Hi everyone! Oh how I just adore the family I'm blogging about today. I'm lucky enough to say I've been photographing the Street  family for years years now! I truly can't believe how much the children have grown and changed since I first met them.And, it goes without saying,the Streets have become my friends over the time we've worked together. It's hard to not become friends with someone like Tammy, she is so sweet and kind.. Dad and husband Dale is just as great. When Tammy called me to take their photos again, (I don't think I could have scheduled them fast enough. I couldn't stop smiling the rest of the day.And as for the day of the shoot, I had so much fun! They had a pretty great time, too. Okay, enough text. Check out the amazing Street  family!

Van and beautiful property at the great location for photographers.Abide A While Acres

Welcome back, everyone! I recently had a fantastic session with the Jenkins family. I've said it before and I'll say it again – I truly have the best clients ever! This family was no exception, either.  Everything seemed to flow with this family. We met at the farm in beautiful Lincolnton, NC. I love shooting at the farm because the sunset is always perfect. For the shoot, I wanted to incorporate some new poses I just learned in an online class. It truly was an amazing photoshoot. And if any of you are considering a family session or are prepping for an upcoming session, heed the words of Jennifer: “Plan ahead! ” she says.

Solid advice! Okay, on to pictures of the Jenkins family!

How to Find the Perfect Photo Shoot Location 

Choosing a photoshoot location might seem like a big deal but it really doesn't have to be difficult. A location usually drives some of the other decisions you will need to make about your shoot so it’s important to choose the right place. Here are a few questions to ask yourself before you decide on a location:

1. What kind of theme do I want? If a particular building or natural backdrop would work well with your theme, look around your area for spots that meet your requirements. If you don't know what kind of backdrop you want, take an afternoon drive around your city for inspiration. It's easy to overlook beautiful spots that are practically in your backyard. Ask family, friends or your photographer for ideas too. 

2. Are you allowed to take pictures there? Make sure that you can legally take pictures at the location that you have in mind. If it's not public property or available to the public you will need to get permission first. 

3. Is it accessible? Consider that not all outdoor locations may be available all year round or you might not be able to get to them at all. Your safety is also an important aspect to think about before you decide on a location. Taking pictures on a mountain ledge may look neat but it’s best not to put yourself in harm’s way.  

4. How do you get to your location? Will it be easy to walk to the session location and if not, are you able to change your clothing and touch up your hair and makeup before the shoot? You should also find out whether there is a restroom that’s close enough in case you need it.

5. Will the photo session be in a public place? If the location you have chosen has a lot of foot traffic, you need to ask yourself whether you are comfortable being photographed in front of others. If not, you might want to rethink your choice in location

Make sure that your location doesn’t become a distraction and that there is shelter nearby if you need it. Your location tells a story so it’s worthwhile to choose a meaningful spot.

Need a photographer? Love to chat. Heidi Houser 828.234.3182

If you’re preparing for a photo session with your children, you may be feeling a bit apprehensive. Children aren’t always easy to deal with, which is why the below tips will definitely come in handy before your upcoming photo session. 

1. Don't make a huge deal out of it. If you're stressed out and cranky, your kids will usually pick up on it and act accordingly. Their behavior will usually be better if you are relaxed and having fun. You may have to make some compromises to keep the peace such as letting your energetic daughter's hair stay straight instead of curling it because she won't sit still. Focus on the big picture and don't sweat the small stuff. 

2. Make it fun. Let the kids have a couple of “fun pictures” where they get to pick their own poses or props. You get to keep the more serious photos while they get to keep their silly photos. This way everyone wins. If you are struggling to get your kids to sit still, turn the photo session into a game. Simon Says usually works like a charm. 

3. Be prepared. If you're going to be out for several hours, ensure that your children are well-rested and have had their naps. Bringing some snacks and activities along is also a great idea. If you are having your own photos taken too then you might want to bring a babysitter or family member along to watch the kids. If you happen to be shooting in a remote location, you never know when you might need something like bug spray, tissues, or a first aid kit so bring that along too.

4. Be patient. Save your sanity by trying not to control the photo session too much. Sometimes the best photos come from kids just doing their own thing. Work with your photographer and your photos will look fantastic. 

5. Have a chat. Get your children talking to both you and the photographer about topics such as school or their favorite songs. This allows them to feel more comfortable around your photographer and will also give your photographer a chance to capture a few candid and cute expressions.

Hi again,  ladies and gents!

Let me stop for a second to tell you that I am seriously the luckiest photographer in the world. My clients are always so wonderful to work with. That's true of my session with the Leonard family, too!

I met up with them at their home in Hickory, NC  and the weather was perfect for photo-taking. A beautiful sunny warm winter day. While the weather was fine, it was the Leonard family that made this shoot such a success.

The Leonard family consists of Mom, Dad, children, grandchildren and one of moms sisters. In addition we photographed each family separately.

As you can see from the comments above and the photos below, this family is not only photogenic, but also a close-knit group who clearly love spending time together. They are lucky to have each other. 

Hope you enjoy the pictures!