One of the most common questions I get before a brand session is: “What should I wear?”

And I get it—choosing outfits can feel overwhelming, especially when you want your photos to look polished, professional, and you. The good news? You don’t need a whole new wardrobe to look amazing in your brand photos. You just need to feel confident and comfortable!

Here are a few of my go-to tips to help you feel prepared and show up with confidence on session day:

Choose Outfits That Reflect YOU, and your Brand

Your brand session is all about telling the story of you and your business. So let’s start there—what words would you use to describe your brand? Warm? Playful? Polished? Bold?

Let those vibes guide your outfit choices. Think about:

• Colors that reflect your brand palette
• Fabrics that feel aligned (flowy, structured, casual, corporate, etc.)
• Clothing you’d wear when meeting a dream client or filming a promo video

If you’re a wellness coach, for example, you might lean into soft, breathable layers. If you run a high-end service business, a chic blazer might feel more on-brand.

Keep It Comfortable, But Put-Together

You want to feel like the best version of yourself, not like you’re wearing a costume. Choose clothing that fits well, allows you to move, and makes you feel confident. Avoid anything that needs constant adjusting or that you wouldn’t normally wear.

You’ll be standing, sitting, walking and laughing! Your outfit should work with you, not against you.

Plan for Variety

Unless we are photographing a specific uniform for your company and employees, I always suggest bringing 2–3 outfit options. Here’s a simple formula:

• One neutral base (think jeans and a tee or blouse)
• One outfit that pops with color or personality (think of your brand colours – can we incorporate them here?)
• One that feels slightly elevated or more formal

You can also layer with jackets, scarves, jewelry, or accessories that reflect your brand. Little changes go a long way in making your gallery feel full and versatile.

What to Avoid

To keep the focus on you (not your clothes), try to avoid:

• Loud, busy patterns that might distract
• Logos or branding from other companies
• Wrinkled fabrics or anything too sheer
• Overly trendy items that might date the photos quickly

Make sure to try on all of your outfits at least a week before the session to ensure they fit well, you can move easily in them, and that they are clean. And one more thing—iron or steam your clothes the night before!

5. Still Unsure? I’ve Got You.

Wardrobe stress is not the vibe we’re going for. If you’re stuck between options or want help styling your looks, I’m happy to guide you during the planning phase. Some clients even bring everything and we decide together before we start shooting.

Brand sessions are about connection and confidence m—not perfection. The most important thing you can wear is something that makes you feel good and represents the heart of your brand.

Ready to plan your session wardrobe (and everything else)?
Let’s chat! I’d love to help you create a session that feels like you from start to finish. Contact me here or grab my free brand session shot list to start planning today!

Bringing a new baby home is one of the most beautiful and overwhelming experiences of your life. For your in-home lifestyle newborn photography session my goal is to document your family in an honest, natural, and relaxed way—without stiff posing or forced moments.

If you’re wondering what to expect during your session, here’s a guide to help you feel fully prepared and excited for the experience!

1. When to Schedule Your Lifestyle Newborn Photography Session

Unlike traditional posed newborn photography, lifestyle sessions allow for more flexibility. While the first 2-3 weeks is ideal for capturing those sleepy, snuggly moments, older newborns (even up to 6-8 weeks) can also be beautifully documented. There are pros and cons to early or late newborn sessions, which I outline in this post. Check it out if you’re unsure what’s best for your family!

I recommend booking your newborn session during your second or third trimester to ensure availability. I also offer a maternity and newborn bundle at a discounted rate, and I suggest maternity photos take place around the 7-8 month mark. Getting in touch early ensures we can find a time to accommodate both sessions.

2. Preparing for Your In-Home Session

One of the best things about lifestyle newborn sessions is that there’s very little you need to do to prepare! These sessions are about documenting real moments, not perfection.

