Session Details:

Following your inital contact with the studio I will arrange a telephone or e-mail conference at your earliest convenience in which we determine your specific portrait needs. We will discuss what overall feel and style you hope to achieve and then address the specifics accordingly. Depending on what type of session you book we will narrow down clothing, backdrop possibilities and props. From there we will decide on a scheduled time, location, and date that works for you.

What to wear

I intend to create images that will remain classy and timeless regardless of the season or year. I deliberately request neutrals and refined simplicity to ensure the focus remains on the subject of your photos and not any distracting apparel. I highly recommend selecting solid colors, and coordinating outfits for family portraits like black or white shirts and denim or khakis. I am not shy about the occasional and appropriate use of bright colors for outdoor fun sessions of toddlers or children. Things to avoid are busy or distracting prints, logos, or patterns that will ultimately detract from the subject. Having a number of outfits and looks to choose from can help us create the best possible affect so make sure to bring several choices to your session.

Determining Location

You may choose to have your session from a number of locations. For on site sessions I will travel to the agreed upon outdoor location or place. If your needs require we remain indoors, my studio is available or I will bring a portable version to the comfort of your own home. This option is ideal for photographing newborns and young toddlers that need frequent changing, nursing or rest. Infants are quite perceptive and if you are feeling stress free in a familiar environment, they are more likely to relax.

Maternity Sessions

The ideal time frame for maternity photo sessions is between 28-35 weeks of pregnancy. This is only a guideline as I have actually photographed mothers the day before they gave birth--but that's obviously cutting it close! I am highly supportive of expectant mother's remaining comfortable during a session. I encourage you to rest when necessary or get up and move around to stretch. If you choose to work at my studio bring a light snack of your preference and water to stay hydrated. A typical session lasts 1-3 hours, plus any additional breaks in between. Unless you are planning to have family portraits, I prefer to work alone with just the mother so that you are not distracted or inhibited by onlookers. If you are including other children or a spouse/partner in the session please dress accordingly with matching attire. In addition, bring snug fitting clothes to accentuate your bump, a pair of jeans (regular jeans--we will leave them undone and folded down), and any elegant scarves or tank tops, pretty underwear, or props you would like to include. A nice alternative to jeans would be long skirts that fit below the belly. Maternity sessions are clothing optional because pregnant women have gorgeous curves and we want to show that off! Keep in mind I will absolutely remain respectful and implement props, scarves, lighting, and angles to be discreet.

Newborn Sessions

These precious new arrivals are ideally photographed within the first 5-14 days following birth. This narrow and early window of time ensures they are physically flexible from being in the womb and will easily curl up for photos, plus they sleep frequently and for longer periods of time. Newborns change dramatically over these several days and you will be grateful for capturing your tiny new addition as soon as possible. I believe families should be resting and getting to know each other over this period so I am absolutely willing to bring my studio to you. The session lasts between 1-3 hours and the comfort of your own home insures baby can be nursed and changed in your familiar surroundings. Newborns photograph best in their own skin and have no need for awkward, over-sized clothing that only distracts from their miniature perfection. If you do prefer them to be dressed I recommend the least amount possible--clothing becomes arbitrary next to your beautiful infants features. I encourage the use of props, however, especially significant keep sakes, blankets, heirlooms or stuffed animals you would like to include in the session.

Underwater Maternity Coming Soon! (Summer of 09)

Focused Creations is proud to present this new and creatively innovative peek into an aquatic realm of serenity and ethereal beauty. Pregnancy happens to be a time where many women feel especially awkward, and heavy. If you slip below the surface of an inviting liquid element, you instantly return to a womb-like environment of suspended weightlessness. Water provides an ideal location for a maternity session because the light, colors, and reflections offer a tranquil background while you relax and float with your little one inside you! Many times the forced or awkward posing for traditional maternity sessions melts away as you forget yourself and succumb to this watery experience of peace. Your expressions and your body will naturally reflect your sincere relaxation. A private swimming pool is available upon request or I will happily bring my underwater equipment to your own pool as well.Gauzy, transparent, and sheer fabrics are the only necessary props but you may also wear a swimming suit if you feel more comfortable. These sessions are absolutely safe and gentle but I do advise that you be well rested and make sure your last meal was at least an hour before entering the water. (Available this coming summer.
Contact the studio to book your session if you will be pregnant during these warmer months).