How to Prep your Kids for Family Photos

As a mama myself, I know planning family photos is so stressful. Kids can be unpredictable, and you never know how they will respond around a camera or the person taking the photos. I can tell you one thing, even if you do everything right to prepare, your session probably won’t go perfectly. AND THAT IS OK! But you can do your best to set your kiddos up for success for a great session. That means planning ahead and thinking through some things before your big photo shoot day. So here are some tips to help you have a great family session with your sweet babies

Look for a photographer who is willing to play with your kids

I know so many photographers who offer family photos but not all of them are great with kids. And not all of them are creative in trying to get them to smile. Look at photographers portfolios when considering who will take your family photos. You want to see family photos that aren’t stiff, or just kids smiling at the camera. You want to see kids who are running around, playing, and giggling. They might capture a good melt down too haha but you want playfulness in your family photographer, so look for that when looking for a photographer. I will say moms usually make the best family photographers because they just get it ;) So if you can find a mama photographer you’ll probably have a great family photog.

Plan around sleep schedules

You know your kids and their schedules. Yes, golden hour provides the best light and it's preferrable for us photographers. but it may not work great your kid's naps or sleep schedules. If you know your kids get cranky later in the day, talk to your photographer about moving your session time. You may need to consider a location that is local to you so they aren’t in the car for too long, and you may want to find a location with decent shade if you need to do your photos earlier in the day. This way if the light is harsh, you can still get some softly lit photos. If you are doing a newborn session it is actually ideal if your baby sleeps during the session, so if you know your baby is usually more sleepy and content during the morning, plan a morning session!

Feed those kids

hangry kids make for a hard shoot. Please feed your kids before you head to your session. And Pro tip: make sure to keep them out of their clothes you have planned for the session while eating so they don't get their outfits dirty. I also recommend bringing some clean, easy snacks for the session as well. Think Goldfish or Cheerios, food they can easily pop in their mouth and smile afterwards. You might also want to bring a treat of some sort for them too. Most kids will be on their best behavior if they know they get a little treat at the end or even during the session (grab some tiny gummies, tic-tacs, or skittles, again something easy to pop in their mouth real quick) for quick rewards.

If you're nursing or bottle feeding a little one, most photographers should allow you to pause to give you some time to feed baby. But if possible try to feed them before hand, and make sure to burp them with a rag so they don’t spit up over you or their cute outfit.

Bring Toys or Props

if your toddler has a stuffed animal or a cute rattle the like, bring it! If your kids love bubbles, bring them. Anything you can bring to help your kids feel at ease, have fun, and feel comfortable, bring it. Have your photographer take the toy behind the camera to try and get your kids attention. I do this a lot if kids bring their stuffed animals, I’ll have their teddy bear take the pictures with me. I do recommend trying to bring wooden or neutral colored toys. These will look good in your photos and not be a distraction or an eyesore.

Talk to your kids about what to expect

If you have older kids, talk about your session In the days leading up to it. Tell them a friend is coming to take pictures. Tell them your are going to play, cuddle, smile and want them to do their best to be good listeners and follow the directions of the photographers. And let them know there will be treats after for anyone who does a good job.

Even with all of the prep, there may still be hiccups during your session. That is ok!

My biggest piece of advice: don't stress and have fun

Seriously, go with the flow, laugh when things don’t go as you planned. Take each moment as it comes. Come willing to play with your kids, tell a few jokes, have a tickle attack, play tag, ring around the rosie, blow some bubbles, chase some birds ;) have a dance party. Do what you can to loosen your kids up and have fun. Your photographer will do their best to get great photos of your family together. And if you want a guaranteed kid friendly photographer, I was a nanny for 8 years and I’m a mama myself. I’d love to take your photos! Inquire with me to book a session.

Tori Dawn is a Northern California Photographer photographing in Sacramento, Elk Grove, Carmichael, Roseville, Citrus Heights, Folsom, Rancho Cordova, Davis, Rocklin, Woodland, West Sacramento, Lincoln, Auburn, Carmichael, Fair Oaks, Galt, Granite Bay, Orangevale, Placerville, El Dorado Hills, Dixon. Travels frequently to Southern California, follow me on IG if you want to see my posts about when I’m traveling down that way.

Capturing Stories: Elevating Your Photo Sessions with Props

In the world of photography, every click of the shutter captures more than just a moment in time. It encapsulates a story—a narrative woven with emotions, memories, and personal significance. As photographers, our aim is not merely to take pictures but to tell stories, to freeze-frame the essence of a moment. And one powerful tool in our storytelling arsenal? Props.

