Central PA Family Photographer

Your Guide to Combining a Maternity and Family Photoshoot

Pregnancy is a time full of magic for any excited mom-to-be, but in some ways, it’s even better when you have other kids in the house too. Kids have the ability to experience the pure and genuine joy that’s unsullied by the worries of adulthood that are nagging under the surface for every parent-to-be. When you see that glee in your kids’ eyes as they think about their arriving baby brother or sister or when they feel the baby kick in your belly, it pushes those worries aside and reminds us all of the beauty of pregnancy. What better way to celebrate your pregnancy and the happiness it’s bringing to your family than with a maternity family photoshoot? As a family maternity photographer who has captured countless growing families over the years, I’m proud to share some insight into this experience and how you can get the most from your session.

Why Incorporate the Family into a Maternity Photo Session?

In a maternity photo shoot, the star of the day is always the mom-to-be. After all, it’s your body that’s doing the wondrous work of creating a new baby, and we need to get that glorious glow on camera!

In a family pregnancy photoshoot, you and your baby bump are still the primary focus. We just add a few shots of your family into the mix. It’s a fantastic way to capture the last few weeks you’ll spend with your older kids alone before adding a new baby to the family. Including your kids in your maternity photos is also a great way to help them feel more involved in your pregnancy and in the new baby, encouraging them to develop more of a bond with the baby before their little sister or brother arrives.

Tips for a Smoother Maternity Family Photoshoot with Kids

If you want to give your kids the gift of a family maternity shoot they’ll treasure as much as you do, there are plenty of ways you can make it a smoother, easier experience for everyone and a fun memory for your kids.

Give Everyone Time in the Spotlight

Over the years, I’ve seen that kids can have many different reactions to the idea of a baby sibling. Some are thrilled from day one and want to be involved in everything. Other times, kids are more hesitant. If you have a big-sibling-in-training who might have a hard time getting on board for a family maternity session, it can help to make sure each child feels special by giving them their own photos. This way, every child feels valued on their own and they’re more likely to fully participate in the photoshoot.

Coordinate Everyone’s Outfits

You already know that you and your loving kids go together like peas and carrots, but in your family maternity shoot, you want to create a visual cohesiveness too by coordinating everyone’s looks. All of my photo sessions are performed on location, either at your home or at an outdoor location. Think about where you’ll have your session and what colors will look best against those backgrounds. Not sure about the color scheme? I can help!

There are a few reminders to note as well. First, have a backup outfit for each person. Kids have a special knack for getting messy at the most inopportune times, especially if you’re having an outdoor photo shoot. Second, keep in mind that you can wear a few different outfits for your maternity portraits, and your family’s outfits only need to coordinate with one of them. Feel free to choose stunning maternity gowns in bold colors for your solo photos.

Pack for Comfort

My family maternity sessions last for 1-2 hours, and they’re all done on location. If you choose a location other than your home, that means your family will be out of the house for up to two hours plus the time it takes to get there and get home.

Remember that while you’ll be busy striking gorgeous poses throughout the session, your kids will have some downtime while we’re taking your solo portraits. Plan ahead to bring anything your kids will need to be comfortable for those few hours. That could include toys, on-the-go games, snacks, drinks, blankets, diapers, and more.

Choose Your Photographer Wisely

As you’re looking for a photographer for your portraits, make sure you look for experienced family maternity photographers. Not all maternity photographers have experience working with kids. I’m proud to have spent years pulling together my bag tricks for working with kids. I’ve mastered the art of getting kids into every parent’s favorite poses, capturing candids of kids being themselves, and coaxing smiles out of even the most hesitant of faces.

Planning Your Maternity Family Photoshoot

If you have a precious new baby on the way and you want to preserve this moment with your entire family, now is the time to book your session. Contact my photo studio today to get on the schedule and start planning this gift to yourself that you’ll treasure forever.

Your Guide to Combining a Maternity and Family Photoshoot Read More »

Harrisburg Family Photography | The Peter Allen House

When the Colello Family inquired about a super special Harrisburg family photography session, I was struck immediately by their very significant and sentimental location request! I never could have guessed how adorable they’d all be in person! What is most extraordinary about this family, though, is undeniably the love they all have for each other!

