Colorado Family Adventure Sessions

What about health and safety precautions?

I am fully vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19 and will wear a mask upon request to sessions. Masks are not required for clients. All sessions take place outdoors.

What should I expect?

A laid back session where your family gets to explore nature and enjoy free play. The longer the session, the more time for creative collaboration and candids. If you have children, I will let them set the pace with their energy and curiosity. I guarantee I will make you laugh by running around trying to capture the fun. I always direct clients into a few classic portraits and have tricks up my sleeve to get genuine smiles. Dogs especially love my Wookiee sounds (yes, you read that right).

Once you submit my contact form I will email you to finalize your session date. A signed contract and $200 retainer secures your booking and the remaining balance is due on the day of your session.

How do I pay?

You may pay your retainer through my website Shop (accepts Paypal and all major credit cards). For the remaining balance, you may pay with cash, check, or credit card before or on the day of your session. You will receive instructions after booking.

Where are you able to take photos?

My permanent residence is in the beautiful mountain town of Salida, Colorado and I am available for adventure sessions in Salida, Buena Vista, and nearby areas year-round. If you love my style and want me to come to you, I include 100 miles of roundtrip driving from Salida, CO in my session price. Additional mileage can be added at the standard rate.

Twice a year (typically summer and fall/holiday season) I return to my home state of Maine and love working with clients where my nature-loving roots formed. For Maine locations, 100 miles of roundtrip travel from Portland, ME or Augusta, ME are included.

Outside of these areas I'm also happy to talk to clients about custom destination packages.

What if I don't have a location in mind?

If you're just visiting, new to any of the areas listed above, or have TOO MANY good ideas, I am happy to provide up to 3 suggestions for locations. Chances are whatever you love in nature will make for a great photo session backdrop. In your contact form, let me know any natural features that are important to you or if you prefer a certain type of activity. For example, hiking trails with views or a natural area with a creek. Before your session we will finalize a location and start time (depending on available light and time of year) that works best for all.

What time of day are your sessions?

This depends on the location, time of year, and your preference for mornings or afternoons. I prefer to shoot in the early morning at or soon after sunrise or in the afternoon light before sunset. Half-day sessions will include a variety of lighting situations. Summer mornings benefit from avoiding afternoon thunderstorms, high temperatures, and exhausted family members. Late afternoons/evenings in the fall and winter are great for warmer temperatures, beautiful golden light, and anyone who simply CAN'T do mornings (the struggle is real).

Who can I bring?

Adventure sessions are great for families of all kinds, whether it's just you and your partner, you and your furbaby, or you roll with kids from babies to teens. Extended family sessions are available for larger groups with multiple families - these are like having multiple mini sessions in one, so everyone is welcome!

What should I/we wear?

My clients tend to lean toward an outdoorsy/casual style, so there's no requirement for dressy outfits, make-up, or perfect poses. However, if a dress with a flourish or your favorite lipstick will make you feel confident, go for it. I want you to feel like yourself. If you need more direction: I recommend solid colors (can be muted or bright) and playing with textures like sweaters and outdoor accessories like knitted hats or other gear you always use. Try staying away from noticable logos or words on clothing.

What should I bring?

Your love for the outdoors and any essentials you need to keep hydrated or to keep little ones happy. A snack and a change of socks I've found to be wise. Treats for doggos are great but make sure you can hide them in photos. You can have everyone wear packs for a half-day adventure, but for shorter sessions it's best to have one person carry a bag that can be tossed out of view for some of the photos. Don't forget sun and bug protection, if necessary. I ask clients not to wear sunglasses unless you require them for a portion of the half-day adventure (just a hat is preferred).

How many photos will I receive and when should I expect them?

Depending on your session length, you'll receive 50 to 200 edited pictures in an online gallery. You'll have options for ordering prints, albums, and other products shipped directly to you, or you can download them at full or web resolution for safe keeping / printing and sharing on your own. I share a few sneak peek images within a few days after the shoot and provide the final gallery link within 3-4 weeks.