Summer has arrived, and for many local families, this is the perfect time for outdoor family photos in Mechanicsburg. The kids are out of school, there are plenty of daylight hours - it’s perfect for portraits you can treasure for years. There’s one problem, though: the heat can make a photo session uncomfortable. Not to worry, because I have some tricks! Use these tips to stay cool for your summer photo session.
Keep the Session Moving
This is the most important tip of all: be prepared to keep the photo session moving. Kids have short attention spans, and that’s especially true when they’re getting too warm. That’s why I try to make all family sessions brief while still allowing for the time we need to get beautiful photos. While I’ll take care of most of the pacing, I advise parents to be ready to get started as soon as you arrive.
Try a Portable Fan for Your Outdoor Family Photos in Mechanicsburg
Handheld, portable battery-powered fans can be lifesavers for any parent in the summer. Bring one of these little fans and feel free to pull it out every so often during your session to cool off your kids (and yourself).
Choose Breathable Outfits
As you’re planning the family’s wardrobe for your portraits, make sure the outfits are set up with summer in mind. Go for light, airy fabrics like linen. Lighter colors will help you to stay cool too. Ideally, choose items that don’t show sweat easily and are loose enough to allow for airflow.
Booking Your Outdoor Family Photos in Mechanicsburg Today
The summer will be over before we know it! If you want to make time for family portraits this summer, contact Karissa Zimmer Photography today and let’s book your photo session. I'll work with you to plan a photo shoot the whole family will love.
Some families enjoy a family portrait session every year while others only have the chance every several years. Either way, it’s not something you do every day. As a professional photographer, I aim to not only create beautiful works of personal art for my clients but to guide you through the process too and make it as simple and stress-free for you as possible. To help you manage your photo session planning process, I’ve put together a straightforward to-do list for any parent before outdoor family photography in Harrisburg PA.
#1. Choose Your Photographer
The first step in any photo session is to select your photographer, and frankly, that can be the hardest step too. You want a photographer you can work with well and someone whose work you love because every photographer has their own style. Keep in mind that each photographer has a different level of service too, so find a photographer who has the aesthetic and the service you’re looking for.
#2. Decide on a Location for Your Outdoor Family Photography in Harrisburg PA
After you’ve booked a session with the photographer of your choice (or during the booking process), you’ll coordinate with your photographer to choose a location for your photo session. The season, the look you want, and other factors will impact your location of choice. The beauty is, though, that you have an expert photographer in your corner, and we know all the best spots in town! I always chat with my clients about what they want for their session and recommend the best locations for them.
#3. Tell Your Family the Good News
Once you’ve worked out the major details, it’s time to bring your kids in on the plan. The rule of thumb is to be excited and position the photo session as a fun family experience. It’s contagious - if you’re excited about something, your kids will be too!
#4. Design the Family’s Wardrobe for Your Outdoor Family Photography in Harrisburg PA
Wardrobe planning is another item on your to-do list that I can help you with directly. As a full-service photographer, I gladly offer tips and help in planning your family’s wardrobe, including pointers about what does (and doesn’t) look good on camera, advice on what colors might best flatter you and your family, and more. I also advise having a backup outfit planned for each person in case an issue arises.
#5. Plan the Day of Your Photoshoot
Logistics can make a world of difference in your photo session, so make a plan for the day of the photo shoot. Based on when your session will be, plan a schedule that ensures everyone will be fed and rested during the photo shoot. Plan when you need to start getting everyone ready, how much time you’ll need to do your hair and makeup, and so on. Give yourself an earlier out-the-door time than you need in case there’s traffic or you’re running late.
#6. Make a List of Items to Bring
The last thing you want is to arrive at your photo session and realize you’ve forgotten something important. Give yourself more time to think of all the essentials by making a to-bring list. Include things like all the individual pieces for everyone’s backup outfits, snacks, drinks, diapers, wipes, and so on.
#7. Prep and Pack Your Items for the Photo Shoot
The day before your photo shoot, get everything packed and ready so that, when it’s time to leave, you just need to grab everything and go. Get everyone’s wardrobe and backup outfit items laundered and pressed if necessary. Put snacks and other items in a cooler or bag in the fridge. The goal is to make your life as easy as possible.
#8. Don’t Lose Sight of the Goal: To Have Fun!
This might not seem that important but it really is a biggie - remember to have fun! The best portraits happen when you and your family are genuinely enjoying your time together. Try not to stress about the little details. Spots on someone’s clothes can be edited out, but I can’t edit in a carefree smile.