What You Need to Do:

• Tidy up (just a little) – No need for a spotless home! A quick declutter of the main spaces we’ll use (usually the living room, master bedroom, and nursery) is perfect.
• Dress comfortably – Soft, neutral tones photograph beautifully. Choose cozy, casual outfits that make you feel good postpartum. If you’re dressing a toddler, something neutral and without graphics is key. Want more tips on what to wear? See my blog post here about dressing baby for your in home session.
• Keep baby’s routine – There’s no need to keep baby awake before the session. I’ll work around their natural rhythm, whether they’re sleeping or awake. If they get hungry, or need a diaper change, no worries! We will slow down and take as much time as needed.
• Embrace the chaos – If you have older kids, let them be themselves! Lifestyle photography is about capturing their real interactions with their new sibling.

3. What Happens During the Session?

A Relaxed, Baby-Led Experience

• Sessions typically last 1-2 hours, allowing time for feeding, diaper changes, and cuddles.
• There’s no strict posing—I gently guide you and baby into natural interactions and moments that feel authentic to your family.
• If baby is awake, we capture wide-eyed wonder. If they’re asleep, we focus on snuggly, intimate moments.

Family-Focused Approach

• The session isn’t just about baby—it’s about your whole family’s connection.
• I’ll capture parents snuggling baby, older siblings welcoming their new best friend, and quiet in-between moments that tell your story.
• Pets are welcome too! They’re part of the family, after all.

4. After the Session – When & How You’ll Get Your Photos

Your final images will be delivered via an online gallery within 2-3 weeks, where you can download high-resolution images and order prints. I carefully edit each image to ensure the gallery is cohesive and a true reflection of your life.

Lifestyle newborn photography sessions are all about capturing the real, raw beauty of your family’s new chapter—snuggles on the couch, tiny hands wrapped around your finger, the way your older child gently (or not so gently!) kisses their new sibling. We all know babies don’t keep – you will never regret capturing this time!

If you’re expecting and want to document these first fleeting moments in a natural, stress-free way, I’d love to connect! Let’s Chat! Serving families in Chatham-Kent & Sarnia, Ontario, and beyond.

Chatham-Kent Newborn Session in a Small Home: Why It’s Perfectly Okay

When it comes to lifestyle newborn photography, one of the most common hesitations I hear from clients is that their house is too small. However, having a Chatham-Kent newborn session in a small home can be just as beautiful and intimate as a studio session. In fact, there are several reasons why opting for a cozy, in-home session is not only convenient but can also yield stunning results. Let’s explore three key reasons why a small home can be the perfect setting for your newborn’s photo session.

1. Comfort and Familiarity for Your Newborn

One of the biggest advantages of a Chatham-Kent newborn session in a small home is that your baby will be surrounded by the familiar sights, smells, and sounds of their own environment. Newborns thrive in familiar surroundings, and a small home offers a calm, quiet space where they can feel safe and secure.

Being in your own home also means you can maintain the baby’s usual routine, which is essential for their comfort. Whether it’s a feeding session, a quick nap, or cuddles, there’s no need to rush or worry about adjusting to an unfamiliar studio. A relaxed baby makes for more natural and peaceful photos.

2. Cozy, Intimate Photos

A small home provides the perfect backdrop for a more intimate and personalized newborn session. You don’t need a large, elaborate space to create meaningful and memorable images. In fact, the coziness of a smaller home can bring an added sense of warmth and intimacy to the photos. Smaller spaces just means everyone can snuggle up even more!

I can work with the existing decor, such as a family heirloom chair, soft blankets, or natural light filtering through a window, to capture beautiful and personal moments. These details often tell a deeper story about your life and your newborn’s first days. The beauty of a Chatham-Kent newborn session in a small home is in these candid moments, often resulting in more intimate, genuine portraits.

3. Natural Light is Better in Small Homes

A small home often offers the perfect balance of natural light, especially if you have large windows or rooms that get great sunlight. Natural light is one of the best ways to photograph newborns, as it creates soft, flattering light and avoids the harshness of artificial lighting.

With a more compact space the light is actually better. Especially if you have light coloured walls, the light coming in your windows bounces off the walls – if the walls are closer, the room will be brighter!

Choosing a Chatham-Kent newborn session in a small home can be a wonderful decision for many reasons. It offers a sense of comfort for your baby, creates intimate and personalized photos, and allows photographers to utilize natural light with minimal setup. So, don’t stress about space – a small home can be just as perfect as a large studio for capturing your newborn’s first moments. Embrace the beauty of your home and enjoy this special time in a relaxed, intimate environment.