Importance of Storytelling in Photography

Photography is more than just documenting events; it's about evoking emotions and freezing memories. At its core, it's storytelling through imagery. A well-crafted photograph can transport you back in time, stir feelings of joy and nostalgia. And what better way to enhance this storytelling than by incorporating props?

Props add depth, context, and personalization to photographs. They're not just objects; they can be laden with meaning, reflecting the essence of the story being told. Whether you want to ride bikes barefoot in a neighborhood (like the couple from this sweet session) or pack up a picnic basket and go have a meal out in a field, or grab your vintage film camera and take photos of each other downtown, or go play guitar with your family on a hill (sound of music style), props elevate the narrative of each image, making it resonate on a deeper level.

Making Each Session Unique

No two individuals are alike, and neither should your photo session be. Customization is key to capturing the true essence of a person or moment. By tailoring each session to reflect the client's personality, interests, and story, we ensure that every photograph is as unique and authentic as the individual being photographed.

Incorporating props specific to each client adds an extra layer of personalization, making the session truly unforgettable. Whether it's a cherished heirloom, a beloved pet, or a favorite hobby, these props infuse the photographs with the client's personality, creating images that feel like a true reflection of who they are.

Choosing the Right Props

Selecting the perfect props is an art in itself. It requires careful consideration of the client's story, style, and preferences. Meaningful objects, hobbies, locations, or themes that hold significance to you are excellent starting points. This is the key is to choosing props that not only enhance the visual appeal of your photographs but also add depth and authenticity to the narrative.

Examples of Prop usage in a Session

I love doing activities with my clients that involve props, as well as traveling to locations that already have “props” to use there. Here are just a few ideas of things you can use or activities you can do for a session that tells a story.

• Grab a pizza and go find a pretty location or a parking lot rooftop to enjoy it at

• find an ascetic coffee shop to enjoy coffee and pastries together

• Go to a local library and take cute pictures with all the books

• Skateboard? go skateboarding down a neighborhood or boardwalk

• Get a picnic basket and blanket and go have picnic

• Play at a park

• Go get ice cream together and sit on a bench downtown

• Bake something in your kitchen

• Find a cute cocktail bar and grab a drink

• Have a fun or old fashioned car? go take it for a drive, find a pretty overlook.

• Got dogs? Go run around with your pups

• Walk around a winery

• Explore downtown with scooters
  

  There are so many different ways to incorporate props to make a session all the more fun, and authentic to you.

Practical Tips for Using Props

Integrating props seamlessly into a photo session requires some planning and attention to detail. Here are some practical tips to ensure a smooth and successful prop-filled shoot that tells a great story and brings out the personality of you in your session.

1. Keep it simple: Avoid overcomplicating the photos with too many props. Focus on a few key items that carry the most meaning and significance. Props that tell the story you want to tell during your session.

2. Coordinate colors and themes: Choose props that complement the overall aesthetic of the shoot and enhance your style and personalities.

3. Incorporate locations that already have props there. You can find locations that already have things to do or things you can use as props (see above suggestions)

Conclusion: In the art of photography, storytelling reigns supreme. And what better way to elevate your photo sessions than by incorporating props that add depth, context, and personalization to each image? By customizing every session to reflect the client's unique story and style, its easy to create that are stories frozen in time, waiting to be told and retold for years to come.

Ready to capture your own story? Inquire right here on my website! I’d love to dream up a session with you to tell your unique story and create memories that last a lifetime

A Guide to Planning Your Perfect Couples Session

Couples sessions are not just about capturing moments; they're about capturing your personality and your relationship. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, just got engaged, or just want to do a fun photo shoot with your favorite person on the planet, planning a couples session can be an exciting journey. However, it's not just about showing up and smiling for the camera. To truly capture the magic of your relationship, it's essential to be authentic and have fun. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you plan an unforgettable couples session filled with genuine moments and adorable photo opportunities.

Choose a Meaningful Location

The backdrop of your photos plays a significant role in setting the mood and capturing the essence of your relationship. Opt for a location that holds sentimental value or reflects your shared interests. Whether it's the place where you had your first date, a scenic spot where you love to spend time together, or even the comfort of your own home, pick a location that resonates with both of you.

