Harrisburg Outdoor Family Photography: A Pro’s Top Tips

06.28.22

There’s a whimsical, warm beauty that’s undeniable in outdoor family photos. On top of the gorgeous natural landscape, outdoor photos seem to make kids and parents alike more relaxed and joyful, not stiff and nervous, making for portraits that capture your personalities. It’s no surprise that Harrisburg outdoor family photography is so popular, especially during this time of the year.

If you’re planning an outdoor photoshoot, how do you make it a great one? Follow these pro tips.

Ask Your Photographer for Location Tips

The golden rule for outdoor family photography is the same as the golden rule for real estate: location, location, location. When it comes to deciding where to have your photo session, your photographer is the best resource.

Photographers know all the best spots around town for photos. There might be parks and locales you’ve seen that look beautiful to the naked eye, but they may not photograph well. Rely on your photographer’s expertise on the best locations for photos. Of course, feel free to let them know your preferences, like a type of landscape you love or a color palette you want.

Choose Layers for Your Family’s Harrisburg Outdoor Family Photography Outfits

When planning outfits for your family, choose layers for everyone. There are a few reasons for this. First, the weather has a mind of its own so you want to be prepared for any temperature. Keep in mind that some outdoor locations feel cooler or warmer than you expect because of wind or shade (or a lack thereof).

The second reason has to do with your kids. Kids find ways to make messes on themselves and on you. If everyone is dressed in layers, you can remove layers that get stains on them or add layers to cover stains.

Plan the Perfect Timing with Your Photographer

The time of day will have a huge impact on your Harrisburg outdoor family photography in multiple ways. First, it affects the lighting for your photos. This impacts the look of your photos, whether you prefer the warmth of the “golden hour,” the crisp light of morning, or another look. Second, it could make the difference between grumpy kids and cheery kids. Your photographer is a pro at finding the sweet spot. Chat with us about your kids’ daily routines so we can work together to figure out the perfect time for your session. If you’ll need to tweak your kids’ routines for that day, we can give you pointers on doing this smoothly too.

Book Early for Special Requests

Scheduling a family photo session can be a challenge for active families. You might just have a small window between your kids’ extracurricular activities. You might be working around your summer vacations and special events. You may also want to aim for a particular time of year for your photos. For instance, maybe you want to take photos when a certain tree is blooming or when the leaves first start changing for the fall.

If you have a specific timeframe when your photo session needs to happen, book it as early as possible. The earlier you book your Harrisburg outdoor family photography session, the more likely you are to get the timeframe you want.

Plan Ahead but Don’t Stress

It never fails, especially if you have kids: when you have to be somewhere at a particular time, there will be complications. Make your photo shoot day as problem-proof as possible. Have everyone’s clothes laundered, ironed, and set out the night before. Have a bag packed with everything you want to bring, like snacks, water, diapers, and pacifiers. Make that day easy on yourself.

At the same time, don’t stress about making everything perfect. Trust me, we’ll get amazing portraits no matter what you might have forgotten. I’m a pro at making do, so relax – we’ll figure it out!

Planning Your Harrisburg Outdoor Family Photography Session

Getting excited to capture all your family’s beautiful smiles in a way you’ll be able to cherish forever? You can start the process today. Contact my photo studio to book your Harrisburg outdoor family photography session.

Harrisburg Outdoor Family Photography: A Pro’s Top Tips Read More »

How to choose the best family photographer

03.30.22

best family photographer near me, camp hill family photography, family portraits, professional family photos

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!

How to choose the best family photographer Read More »

Your Guide to Combining a Maternity and Family Photoshoot

02.18.22

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.

outdoor family and maternity photographer captures images of a family of 3 before they become a family of 4

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.

