Hey all! If you know me even a tiny bit, you probably know I am a type-A, cruise director.  Because of this, the way my photography sessions flow is super important to me.  I like to have a plan, a roadmap.  I've worked through this roadmap for the last year and I've finally figured out what works best for me.  I wanted to share how my family (and most newborn) sessions flow, what to expect, and some go-to poses that can be seen within my family galleries.  My hope in sharing these poses and photos is that you have a better understanding of what your final gallery will look like (and if you're type-A like me, this will put your mind at ease).  Enjoy! xo

The "Grandma" Pose
Yes, Grandma. Because Grandma is the only one who loves this photo.  Everyone looking at the camera and me saying "1, 2, 3, PICKLES!"  I rarely share these photos on Facebook.  Why?  Because it is not the reason I want to book sessions.  The magic happens after the Grandma Pose.

Everyone Look at Each Other! 
This immediately follows the Grandma Pose.  I might ask your family questions to get genuine interactions.  Or maybe I'll take a step back and observe.  I'll ask siblings to tickle each other or encourage hugging.  Either way, these are some of my favorites. 

Siblings
I always try to get siblings together every session.  It can be tough if the kids are smaller, but I do my best. It typically involves a lot of hugging, booger investigation, and maybe an ice-cream bribe or two. 

Mom + Kids / Dad + Kids
I love to give Mom and Dad some solo time with the kiddos.  I'm typically asking the kids to hug mom or tell her why you love her.  For dads, I tell the kids to "get dad!!" 

Child Portraits
Every parent deserves a portrait of their kids. Classic, simple, authentic. I usually take the kids aside, get on their level, and ask them questions.  If the kids are older I ask them about their friends, school, or favorite activities.  If they are younger, I'll make silly faces or play peek-a-boo.  I'll ask to see their happy face, sad face, surprised face, and scared face. Portraits will always have a special place in my heart.

Mom + Dad
Last, but not least - Mom and Dad. More likely than not, Mom and Dad haven't have a professional photo taken since their wedding. Family sessions are usually all about the kids, but I like to take a few minutes and focus on the parents. 

Play time! 
At this point in the session, everyone is a little more relaxed.  We got the important photos out of the way so the pressure is off.  Sometimes I'll pose the parents on a blanket, pile the kids on top, and start shooting.  Cuddling and hugging come easier.  If there are older kids in the session, I let them run around and burn energy.  If it's a newborn session, I simply observe.  It all depends on the family vibe.

I hope this gave you a little more insight into how my family photo sessions work.  If you're interested in a family session, contact me today! xo

I'm a big fan of traditions, especially when it comes to the holiday season.  As I get older, I realize my favorite traditions have evolved over time.  Traditions are important to remember and pass along to new generations.  What are your family traditions? 

For me, this session was a perfect way to kick off the holiday season (and the season of in-home sessions, thanks Michigan).  With a new home, a two-year-old son, and one more child on the way, the Nerowski's are starting new traditions.  Saturday morning pancakes (with whip cream & sprinkles, duh). 

Looking for someone to document your family, doing what you do everyday?  Email me!  An in-home session would be perfect for your family.  I'd love to show you beauty in your ordinary day.  Whether it's making breakfast on a weekend morning or taking a stroll through your neighborhood, I'd love to tag along.  No fancy outfits or sunsets in a dreamy field.  Just your family, doing what you do best. 

Thanksgiving.  The time to reflect on the blessings in our life and be thankful for those around us.

As a photographer,  I am thankful for the families that choose me to capture their moments.  This family has been with me from the start ((HUGS!)).  I look back at some of my earliest sessions and I want to bury my head; I had NO idea what I was doing.  So it humbles me when families continue to book sessions year after year.  From the bottom of my heart, thank you. THANK YOU.    

Cheers to life's blessings, happy thanksgivings, and continuing to grow.  Enjoy, xo.

The first question inquiring families ask me is "what if my kids are crazy and don't cooperate during our session?" My quick answer: THAT'S OKAY.  Life isn't perfect. Your kids run around and throw tantrums from time-to-time. I'm probably going to take pictures of that. I love those photos. They are real life and the moments you'll want to remember (eventually).

During the session I am sharing below, big sister Allie loved to pick her nose. THAT'S OKAY. Big brother Emmett wasn't really interested in his baby sister and only wanted to play with his toy ball. THAT'S OKAY. Mom and dad were super relaxed and I was able to capture this family perfectly, despite a few boogers and toy balls.

Here are a few quick tips for making your family session perfect:
1. Happy kids are well-rested and have full stomachs. Let's make sure your session works around their nap schedule. If the kids are hungry, we will stop for a snack!
2. Prepare your child for the session by letting them know a friend will be taking their photos. It's best not to surprise them.
3. Relax & go with the flow. If you're relaxed, your kids will relax. Don't stress if someone is picking their nose. Laugh it off :)

Interested in booking a session? Contact me today