Choose Some Cute Outfits

While coordinating outfits can add a polished look to your photos, it's essential to stay true to your personal style. Choose outfits that complement each other without looking too matchy-matchy. Stick to colors and styles that make you feel comfortable and confident. Remember, the goal is to capture your authentic selves, so don't be afraid to let your personalities shine through your clothing choices. Just make sure to be mindful of color choices as some colors don’t photograph well. I recommend staying away from neons or really bright colors, muted, earthy or neutral colors photograph really well and help you as the subjects to shine without the distraction of overly busy and loud clothing.

Embrace Spontaneity and Genuine Moments:

The magic of a couples session lies in capturing those candid, unscripted moments that reflect the real essence of your relationship. Instead of focusing solely on posing for the camera, allow yourselves to relax and enjoy each other's company. Engage in activities you love, share inside jokes, steal kisses, or simply enjoy a quiet moment together. These authentic interactions will result in photographs that truly resonate with emotion and love, and clearly capture your real relationship.

Incorporate Fun and Creative Activities

To infuse your couples session with storytelling consider incorporating fun and creative activities into your shoot. Whether it's a picnic in the park, a playful water balloon fight, or a romantic stroll along the beach, think outside the box to create memorable moments that you'll cherish forever. Not only will these activities make for adorable photo opportunities, but they'll also help your photos to feel effortless. Less posing, more just doing things you love with the person you love.

Plan a Date That Doubles as a Photo Shoot

Why not turn your couples session into a memorable date experience? Plan a session filled with activities that not only bring you closer together but also provide plenty of opportunities for stunning photographs. Whether it's exploring a local farmer's market, cooking a meal in your kitchen, or embarking on a scenic hike, let your imagination run wild. Not only will you create beautiful memories, but you'll also capture them in timeless photographs.

Planning a couples session is about more than just taking pictures; it's about celebrating your love and creating lasting memories together. By prioritizing authenticity, embracing spontaneity, and infusing your session with fun and creativity, you'll ensure that your photographs reflect the true essence of your relationship. So, go ahead, plan your perfect couples session, and let your love story unfold before the lens.

Wanna book a couples session with me? Book here I’d love to capture your love in Northern California.

Tori Dawn is a Northern California Photographer photographing in Sacramento, Elk Grove, Carmichael, Roseville, Citrus Heights, Folsom, Rancho Cordova, Davis, Rocklin, Woodland, West Sacramento, Lincoln, Auburn, Carmichael, Fair Oaks, Galt, Granite Bay, Orangevale, Placerville, El Dorado Hills, Dixon and beyond.

Getting Ready for Your Newborn Photo Session: Tips for Northern California Families

Getting ready for your newborn photo session in Northern California? Let's ensure you're fully equipped to capture those precious moments: the newborn snuggles, tiny toes, and every little detail of your newest addition and your growing family. Bringing your baby home is a sweet and cherished moment, and I want to help you preserve every bit of that sacred and special time with your newborn

Imagine being able to look back and remember the feeling of cradling your little one, marveling at their tiny features, and witnessing your family expand with love. These are the moments I (or any other photographer) hope to capture – the ones that tug at your heartstrings and bring a smile to your face for years to come.

To make sure your session goes smoothly and you get the pictures you've been dreaming of, here are some helpful tips to help you prep for your newborn session.

Choosing the Right Time and Location

If you want to capture your newborn photos in your home or a studio, I find morning light is usually the best time to do that. And if you have older siblings, I find morning is usually when they are at their best too. Doing your newborn session in the comfort of your home has its perks. You can utilize a lot of different areas in your home to reflect you and your family. Rooms that work best for newborn sessions are the master bedroom, the nursery, and the living room. We can also take photos in the yard if there is some shade. This way you get a lot of variety in your gallery. I highly recommend cleaning the rooms you want to photograph in, and hiding as much clutter as possible to make your photos look clean and your home tidy.

If you want to do your session outdoors, I recommend scheduling your session during golden hour, 1-2 hours before sunset, to take advantage of the soft, flattering light that Northern California is known for. Whether you opt for the comfort of your home or the beauty of outdoors, your photos will be absolutely stunning

Dress for Comfort and Style

If you are photographing your newborn outdoors, Northern California's weather can be unpredictable. Be sure to dress your baby and yourselves in outfits comfortable to the weather.

Soft, neutral tones work well against the backdrop of the region's diverse landscapes, but feel free to add pops of color or patterns that reflect your family's personality

Relax and Enjoy the Experience

Let go of any stress or expectations you have and simply enjoy this special time with your newborn. Trust in your photographer's expertise to guide you through the session with professionalism and warmth, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Also just be yourselves! The best photos are the candid ones of you all just being you. If older siblings are involved I know some parents worry about how they will do. Prepare them as much as you can by having them fed and well rested (and maybe incentives with a treat after) but your photographer will work with your kiddos to get the best photos possible.