Camp Hill Pa Family and Maternity Photographer captures a family together at their outdoor maternity photography session

family of 3 embraces at their maternity photography session

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.

pregnant bother embraces her toddler son at her maternity and family photo session with karissa zimmer photography

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.

family of 3 poses together at their family and maternity photography session with karissa zimmer photography

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.

family and maternity photographer captures outdoor maternity photography images near camp hill pa

couple embraces during their outdoor maternity photoshoot with camp hill pa photographer

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

Harrisburg Family Photography | The Peter Allen House

02.05.22

Harrisburg PA Family of 5 poses together at their outdoor family Photography session at The Peter Allen House — 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!

3 Young Sisters are photographed together by family photographer, Karissa Zimmer Photography — 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 — Young girl poses with pink Hydrangeas at The Peter Allen House near Harrisburg PA

Harrisburg Family Photography | The Peter Allen House Read More »

Harrisburg Fall Family Photographer | Shipoke Family Photography

01.21.22

Harrisburg Fall Family Photographer captures Family Portrait in Shipoke

As a Harrisburg Fall Family photographer, I’ve explored endless colorful locations for photo sessions. From the woodsy stuff to the urban spots, the Harrisburg PA area has it all! But when the The Mickelwrights told me they wanted to explore a location with lots of variety, I knew exactly where to take them for their photo session. We absolutely had to plan a Shipoke family photography session!

Harrisburg Fall Family Photo Session in Shipoke

Shipoke is one of the oldest and most quaint neighborhoods in Harrisburg PA. I first discovered the potential of a Shipoke family photography session when I ended up at a delicious Cuban (Los Tres Cubanos) restaurant for dinner plans a few years ago. I knew right away that I had to bring clients families and my camera here for future sessions! And this colorful, quaint and quiet spot, especially in the Fall, was the perfect backdrop for the Micklewright family!

The colors and textures showcased during our Shipoke family session gave the whole session a “Fall with a little bit of lingering summer feel. ” And the Indian Summer weather we had this fall season added an extra bit of comfort! It always helps to have a super easy going and easy to please family like these guys!

Dressing for your Fall Family Photography Session

I also loved the way they dressed to perfectly complement the location. I always advise families to look up images of their session location beforehand to ensure perfect color choices, and this crew definitely chose wisely! Choosing a color palette isn’t an easy task, especially for a family of 4 or more. But, I never get tired of helping families build the perfect wardrobe for their session! For our Shipoke family photography session, they went with neutral fall tones which worked wonderfully with the pops of color in Shipoke. So, if you’re considering a family session of your own, but are nervous about what to wear, don’t let that stop you from booking! I promise, with my help it will be easy and effortless!

Finding the perfect spot to take family photos on the other hand, isn’t always easy. But, this is one of my favorites! You better believe I’ll continue to return here over and over again! It’s one of my absolute favorite locations as a Harrisburg Fall Family Photographer! Thank you so much, Micklewright family for inviting me along on this adventure with you! I hope to spend time with all of you again so soon!

Get in Touch!

Are you planning a Shipoke family photography session of your own? Say hello ASAP so we can tell your family’s story, too!

Brother and Sister pose for portraits in Shipoke with Harrisburg Fall Family Photographer — Brother and Sister portraits in Shipoke with Harrisburg Fall Family Photographer

Young girl poses with some lingering fall flowers during her Harrisburg PA Fall Family Photography Session — Brother and Sister portraits in Shipoke with Harrisburg Fall Family Photographer

Harrisburg Fall Family Photographer | Shipoke Family Photography Read More »

Family Photographer Near Me Camp Hill | The Whittaker Family

01.13.22

Family Photographer near me Camp Hill PA captures Fall Family Photography

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

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!

