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I recently went through all my Google reviews as part of an educational assignment, and one theme emerged above all others.

No, it wasn’t how dumb my jokes were (I might have been just as proud); it’s how unexpectedly easy and relaxed clients felt during their session.

Even the ones that showed up saying, “you should know we’re really awkward in front of the camera.”

And honestly, that’s not an accident.

Here’s how I help you get there:

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I Get to Know You First

From the very first phone call, to your in-home consultation and questionnaire, I get to know you and your family.

I hear about what’s important to you, what you’re worried about, what your kids are into right now, and how you want your images to feel.

And then I take all this info and custom design your session around you. And a session & prompts that feel natural to you and your family = relaxation.

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You Get Lots of Prep

Starting from our very first phone call, I let you know that your session will be just a time for your family to hang out for an hour without distractions, and that I’ll direct you the entire time so you never wonder what to do. I explain that I want you to just play together like you would at home, in ways that feel comfortable and natural, and that I’ll help with some prompting when needed.

I then remind you of this again in your client prep guide, and again in your prep email right before your session.

This preparation lets you know exactly what to expect, and also lets you know that you don’t need to worry about feeling staged or stiff = relaxation.

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A Pep Talk When You Need It Most

Right before the session is when nerves are at their peak. That’s why I always start my sessions with a little “pep talk” that just takes the pressure off.

And pressure off = relaxation.

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You’ll Never Wonder What to Do

I custom plan your session from start to finish. Every minute is filled with fun, from chasing your kids to connecting with your spouse.

And never just standing there, wondering where to put your hands = relaxation.

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Before You Know it, You’re Done!

Since I keep you (and your kids!) moving and busy the entire time, the hour flies by.

So whether you’re that mom that worries about your kids’ ability to last for an hour long session, or your husband’s tolerance, I’ve got you covered.

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How Feeling More Relaxed Leads to Images You’ll Love

The more you understand how things will go, and the less staged and forced you feel, and the more you don’t feel pressure to do anything other than just play with your family, the more relaxed you become.

And once that session gets going, the initial jitters start to melt away and the real emotions and expressions start to come out.

And I just become that fly on the wall (complete with a teeny weeny camera) that you’ve mostly forgotten about.

But I’m still there, clicking away, which means you’ll have warm, connected, natural and meaningful images to love for the rest of your life.

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“Being photographed can be awkward, but Michelle immediately put us at ease in front of the camera. In the end, that comfort comes through in the photos, and we are absolutely thrilled with the final product.”

-Melanie & Tyler, San Diego

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