Harrisburg Family Photography session at The Peter Allen House

Jenn and Pete had been married for almost 10 years. They wanted to go back to the location where they said their wedding vowels a decade earlier. Since saying “I do” at The Peter Allen House they’ve welcomed 3 beautiful little girls into their sweet family. And what an adorable crew they make! I absolutely loved the significance of their location choice! Jenn and Pete are still so into each other. And it’s evident in the way work together to parent their precious girls. Their kiddos are some of the most photogenic, friendly and kind little souls! Middle daughter, Julie even takes lots of hair pulling from her little sis with so much patience and grace! And while it’s natural for parents to worry about kiddos struggling to sit still during a session, I always tell parents to let them be kids! And as you see, it always works out!

The Family Portraits

As you can see from even just a quick glance through their photos, genuine connection, love, and joy are the qualities that turn beautiful family photos into the kind that take your breath away! Those sincere moments of connection are the ones families like the Colellos will treasure on the walls of their home for decades.

When I’m planning every Harrisburg family photography session, my number one goal is to bring out the unique personality of the family in front of my lens! I noticed right away that the Colellos were especially easy going yet sentimental. So, I made it my mission to capture that in photos! By taking them back to the spot where it all began 10 years ago, I was able to highlight something so special!

Full Service Portrait Photography

It’s also so important to me that family photos this magical don’t just hide away on your computer hard drive forever. This is why I am a full service portrait photographer. Therefore, I encourage all my clients to invest in displays for their images. Whether that be through an heirloom album to pass around on holidays or a gallery full of wall art. During your order appointment, I will use special design software to show you exactly how your family portraits will look like on your very own walls!

I had such a blast telling the Colello’s family story with my camera during our Harrisburg family photography session at The Peter Allen house! I hope to see them for another photo session again soon!

Are you looking to take family photos of your own? Let’s chat! Shoot me a message and I will be in touch to help you create something special. Every step of the way!

Harrisburg Family Photography | The Peter Allen House Read More »

Family Photographer Near Me Camp Hill | The Whittaker Family

You probably turned to your Google machine and typed “Family Photographer Near Me Camp Hill” which landed you right here! Yay! You’re in the perfect place! When I ask my newest clients how they found me they often respond with “I just typed Family Photographer Near Me into my Google search bar and loved your images!” That is exactly how the Whittaker family found me and I am so happy they did! This family of 3 boys was so much fun to work with!

Family of 5 poses together during their fall family photography session with Camp Hill Family Photographer
Family of 5 poses together during their fall family photography session with Camp Hill Family Photographer

The Consultation with your Family Photographer

We all know most moms do it all! Including the search for the perfect photographer to capture her family’s memories! After Mom’s initial Google search for a “Family Photographer Near Me Camp Hill” she contacted me and we set up a consultation at my Camp Hill photography studio to meet and plan! I believe family photography is such a personal experience. Therefore, you should have the opportunity to meet the person who is going to work with and photograph your family. You should know that you like and trust your photographer before moving forward! A consultation also gives me as the photographer a chance to meet and get to know a little bit about my clients and their family. Connection and trust throughout my family photography process is something I value extensively.

The photo session with the Family Photographer near Camp Hill

Together, we talked about locations and style and ended up choosing a small town, urban feel for the Whittaker’s session. Can I just say this session was a stress free, ton of fun session! Not only are they a totally adorable family with 3 handsome boys, but the fact that they like to have fun and laugh is what made it perfect! I am certainly NOT above playing along with 3 young boys and their fart sounds and silly names or words! Ha! Life is short. So, It should be fun and light hearted and your family portraits should reflect who you are together in genuine form!

The Reveal and Ordering Appointment at the Camp Hill Photography Studio

The exciting part happened about two weeks after their session when mom came in to my Camp Hill photography studio to view her family’s images for the first time! I played a slideshow of all of their images, and using specialized computer software, was able to show her exactly what her portraits will look like on the walls of her home! Therefore, this part makes the ordering appointment truly awesome! The ability to use snap shots of my my clients very own home walls to show them true to life sizes and wall art products with their images takes all the guess work out for both of us! Together, we selected a variety of tangible products for their home. A keepsake that their children will have to carry through their lives and pass down for generations, and a big, beautiful grouping of round Farmhouse framed prints! My personal favorite too!