Famoil — Individual Child Portraits by Camp Hill PA Photographer – Karissa Zimmer Photography

Individual Child Portraits by Camp Hill PA Photographer – Karissa Zimmer Photography

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

Five Questions You Should Ask Your Family Photographer

11.27.20

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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 »

Why I Don’t Offer Mini Photography Sessions

11.02.20

You’re probably thinking…a Family Photographer that doesn’t offer mini sessions?! I know it seems to be a popular trend circulating on social media during this time of year. Every year in the fall, as we approach the holidays, I often get a ton of inquiries about mini-sessions even though it’s something I personally never advertise. After all, many photographers offer short, 20-30-minute sessions for Christmas or fall, and they’re a quick way for people to get images for their Christmas cards or social media. As a full-service photographer who values my time and relationship with each and every client I photograph, these quick, rushed sessions just don’t sit well with me.

I offered mini-sessions once or twice years ago, and as my business has grown and continues to grow, I’ve defined what I want my purpose as a portrait photographer to be. A short, seemingly very rushed mini-session just doesn’t fit for me. This often surprises people—and doesn’t stop the inquiries!—so I wanted to explain a little of my reasoning for why I said, “No more!” to mini photography sessions.

family photographer near me, harrisburg family portraits, mechanicsburg family photography, family photography packages

I love working with my clients, and I enjoy giving each of them my time, skill and undivided attention. In a 20-minute mini-session, I just can’t give my clients the full experience of working with me. To me, a rushed mini-session doesn’t communicate that I value quality and time. Family portrait photography is valuable and takes time both to plan and to photograph. I’m invested in getting to know each client and I put my heart and soul into every session I photograph. There is nothing more important to me than to make sure my clients enjoy their experience and have images and products that they will love and cherish for years to come. My photography sessions are valuable from the first inquiry to the service I provide all the way through to hand delivery of your keepsakes and installation of your wall art.

A photography mini-session is generally associated with a much cheaper price tag and much less time with the client, which means I can’t give them the full experience. When potential clients inquire with a message like, “What would you charge for a small session with a couple of images?” I’ve come to realize that they’re looking for the same quality images they’ve seen in my portfolio, but with a “cheaper” price tag. My work is special and to receive the same quality of images you see with a full session, the same time investment is necessary. I just do not believe mini-sessions offer the same valuable experience that I pride myself on providing to my clients. My brand is important to me, and I’ve worked hard to be a full-service photographer. I don’t want to dilute the quality of my work by offering quick sessions that don’t live up to the experience I promise to clients who pay for a full session. Photography is an investment, and my work is worth it because I strive to leave each family feeling like they received a high-end, unique portrait experience.

Another reason why I don’t offer mini-sessions is because of how I’ve structured my photography sessions and experience. I am a storyteller, and my heart is invested in capturing each family’s unique personality in photos that they can look back on and enjoy for a lifetime. In order to capture each of my clients’ personalities, I have to spend time with them. Getting to know each family I work with through developing a connection is SO important to me. This is quite possibly the most personally rewarding part of my job. I am passionate about family, connection, and building a lasting relationship with each client I work with. I want to be able to capture your family’s story over and over throughout the years. I genuinely cherish the connections I am able to develop with my clients by spending time with them. A mini-session just doesn’t allow me to do that.

A big part of my portrait process is the initial planning consultation, which is an in-person meeting where I learn what each client wants from their photography session and strive to understand them on a deeper level. I love these conversations because they allow me to get to know my clients as people and to cherish and love their stories as I tell them with my images. Mini photography sessions would force me to skip this wonderful conversation and to capture photos quickly. That means I may not produce the work I know I’m capable of creating and can even result in clients feeling let down by the images they receive. That’s something that I never want to happen.

If you love taking mini-sessions as a photographer, great! This is my personal business decision and is not a blanket statement for how other photographers should run their businesses. It also doesn’t mean you as a client should never book a mini-session. If all you want is a few quick images for social media, a mini-session can be an inexpensive way to do that! I just wanted to take some time to explain why I’ve opted out of doing mini photography sessions because they don’t fit with my photographer’s heart and the quality of experience I strive to offer to every client who chooses to work with me. The amazing thing about small business owners is that we often provide the same services but in a variety of different ways, and I love to see how other photographers structure their businesses!