If you’re planning a newborn session, consider staying close to home for a more personalized and stress-free experience. Reach out today and we can start planning!

A lifestyle photo session at home with your kids can offer timeless, authentic moments that reflect your everyday life. Whether you’re chasing your little ones around the yard or enjoying a quiet moment together indoors, a lifestyle session captures the true essence of family life. In this blog post, we’ll dive into why a summer lifestyle family photography session at home is a fantastic idea. Especially when you have young children, an at home session creates unforgettable memories for years to come.

Why Choose a Lifestyle Family Photography Session at Home?

1. Authenticity and Comfort

One of the key benefits of a lifestyle family session is the natural, candid moments it captures. Children are often more at ease in their home environment, making it easier for them to be themselves. You won’t have to worry about your kids getting restless or uncomfortable in an unfamiliar location. Whether it’s a cozy cuddle on the couch or a playful game of tag in the backyard, the comfort of home helps everyone feel relaxed and natural.

2. A Personal Touch to Your Family’s Story

At-home family photos are special because they tell a story. Your home is a unique reflection of your family’s personality, and including elements like favorite toys, heirloom furniture, or even family pets adds a personal touch. In Chatham-Kent, where farms, gardens, and quiet rural life provide a distinct backdrop, your photos will not only capture the beauty of your family but also the charm of your own space.

3. Flexibility for Young Children

Young kids tend to have shorter attention spans, so having a photography session at home provides the flexibility to take breaks when needed. Whether it’s a snack time pause or a nap time reset, your photographer can adapt to the flow of your family’s day, ensuring that the photos reflect your children’s energy and moods.

4. No Stress About Travel or Weather

In summer, weather can be unpredictable, but a lifestyle family photography session at home removes the worry about rain or extreme heat. If you’re planning an outdoor shoot in your yard, garden, or nearby park, you can easily shift inside if the weather changes unexpectedly. Plus, you won’t have to rush to get everyone dressed and ready—your session is just steps away!

What to Expect During Your Summer Family Photography Session

1. Outdoor Fun in Your Backyard or Local Parks

Chatham-Kent boasts beautiful outdoor locations for summer family photography. If you have a garden, a favorite spot in your backyard, or a nearby park, these areas can serve as a fantastic backdrop for your photos. You might want to capture your kids running through sprinklers, playing with bubbles, or enjoying a picnic in the grass. The golden hour—the period just before sunset—is especially magical in Chatham-Kent, casting a soft glow that enhances the beauty of your photos.

2. Indoor Shots That Reflect Family Life

Inside the home, your family dynamics shine through in intimate moments. Whether it’s making breakfast together, reading books in the living room, or just enjoying each other’s company in the quiet moments of the day, these images convey the warmth and love that define your family. I can guide you through activities that will bring out those authentic interactions, such as a playful tickle fight, a storytime snuggle, or even a dance party in the kitchen.

Tips for a Successful Family Photography Session with Kids

1. Plan for Natural Light

Natural light is one of the best ways to ensure beautiful, soft family photos. If you’re shooting indoors, try to schedule your session when your home is flooded with daylight. Open up windows, move away from heavy curtains, and let the sun light up your space. Outdoors, the best time is either early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight is less harsh.

2. Keep It Fun and Relaxed

One of the best things about lifestyle photography is that it’s all about keeping things fun and organic. Let your kids lead the way—whether they want to show you their favorite outdoor spots or just run around. The more you let go and focus on being in the moment, the more authentic the photos will be.

3. Dress Comfortably

While it’s important to look nice for family photos, comfort is key—especially with young kids. Opt for coordinating colors that complement each other without being too “matchy.” Simple, classic clothing that reflects the summer vibe—think light, airy fabrics and soft pastels or earthy tones—works best.

4. Be Ready for Messy, Real Moments

Not every shot needs to be perfect. In fact, the best photos often come from those messy, in-between moments when your kids are laughing, running, or playing. Don’t stress about keeping everyone clean or posed. Let your photographer capture those moments of joy that reflect your family’s true essence.