Delivery of Portrait Keepsakes and Installation of Wall Art by Camp Hill PA Family Photographer

This is where all of the magic comes together, forever! I think we can all agree that good things take time. Approximately 6-8 weeks after the ordering appointment I hand delivered all their heirloom portrait products and even hung and installed their wall art in the locations we selected during the ordering appointment! I pride myself on offering a truly full service portrait photography experience! Life is busy and i’m here to make this easy by walking you through the entire process from start to finish!

Reserving and planning your Family’s Camp Hill photography session

The best time to reserve and plan your own family’s portrait session is as soon as it crosses your mind! It’s always best to plan ahead and book several months in advance. I am here to help you every step of the way. So, reach out by contacting me HERE now and I will help you get the ball rolling! I can’t wait to meet your family and preserve your memories forever!

Family Photographer Near Me Camp Hill | The Whittaker Family Read More »

Choosing the best newborn photographer near Camp Hill PA

Choosing the best newborn photographer near Camp Hill PA may be one of the most important decisions you make when expecting a new baby! There are a few key factors that you may want to think about when deciding on something so very important! Are you patiently awaiting a new baby in the coming months? Have you just welcomed a precious newborn into the world? Your baby will only be a tiny newborn for such a very short time. Capturing these special new moments through professional newborn photography is likely on your mind! While price can often be a factor for many people when choosing a newborn photographer, it most certainly shouldn’t be your only deciding factor. Here you can find some great tips for choosing the best Camp Hill newborn photographer.

Best newborn photographer near camp Hill PA captures baby boy in newborn photo studio

Camp Hill Newborn Photographer SAFETY trained.

The safety of your baby should be your number one priority when choosing the best photographer to capture these sweet, delicate moments. Almost every expecting parent does a ton of research when it comes to selecting safe products and services such as bottles, car seats, cribs and child care providers. You will want to use this same standard of care when it comes to choosing your newborn photographer. You’ll want to know that the photographer who is handling and posing your sweet baby has the training necessary to pose your baby safely. A few things to ask your potential newborn photographer…

  1. Does the photographer have in-person newborn photography training?
  2. How long has the photographer been posing newborns?
  3. What is the studio sick policy?
  4. What are the studio cleaning practices?
  5. Is the photographer insured?
  6. Are there any additional precautions being taken?

I personally prioritize the safety of your baby above all else. There is absolutely nothing more important to me than keeping your precious little love safe during his or her newborn session. I have nearly 14 years experience working with newborn babies and have invested thousands of dollars in training workshops. I am constantly learning and perfecting my skill level and craft.

Specializing in Posed Newborn Photography.

When choosing the best newborn photographer near Camp Hill PA you will most certainly want to know that handling newborns is their area of expertise. Therefore, you’ll want to make sure that posing newborn babies is what your photographer specializes in. Professional newborn photographers should have the very specific and specialized training that is necessary when handling and posing tiny babies. An experienced newborn photographer will know how to sooth, position and pose your baby in the safest way. There are many genres of photography. Just because someone owns a camera and calls themselves a photographer does not mean they have the specialized training necessary to photograph a newborn. Quite like you would not seek the care of a cardiologist to deliver your baby even though they are both doctors – you likely won’t seek a wedding photographer or a family friend with a nice camera to photograph your baby.

Camp Hill Newborn Photographer captures studio newborn photos

The Location and Style

Each and every professional newborn photographer will have their very own special, unique style. Your newborn’s portraits will be something you have to look back on to remember and cherish for your entire lifetime. Therefore, it’s very important to choose a photographer with a style and images that tug at your heart strings. These images of your baby will be on display on your walls for many years to come, so be sure to select a photographer with a style that you love! I specialize in posed newborn photography and enjoy turning images of your most precious creation into works of art.

