the session
Imagine having beautiful images of your children to treasure and enjoy for a lifetime. we work closely with you, our clients, to create artistic portraits that become beautiful artwork and priceless heirlooms for your children.
the photo shoot
Your kids to will have fun creating beautiful images while having fun being the center of attention. With over 8 years experience photographing children and 3 little ones herself, Cheryl is playful and puts her little subjects at ease. Parents can relax while enjoying the beautiful view of the Huron River and have a cup of tea. (Visit the studio section to see some images of Cheryl's studio.)
Photoshoots usually last an hour to an hour and a half depeding on the number of chilren and their ages. Make sure to pick a time that's best for your child where the well rested and happy.
We recommend scheduling your session six to eight weeks before your desired date. We will always do our best to get your in sooner if possible. For maternity and newborn sessions call around your second trimester to insure your best timing.
portfolio edit
This is usually our clients' favorite part. this appointment is scheduled a couple of weeks after your photoshoot. Together with you and your partner, we select your favorite images and decide how to best present them at your home. For out of town clients we will assist you on the phone to help make it as easy as possible.
out of town guests
Let us help you find accomodations close to the studio. Cheryl has favorite restaurants, shops and other fun places she loves in Ann Arbor. Make this a special weekend for you and your family.
A big thanks to our clients that have made it to the studio from Ohio, California, Germany, Chicago, Indiana, Los Angeles, and New York.
Ways to make your portrait session successful
- It is best to wear solid colors or simple prints. For black & white photography, color doesn't matter as much as lightness and darkness. Avoid clothing with logos and busy patterns for a more effective portrait. I suggest khakis, jeans and overalls.
- If there is more than one subject, please have everyone dressed in similarly toned clothing for a more unified look. Bare feet are preferred over shoes, and children find this fun as well!
- Make sure little ones are fed and well rested before their photo session.
- Bring snacks and a few changes of clothing.
- Kids enjoy picking out a special outfit to be photographed in. Let them be creative anything from Daddy's shoes, funny glasses, a favorite teddy bear or a tu tu. It makes them feel more actively involved in the fun!
- We understand families are busy but, we have found it useful to not have things scheduled on the day of your photo shoot and even the night before. Tired and over stimulated children appear that way in their photographs.
- On the day of your session appointment, it's best to only bring the persons being photographed to prevent distractions.
- Lastly, I have found that most successful sessions to be when parents are very relaxed. Kids can really pick up on our stress levels, so it's important to relax and have fun!
our suggestions on favorite ages
Babies
Babyhood is so special, yet one that passes quickly. Feedings, interruptions in the middle of the night, bottles, and mountains of laundry seem to be overwhelming. Every day is a first: a first smile, first tooth, first words, and first faltering steps.
Newborn: There is a pure and total enjoyment to just sit, hold, and watch your sleeping baby at this age. When awake, your baby prefers to see your face rather than anything else, and will begin to grasp onto your finger while gazing into your face. This is a perfect time to photograph the intimate relationship developing between mom, dad, and baby.
6 to 9 months: This is Cheryl's favorite age to photograph. Halfway through the first year of life is certainly a time to celebrate. Portraits hold time still, though babies do not at this age! Now, exploring their own hands and feet grows into exploring the world around them. They're so animated and fun. The best time to have this session is when their strong enough to sit but not yet crawling.
12 months: Active could best describe this age! Crawling, walking, or climbing are the challenges. Personalities are becoming more developed and now, baby can throw kisses, wave bye-bye and mimic sounds and gestures.
Toddlers
two & three years: This time in a child’s life is the beginning of a learning adventure that is so fun to watch. Children this age love make-believe and games. Portraits at this age can be planned, but there is still that element of unpredictability that keeps everyone on their toes.
Children
Age four to six years: Starting school, loosing teeth and their true personality coming out. This is a terrific age to photograph. Kids are so relaxed when photographed.
Age seven to ten years: Busy could best describe this age! Sports, music and after school activities are ever present. This a wonderful age to highlight what a child loves to do. Also this is a great age to photograph s