Why I Don’t Offer Mini Photography Sessions Read More »

Newborn-Maternity-Family and High School Senior Photographer in Mechanicsburg PA

12.31.19

Newborn-Maternity-Family and High School Senior Photographer in Mechanicsburg PA | 2019 year in review!

As a Newborn-Maternity-Family and High School Senior Photographer in Mechanicsburg PA 2019 was awesome! I’ve captured some of my most favorite images this year. I’ve snuggled, loved and photographed some of the most adorable babies in all of Central PA! I am totally sure of it! I’ve giggled with kiddos, ran around like a nut with toddlers, channeled my youthful soul while capturing high school senior pictures and watched my repeat client families grow up a little more this year. I mean, it will be hard for me to write this post without a few tears. Guys – this is not just my job. This is a genuine labor of love here. Some will say “you shouldn’t be emotionally connected to your job,” but I disagree. I do this with my whole heart. I look back on a year and feel so blessed to have crossed paths with each and every one of my clients. Some it was for the very first time and others who feel like they’ve become old friends. You guys are all gold to me. Every one of you holds a special place in this photographer’s heart of memories.

Now, for a moment of transparency…because, let’s be real-2019 wasn’t all sunshine, unicorns and glitter. It included some unexpected hurdles to jump at times- I guess you could say. This 2019 year required some serious faith to get through the things that are out of my control and the drive to conquer all that is within it. With those two things, the most amazing family, a few very close friends and a whole handful of the greatest clients any photographer could have – Here I am! Happy, healthy, and ready to take on 2020 and all it’s new adventures!

family newborn maternity high school senior photographer in harrisburg pa

harrisburg pa family newborn maternity high school senior photography

All of these moments that we turned into tangible, keepsake memories mean everything.

Not only to you, but to me. I have a genuine value for family and the people we love most. I know how much it will mean to you forever to have these memories of the babies,children, spouses and EVEN PUPPIES you love. Time will change us all. We’ll grow older as will our children. These moments you allowed me to capture for you are frozen forever. That is priceless. Thank you for trusting me to capture these memories for you this year. Thank you for allowing me to guide you through this process and allow me to help you choose tangible, heirloom artwork for your home so that your children’s children will have these special family memories. They’ll be just as important to you decades from now as they are today!

Let’s talk about 2020!

As we say goodbye to 2019 it’s important to plan for the future! Silly resolution time, I know! But, I’m excited! I’ve got big plans for the new year and I’m looking forward to connecting with all of you who will be a part of it! I will, however, be scheduling limited sessions each month. This keeps me on my A game so that I can give each of you a personal and custom portrait experience. Most important, I’m a mom myself, so being present for my daughter is my biggest priority. I’m all about “being the best version of ourselves” and a good start for me is by not overfilling my plate. I want to give everyone I care about the best version of me! So, with that being said…plan, plan, plan ahead! Yep, I know…lots of us a procrastinators, but it’s best to book your session several months in advance! If you’re expecting a baby this year – it is best to schedule your newborn session before your 3rd trimester. That way, all is set when baby arrives! Newborn session openings fill FAST! If you’re thinking ahead to spring and summer – now is a great time to get the planning started! It is MY MOST FAVORITE time of the year for family photography! Absolutely, positively the most beautiful time of the year! And Fall…welll….i’m still recovering from the past few months. We’ll revisit the idea of fall again soon! Hahaha!

Let’s chat about your family!

I’d love to chat about what makes your family special and how we can capture that for you. I’ll sit down with you and carefully plan all the details to how we will photograph your special people. I’ll walk you through my entire portrait process. Send me a quick message HERE to get in touch with me!

Do you follow me on INSTAGRAM? Catch all the sneak peeks and fun updates there!

Newborn-Maternity-Family and High School Senior Photographer in Mechanicsburg PA Read More »

Family Photographer in Harrisburg Pa

08.28.19

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!

Family Photographer in Harrisburg Pa Read More »

Harrisburg PA family photographer