How far is the photographer’s studio located from your home? If you’re located in Central PA and looking for studio newborn photography near Mechanicsburg, Harrisburg or Camp Hill then my cozy newborn studio is just a short car ride away.

Investment and Artwork. “Full Service” vs “All-Inclusive” Newborn Photography

Newborn photography prices are based on a variety of factors such as the photographer’s experience and training, the quality of their work, the amount of time they spend working with each client throughout their portrait process, a customized-full service experience vs. a generic all- inclusive, product offering and quality, and design services offered.

I am a custom, full service newborn photographer. My focus is on a quality experience and product. I walk my clients through the entire portrait process from start to finish. From our initial phone conversation, through consultation, newborn photo session, ordering appointment and the delivery of your portrait art. I put great time, love and care into your newborn photography experience. It is my belief that any great product or service takes time when done well. I spend about 40 hours with each client from start to finish, making sure each of them receive exceptional quality and care, and a product that will help you remember your baby as a newborn, forever.

You can find newborn photography priced anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the photographer and type of service they offer. A client of mine can typically expect to invest an amount between $2000 and $10,000 (although some spend a bit more or less) on a variety of portrait art such as beautiful framed prints, Italian wall art, heirloom albums, and keepsake folio display cases.

Professional newborn photography is an incredible luxury and a worthwhile investment in this wonderful time in your life! Your baby will only be so tiny for such a short time.

Newborn photographer in camp hill photographs baby boy in newborn photography studio

Am I the best Camp Hill Newborn Photographer for you?

Find out! I would love to share more about my custom newborn photography experience with you, and answer any questions you may have for me! The best way to start is to get in touch with me by filling out my short contact form HERE. You can expect a phone call from me so that we can chat about the details and to set up a time for you to come to the studio for a newborn photography consultation. I can’t wait to connect with you!

Karissa Zimmer is an experienced professional newborn photographer based in Camp Hill and serving the surrounding areas, including Mechanicsburg, Harrisburg, Hershey and Carlisle.

Choosing the best newborn photographer near Camp Hill PA Read More »

Five Questions You Should Ask Your Family Photographer

When it comes to portrait photography, many people put a lot of effort into their search for the perfect photographer to capture their wedding or engagement. They often forget that finding the perfect person to capture their family’s most special memories is just as important! These images of your family will be something you cherish forever and that your children, grandchildren, and future generations will have to look back on.

If you’re looking for a family photographer, take time to ask them these questions—and don’t shy away from voicing your concerns or clearly asking for what you want. The best way to get the images you want from your session is to communicate clearly with your photographer and let them know right away if you have any questions or concerns.

How much experience do you have?

While it’s great to help out a friend, if you’re looking for gorgeous images to display in your home for years to come, you don’t want to book a photographer who’s just starting out. Ask about their experience and look at some of their past work to determine if their images are consistent and their style would be a good fit for your family. You want a photographer who knows what they’re doing, has high-quality equipment and can handle any type of lighting situation—or any rambunctious kids.

family photography in harrisburg, family portraits, professional family photos, mechanicsburg family photographer

Do you specialize in a specific type of photography?

If you’re looking for a certain kind of photography, make sure to choose a photographer whose style matches what you’re seeking. Some photographers do more posed photos, and some go for a more candid look, while others do both depending on the client. If you want something specific for your images, don’t be afraid to ask.

family photography in harrisburg, family portraits, professional family photos, mechanicsburg family photographer

Do you have a lot of repeat clients?


The best photographers often capture multiple milestones for the same families, from engagements to newborns to their baby’s milestones, or child’s high school senior photos and beyond. If a photographer has the same clients coming back again and again, that’s a good sign that their work is strong and consistent—and that they’re easy to work with.

family photography in harrisburg, family portraits, professional family photos, mechanicsburg family photographer

What is your policy for canceling or rescheduling?


You never know what could happen to keep you from making it to your family photo session. Be sure to ask about your photographer’s cancelation policy and whether you would be able to reschedule your shoot, if necessary.

Have you had any experience with _____________?


You may have unique concerns based on your family’s needs or challenges. Maybe you have a special needs child or a situation that may require some poses outside of the norm. While it helps to have a photographer who has some experience with concerns similar to yours, the most important thing is finding someone who will be understanding and compassionate and who will work with you and your family to get great photos.

