Attire

Photographer Corina Nielsen gives some helpful suggestions for what to wear on her website.  I'm a fan of coordinating but not overly matching.  Pay attention to details and accessories (dirty shoes, mismatched socks, or a neon-watch can detract from the timelessness or fluidity of a photo).  However, one spotlight accessory such as a bright headband or some cool shoes can really enhance a photo.  Play around with your look (and feel free to bring a couple options, but just make sure you can carry your items easily as we move around our location).

Location

Some people really want artistic photos that include new and interesting backgrounds.  I love exploring new places, but the lighting and crowds can become an issue, so the best thing to do is let me know your suggested location a week prior to the shoot so that I can scope it out and try to predict when the light will work the best for us there.  Ideally there will be some non-crowded, shaded (if it's a very sunny day) spots.  I also have some favorite locations if you need suggestions.  I do not use a flash, so if you are wanting indoor photos, there needs to be a natural light source (usually a large window).  I may turn down a session (particularly an event) if I predict that you will be requiring flash photography in order to get a desired result. 

Timing

On an overcast day, we can shoot almost anytime because we aren't worried about harsh sun shadows.  When the sun is out, I prefer to shoot just before the sunset.  This provides a nice even-toned, pretty light and may even give us some pretty backlight as the sun goes down.  In May and June this can get late for infants and toddlers.  You may consider moving your session to the early spring or the fall with this age bracket if a 7:00 time interferes with bedtime smiles (or lack thereof).  No one will hold it against you if you bribe children with frozen yogurt and a late bedtime to get those preschoolers to cooperate :).

Please be on time for your session.  Sessions will not be extended if you are late.  That being said, it is smart to allow time in your schedule in case our shoot runs over (up to 60-min depending on the crowds or children's moods) ... it never fails that joggers dressed in neon will decide to descend on our "perfect" bridge location every 45-seconds (while you are trying to shove goldfish crackers at your toddler to get them to hold still).  Haha, we've all been there!  I'll let you know once I know that we've got enough material to create a nice gallery.

Post-Processing

Your gallery will be ready for viewing approximately 3-weeks after your session.  Any amateur photographer can take one sharp, crisp, beautiful photo.  In on-location photography, the challenge for the professional becomes compiling several dozen photos (all taken in shades of different light with various background and setting challenges) into one cohesive gallery.  My hope is that it will be worth the wait.