Getting Started with Outdoor Family Photography in Harrisburg PA
Summer is a fantastic time for Camp Hill family photography. The weather and the scenery are absolutely gorgeous, and with the kids out of school (and school sports), many families have more flexible schedules. If you have a summer family portrait session in the plans, though, what should you and your family wear?
Outfit planning is among the top questions my clients ask, and I’m happy to help. Check out these tips.
Camp Hill Family Photography Session
Choose Neutral Colors That Complement Green
One of the reasons so many people love taking family photos in the summer is that the landscape is lush with beautiful plant life. While there are many places around Camp Hill that make for fantastic photo backgrounds, in most cases, you’ll have plenty of beautiful green scenery in the background. For that reason, choose colors that complement green.
Airy and soft neutrals like white and cream work excellently for summer. Variations of blue often look beautiful with these neutrals, and blush pink is a popular choice too. It’s usually best to avoid greens as they may clash with the background greenery.
Wear Multiple Textures for Your Camp Hill Family Photography
Textures can add dimension and visual interest to any family’s portraits. In the cooler months, you might do this with layers and scarves or other accessories. In the summer, try choosing outfits that have multiple textures. A dress with a lace overlay, for example, can be beautiful for Mom, and denim pants look excellent when paired with linen shirts.
Outdoor Family Photography
Consider Floral Prints
Floral prints are excellent for spring and summer, and they can serve as “anchor outfits” that you use to construct your color scheme. For example, Mom can wear a floral dress and the rest of the family’s outfits can pull colors from that floral pattern.
Mother and son outdoor family photoshoot in Central PA
Planning Your Camp Hill Family Photography Session
Take advantage of the beautiful summer ahead with a special family photo session - I’d be happy to help! Contact my Camp Hill PA photo studio today and let’s start planning.
Father and son photos near Camp HillFamily Photography near Camp Hill, PAOutdoor Baby Photography
For many of my clients’ family portraits, we take their photos in one of Harrisburg’s many beautiful parks and outdoor areas. As lovely as these can be, everyone has their own aesthetic style. If nature’s backdrops aren’t your style, you might find your perfect fit with downtown Harrisburg family photography.
Our downtown area has so many fantastic, photogenic spots where I can create portraits that feel authentic to your family. It’s actually a very practical choice too. Check out these benefits of an urban portrait session.
Family Photography Harrisburg PA
Many Aesthetic Options for Your Downtown Harrisburg Family Photography
Maybe you don’t want the same look for the background of every portrait - you want to mix it up a bit. Downtown Harrisburg has all the options you could want. We could create an industrial look or something more rustic, or take advantage of some artistic downtown lighting. We could also go to a public park where we can take some portraits amid trees and green space and other portraits in front of artsy brick buildings.
Downtown Harrisburg Family Photo shoot
Convenient Access to Amenities
When you’re packing for a family photo session, it can be hard to remember everything you need - extra outfits, snacks, water, wipes, items to make the kids smile, and so on. If you’re at a photo session in a remote or rural area and you realize you’ve forgotten something, or if someone needs an emergency bathroom break, you don’t have a lot of options. The downtown area is close to plenty of amenities for your convenience.
Harrisburg Family PhotographerHarrisburg PA Family Photos
Creating Hometown Memories
Who knows what life will bring and where your family will be in five or ten years? The hometown where you are raising your kids at this age will always have a special place in your heart. Downtown portraits can be even more special because you’ll always remember and recognize those streets, those quaint shops, and that neighborly feel of home.
Outdoor Family Photos Downtown Harrisburg
Booking Your Downtown Harrisburg Family Photography Session
Are you due for some new family portraits? Contact my photo studio today to chat about your downtown Harrisburg family photography session.
Harrisburg Child PhotographyHarrisburg PA PhotographerBaby Photographer Harrisburg PAOne Year Old Baby Photography near Harrisburg PA
When I’m working with a family to plan their family portraits, one of the first details we decide on is the location. The location for your Harrisburg family photo session sets the tone for the entire aesthetic, whether you’re looking for a backdrop that is natural and earthy, historic and charming, or anything in between.
Trying to find a location for your next photo session? Here are some of my top spots (note: the images pictured are not necessarily taken at the locations listed).
