But for those of you that DON'T know me and how I roll...
My mini sessions are different than your average photographer. Yes they are quick, yes they are wild, yes they may seen pricey to some... But if you were to ask any of my Christmas Mini clients why they keep coming back, it's because they love the results and it's worth every penny!
The method to my mini madness was brought about when I was working for Portrait Innovations 10 years ago. Between the months of October and December I was trained hardcore on how to photograph an entire session for Christmas Cards in about 10 minutes flat. 3 Backgrounds, 10 minutes. And I took about 30 sessions PER DAY. Sounds crazy right? Oh, it absolutely was. But if you've ever been to a Portrait Innovations you know exactly what I'm talking about. That place was packed wall-to-wall with families waiting their turn to get into that camera room.
Well now, fast forward to me running my own business and doing this on my own. I know that there are a few things that are key factors in a successful mini session day:
1. The Scene - between the location, backdrop, lighting and props, I know what makes a successful image and I know what families are looking for to fill their cards. None of that comes at a small cost. Location fees and props are my biggest expenses every year. I have to research my locations to make sure there is optimal lighting throughout the morning and where that happens.
2. The Help - I would never be as successful and run on time without my assistants.
My assistants are made up of the two people I trust the most with my business..
Abby is a long-time client, wonderful friend, a mom, and occasional amateur photographer herself. She has two beautiful boys (pictured above), and is the light and positive energy I need to get through the day. This year she will also be acting as my second shooter and I couldn't be more excited!
Linda is my mom, so I've literally known her since she birthed me. She is my right-hand woman and always there for whatever I need. Whether it's cleaning things, handing me things, or greeting you. She's awesome, obviously!
3. The Time - Scheduling is important. From running on time to clients arriving on time. We work like a well oiled machine. I know how to keep kids entertained and laugh. And I have a quick posing routine like the back of my hand.
4. The Details - I am a highly organized and detailed person. In order for everything to work like the well oiled machine I have detailed reminders, directions, and instructions, prompts, and even if something like that fails I'm a problems solver and we get it done.
5. The Product - Everyone knows the final product is the most important. I work really hard to get the very best, most amazing shots of you and your family. I know how important those Christmas Cards are! I also do my very best to turn around those images as quickly as possible. I know everyone likes to order their cards with coupons, etc so I really do try to get them out to you as soon as possible. But that is also why we aim for EARLY November!
6. The Customer Service - In years past I have always done a coffee, hot cocoa, and snack bar at my mini sessions. I like to show my clients my appreciation for coming, for planning, for dressing, for wrangling, for bribing, and for participating. I like to put a smile on their face. This year I'm putting together specialty gift bags (you know, because of the damn COVID) to feature some of what I used to, but in an even bigger and better way. Like really, I've spent a lot of time thinking about what I want to include and the goodie bag might be just as exciting as your images!
My point is, that the reason you won't find anyone like me is that I'm well experienced, detail oriented, thoughtful, and have a tried and true routine from booking to delivery.