MINI SESSION GUIDE
I'm So Happy you're Here
WELCOME!
This page is meant to answer questions you might have ahead of your session. All adults should read through this information as it will help our session go more smoothly. Above all, I want you to relax and have fun. I am a true believer in the idea that "everyone has a story", and I look forward to telling yours! Now let's dive in with what to expect.
Cristen x
MY best Tips for a great MINI Session
While I will be seeing a lot of families on mini-session day, it does help if I have a little information about you ahead of time! This form will give you the opportunity to share anything you think is important, and it will get you into my client system so that I can easily share your proof gallery with you. Share as little or as much as you like.
Plan ahead and Be on time
The last thing you want to do is start your session stressed out because you are rushed and worried you're going to be late. Have your outfits laid out and ironed the night before, and leave more time than you think you need to get yourself and the kids ready. Sessions are scheduled back to back, and your promptness is appreciated by other families.
Let your kids know what to expect
Some kids are camera shy, and others are complete hams! Let them know we'll be taking some family pictures. but don't put pressure on them to be perfect. Tell them we will have fun, and not to worry about saying "cheese". We'll work out the smiles in a natural way!
Remember: Kids Will be kids
Don't worry if your kids aren't listening perfectly. I promise I'm not judging them or you. I'm a parent too, and believe me - I've been there! Let me try to draw them back in before you intervene -- and if you need to walk away and take a deep breath that's totally OK. If parents are stressed out then things can go downhill quickly. I really do have a ton of patience, I have see it all, and you should feel confident that we will come away with photographs you will love even if it seems like your kids are bouncing off the walls. DEEP BREATHS. :)
Give them A break
Sometimes kids will need a break in the middle of a session, and while we don't have a lot of time during a mini, I can take photos of one sibling while another is taking a short break. Feel free to give them a drink if they need it -- (nothing chocolately, messy, or colored). Please save other “treats” for the end of the session.
Sometimes no one can make them laugh better than you!
There might be times that I will ask you to act silly over my shoulder to get the attention of your kiddos, so practice those silly faces or think about the things you do that they think are hilarious! That said, it's most helpful to me if you not try to get their attention unless I ask you to. Sometimes they just don't know where to look or who to listen to if too many of us are working to get their attention.
To Get everyone looking at the camera
While I do love candid moments, for those "everyone looking at the camera" shots. your best bet is to keep your eyes on me unless I tell you otherwise. Let me get their attention, and if you are looking at me when they are, then we've got it! Truth be told though, my favorite family photos are those where family members are connecting with each other instead of the camera.
Any Other tips?
Yes! Click the links below for more in-depth tips on certain kinds of sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should we Wear!?
Don't stress out about what to wear, but do check out my "What to Wear " guide for some helpful tips!
Should we Bring anything to the Session?
If your child has a special lovey/blanket/toy truck (whatever really!) that would make them smile and happy to have in the photos or that you want to document, then by all means, bring it along!
Can you "photoshop" me?
Yes, I have some Photoshop tricks up my sleeve, and I'm willing to use them (sparingly). If your child scratched their face the night before the session, can I remove it? Yep! Can I make your tween's blemish disappear? Of course! Can I whiten your teeth? Absolutely. Basic retouching requests like this, as well as things like softening wrinkles or dark circles, are no problem for the image included in your session or any other image you purchase from me as a print or digital file.
More extensive retouching (digital slimming, root retouching, removing extensive wrinkles from clothing, etc.) is absolutely possible but is charged by the hour. I'm happy to provide a quote based on specific requests.
Will my images be shared with anyone else or online?
Because of the visual nature of my work, the only way for me to continue to build my business is to share my images, just as you see them shared here on my website. Though not the best at maintaining my social media presence, I do try to share on Instagram and Facebook as well. While most clients are fine with this policy, I do understand if you feel strongly that you would not like your family's images online. Please contact me, or let Claudine know prior to your session if you prefer that your images remain private. I retain the copyright to all of my work, but I am always respectful of my clients' wishes.
Am i allowed to print my digital anywhere i want?
Yes, absolutely, but I do provide my clients with printing guidelines and information on recommended labs, as all consumer labs are not created equal. You may also order printed products through me to be assured of the best color reproduction and quality that only a professional lab can provide.
Do you have INsurance?
I sure do! I am a tax paying, insurance carrying, legal business. And no, not every photographer is.
What happens after tHe Session?
1. All sessions are backed up on two separate hard drives. Both of those drives are then automatically backed up to the "cloud".
2. I often (though not always and not for every session during busy season), I'll post a sneak peek on my Instagram and Facebook, so be sure to follow my accounts. During super busy times I'm not the best at keeping up with social media, but I try! If you prefer that your family's images remain private, please let me or Claudine know prior to your session. Or, if you'd like me to tag you if/when I share, please provide me with your username.
3. Editing can take up to 3 weeks in the Fall. I am picky, particularly about color, and honestly, I think my work is best once I do one round of edits, and then put it away for a few days before finalizing with a fresh set of eyes. If you have a deadline you need me to keep in mind, please let me know, but I am very cognizant of families needing to order holiday cards and gifts so you will absolutely have your images in plenty of time for that.
4. Once your images are edited (color corrected, straightened, cropped, etc), I will post them to a private, password-protected gallery and send you the link.
5. When I send your proof gallery I will provide instructions for choosing your included image or ordering additional digital files or print products. If you have questions please don't hesitate to get in touch.
6. Once you've chosen your included image, any additional images, and your print products (if ordering them). I will give them one final edit and retouch as needed before sending you download links / ordering products from my lab.
About my Products
Just because you will receive digital images as part of your package, doesn't mean you can't also have beautiful custom products printed by the finest labs in the country. I offer a whole suite of products, and I'm here to help you plan the best way to display and enjoy your images. I'm always happy to chat on the phone or meet in person to look at samples:
FIND US
Based in Andover and available
North and West of Boston.
@cristenfarrellphotography