Shipoke, PA for a Harrisburg Family Photo Session
Shipoke is one of Harrisburg’s most picturesque neighborhoods. It’s lined with gorgeous rowhouses that would remind you of old-world San Francisco or Charleston’s Rainbow Row. It’s perfect for families who love that style of charm and want a richly colorful background for their portraits.
Shipoke, Harrisburg Family Photography Session
Fort Hunter Mansion and Park
The Fort Hunter Mansion and Park overlooks the gorgeous Susquehanna River. The mansion’s exterior has a bold historical look and the grounds of its surrounding park have amazing natural beauty. It’s fantastic for family portraits surrounded by bright and lively greenery.
Family Photoshoot at Fort Hunter Mansion and Park
Lower Allen Community Park
Located in Mechanicsburg, Lower Allen Community Park is one of my favorite spots for Harrisburg family photos. It features a variety of different landscapes, like woodsy areas as well as open green spaces, so I can capture a few different looks in the same place.
Downtown Harrisburg and the Harrisburg PA State Capitol
For families who want a stylish and urban aesthetic in their family portraits, downtown Harrisburg is a go-to choice. There are so many spots in downtown Harrisburg that make it easy to create the specific look your family wants.
Downtown Harrisburg Family Photography
Milton Hershey School Founder’s Hall in Hershey, PA
For families who live in the Hershey area or who are up for a short drive, I love taking portraits at the Milton Hershey School’s Founders Hall in Hershey. The building and its surrounding area has a lovely, unique look that can create a fantastic family portrait backdrop.
Outdoor Family Photography in Hershey PA
Choosing Your Perfect Location for Harrisburg Family Photos
If you’re due for some new Harrisburg family photos, hiring an experienced photographer will make the rest of the process simple and smooth. As a full-service photographer, I’m happy to help families choose a location, plan their wardrobe, and even design your custom portrait prints and other products. Get started today by contacting Karissa Zimmer Photography. I can’t wait to help you create new memories for this chapter of your family’s life!
Professional photos are an investment in your memories, giving you something tangible to look back on in the years to come to help you remember the moments that matter most.
Choosing the best family photographer for your family is a very important decision. While it may not seem like much, a collection of images captured of you and your children is worth more than money can buy. Professional photos preserve your memory for future generations. It allows them the ability to look back at what you did and how you got there. The times you celebrated your joys, mourned your losses and recognize their contributions to your life now and into the future.
It’s so important to hire a photographer who can capture the images you want and help you hold on to those memories.
You don’t want to pick a photographer who wont take the time to get to know your family a bit ahead of your photoshoot. A consultation to allows you to meet your photographer and allows them an opportunity learn about your family. A professional photographer should be willing to work with you to create the story of your life, which may mean a longer portrait process. But, well worth the time investment!
Know what style of images you want.
Every photographer has their own style, whether it’s posed studio images or outdoor photo sessions using natural light. Some may even do both types of photography. A photographers editing style is equally as important! You should know what kind of photos you like once you start searching for photographers in your area.
Ask to view full galleries when choosing the best family photographer for you.
For me, one of the biggest signs that a photographer is worth considering as you’re looking for a photo session is how much thought has gone into their process. Being able to see a full session gallery will give you a great idea of the variety of different shots you may get with your session. Check out their website and blog, and take note of the style of images offered. It may even help to talk to previous clients and find what they liked most about their session and working with that photographer.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
You’ll have your first session with your new family photographer within a few weeks to a few months of booking your session. Ask them specific questions about their process and approach to photography, and discuss any fees, location, or wardrobe options. Some photographers will even offer in-person planning consultations at their studio, which is a great way to get to know them and see how they work.
Make sure the family photographer is a good fit.
You will want to make sure you like the photographer you choose and that they have a personality you’ll enjoy working with! You’ll want to hire a professional photographer who fits with your family’s style and personality! Let’s face it – Being in front of a camera can feel awkward! So, choosing a photographer that you feel comfortable with and that will put your family at ease will ensure the greatest smiles and family photography experience!
Set up a consultation with a family photographer
Want to learn more about my portrait process and find out if we are a good fit? I’d love to learn more about your family so that I can capture your most special memories to tell your story. Send me a message to set up a free consultation!
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.
Harrisburg Family Photography at 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!
Children’s Portraits near Harrisburg PA
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!
