FRequently asked questions
I know choosing a photographer is a big decision, and I’m here to make it easy and stress-free.
Below are answers to common questions about my family photography sessions, pricing, and policies.
Don’t see what you need? Reach out—I’m always happy to help!
Before you Book
What type of sessions do you offer & how would you describe your style?
I offer lifestyle family, maternity, and newborn photography that feels relaxed and real. During your session, I’ll gently guide you into natural moments; nothing stiff or overly posed. My editing style is bright and colorful, with a soft, dreamy touch that brings out the connection and emotion in every image.
How do I book a session? Do you offer payment plans?
If you’re ready to book your family, maternity, or newborn session now, you can head straight to my booking site:
Click here to book your session.
Need a little more info before locking things in? No problem—just fill out my contact form, and I’ll get back to you within 1–2 business days with all the details, including pricing and next steps.
Your session isn’t officially reserved until the contract is signed and the session fee is paid.
To hold your spot, a nonrefundable session fee is due at booking. This covers my time, planning, and everything that goes into making your session smooth and meaningful. After your session, you’ll get to choose your favorite images. Collections start at $395 and are purchased separately.
Each collection includes:
• High-resolution, professionally edited images
• Careful photo editing and color corrections
• Files that work great for printing or online use
• An online gallery for viewing and downloading your photos
• A print release for personal use
Note: The session fee doesn’t go toward the cost of your collection.
As a fellow parent working to support and provide opportunities for her family, I understand the need for flexible payment options like Afterpay and payment plans to make it easier to create and hold onto these special moments. Just let me know if you’re interested, and I can share more details.
When should I book a session?
As soon as possible! As a busy mom along with being a small business owner, that means my schedule often fills fast. Ideally, to allow time for thorough planning, no less than 2 months before your ideal session date!
For maternity sessions, I recommend scheduling when you’ll be between 29-34 weeks along. For newborn sessions, schedule for around your due date, and we’ll adjust once baby arrives.
Where will my session take place? Are there travel fees involved?
I am located in Bowie, MD, and serve families from throughout the DMV area, offering outdoor, studio, and in-home sessions.
For outdoor sessions: During the booking process, you can view my location guide, which includes my favorite spots in the area, such as Kinder Farm Park, Patapsco State Park, and Beverly Triton Nature Park.
Locations not listed in my location guide; or beyond 30 miles from my location, will incur additional travel fees of $1/mile starting at 31 miles from the 20715 zip code. If you are wanting to use a location not listed in my guide, a $100 scouting fee may apply. You’ll also be responsible for any location-specific fees, such as access, parking, or other expenses necessary to fulfill our agreement.
*I AM NOT CURRENTLY OFFERING SESSIONS AT MEMORIAL/MONUMENT PARKS IN DC/VIRGINIA
Studio sessions take place at The Annapolis Studio, located in Edgewater, MD.
What time will my session take place?
I schedule my outdoor sessions for sunset (and occasionally sunrise) because that’s when the light is most beautiful. I don’t shoot midday since it doesn’t align with my artistic style.
I know in the spring and summer, this can be past kids’ bedtimes, but I hope you’ll trust my guidance—I’ve done this many times, and even the littlest ones always do great. Please don’t let that one worry keep you from booking.
Studio and in-home sessions are scheduled for around 9/10 am.
Can I reschedule if it’s cloudy or rains? If someone is sick?
Yes, sunset light is beautiful. But overcast skies provide lovely even light and can add a layer of emotion, too. What matters most to me is highlighting the love and connection within your family – that’s always the focus. I’ll do my best to prioritize the best weather for your session, as my schedule allows. I don’t reschedule for humidity, cloudy skies, wind, or earlier light rain, but I will reschedule if it’s actively raining or storming during your session.
If we do need to reschedule, I’ll work with you to find a new date that works for both of us – but please know it may be a different day of the week than your original session.
You can find my full weather rescheduling policy, here.
Please reach out to me to reschedule if you or your kids are sick. As a mom as well, I want to prioritize my family’s health and protect my children from sickness too. Plus, we don’t want to document you or your children looking sick in your pictures. Take time to get better, and we will absolutely make up your session.
