Details

On Location or In Studio?

There are some photographers who like to photograph 100% in studio or 100% on location. We believe that every child is different and are open to doing either. Despite our best efforts, there are some children who are very shy or uncomfortable in a studio setting. On the other hand, some children are able to open up and take a studio session more seriously, allowing us to cover more ground in studio. We can talk about the personality of your child and figure out which location would work best. As for on location sessions, we have a wide variety of location ideas, or we can come up with a location or activity that is creative and unique to your family! For children over three years old, I highly recommend an urban session (see my location gallery), which is a lot of fun. For younger children, your own living room or backyard might be just the answer! It all really just depends on your child.

The Session

Prior to your session, we will send you an information booklet to help you plan. Whether shooting on location or in studio, we will not rush your session. Upon meeting your children, Amy will spend some time with them before putting a camera in their faces. It is important to “bond” with them a bit so they feel comfortable. So, we’ll have a little playtime first and then proceed with the session. Most sessions last 1-2 hours, depending on the number of children and/or children’s moods. We can take breaks for changing diapers, nursing or a little playtime. If we are shooting on location, sometimes it is best if we just sit and talk while the child gets used to my presence. Please only bring children who will be photographed to the studio. Feel free to let me know if you have any special shots you’d like! I love new ideas!

Clothing

You can bring as many clothes as you’d like to your child’s session – and we encourage you to do so. We will be happy to go through them with you and let you know what will photograph well. Some clients bring little suitcases or bags full of a variety of clothes. You might be surprised at what we choose! The main rule of thumb is to avoid logos and lettering on clothing – unless there is a special significance. Colorful and solid sweaters photograph beautifully. The best clothing items compliment your child’s coloring and eye color and have lots of texture and movement. Feel free to bring hats, scarves or other accessories. If parents will be in the pictures, it is best to coordinate your outfits with the children – not necessarily matching outfits, but similar style (i.e. jeans and t-shirts, sweaters and jeans, etc.). Also note, we sometimes use the parents as backdrops for young babies, so please wear or bring a long-sleeve black top and black pants (if possible).

Props and Special Backdrops?

Yes to both, however, they are usually very plain and simple. Once again, we want the focus to be on the child. My backdrops are typically black, white and natural colors. Sometimes we will use a fun color based on the season or child’s clothing. As for props, we have lots of chairs, benches and ottomans that we use. If your child has a favorite toy or object that you would like photographed, then please bring it! A few sentimental props are always welcome!

Order Session

When you book your session, we will also set up an ordering appointment about 2 weeks following the session. At this session, we will show you a slideshow of your images set to music. We can then revisit your favorite images and I can show you what the pictures would look like in various sizes. Your order must be placed at the ordering session. If you need additional time, an online gallery can be created for an additional fee.

Digital Images

We do sell a CD of the session images after a minimum print order. If you are looking for Facebook or other social media websites, please let us know as we are often more than happy to tag or post several of your ordered images. All photos remain property of Amy Lynden Photography, and can only be reprinted with permission.

We are always open to new ideas, so please feel free to contact us to discuss your thoughts. While we are based in the San Francisco Bay Area, we are willing to travel nationwide.