First, I would like to tell you how thrilled I am that you chose or are interested in Jessica Bridgewater Photography to capture your beautiful life. I am available for photography sessions in your home, on location in South Johnson County (out of area travel fee may apply) or in my Olathe studio. Sessions done at home must have an adequate amount of natural light. Your portrait session will last about 30-60 min depending on the session you chose. Newborns will last 1-3 hrs depending on the same. My goal is to provide you with a fun, relaxed stress free session no matter which one you pick. Please read the descriptions of each to learn more.
It is important that you know when I book my sessions. Currently sessions take place Monday- Friday (Newborn sessions start at 9:00am.) Outdoor sessions will only take place during the golden hour (about 30-45 min before sunset.) I do require a $150 non-refundable deposit and a signed contract to reserve your spot on my calendar. The balance of your session will be due the day of the photo shoot.
Newborns
Newborns are best photographed within the first 21 days of being born. If you chose a newborn portrait session, it will take place in my studio. I will allow adequate time for feeding, diaper changes, etc. All studio newborn sessions are fully styled by me (you will receive a questionnaire so I know your preferences). I have a number of props, hats, headbands for your new little one so don’t stress about bringing anything, unless you want to. If you choose a lifestyle newborn session, this will take place in your home, with your items, in your natural environment. No props are provided. Here is our pricing for newborn sessions.
Babies
These sessions are also fully styled so you just have to bring your baby! We will work together once you arrive at the studio to set everything up. Babies tend to do best when they don’t have distractions I have many ways to get baby to look at the camera. Although I don’t stress about smiles (because lets face it, you might not smile either if a strange person was sticking a big black camera in your face making goofy noises!) I do generally get a few during each session!
Children/Toddlers
I like to photograph children doing what they do best… being kids. Some ideas for your session may be playing at home, jumping on the bed, going for a walk, spending your time at the lake, or playing in the playground. In the studio I like to have a little chat and make kids comfortable. Sometimes just bringing bubbles or their favorite stuffed animal or lovie is a great idea. It’s not necessary to have them be really posed or stand behind me trying to get them to smile. I will get them comfortable in a chair or on the ground and get natural expressions and looks. Kids are at their best when they are rested and well fed. Snacks (mini marshmallows!) and drinks are essential for keeping little ones motivated and content. I encourage you to allow your children to be themselves and I will capture the moments that make you love them. Do not worry if they are not smiling in all of the pictures. You will look back at the photos in many years and be thankful that you have the natural expressions as well.
Family Portraits
Family portraits are often the best when we don’t try and make everyone look perfect! I look for moments that matter and are genuine. Everyone sitting together, laying around laughing in bed or having a tickle fight. Mother and child staring at each other and making each other laugh. I do offer family sessions in-studio year-round with Spring and Fall sessions are offered outdoors. Let’s pick a location where everybody in your family can be themselves. 🙂 I encourage my clients to wear a variety of clothing with color and accessories. I do provide some ideas for clothing inspiration if you so shall choose, just ask. I always tell my clients to start with yourself, find a color in your closet that you love and build your outfit around it. Textured fabrics like woolly sweaters and jackets work well. Avoid logos or clothing with distracting patterns. Here is our pricing for Family sessions and here is our Pinterest Board for inspiration on what to wear for your family session.
Maternity
These sessions usually take place within the last months of pregnancy around 32-36 weeks, but if you wish to take photos sooner we can take them whenever you are comfortable. Please wear loose clothing for a couple of hours before the shoot because of lines made by tight clothing on your belly. Bring clothing that you feel comfortable in, black stretchy yoga pants, sports bras, black or white tank tops and button up shirts are all good choices. You can be photographed fully clothed, nearly nude (wrapped) or nude, I personally love neutral light colored dresses that flow nicely. I do have a few choices in the studio (if you choose a studio session.) These sessions can take place in the studio or on location. Here is our pricing for Maternity sessions and here is our Pinterest Board for inspiration on what to wear.
After your session
You will receive a proofing gallery within 2 business days. (Unless otherwise discussed.) Once you make your image selections those images will be fully edited and returned to you in an online gallery for you to download. If you would like to place any professional print, canvas, or album orders just email me and let me know. I do also ask that you email me back after receiving your photos, if for no other reason that to. Just let me know you got them.
Policies – Since I do run a legal business I have a few rules (or recommendations?!) that I ask be followed and a few things that I just want you to know:
- Your session will not be considered “booked” until your portrait agreement is signed/returned and your retainer fee is paid.
- If you or your child are sick (fever, rash, severe cold symptoms, etc.) within 24 hours of the session you MUST reschedule.
- I do not release RAW (un-edited) files at all, ever!
- Sales tax will be charged on all orders that contain products (prints, canvases, albums, etc.)
- Read your portrait agreement! It will answer almost all of your questions. 🙂
- Be kind. ALWAYS be kind. Even in emails, especially on social media! 🙂