What if my kids refuse to smile or cooperate?
I have a few tricks up my sleeve to make the most of the time we have. A few proactive tips: try on outfits ahead of time, make sure everyone is well-fed and rested, and plan something fun after your session – like a trip for ice cream! I also recommend keeping the day as open as possible so your photo session can truly be the main event.
That said, please don’t stress if your kids are feeling shy… or extra wild. As a mom and former preschool teacher, I’ve worked with all kinds of personalities and truly – I’ve seen it all. We’ll follow their lead. Maybe that means more snuggles for a quiet kiddo or time to explore for one with extra energy. It’s all about who your family is in this very moment. I want you to embrace that.
If things just aren’t working and a reschedule is needed, I’ll do my best to accommodate – but it may come with a rescheduling fee, depending on the situation.
Do you ever host mini sessions?
I truly enjoy spending time with my clients and creating galleries that highlight beautiful, heartfelt family moments. This is best achieved in a full session where we have the time and space to let these moments unfold naturally. I do offer exclusive mini session events a few times a year, but they’re only available to those on my email list. Be sure to sign up to access them!
Can we bring our dog?
Sure! Dogs are always welcome as long as the location allows them. You’ll want to be sure they are groomed for the session, well behaved, and on a leash. Bring plenty of treats and a few chew toys, to be safe. *Consider if there is a way to safely tether them while we take different photo groupings.
Before you Book: Newborn
How are newborn sessions scheduled?
When you book, we’ll set the date around your due date to reserve your spot on my calendar. Once your baby arrives and you’re settled at home, please reach out to me right away. We’ll adjust the session date, aiming for 2 weeks after birth. I only accept 4 newborn sessions a month, typically scheduled around 9/10 am and lasting about 3 hours.
*Why do I book your newborn session 2-3 weeks after birth?
- Family Comfort: Parents (and older siblings) are more relaxed and comfortable with their new routine.
- Better Complexion: Babies have improved skin tones and fewer blemishes.
- Established Feeding: Feeding routines are more stable, whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding.
- Flexible and Sleepy: Babies are still flexible and sleepy enough for beautiful poses.
Based on my experience booking 2-3 weeks after birth still makes for a smooth session and beautiful, serene images.
How do I book a session? Do you offer payment plans?
If you’re ready to book your family, maternity, or newborn session now, you can head straight to my booking site:
Click here to book your session.
Need a little more info before locking things in? No problem—just fill out my contact form, and I’ll get back to you within 1–2 business days with all the details, including pricing and next steps.
Your session isn’t officially reserved until the contract is signed and the session fee is paid.
To hold your spot, a nonrefundable session fee is due at booking. This covers my time, planning, and everything that goes into making your session smooth and meaningful. After your session, you’ll get to choose your favorite images. Collections start at $395 and are purchased separately.
Each collection includes:
• High-resolution, professionally edited images
• Careful photo editing and color corrections
• Files that work great for printing or online use
• An online gallery for viewing and downloading your photos
• A print release for personal use
Note: The session fee doesn’t go toward the cost of your collection.
As a fellow parent working to support and provide opportunities for her family, I understand the need for flexible payment options like Afterpay and payment plans to make it easier to create and hold onto these special moments. Just let me know if you’re interested, and I can share more details.
My baby is over a month old, is that too late?
Not at all! That’s the great thing about lifestyle sessions; it’s about documenting you and your newborn while you hold and cuddle with them. We can still use wraps and get some minimally posed images; we may just have to modify a bit; as older babies are transitioning away from that more sleepy stage.
Do you offer in-home newborn?
Yes, I offer both in-home and studio newborn sessions! Studio sessions are held at a beautiful lifestyle studio in Annapolis, which I rent hourly. This space allows me greater control over lighting, ensuring consistent and high-quality images for every client. It’s perfect if you want a more polished, relaxed session without the added stress of preparing your home.
