Thinking about booking outdoor family photos but unsure what time of day is best? You’re not alone. It’s one of the first things most families ask, and the answer might surprise you.

Quick spoiler: it’s not right after lunch when the sun is high and everyone’s squinting. The best time? It’s something called golden hour. And no, you don’t have to drag your toddler out of bed at sunrise to catch it.

Booking a baby or family photo session should feel exciting, not stressful. My studio sessions are designed to be calm, fully supported, and even a little luxurious. Whether this is your first photo session or your fifth, here’s exactly what to expect when you walk through the doors of my Niagara studio.

One of the first questions I get when families book an outdoor session is, "Where will the photos take place?" And I get it. You’re picturing the setting, the lighting, the vibe. But here’s the honest truth: not all parks, trails, or backyards are created equal. And that’s actually a good thing.

I love a cozy couch and a good messy bun just as much as the next mom. But when it comes to newborn photography, your living room might not be the peaceful, photo-ready space you’re imagining. No offence, of course.

Getting everyone out the door with clean clothes and smiles intact can feel like a heroic feat, especially when you’ve had four hours of sleep and someone’s refusing to wear pants. If you’re feeling a little nervous about your upcoming family session, you’re not alone.

Here’s the thing. I’ve been a Niagara family photographer for over 20 years. I’ve raised four kids of my own. I’ve seen every meltdown, outfit mishap, and snack emergency you can imagine. My sessions are designed with real families in mind: calm, flexible, and completely meltdown-friendly.

Here’s how to set yourself and your kids up for photo day success without all the stress.

If you’re like most Niagara moms, the idea of getting family photos might feel a little overwhelming. You want something relaxed and beautiful, but also easy and low stress. That’s exactly why I designed my studio experience the way I did.

As a mom of four and someone who’s photographed over 550 families, I know what helps parents feel calm, supported, and confident in front of the camera. Here’s why the Reflections studio might be just the right spot for your next session.

Trying to figure out outfits for family photos can feel like way too much. When you’re running on little sleep and juggling snacks, nap schedules, and laundry, pulling together “Pinterest-worthy” outfits often falls to the bottom of the list.

Here’s the good news, you don’t have to do it alone.

I’ve been photographing families in Niagara for nearly two decades, and as a mom of four, I know how to keep things simple and beautiful. If you’re getting ready for a studio baby or family session, here’s a breakdown of what works, what doesn’t, and how I make it all way easier.

Most Niagara moms know the drill. Newborn photos early on, and then a big one-year celebration with a cake smash. But in between, there’s this sweet little window that’s often skipped, and honestly, it’s one of my favourites to photograph.

Six-month sessions are low stress, full of personality, and the perfect way to capture your baby right in the middle of it all when they’re happy, curious, and just starting to explore the world.

Let’s be real. Planning family photos can feel like a lot. You might be wondering where you’re supposed to go, whether your kids will cooperate, and if it’s all going to be more stress than it’s worth. As a photographer and mom of four based in Grimsby, I’ve spent the past two decades finding the kind of places where families can actually relax, be themselves, and come away with photos that feel like home.

Here’s what I look for when helping you choose a location for your outdoor family session.

As a mom of four, I deeply understand the importance of having a strong support network. The journey of motherhood, while beautiful, can sometimes feel overwhelming and isolating. That's why connecting with other moms in Ontario can be such a transformative experience, offering not just friendship but also emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of community

Here in Grimsby, Ontario, we’re lucky to have some beautiful places to photograph families, but I know the idea of planning a family photo session can feel like a lot. You’re probably wondering, will my kids melt down? Will I even make it into the photos? Is this going to be more work than it’s worth? As a mom of four and someone who’s photographed over 550 families since 2005, I get it. That’s exactly why I’ve shaped my outdoor family sessions to feel different. Less like a photoshoot and more like a slow, intentional pause in the middle of real life. No pressure. No to-do list. Just meaningful connection and photos that feel like you.

That first year sneaks up fast, doesn’t it? One minute they’re tiny in your arms, and the next they’re wobbling toward a cake with frosting in their eyebrows. A first birthday session is a fun way to celebrate how far you’ve all come, and it doesn’t have to be complicated. If you're looking for a first birthday photographer in the Niagara region, here’s everything you need to know to make the experience easy, fun, and full of real moments you’ll want to print.