traditional family portraits with everyone looking and smiling at the camera?

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!



What if my child is cranky or fussy during our family or portrait session?

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. One thing to do is to not get upset, and instead, take a deep breath, and relax. If they are more comfortable holding onto mom or dad, we can start off taking images with either parent (if it is a family session, which can lead to sweet snuggling images) and eventually the child should be okay being photographed. If not, don't sweat it!



What happens if my child completely has a meltdown or is sick the day of session?

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.



Do you offer documentary sessions? What is the difference between that and lifestyle?

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.



How and when do we recieve our images?

All of the edited images in your gallery will be finished in 1-2 weeks. 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 prints, I highly recommend Mpix for their amazing quality.



I'm ready to book! What do I need to do?

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 of five 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. I will also probably send a quick questionaire to get to know more about what you envision for your session. Once the contract is signed and the date is set, we are ready to go! If you are booking a birth or newborn session I will put you down for your estimated due date, and when you go in labor (I am on call as soon as you are close to you due date or around 37 weeks) or you deliver that sweet baby) we will schedule a date that works best for you and we will go from there! 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!



How does birth photography work?

Birth photography is becoming more and more popular, with more moms than ever opting to have a professional photographer capture the moment her baby takes their first breath. It is such a special and once-in-a-lifetime moment that can't be replicated; and since dads are often busy supporting mom, it can be hard to capture the moment and be in the moment at the same time. Enter birth photographers! I love capturing babies entering the world for the first time. It is so miraculous and fascinating, and hard, but the moment you hold your baby for the first time...it is just amazing. How does it work? If you book a birth story session, I will be on call once you are 37 weeks up until you go into labor. Once you are in active labor (usually around 5-6 cm) you contact me, I will come up to the hospital. Labor is different for every woman, so it depends on how fast you progress; but I could be up there anywhere from 4 hours to 24 hours. However long it takes I will photograph every moment: from your husband holding your hand, the face you mom makes when she sees her grandbaby for the first time, to your sheer relief when your baby is laid on your chest for the very first time. I do try to keep your modesty in mind, and try to keep things tasteful whenever possible. I photograph baby getting weighed, measured, skin-to-skin time, and first portraits with baby. I also offer video (a short hightlight video with clips + sound from your baby's birth-day) that can be added on to the photography session and it is priceless. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me! Congrats, soon-to-be mama! So excited for you!!



 

Frequently asked questions

What should we expect for our session together?

Sessions typically run 1 hour for outdoor sessions, but can be longer for in-home sessions, (and for posed newborn sessions can last up to 2-3 hours). Although I allow plenty of time for breaks if needed for little ones. 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. Feeling stressed often leads to stressed kids, and parents (Dads I'm looking at you, too! Lol) If your child (or children) go crazy and want to run around; it is perfectly okay to let them. I encourage it even! Do not worry if they are not in the best of moods, as I can still get beautiful photographs with them snuggling against your neck. Let go of your expectations, and we will create beautiful photographs together!



What is a Fresh 48 session?

A Fresh 48 Session is an option for those not looking to capture the whole birth of their baby, but still want to remember and relish those first precious days in the hospital with their new baby. If you book a Fresh 48, I come up to the hospital during either the first or second day of your hospital stay. Fresh 48 sessions are very lifestyle in nature, meaning I capture you and your significant other with baby in the hospital evironment, (if you are giving birth in a hospital) to capture all those special moments and memories that you don't ever want to forget. I typically photograph baby in the iconic hospital blanket, in the bassinet, as well as any other special outfit you would like baby photographed in. Such as baby's going home outfit, etc. I will capture baby with the joyful parents (you!) as well as all the details that you might have passed by the first time: fresh baby toes, wrinkly fingers, baby cries, that head full (or not!) of hair! I also can use this time to capture big brother(s) or sister(s) meeting baby for the first time. The first 24-48 hours can be a blur--so you won't regret capturing your baby (or babies!) when they are still so wrinkly and new.



What does your style of "posed" newborn photography mean?

If you love classic and simple, I'm your girl! I tend to pose my newborns in a minimal and simple way. I pose baby mostly on their back or side, mainly for safety and style reasons. I use baby-led posing, which means I go by what baby likes, so if they don't like something I don't force it! I love keeping my newborn photos classic as much as I can, so I tend to gravitate towards using neutral colors such as white and/or cream. I do use other accent colors as well such as blush, navy or gray. If you have a preference on what colors you would like don't be afraid to let me know! I want to create images of your baby that you will love! I don't do alot of the "typical" poses that some newborn photographers do, such as the "froggy pose" (where the baby looks like his head is in his hands), or putting babies in buckets or other props. Although there are amazing photographers who rock that style! If this is you let me know and I can refer you to other local photographers in our area. I do use neutral soft wraps to cover baby's sensitive areas and to add texture and interest; and I do have a select number of tiny adorable headbands available for use, but my favorite shots are usually just baby without anything on their head (unless you prefer otherwise of course). I love to include parents and siblings as wel! My style for posed, "studio" style newborn sessions are simple, natural, and organic in nature. Meaning, I like the baby to be the focus, short and simple. I strive to give parents classic and timeless images of their little ones to treasure for the years to come! If you have any questions just let me know!