When you’re looking for a photographer to capture the love your family shares, it’s important to choose someone who’s willing and able to help you create your vision for your family portraits. Be sure to check out as many of their galleries as you can and be open about what you want for your images.

Five Questions You Should Ask Your Family Photographer Read More »

Family Photographer in Harrisburg Pa

Family Photographer in Harrisburg Pa - The Norman Family

Family Photographer in Harrisburg Pa - The Norman Family. I love when families get together as a large group to be photographed together. It shows just how much they value one another and having visual memories together. Families are ever evolving and changing. To have a memory of your family just as it is now, at the ages you are and at the stage of life your children are in is always something so special to remember. No matter what season in life you are in. These are your people. This is your tribe. There is nothing more important than the ones we love.

The Norman's Fall family session was purchased as a very special Mother's Day gift in the spring. HOW SWEET IS THAT? How many gifts can you give your mom that she is LITERALLY GOING TO HAVE FOREVER!? Gifts you are going to have forever, your children are going to have forever and they're going going to be able to pass to their children. There are not many that I can think of! This may have been a Mother's Day present, but I think Dad is getting just as much joy out of seeing his family's portraits on the walls of his home everyday too!

Families that have fun together are the best! If you know me, you know I am not at all a "super serious" girl. I thrive on laughter and humor and totally encourage all of this silliness! These memories are just as important as the sweet ones!

It's time to book NOW for Fall family portraits!

It's that time of year...FALL portrait season! It may still seem early, but it's absolutely NOT too early to book your fall family portrait session. Openings almost always fill before the actual fall season begins. Send me a message HERE today to start planning your own custom portrait session!

Would you like to see more fun session peeks? Follow me on Instagram!

Family Photographer in Harrisburg Pa Read More »

Langan Family Portraits | Family Photographer Harrisburg PA

As a Family Photographer Harrisburg PA, I love watching families grow through working with them each year.

It's definitely one of my favorite parts about what I do! I love the special bond that I have with my yearly repeat clients like the Langan Family! They become so near and dear to my heart. I have been photographing this adorable family for the past 6 years! I've seen these children grow and change from year to year and have been lucky enough to be the one their family trusts to capture their memories each time around. I love how much they truly value family. They value the importance of preserving each stage of life by making it a priority each and every year to have their family photographed. You know just how important family is when you walk into their home and see portraits EVERYWHERE throughout their home! It makes my heart so happy! After all, what is more important than the people we love?! I can't list one thing!

Family Photographer in Harrisburg PA Karissa Zimmer Photography Family Photographer Harrisburg PAFamily Photographer Camp Hill PA 17011 Karissa Zimmer Photography Family Photographer Harrisburg PACamp Hill PA family Photographer Karissa Zimmer Photography 17011 Family Photographer Harrisburg PAChildren photography Harrisburg PA Family Photographer Harrisburg PACamp Hill PA family Photographer Karissa Zimmer Photography 17011 Family Photographer Harrisburg PAHarrisburg PA Family Photographer Karissa Zimmer Photography Family Photographer Harrisburg PAMechanicsburg Family Photographer Karissa Zimmer Photography Family Photographer Harrisburg PAMechanicsburg PA Family Photographer Karissa Zimmer Photography 17050 Family Photographer Harrisburg PAFamily Photographer 17050 Family Photography 17055 Family Photographer Harrisburg PAFamily pictures in Mechanicsburg PA by Karissa Zimmer Photography Family Photographer Harrisburg PACamp Hill Pa Family Photographer Karissa Zimmer Photography Family Photographer Harrisburg PAFamily Pictures in Harrisburg PA by Karissa Zimmer Photography Family Photographer Harrisburg PAI know it still seems a little chilly outside, however it is Spring! That means my FAVORITE portrait seasons of all are here. There is nothing like the evening Spring and Summer light with new life and blooms everywhere. Spring and Summer make for the prettiest family pictures of all! In my opinion at least! It's never too early to reserve a date for your family's custom portrait session. I will walk you through the entire custom portrait process from start to finish. My goal is not only to capture your family's unique and special story, but to help you preserve these moments forever through beautiful heirloom products. These moments that are so quickly fleeting. I will help you to enjoy them day after day by showing you exactly how they can be displayed on your walls!

