Summer time is a great time to take a fun photo that showcases your whole loving family. The weather and lighting are usually sunny and warm and there’s no time like the present to capture your kiddo before their next growth spurt. For a truly memorable keepsake, you need to call in a pro–so I asked my friend and photographer, Amy Jepsen, to give us a few family photo tips.
What’s the story on Amy Jepsen, Photographer?
Amy has been in the professional photography industry since 1998 (or for almost 20 years:) and has worked through the transition from film to digital images. She offers personalized photo sessions and is committed to working with families until she has captured the “it” photo. A mother of four Amy has an easy-going attitude and friendly personality that makes her shoots comfortable and fun. She works in and around the Des Moines metro area and uses natural light, as well as a flash, to make sure your family shines in all situations and settings. Here are a few tips for a family photo session with Amy.
Q. How far ahead should I call for an appointment?
A. Please call at least 2 weeks in advance. You can never schedule too early, especially during the months of August-October! Keep your child’s routine in mind when you schedule your appointment. Consider nap and meal times and schedule around both of those. You might want to bring along some light snacks that your child likes (cheerios, animal crackers & fruit snacks are all good because they are not too messy).
Q. How much is your sitting fee?
A. The fee is $295.00 and covers the time I spend with you during the session, the artistic enhancements, creation of a holiday card or birth announcement and a disk with your images including a copyright release. No prints are included in this fee, but with the copyright release you are allowed to print as many images as you would like from any lab you choose. I can always assist with the ordering, from my professional lab, if you would like.
Q. When and how should I pay for my session?
A. Payment is due the day of your session.
Q. Where will my child’s portraits be done? Will you go on-location?
A. Your session can be outdoors at a location of your choice. Parks, gardens, lakes and buildings are some very popular locations. I have found that children do best in a natural outdoor setting where they can explore and be themselves. Outdoor sessions give you and your child the freedom to move around, and the lighting is more natural. Tiny babies do best in your home, but I am flexible.
Q. How long will the session take?
A. About a half hour.
Q. Does it cost extra to have two or more children photographed at once?
A. We never charge extra for more than one child.
Q. Can I bring our pet?
A. We love animals – just let us know when you schedule your appointment that you will be including your pet in the session.
Q. What outfits work best?
A. Newborns will look best in their bare skin and a solid color diaper cover over the diaper, a cute blanket will be great for the rest. Feel free to bring a special outfit if you wish. The baby’s comfort is always a priority. I will do my best to make certain the baby does not get cold or uncomfortable at any time during the shoot. It is always great if Mom & Dad can wear black so we can get the baby holding onto fingers or snuggling into an arm & chest.
Older babies, toddlers and children photograph best if you choose clothing that is soft and simple, depending on your child’s personality. Girls look pretty in pastel-colored dresses without patterns. Boys are adorable in jeans, denim overalls and khakis. Avoid anything around the neck that could pop up and hide the face. Bare feet are fun. Above all, keep it comfortable for your child. You are welcome to bring two outfits, but children tend to do best if they don’t have to change in the middle of a session.
I always suggest for families to wear like colors and styles so that all emphasis goes to the faces instead of the clothing. I will be glad to offer more suggestions when you set up your appointment on what to wear.
Q. Should I bring any props from home?
A. Yes, bring along your child’s favorite hat, toy, blanket, instrument, stuffed animal, etc.
Q. Do you do any special effects?
We offer many creative special effects and are always developing new and fun ideas. If you’ve seen a special effect somewhere that you really like, chances are that we can duplicate it. Show us a picture of what you have in mind, and we’ll give it a try.
Q. How long before my disk is ready?
A. About 2 weeks.
Please call Amy Jepsen at 515-314-3043 with any questions or to set up a session for your child or family.