A summer lifestyle family photography session at home with your kids in Chatham-Kent is a beautiful way to capture the everyday moments that make life so special. From playful outdoor activities in your backyard to quiet moments of togetherness inside, these photographs will be cherished for years to come. By opting for a lifestyle session, you’re not just creating a collection of photos—you’re telling your family’s unique story. Whether you’re in Chatham-Kent or beyond, embracing the relaxed, organic nature of a family session at home ensures that your memories are captured in the most meaningful way possible.

Ready to book your family’s lifestyle photo session in Chatham-Kent? Contact me today and let’s create stunning, authentic memories together!

Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing a blended family at Erieau Beach, and it was nothing short of magical. Blended families are a tapestry of new beginnings, shared stories, and unique dynamics, and capturing these moments against the backdrop of Erieau Beach added a layer of charm that made this lifestyle session one of my favourites of the summer.

One of my favourite locations: Erieau Beach

Nestled along the shores of Lake Erie, Erieau Beach offers a blend of tranquility and vibrancy that perfectly matched the mood of our session. The evening light creates a golden hour glow, ideal for capturing candid moments and genuine emotions. This crew borrowed a family friends cottage, but there is tons of public beach access that I use frequently for clients!

Blending Families: A Beautiful Journey

Blended families come together from different walks of life, each bringing their own histories, traditions, and quirks. Coming from a blended family myself, I have a huge appreciation for the complexities that can come into play. This crew was super engaged and loving – and it shows!

The beauty of a lifestyle session is that it captures families in their natural state. Instead of rigid poses and forced smiles, this type of photography focuses on spontaneous moments and genuine connections. For a blended family, this means capturing the laughter while splashing in the lake, the quiet moments of reflection while walking along the shoreline, and the loving interactions that define their unique family dynamic.

Highlights of the Session

1. Family Bonding Through Play: One of the most heartwarming aspects of the session was watching the kids engage in playful activities. Whether they were running along the beach, splashing in the waves, or throwing rocks their interactions were filled with joy and spontaneity.
2. Quiet Moments of Connection: Between the energetic bursts of play, there were also quieter, more intimate moments. Parents and children shared hugs, exchanged loving glances, and walked hand-in-hand along the shore. These serene snapshots of connection are just as important as the action shots, offering a complete picture of the family’s life together.
3. The Power of the Landscape: Erieau Beach’s natural beauty enhanced the photos in a way that a studio setting simply couldn’t. The gentle waves, the vast expanse of the lake, and the soft, golden light created a sense of peace and togetherness that mirrored the family’s own journey. The scenery wasn’t just a backdrop; it was a part of the story being told.

Tips for a Successful Beach Photography Session

1. Timing is Everything: Early morning or evening provides the best lighting for beach photography. The soft, diffused light during these times creates a flattering glow and reduces harsh shadows.
2. Comfort and Flexibility: Encourage family members to wear comfortable, relaxed clothing that reflects their personalities. Avoid overly formal attire, as the beach setting calls for a more casual, carefree look.
3. Embrace the Environment: The beach can be windy and sandy, so embrace the natural elements. Let the kids run freely, and don’t worry too much about perfect hair or neat clothes. Sometimes, the most memorable photos come from moments that are a little bit tousled and unplanned.
4. Focus on Connection: While posed family shots have their place, the heart of a lifestyle session is capturing genuine interactions. Encourage family members to interact naturally and let their personalities shine through.

A lifestyle photography session at Erieau Beach with a blended family is more than just a photo shoot—it’s an opportunity to celebrate the unique journey of coming together as a family. The images captured serve as a beautiful reminder of the love, laughter, and connections that define their shared story. For families navigating the complexities of blending lives, these photos are a cherished testament to their unity and joy!

If you’re considering a lifestyle session for your blended family, I highly recommend Erieau Beach as your backdrop. It’s a place where natural beauty and heartfelt connections come together, creating a perfect setting for capturing the essence of your family’s journey. Get in touch today to plan your next extended family session with me!