Children's Photography

Many factors go into the success of your child or children’s photography session. Children’s Portraits take time and patience. You must plan everything from the time you select to what outfit to wear first. We have all seen good children’s photos and we have seen bad ones. Here is some advice for making your children’s photographs the best that they can be!      

As a professional Children’s photographer, I have worked with parents who struggle to find out what others do to get their young children to sit still, smile and look natural. After 30 years of creating children’s portraits, I have this down to a science.       

1. The FIRST thing you must consider is, WHEN is it a good time for the CHILD, not you! This is usually AFTER a nap and after your child has had a snack or lunch. Do not book appointments after 6 PM, especially if the child is at Child Care all day. They will be tired and will be more demanding of your attention. NEVER book an appointment AFTER a doctor’s appointment, especially if the child is going to be receiving shots!      

2. Please dress the child from head to toe. Shoes, however, are not usually needed if the child is going to sit on the floor. (You see the bottom of the shoe, and that really isn’t the “prettiest”. We recommend bare feet…no socks.) At Studio One Designer Photography, Kris will “work” the child until he/she “drops”. (By that we mean, the child will let us know when he/she is finished.) Please dress your child in the convenience of our Studio Dressing Rooms. We guarantee that "accidents" will happen  if you dress them at home!     

3. How long will my session last? This all depends upon the child. It could take five (5) minutes or an hour. IF the child is ill, PLEASE call to reschedule to another time. A sick child will not be in the mood to smile and will NOT be happy. At Studio One Designer Photography, we would rather you reschedule that come in and not be happy.       

4. When will I be able to look at the images from my session? At Studio One Designer Photography, you will view your child’s images immediately following your session. You will also place your order at that time and pay the one-half minimum required amount to start your order.  If you absolutely cannot decide on your portraits, you can request a preview booklet of your favorites. However, there is an additional charge for this service.     

5. When will my portraits be ready? At Studio One Designer Photography, the best case scenario, your order will be ready in two weeks. The only time it takes longer is if something doesn’t meet our rigorous standards and needs to be remade.       

6. What type of backgrounds will Studio One Designer Photography use? We strongly suggest a consultation (at least a phone consultation) to advise us on what your wishes are. We have many different backgrounds, depending upon what you want.       

7. Can I bring my own props? Definitely! We strongly advise you to do this to make your photographs more personalized! If you do plan on doing this, please plan outfits that go with the props you are planning on bringing. Pets are also welcomed. Please ask us first, because a newborn with a 100 pound dog is usually not recommended. We suggest doing photos like this when the child is old enough to sit up on his/her own.       

8. After you “book” your appointment, we will snail mail to you a price list and clothing suggestions. This will include what to use and what not to use for outfits. The day before your session, we will call you to remind you of your appointment and ask you if you have any questions or concerns. PLEASE REMEMBER!!! If your child is ill, reschedule your appointment!       

9. The day of your appointment, PLEASE do not practice saying “cheese”. Plan on arriving 15 to 20 minutes early AND do NOT dress your child in the outfit you want to use. We have changing rooms available at our studio. If you are planning on only using ONE outfit, PLEASE bring a few more along, JUST in case!       

10. Finally, remember to stay calm during the session. Even if you feel like you want to rip your hair out because your child is not cooperating, you will be surprised on what we can accomplish! Many a parent has succumbed to tears while viewing their child’s images. Many saying, “When did you get that shot?” “I was there the entire time and didn’t see that smile!”