What to Expect From an Outdoor Family Session With Reflections
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.
Before Your Session: I Handle the Prep So You Don’t Have To
Forget the days of last-minute outfit scrambling, trying to match colours, or wondering if you need to Pinterest-pose your way through a session. Before you book, we’ll hop on a quick call to talk through everything. I’ll ask about your family, what makes you tick, and the types of moments you love most. You don’t need to have it all figured out. Just show up as you are, and I’ll guide the rest.
You’ll also get access to my curated studio wardrobe, full of soft, neutral, and earthy tones that photograph beautifully and feel good to wear. Whether you’re looking for a cozy knit dress, a flowy top, or something that makes you feel a little more like yourself again, I’ll help you choose pieces that flatter and flow well together. On the day of your session, you’ll get your hair and makeup done in your home first (because yes, you deserve to feel taken care of), I’ll help style the rest of the family. No one’s scrambling. No one’s panicking in the car. You’ll head to your session feeling relaxed, confident, and ready to actually enjoy it.
During Your Session: Connection Over Perfection
Once we’re out at the location, you’ll notice it’s nothing like those stiff, stand-here-and-smile experiences. I’ll gently guide you through prompts and moments that feel natural, not staged. Whether we’re walking along the lake at Nelles Beach, exploring the trails at Beamer Memorial Conservation Area, or playing together in the golden light at Grimsby Beach, your session will feel like quality time with your people. And if your kids are wild, shy, or mid-meltdown? That’s real life, and it’s all welcome here. Some of the most meaningful images come from those in-between moments. A quick snuggle. A forehead kiss. A whispered joke. That’s the good stuff. Have a dog that’s part of the family? Bring them. Just give me a heads-up so I can choose a location that works well for everyone.
After Your Session: From Photos to Artwork Without the Homework
You’re not left wondering what to do with your photos. About a week after your session, you’ll come back to the studio for your reveal. We’ll sit down together and go through your images on the big screen. From there, I’ll help you decide how you want to enjoy them in real life, not just in your phone’s camera roll. Want a frame over the fireplace? A gallery wall going up the stairs? I’ll show you exactly what it could look like on your walls so you can feel confident in your choices. Once you decide, that’s it. I’ll take care of ordering, printing, framing, and even installing everything in your home. No more “I really should get these printed” hanging over you. You’ll actually get it done without lifting a finger.
Why It Matters
I know how easy it is to stay behind the camera, especially as a mom. We're usually the ones capturing the moments, not being in them. But years from now, your kids aren’t going to care if your hair was perfect. They’re going to care that you were there, smiling, hugging, laughing, loving. An outdoor session with Reflections isn’t about posing for a few nice photos. It’s about pressing pause. Slowing down long enough to remember what it feels like to be part of this family, right here, right now. If you’ve been thinking about family photos but keep pushing it down the list, let’s make it simple. I’ll handle the details. You just show up, enjoy your people, and let the good stuff happen.
