Hey friend!


I thought I'd kick off this guide with an overview of my photo philosophy.  I started my photography journey by diving headfirst into birth photography, I that really shaped how I approach all sessions.  I'm so grateful for that initial and ongoing experience.  For the same reasons I love birth photography, I also love in-home documentary work.  My goal is always the same across sessions - to capture your humanity.  To capture your bonds, your beginnings, your daily rituals, and your traditions.  I want you to look back at your images and feel the love, recall the tiny details, and know that what you're looking at is true to a time and place that is so fundamentally you.  I want that for your kids, too.


How often do we look at prints from our childhood and remember what it felt like to live in our home?  Every time I'm in an old house with radiators and/or a bay window, I think about this custom daybed my dad built over our living room radiator in a south-facing bay window when I was little.  That nook shows up in a handful of prints my parents still have, and I'm so glad they exist.  I can literally feel warmth when I look at them - snuggled up with our dogs (it was obviously their favorite spot, too).  Am I getting off track?  You get it! I want to capture what makes you feel warm.

Trust the Process


The beauty of unposed,. documentary-style photography lies in its authenticity.  There's no need for formal smiles or stiff poses.  Instead, I focus on capturing the real moments - your genuine connections, quiet moments, and natural emotions.


Please come with an open heart and mind, trusting that the most powerful images are often the ones that feel the most natural and unforced.

Let Go of Perfection



Perfection is not the goal.  Our session is about embracing your true self - your love, your joy, your raw moments, and even the messiness.


If things don't go according to plan (whether it's a toddler tantrum, a messy hair day, or an impromptu nap) that's okay!  These are part of your parenthood story, and I'm here to document them.

Embrace the Quiet



Some of the best shots come from moments you might overlook - small glances, a gentle touch, a shared laugh.  These subtle interactions are powerful and full of meaning.


I encourage you to let the session unfold at it's own pace, without the need to rush or overthink it.

Time and Space for Connection



Our session is about creating space for connection.  Feel free to engage with your child, partner, or yourself as you normally would - play, chat, cuddle, or simply exist together.


My goal is to capture the deep love and connection you share, not to capture a staged moment.


Documentary sessions may take a little longer than traditional ones because I want to capture the moments as they would naturally unfold.  It might take time to get everyone settled or find those perfect candid moments.  Flexibility is key!  There's no rush - we'll take our time to ensure you feel relaxed and ready to share your authentic self.

Skin-to-Skin and Intimate Moments


A key element of my photography is embracing the raw intimacy of skin-to-skin moments.  These gentle, tender exchanges between parent and child, or between partners, can be incredibly powerful.  If you're comfortable, I encourage you to embrace these intimate moments fully.  Whether it's holding your baby close, breastfeeding, or simply being in the quiet comfort of each other's touch, these moments are ofter some of the most emotional and meaningful.  


Please know any moments of nudity will always be handled with the utmost respect and sensitivity.  The goal is to capture the depth of your connection and the beauty of vulnerability.

The Option for Shower or Bath Scenes



If you're open to it, we can incorporate a bath or shower scene into the session, capturing the intimacy of water, warmth, and skin-to-skin moments in a way that is natural, peaceful, and deeply connected.  These intimate settings ofter reveal tender moments that are incredibly personal and raw, highlight the beauty of everyday rituals.


Again, any nudity will be treated with care, and we'll approach it in a way that feels empowering, nurturing, and aligned with your comfort level.

Body Positive or Bust



Growing up in the '90s and early '00s, I was taught to judge my body based on unrealistic beauty standards, often feeling pressure to conform to a certain image.


But here's the truth: you body is not a project to fix, shrink or mold into someone else's idea of beauty.  It is a living, breathing testament to your journey - to your strength, your growth, and your ability to nurture and create life.  There is no space for shame here, only power, love, and acceptance.  Every mark, every curve, every change is a part of your story, and it deserves to be celebrated.  When we capture intimate motherhood moments, we are honoring you - exactly as you are, with all the beauty and power that comes with being unapologetically yourself.

Beautiful words on the topic by my client, Margaret.


"Everyday while I was pregnant, I would marvel at the mystery of a life forming inside me.  I would stroke my belly and whisper, "I love you." For the fist time, I didn't care about a little extra bloating or folds of skin.  Now I have a rosy cheeked babe on my breast most of the day.  I squeeze her and whisper, "I love you".


My body was her home while she grew inside of me.  Now it's extra cushion nourishes her and it's softness embraces her while she rests.


Someday, her home will be away from me.  But my body will always remember and cherish its role as her first home; while it also remains my sacred home.  I embrace my belly, my self, and whisper,

"Thank you. I love you."

"

What to Wear



I recommend keeping clothing simple and comfortable.  Complementary colors mixed with neutral tones of various textures work best as they allow your connection to shine without distraction.


If you're unsure, I'm happy to provide suggestions or talk through options!  If you choose to incorporate a bath or shower, you may way to have soft towels or robes nearby to embrace those cozy vibes of warmth and closeness.

Tips for choosing what to wear


  • Aim for casual and relaxed; too dressy will read strange in an in-home setting.  No shoes/socks.
  • Avoid black/navy/dark gray as they will photograph dark and tend to clash with kid's clothing (if kids are in the mix).
  • If you're body feeding, wear something that is nursing friendly.
  • Avoid logos or graphics
  • For newborns, keep it simple, Have a plain onesie on hand, or some sweet and simple bloomers.
  • Avoid zip down pajamas as the zipper tends to bunch up and create "hills" down their body.
  • Choose something footless so we can capture baby's/kid's toes.
  • Avoid anything too frilly - UNLESS we're in a dress-up stage, I tend to say let's absolutely capture that GO TO piece.
  • On that note, make sure the kids are wearing something that's comfy and they're excited to wear.  Comfy kids are happy kids.


Remember these guidelines are suggestions only; I want the session to look and feel like you! So consider these and disregard anything that doesn't work for you and your family!  You know YOU best and these photos are for you, not me.

 

Thank you for the opportunity to serve your family in this way,

please reach out if you have any questions at all.

 

Xo,

Erin