What about this session was most memorable?

The most memorable thing was the love they had for one another. It just oozed from them. However, that’s not uncommon for this family. They are truly some of the most kindest and nicest people I know.

Also, It always makes a session memorable when people are willing to try anything at any given moment. Sometimes I have ideas on the fly and it’s always nice when the client is so willing to try it with me, and do it with a good attitude. They were those kind of people. 🙂

Were there any hurdles?

Hmm…well, working with small children is always a hurdle. Kids who are “over it” and ready to be done taking pictures. I can’t say I blame them though. 🙂

Tell us your best photographer/session advice:

Let your clients be themselves. Sometimes, I have a vision in my head of how I want a session to go, and the client is just not feeling it, or it doesn’t suit their personality, which, I’m learning, is perfectly OK. In this case, this family is naturally very “smiley”, happy and joyful, so I wanted to make sure that those characteristics came through in their images.

Another piece of advice I would give, and that I’ve learned in my short time of doing this is to try and not “pose” your clients too much. Some of the best images I’ve gotten have been candid and natural. It’s OK if things aren’t perfect. It’s OK if somebody’s eyes are closed. It’s OK if there’s movement. It’s OK if everyone is not looking at the camera…in fact, that just makes the image better. It’s about how you and your client feel about the image…that’s all that matters.

When I begin a session I always tell my clients that I have three rules: 1. Don’t look at the camera. (crazy, right? I always love seeing their faces when I tell them that.) 2. Have fun and love each other, and… 3. Trust me.  It’s really that simple. The rest just all happens naturally.

What gear was used to achieve these?

HAHA! I don’t have the most high-tech gear. Just my Nikon D7100 and my trusty 50mm 1.8