As a parent, I know that the moments and days and even years are flying by. I often find myself looking through pictures of when my kids were younger so I can go back in time. There is something about a photograph that makes it priceless as the years pass, as you can preserve in an image what you can’t hold onto in life. And that is what these sessions are all about. A milestone is just that…a milestone. Maybe it’s a birthday. Maybe your baby just learned how to sit up…or walk. Sometimes it’s a first communion. Or maybe it’s just that they haven’t had professional pictures in a while and it’s just time.
One of the things I love about photographing children is capturing their personalities and ALL their expressions!! What I’ve found is these sessions often yield so many images because of the simple fact that children are full of personality! So I’ve decided to embrace it. Rather than getting only the pictures of each child smiling at the camera, I capture that and so much more. And I LOVE the results…and often so do you as the parent. So let your kid be your kid–crazy, quirky, silly–all of it! It always makes for the BEST galleries in the end!
Who?
Milestone sessions are generally for one child. Can you add in a sibling or friend? Yes, yes you can. However, if you are wanting to add the entire family, then you’ll want to book a family session.
Pricing?
- $350 for 10 high resolution digital images for one child ($100 of this is due as a retainer fee up front to book a session)
- $450 for the full edited gallery of high resolution digital images
- to add a child to the session, add $100 to the total
- professionally printed products (prints, metals, canvases, albums) can also be purchased
- all sales are subject to Missouri sales tax
Scheduling?
These sessions generally take 30 to 45 minutes. Once your session retainer fee is paid and contract signed, we will set up your session time.
Location?
Usually, I photograph milestone sessions outside if possible. I can also do a simple studio set up at my home. While both options are beautiful in their own ways, I find that outdoor session allow for young children to explore and play and we don’t have to try to keep them on a backdrop in order to get the picture. Of course, if your child is older, that won’t be an issue. So let’s discuss both options to see what will be best for your child.
Props and Wardrobe?
As you will see from my images, I keep props to a minimum as I love the focus of the picture to be on the child. But you are more than welcome to bring a special blanket or toy, just make sure it coordinates well with what they are wearing since it will be in the pictures. For wardrobe, I suggest simple–again to keep the focus on your child. Soft, simple patterns can work well, as well as textures. For babies who aren’t walking yet, consider rompers, as those don’t ride up when sitting and always photograph beautifully. Feel free to talk through styling ideas with me as you are preparing for your child’s session.
Summary?
Let me know if you’re ready to book and I will email you the invoice and contract to book a session. Once those are back, we’ll choose a date and time for your session. After the session, it takes me about two weeks to edit your gallery. Once that is edited, we will get together to go over your images in person. At that appointment, you will make your final image selections and choose any print products. All purchased digital images will be put in an online gallery so you can download them at home.
And that should cover it! But of course, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask!
Amy
