I have a soft spot for super-busy people. Anyone who (like me) is raising a family in tandem with a demanding work schedule — I get those people. I understand why fitting in family portraits is so important. First, scheduling an hour for a photo session helps us slow down and capture the moments of quality time we don’t want to miss. Secondly, the heirloom albums, wall art pieces, proof boxes, and gift prints become literal touchstones that keep “family” at the center of a hectic lifestyle.
Poolside cool
This fabulous session got started by chance — an overheard conversation between me and someone else led us into a discussion of Dr. Scott's need for family portraits. After three years, Dr. Scott felt the family was due for updated portraits, and she already understood the value of high-quality prints. During our consultation, I found that she was specifically looking for wall art to go in the alcove above her fireplace, and I was happy to fill that niche (literally, lol)!
Our original session had to be postponed because of the coronavirus shutdown, but Dr. Scott was the first client on my calendar after we re-opened. With a nod to social distancing, and because it’s gorgeous anyway, we used the family’s own backyard as the setting for the session. Thanks to our conversations during the consult, I knew that she also wanted framed collages of the kids, so I was able to tailor the session with her end goals in mind, measuring walls so I could present realistic mock-ups at the ordering appointment.
Barely-three year old Declan would have rather played in the pool than take photos by it, but I pulled out some super secret tricks to capture his attention. 13-year-old Sarah was quieter than her brother, but a more-willing participant. The proud parents were thrilled with their gallery, purchasing two 16x20 framed collages: one for each kid. They also decided on a stunning 24x36 matte metal that fit perfectly in their alcove.
They rounded out their order with my personal favorite product: the heirloom album. Acrylic topped with flush-mount pages, it's already been joyfully passed around to family and office staff. Their a la carte purchases qualified them for complimentary digital files, which were delivered on a custom USB in a keepsake box.
Framed art reveal
Pedal to the metal; metal for the mantel
As I’ve said, I “get” busy. In fact, the main reason I encourage people to follow through and order prints is that their one-and-done ordering session saves them precious time. The Scotts were so happy with the results of my full-service, one-stop-shop approach that they are already planning their next family session with me. Next time, they’re venturing beyond the lawn and are actually considering Hawaii as the setting. How can I say no to that?! But wherever we wind up, I'm absolutely looking forward to the next time I can bring this much joy and excitement to their family!