Personalize Your Session

Consider incorporating personal touches such as heirloom blankets, favorite toys, or meaningful props that add a personal and sentimental touch to your photos. These details help tell your family's story and make your session truly unique. If you are photographing your newborn session outdoors, be sure to bring a blanket or basket bassinet to get some photos of just baby too.

Preparing for your newborn photo session in Northern California is an exciting time filled with anticipation and joy. By following these tips, you'll be well-prepared to capture beautiful memories that you'll cherish for a lifetime.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a session with me feel free to inquire right here on my website. I'm here to help make your newborn photo experience as seamless and memorable as possible!

Tori Dawn is a Northern California Photographer photographing in Sacramento, Elk Grove, Carmichael, Roseville, Citrus Heights, Folsom, Rancho Cordova, Davis, Rocklin, Woodland, West Sacramento, Lincoln, Auburn, Carmichael, Fair Oaks, Galt, Granite Bay, Orangevale, Placerville, El Dorado Hills, Dixon.

Stunning Beach Family Maternity Session | Newport, California

The Gesky fam has done quite a few photo sessions with me, but this one was definitely my favorite. Jordan and Dennis are a beautiful couple with some seriously darling kiddos. And Jordan rocks a baby bump like nobody’s business. Freaking gorgeous mama right there! Her dress was absolutely stunning, and Crystal Cove State Park is one of my favorite locations ever. Oh and the sky that day made these photos all the more amazing.

Katherine + David Luscious Greenery Engagement Session | Temecula, California

Katherine and David recently got engaged and are tying the knot in October, 2022. I was lucky enough to be discovered by them in a random Instagram search for a photographer, and will be photographing their wedding in Redlands, California this October. And I seriously cannot wait! But before the big day, I got to shoot this dreamy engagement session for them. All the Eucalyptus trees and soft light with these sweet people, made for an absolute dream of a session. Katherine and David’s love fore each other was apparent from the moment we met. And their playfulness created some sweet moments for me to capture. October can’t come quick enough, until I get blog their wedding, enjoy these photos!

Luana + David Springtime Maternity Session | Riverside, California

Luana and David booked my last session before I was due with my baby boy. And Luana was due shortly after me. We (very pregnant mamas) waddled about the beautiful Sycamore Canyon Park in Riverside, California, while David graciously carried my camera bag and water bottle along with their own things so I didn’t have any more extra weight to lug around with my 8 month pregnant belly. I so enjoyed this session, the green grasses and the golden light with their neutral outfit choices, made for a very aesthetic and beautiful session.

Jamison Charlie May In Home Newborn Session | Redlands, California

Gotta start off this blog and say I love this sweet babe and his family so much. The May family has a special place in my heart, and so does Jamison. He is a perfect little ray of sunshine, and a total miracle baby. I photographed his mama Lanna during her pregnancy, and a few short days after his birth I was honored to photograph him earth-side as well. Jamison Charlie was wide eyed and alert pretty much the whole session. We just barely got him to sleep at the very end. Apparently he was very interested in seeing my camera, because he gave me great eye contact. Jamison Charlie May made his debut to the world on November 26th, 2020 at 2:15 am 6 lbs. 19 in. Riverside, California.

Terra Danielle Desert Senior Session | Joshua Tree, California

Say hi to Terra Danielle. A Senior, graduating spring 2021. Like most students this year, Terra has been doing school online at home, and missed out on a lot of typical senior year activities. So I was happy to help make one such activity happen, despite everything going on. We headed out to the windmills and joshua tree on a Sunday afternoon and explored the stunning desert landscape. We got a little lost in Joshua tree national park, and it was a busy day, but the photos were so worth the crowds and the drive. The sky was gorgeous especially as the sun started going down. We finished the night off with girl chats and in-n-out after our session. It was a good day, to say the least.

Mark + Hannah’s Cozy So-Cal Apartment

Hannah and Mark are long time friends of mine. Hannah and I have been friends since 5th grade which is so crazy! And fun fact, Mark is also best friends with my husband. They were both in our wedding party and ended up dating and getting hitched themselves a couple years later. So basically we do a lot of double dates <3 I love their sweet, home-y, cozy apartment and absolutely loved shooting the love they have for each other. Best moment of the shoot came when Hannah convinced mark to jump on the bed with her. He wasn’t super into the idea but he did it anyway. Those pictures are a few of my very favorite from this session.