For in-home sessions, I rely primarily on natural light to create the soft, natural look I’m known for (though I bring supplemental lighting when necessary). If you choose an in-home session, it’s essential that your home has plenty of natural light, as it’s a key factor in achieving the style you’ll see in my work.
I understand how overwhelming the postpartum period can feel. That’s why I love providing the option of studio sessions – they give you the chance to step out, take a break, and enjoy a change of scenery without worrying about tidying up or rearranging furniture. But if staying home feels more comfortable for you, I’m happy to bring the session to you. My approach is always flexible, so we’ll plan your session when you feel ready and at ease.
Where is the studio located?
I rent the Annapolis Studio; located in Annapolis, Maryland. You can find more information on their website.
What precautions do you take?
Having had the experience of having my own twin preemies; safety is always my number one concern. Along with working towards my safety certification from APNPI; I’ve also completed an in-person mentorship focused on safe handling; along with pursuing additional newborn safety courses from industry experts. I am up to date on flu, TDAP, and Covid-19 vaccinations. I wash hands and will wear a mask, if requested, during sessions. All items are sanitized after sessions. While I work hard to consider and take every precaution I can, as their parent you remain ultimately responsible for your baby’s safety. I encourage you to ask questions, and feel comfortable enough to communicate with me regarding working with you and your baby during our session.
What expectations do you have for siblings in studio?
I have a few tricks up my sleeve to help things go smoothly and make the most of our time together. A few tips to set you up for success: try on outfits ahead of time, make sure older siblings are fed and rested before the session, and bring a quiet activity for them to enjoy during downtime – like Color Wonder markers or a tablet (save the tablet as a last resort). It also helps to have a fun reward planned for afterward, like a special treat or outing!
If you can, keep the morning open and low-key—making your session the main event can help everyone feel a little more relaxed and present.
session prep
What should I wear?
Check out this blog post I wrote to help answer this very important question!
How does your styling process work?
I am building a client closet; currently featuring women’s gowns and accessories. After booking, fill out your styling questionnaire, and I will begin building styling boards for you. Then we’ll chat online so I can help you finalize your outfit choice and fill in styling for your children and partner based upon their preferences. Clients who trust me to style them always love their photos and utilizing my assistance takes the stress off of trying to tackle the task all on your own.
With my client closet, I offer a dress try-on process where clients can pay a security deposit, pick up two dresses, and try them on before their session. If you choose a dress from my closet and aren’t local, no worries! I also bring a portable changing tent to your session location, making it easy to switch outfits right on the spot.
This way, you can arrive in comfortable clothing and avoid any potential wrinkles or stains from a long car ride. It’s all about making the experience as stress-free as possible!
What can I expect during the session?
Bottom line? Come ready to love on your family and have fun! We’ll start with the classic “say cheese” photos and get those out of the way – then we’ll move into the good stuff: snuggles, laughs, and real connection. My goal is to document your family’s unique story through my artistic style. That’s why I send a detailed pre-session questionnaire; to help me plan prompts and suggestions that bring out the moments that matter most to you.
The best way to prepare? Talk with your family about what to expect. Let them know this isn’t about forcing perfect smiles -it’s about enjoying each other, soaking in the beauty around you, and showing off the love between you, not between you and my camera 😉. I want you to see how beautiful you are as a parent and partner; and that comes from being present and letting your guard down.
Trust me, I get it; being in front of the camera can feel awkward. But I’ve got you. Think of me as your creative director for the day. I’ll guide you through the session, set the scene, and keep things feeling relaxed and fun the whole way through.
post session
Do you do sneak peeks?
I know from personal experience how excited you are after a session, and how eager you are to see the images we created together. I totally get it! That’s why I want to explain why I don’t share sneak peeks.
Instead of bouncing between editing galleries and sneak peeks, I like to stay fully focused on one family’s gallery at a time. When I can move through your entire set of images without distraction, it actually helps me edit faster and keeps your gallery more cohesive and consistent. Sneak peeks, while fun, tend to slow down the process and take my attention away from delivering the full story.
There’s also something to say about perspective. The images you connect with most may not be the same ones I’d pick for a sneak peek – and I’d hate to share a preview that feels “just okay” to you when I know there’s something truly special waiting in the full set.