How should I prepare for our newborn session?

For a newborn session, it is best if baby is fed right before our session, so baby is happy and has a full tummy. Every session (and baby) is different so I follow baby's lead; so if baby gets hungry, or fussy during the session, we can always take breaks to ensure we get the best photographs. It also helps if room is nice and warm, to keep baby nice and cozy for a lifestyle session in your home, but I do bring along a heater to keep things extra comfortable for baby if it's a posed newborn session.



What is a lifestyle in-home session? And what does it entail?

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 (so I don't bring lighting equipment); 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. 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. Plus it is impossible, so embrace the things that may go wrong, and just embrace the choas! Haha.



What should I bring to our family or portrait session?

I don't bring or use a ton of props in my images, (to keep them classic and timeless as possible) but if there is a special object or keepsake you want to include in your session, I would love to include it. For a child being photographed, this could be a special blanket or lovey (even if worn) can be a special keepsake and it also helps a child to have something to hold, especially in the beginning of our session when we are still getting to know each other. This could also be a musical instrument like a guitar if you love playing together as a family or a special family heirloom item, etc.



What should we wear to our family session?

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 shoot! 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, or grey are great to start with! Everyone does not need to be wearing the exact same color(s), in fact, it looks a million times better if you aren't matching! Layers always look great in photographs! Sweaters, denim jackets, hats, and bonnets (for the baby - my weakness) that add texture and interest. Last but not least, wear something you can be comfortable in! Maxi dresses for mom are always a win, jeans and a cute shirt, a cute twirly dress, etc. For a session in your home, I reccomend nuetral or soft colors: white, cream, beige, gray, blush, soft blues, greens, etc. 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 for ideas!



Do you take traditional family portraits with everyone looking and smiling at the camera?

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!



What if my child is cranky or fussy during our family or portrait session?

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. One thing to do is to not get upset, and instead, take a deep breath, and relax. If they are more comfortable holding onto mom or dad, we can start off taking images with either parent (if it is a family session, which can lead to sweet snuggling images) and eventually the child should be okay being photographed. If not, don't sweat it!



What happens if my child completely has a meltdown or is sick the day of session?

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.



Do you offer documentary sessions? What is the difference between that and lifestyle?

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.



How and when do we recieve our images?

All of the edited images in your gallery will be finished in 1-2 weeks. 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 prints, I highly recommend Mpix for their amazing quality.



I'm ready to book! What do I need to do?

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 of five 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. I will also probably send a quick questionaire to get to know more about what you envision for your session. Once the contract is signed and the date is set, we are ready to go! If you are booking a birth or newborn session I will put you down for your estimated due date, and when you go in labor (I am on call as soon as you are close to you due date or around 37 weeks) or you deliver that sweet baby) we will schedule a date that works best for you and we will go from there! 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!



How does birth photography work?

Birth photography is becoming more and more popular, with more moms than ever opting to have a professional photographer capture the moment her baby takes their first breath. It is such a special and once-in-a-lifetime moment that can't be replicated; and since dads are often busy supporting mom, it can be hard to capture the moment and be in the moment at the same time. Enter birth photographers! I love capturing babies entering the world for the first time. It is so miraculous and fascinating, and hard, but the moment you hold your baby for the first time...it is just amazing. How does it work? If you book a birth story session, I will be on call once you are 37 weeks up until you go into labor. Once you are in active labor (usually around 5-6 cm) you contact me, I will come up to the hospital. Labor is different for every woman, so it depends on how fast you progress; but I could be up there anywhere from 4 hours to 24 hours. However long it takes I will photograph every moment: from your husband holding your hand, the face you mom makes when she sees her grandbaby for the first time, to your sheer relief when your baby is laid on your chest for the very first time. I do try to keep your modesty in mind, and try to keep things tasteful whenever possible. I photograph baby getting weighed, measured, skin-to-skin time, and first portraits with baby. I also offer video (a short hightlight video with clips + sound from your baby's birth-day) that can be added on to the photography session and it is priceless. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me! Congrats, soon-to-be mama! So excited for you!!



Ready to create some magic together?

Carson Leigh Photography 

carson.grill@yahoo.com

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