Guide for Parents
Before your session, please take a moment to familiarize yourself with this page — everything you need to know to make the most of your experience is right here!
How Can I Best Support My Child During the Session?
Leading up to photo day:
Before the session, try telling them something like "We're going to hang out with Elaine and her camera — she wants to capture how high you can jump, that big silly laugh of yours, and that smile we all love so much!"
Frame it as a celebration of them — their silliness, their energy, their personality — not a performance they need to get right. Children light up when they feel seen for exactly who they are.
During the session:
The most powerful thing you can do is smile at your child. Not coach them, not direct them — just smile at them the way only you can. You know that smile. The one that makes them feel safe and loved. That is what unlocks the best expressions every single time.
Please try to avoid repeatedly telling them to "smile" or "look at the camera" or "stand still." As much as it comes from love, children tend to freeze up or push back harder when they feel like there is a right answer they need to get to.
Trust me and trust them. A genuine straight face is worth a thousand forced smiles. 🤍
What To Wear
Keep it Simple: Solid colors or very subtle patterns work best. If they feel comfortable, they'll look comfortable
The Palette: Neutrals (cream, grey, navy, tan) or muted "earthy" tones look timeless against our white/cream background.
Avoid: Neon colors, large logos, graphic tees, or hoodies, as these can distract from your child's features and date the portrait.
Textures: Knits, linens, and collars add beautiful depth to the photos!
Comfort Items Are Welcome 🤍
If your child has a favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or lovey that helps them feel safe and happy — bring it!
Siblings
Siblings are welcome to be photographed together. Simply book your slots back-to-back so each child has their own dedicated time. Sibling shots together can be arranged within that window — just let me know ahead of time!
When will I expect my photos?
Within 2 weeks of your session you will receive a link to your own private password-protected online gallery. From there you can browse, download your favorites, and order prints — all from your phone or computer. Your online gallery will be sent to the email you registered with.
Can I Order Prints?
Once your gallery is ready you can browse and order professional prints, wall art, and more directly through your online gallery. Everything is fulfilled through a professional print lab and shipped straight to your door — no extra steps needed.
Pro tip: Not all prints are created equal. Professional lab prints use color-accurate processing and archival-quality paper that is specifically designed not to fade over time. This means the colors you see in your gallery are the colors you get in your hands — true to life, rich, and built to last.
Ordering from a drugstore or big box store uses a completely different process and the results simply cannot compare in color accuracy, sharpness, or longevity.
My only job is to make your child feel comfortable and let their personality shine. In our short time together, we will be as chill as a cucumber — no rushing, no pressure, just lots of variations and genuine moments captured naturally. Some children push back harder when they sense an adult wants a certain result, so I never chase the perfect smile. A straight face, a giggle, a tiny frown — they are all beautiful and every single one will be treasured.
In the rush of the school year, it’s easy to miss how much they’ve grown. These aren't just school photos; they are a pause button on a season that is as fleeting as it is timeless
This page is your go-to resource before, during, and after your session.