What will it be like? Geelong and Torquay family photographer shares insight into in-home sessions.
‘What’s in-home photography like?’
People ask me this all the time, and for the sake of an elevator pitch (a description of a thing that’s concise and to the point) I used to try to sum it up quickly.
At some point in my old age though (ha!), Ive let go of the temptation to speed everything up.
Now when people ask me what to expect from their in-home family session, I let myself answer honestly, from the depths of my romantic heart:
“We’re going to capture poems; stories that will hang on your wall forever and ever. My camera will catch memories like butterflies in a net. Together we’ll make photographs of your beautifully ordinary, perfectly imperfect, deliciously unique family that will become your twinkling north star; the guiding light that will ground you on the tough days, and will forever show the way home.”
I know, I know, it’s a little wordy (you know by now I can’t help myself!), but I think this way people have a much better idea of what to expect when I come knocking on their door.
I’m here to make candid, organic photographs you’ll treasure forever, no matter what stage of family-making you’re up to.
I live to be invited round for cuppa, and a chance to preserve your precious pregnancy, newborn or big-kid family moments.
Now you’re thinking: ‘Sure, but you could catch those memories in a studio, right? Why in-home?’
And this is such a great question for someone who’s never experienced in-home photography!
I mean yes, my coming to you does mean you’ll have to do a little tidy up (nothing drastic I promise! Read this post to find out more about just how chill prep-morning is).
However, I can promise that having your photography session at home, rather than in a studio, comes with a thousand-and-one benefits…
…Maternity photography instantly has more meaning when taken in a comforting, nurturing environment.
…Where else would your newborn feel safe enough to do a yummy, eyes scrunched, arms outstretched, mouth open-wide yawn..?
…Where else do your wildlings completely let down their guard, and show off their fantastic, unique-to-them, personalities..?
…What other setting will behave like a precious time capsule, preserving the beloved home of your family, while also making a record of your beautiful faces..?
‘Okay, so we’ll do it at home, but what will it be like?’
My clients are sometimes concerned their smile will turn stiff and frozen the moment I take my camera out.
They worry they might look staged or tense, especially if a photographer is barking instructions at them (this is SO not my style by the way!).
‘Look here!’
‘Smile!’
‘Remember you’re meant to look happy!’
‘Angle your head like a waxing moon, looking upon the stars.’ (What does this even mean?!)
With in-home newborn photography, there’s none of this to worry about. You set the pace and I follow. If you or your loved ones need a snack break or a run around the backyard to blow off steam – we’ll do it! Baby fussing? No stress, we have plenty time for them to settle, or even take a nap!
Typically, I allow two hours per in-home session, but this is just a guide to help you plan your day, I’m not watching the clock. I’m not going anywhere until we’ve got the images I came to make.
I find most in-home sessions start from the moment I walk in the door. I meet your beautiful family, and one of two things happen, either your older children excitedly show me around their home (and I take a few early snaps), or we gush and coo over your newest sweet addition wherever they happen to be in their routine (napping, feeding, snuggling).
After that, time will fly – I can promise you that!
We’ll move around, picking spaces with the best light (possibly ending up in the master bedroom, nursery, or backyard), and taking photos of everyone (both alone and together).
Sometimes I might guide you with where to place your hand, where to look, or how to sit, but most important, we’ll be doing what feels natural for you.
And then it will be over!
I’ll pack away my things, say fond farewells, and a few weeks later a wonderful souvenir of my visit will arrive at your door.
So, if you’re looking to say good-bye to ‘Cheese!’ and uncomfortable, stressful family photos, please reach out! I’d love to hear from you. I can visit your home if you’re located anywhere from Melbourne, Ballarat, Torquay, or Geelong - and anything in between.
