Amanda and Bryan Photography 360-910-7486

What a joy to have Ella with us again this year. She is wearing a dress very close to her mama's heart, the flower girl's dress from their wedding; a growth milestone indeed! Ella is three years old now and we love to see our families kiddos growing up!

With each session we get to know our kids better and they get to know us too! I can tell when they start to feel more comfortable with Bryan and I, because we start to see their personalities... that's when we are able to get the best pictures of them! 

Even so, there are a few things parents can do to help things go from good to fantastic during a photo session.  Here's just a few:

First off, Don't make a huge deal out of it. If you're stressed out and cranky, your kids will usually pick up on it and act accordingly. Their behavior will usually be better if you are relaxed and having fun. You may have to make some compromises to keep the peace such as letting your daughter's hair stay straight instead of curling it because she won't sit still. Or not insist on an item that your son refuses to wear. Focus on the big picture and don't sweat the small stuff. 

Next, Be prepared.  If you're going to be out for several hours, make sure that your children are well rested and have had their nap. Bringing some snacks and activities along for the car ride is also a great idea. If your photo shoot will be in a remote location, you never know when you might need something like bug spray, tissues or a first aid kit so bring that along too. And as we all know with our unpredictable PNW weather... a change of shoes (weatherproof or boots) and an umbrella.  

Also, Be patient. Save your sanity by trying not to control the photo session too much. Some of my most favorite photos come from kids just doing their own thing. I have found that for some children telling them to do one thing will often result in the opposite direction. Work together with us and your photo session will be a breeze!

Ellas's parents are great examples of all these things! They are so flexible, willing to work around bad weather, and trusted us to find a Spring location which turned out just beautifully. But my favorite part is that they stood back and let Ella be Ella, she took in the scenery, explored, and once she was comfortable she started interacting and chatting with me and Bryan!  I'm just in love with the results from this session! 

Amanda and Bryan Photography 360-910-7486 Amanda and Bryan Photography 360-910-7486 Amanda and Bryan Photography 360-910-7486 Amanda and Bryan Photography 360-910-7486 Amanda and Bryan Photography 360-910-7486 Amanda and Bryan Photography 360-910-7486 Amanda and Bryan Photography 360-910-7486 Amanda and Bryan Photography 360-910-7486 Amanda and Bryan Photography 360-910-7486 Amanda and Bryan Photography 360-910-7486 Amanda and Bryan Photography 360-910-7486