I think of gallery delivery a bit like a birthday. Sure, it’s fun to get little gifts here and there, but it’s way more exciting when everything comes together in one big moment. That “wow” feeling when you see the full gallery – start to finish – is something I want you to experience fully. And I promise, it’s worth the wait.
When will we see our images?
Final images are delivered in about 1 month (~21 business days), and I always aim to get them to you sooner when I can. The timeline starts on the first business day after your session (and may shift slightly if I’m out of the office). You can check my my editing calendar to see my business day availability.
Do you edit in Black & White?
I include a complimentary set of black and white images with my final galleries.
What type of retouching do you do?
I gently retouch most non-permanent marks—like minor bruises, scratches, blemishes, and acne. I also do a light touch of skin smoothing to enhance softness and will reduce the appearance of under-eye circles, while keeping your natural features intact (like lines, freckles, and textures that make you, you).
For newborns, I follow the same approach with temporary marks, but I do not edit out anything related to the umbilical cord. Peeling skin on hands and feet is normal and expected, and while I’ll do my best, it may still be visible in your final images.
As I go through your session, I always look for the strongest expressions; those sweet smiles, wide-open eyes, and the moments that reflect your family best. If a subtle face swap helps bring an image together, I’ll include that version in your soft proof gallery when it’s possible.
Anything that is preventable ahead of time; including, but not limited to, sunburn/suntan lines, extensive bruising, untidy hair/makeup, chipped or brightly colored nail polish, unclean face, dirty/creased/ill-fitting clothing, tattoos/henna, etc. will incur an additional editing fee if the adjustment is possible. I occasionally do some body-shaping if needed due to posing or lens distortion; but I don’t offer body reshaping or cosmetic edits.
What can I expect in terms how I’ll receive my images?
After your photo session, you’ll receive a soft proof gallery featuring around 5-10 fully edited, watermarked examples to give you an idea of what your final images will look like. (Don’t worry—watermarks will be removed in your final downloadable gallery.) The rest of the proofing gallery will be in black-and-white and is designed to help you preview and select the images you’d like to purchase. Comprehensive editing, such as cropping and skin smoothing, will be completed after you choose your images.
The soft proof gallery will be available for 1 week for you to make your final selection. Once you’ve purchased your collection, your chosen images will undergo thorough editing and retouching. Your final gallery will then be fully available for download.
How can I access my gallery and download my images?
Once your images are ready, I’ll send over the link to your final gallery. Your gallery and print credit will be available for 30 days.
When you receive your gallery, I recommend downloading your images right away. It’s very simple—just select the photos you want, click the down arrow in the upper right corner, and follow the prompts. Your images will download as a zip file; just double-click to open it.
To keep your photos safe, I suggest making two copies of the expanded files. Save one to your computer or an external hard drive, and the other to a cloud service like Dropbox or Google Drive.
How does my print credit work? Can I print photos on my own?
Your print credit is a complimentary thank-you gift for choosing to work with me. It’s available for 30 days after you purchase your collection. There’s absolutely no requirement to use it or to purchase anything from my online store.
Everything in my store is printed through professional labs and guaranteed to be beautiful; but I understand you may prefer to print your images yourself. Thanks to the high-resolution digital files you receive, you can! I recommend using MPix for online prints and Artifact Uprising or Smallwoods for books and wall art. Be sure to upload the original files you downloaded (not screenshots or copies), and always deselect any color correction options. The files I deliver are sized to print beautifully up to at least 20×30”.
With your Print License Agreement, you’re free to print your images whenever and wherever you’d like. Make holiday cards, post to social media, create keepsakes; whatever brings you joy. The only limitations are around resale, commercial use, and altering the images. For example, you’d need additional permission to use a photo on a book cover or to submit one to a paid contest. And if posting online, please avoid filters or apps like Facetune that change the look of the image.
Beyond that; enjoy them however you’d like. They’re yours to keep, share, and print for years to come.
Have a Question I Didn’t Cover?
I’m just a message away – reach out anytime and I’ll walk you through it.