Young girl poses with pink Hydrangeas at The Peter Allen House near Harrisburg PA
Little girl smiles while posing in purple flowers at her family photo shoot at The Peter Allen House
Photo shoot Peter Allen House | Harrisburg PA Family Photography
Portraits of 3 young girls on a butterfly chair near Harrisburg, PA
Family Photography at The Peter Allen House
Best Photographer Harrisburg PA | Outdoor Family Photography | The Peter Allen House
Family Photography near Harrisburg PA
The Peter Allen House Photo shoot
Family of 5 Photography | Harrisburg Pennsylvania Photographer
Harrisburg Child Photographer
Family Photo shoot at The Peter Allen House | Harrisburg Family Photographer
The Peter Allen House Photo Shoot | Harrisburg Family Photographer
How I’m Keeping Your Family Safe For Your Studio Portrait Session
I AM SO EXCITED TO BE BACK! Yes! This means that I am able schedule studio and outdoor portrait sessions again! With a few added studio reopening and cleaning policies, I am ready to be doing what I love again! As a Camp Hill Newborn Baby & Family Photographer, it has always been a priority to take extraordinary safety precautions to protect my clients during their portrait sessions. From safely posing your newborn to extensive cleaning practices for my studio. I pride myself in maintaining the highest level of safety in my industry.
Health and safety has certainly been a concern over these past few months due to COVID-19. Because I am a newborn photographer, studio hygiene and cleaning policies have ALWAYS been a top priority at Karissa Zimmer Photography. I know we are in a time where clients and families want to know a little bit more about what that entails. Especially because I interact and work with the tinyest members of your family, here are some ways that I work to protect them and your entire family.
Safety and Cleaning Policies I have always used
I thoroughly clean before and after each client that comes into the studio. Each consultation, portrait session and ordering appointment. This includes cleaning floors, sanitizing all hard surfaces, cleaning the restroom, wiping door knobs, switches and appliances.
All fabrics and props are washed after each newborn session. Beyond washing fabrics that just baby comes in contact with. I frequently wash/clean other surfaces such as pillows and cushions.
HAND WASHING. I very frequently wash my hands during a newborn session. Not only does it help warm up my cold hands before I touch baby, but soap and water is the most effective way to kill germs on skin. I’ve always looked at my tiny clients as these perfect, new creatures that I want to protect from any possible germs and illness.
It has always been a priority to me to give my clients my undivided attention. Rest assured that when you are working with me, I will be the only person in the studio with your family.
Again, because being fully present with each client is important to me, I have only ever booked one client in the studio per day. This also gives me time to do a full cleaning before I welcome my next client in.
Sick Policy: I will absolutely never work or meet with a client while I am sick. Even if just a case of the sniffles. I ask that you do the same. If your baby or someone in your family is sick or has a fever, I ask that you reschedule. I ask that clients please contact me if any member of the family is exhibiting cold or flu symptoms within 72 hours of your appointment.
Enhanced safety and cleaning procedures implemented in Studio Reopening and Cleaning Policies
In acknowledgment of the current health crisis, I am going above and beyond to assure the utmost in saftey for my clients. In addition to all of the standard safety and cleaning procedures listed above, I will now also implement the following enhanced procedures and policies for all portrait sessions:
Clients will be asked to wash hands upon entering.
Photographer will wear a face mask during all newborn sessions.
I will kindly ask that you remove shoes upon entering.
All props will be provided by me in the studio. No outside props, please.
Only immediate family members and persons being photographed are permitted to attend.
Camera and lighting gear will be disinfected prior to the session.
An ozone generator will be safely run in studio between each client to eliminate any airborne (microorganisms) bugs!
Thank you to all my wonderful clients for your support!
I want to thank all my clients for all of your support over the years and especially through the past few months. Your loyalty and encouragement mean the world to me. Karissa Zimmer Photography is a professional photography studio dedicated to photographing newborn babies, families and high school seniors since 2010. Karissa Zimmer Photography studio is located in Camp Hill Pa and serves all of Central PA including Harrisburg, Mechanicsburg, Hershey and Carlisle. My plan is to continue to provide the highest level of service possible while keeping your newborn baby, children and family safe. As always, my promise is to provide you with the most beautiful keepsake images of the people you love most.
If there is anything we’ve learned throughout the past few months, it’s that life as we know it can change in an instant! Let’s work together to capture some visual memories of the ones you love most. Get in touch HERE to start planning a special portrait session for your newborn baby, family or high school senior. I can’t wait to work with you!
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!
I will never say "No" to a silly shot! Families should have fun together!
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!