Send me a message here to chat about planning your family's personalized portrait session! I can't wait to work with you!

Langan Family Portraits | Family Photographer Harrisburg PA Read More »

Lucas {Mechanicsburg Pa Children’s Portraits}

It's an honest fact that i'm passionate about creating children's portraits...I'm even more excited about it when it's for someone I love!

Lucas is a special little guy to me.  He belongs to one of my nearest and dearest friends.  I love watching my all of my friend's babies grow up and being able to capture these special phases for them to cherish forever.

Mechanicsburg Pa Child Photographer Family Photography Mechanicsburg Pa Newborn Photography 17011 Newborn Photography 17050 Newborn Photographer Mechanicsburg PA Child Photography 17050

We couldn't have had a more perfect evening for his fall portrait session. It was such a late fall with all the warm temperatures (that we're now paying for- with these FREEZING temps!) and were so lucky that his November shoot was bursting with brilliant colors!

Mechanicsburg Pa Child Photographer Family Photography Camp Hill Pa Newborn Photography 17011 Newborn Photography 17050 Newborn Photographer Mechanicsburg PA 0082Mechanicsburg Pa Child Photographer Family Photography Mechanicsburg Pa Newborn Photography 17011 Newborn Photography 17050 Newborn Photographer Mechanicsburg PA_0081

One of my favorite parts of my portrait process is being able to show my clients how their finished images will look on the walls of their own home. Of course, my absolute favorite product that I offer and love show show are The The Organic Bloom frames.  Lucas' portraits look so beautiful finished and framed in Organic Bloom frames. Portraits of the ones you love are meant to be printed and displayed on the walls of your home where they can be cherished and enjoyed everyday!

Newborn Photography baby photographer Mechanicsburg PA Newborn photographer_0087

It's never too early to start planning a custom portrait session for your children and family. Although I love Fall Portrait sessions a ton...I  really love SPRING and SUMMER sessions even more! The weather is comfortable, Spring and Summer lighting is beautiful and there isn't a need for layers of clothing!  Send me a message here and we'll work together to plan a special portrait session to capture your family's story forever.

Lucas {Mechanicsburg Pa Children’s Portraits} Read More »

Gibson Family Portrait Session

There is no doubt that I love to photograph The Gibson family portrait session each year! I can say with all honesty that this family is very special to me.  This is our 7th photo session together!  I first met them when I photographed Taylor, their oldest (and only!) daughter for the cover of Central Penn Parent Magazine when she was in middle school.  Now, she is about to begin her first year in college!  One of my absolute favorite things about being a portrait photographer is the opportunity to develop a relationship with families and capture how they grow and change over the years.  This year, the Gibson clan grew by one more adorable little guy!  All three little boys are extremely blessed to have a big sis like Taylor! I don't think I've ever met a big sister who is anything like her.  The love she has for her little brothers is without a doubt, something very, very special!  Each year, I walk away from their session with a smile on my face, and my heart full.  The Gibsons are a family who truly love one another AND they know how to have FUN together!

Family Photography baby photographer Mechanicsburg PA Newborn photographer Family Photos_0043

This is probably one of my favorite sibling bonds ever <3

Family Photography baby photographer Mechanicsburg PA Newborn photographer Family Photos_0044

The littlest Gibson and all his cuteness!!!

Family Photography baby photographer Mechanicsburg PA Newborn photographer Family Photos_0045

Love and laughter! My favorite combo <3

Family Photography baby photographer Mechanicsburg PA Newborn photographer Family Photosr_0046

The part that makes what I do most worthwhile is that I know the Gibson's cherish the memories we capture, forever.  The walls of their home tell their family's story perfectly.

 

Every family is special. Portraits of the people you love are the most invaluable possessions you can own.  Let's work together to capture and tell your family's special story.  Send me a message here to chat about planning your own custom portrait session!

Gibson Family Portrait Session Read More »