I try and keep my photography very natural, capturing the action as it happens, so it's lots of fun and not too much posing. I feel this will bring out the true character of your children and will also make the session more enjoyable.

Yes, I will spend some time taking some relaxed portraits of you together as a family, as this can be an important record for you too (and generally the photos the grandparents love). But I spend more time letting the action happen naturally and capturing the moments as they unfold.

Isn't that every mum's fear but don’t be! I’m a mum of 2 boisterous very active boys! I totally get it. If a meltdown happens we’ll just take a break but there will be plenty of time to capture the sweet moments. Plus I'm more than happy to share kid war stories!

Outdoor sessions are scheduled for the hour prior to sunset to capture the beautiful golden hour light. Indoor sessions are a lot more flexible.

Your session will typically last from 60 minutes up to 2 hours, depending on the session you book; this seems to be the threshold for little people (and dads) in particular! We'll meet 15 minutes before the session. Because I want to capture connection and sweet, real moments between you and your family members, I won’t make you pose like a traditional portrait, I’ll just encourage lots of family cuddles and interaction, which will allow you to relax and enjoy your shoot.

The main thing to remember is I want the photos to look like YOU! If you don’t normally wear long flowy dresses don’t. If your son hates button down shirts, don’t put him in one. If you daughter is not into dresses, leave her in pants.

What to wear should be one of the fun parts in preparing for your session, so please don’t let it overwhelm you. The most important thing to remember is to be comfortable! And if you still not sure reach out and I’ll help!

As a general guide:

1. When it comes to selecting a colour palette try & choose 1-2 complimentary colours and outfits. Co-ordinate but don’t be too matchy matchy.
2. Wear clothes that fit well - If you feel comfortable, you’ll look natural & at ease.
3. Dress kids in clothes they love – if the kids are happy, everyone is happy!(Next, Zara Kids,  H&M have some great kids clothes so if you want to buy them something for the shoot, you don’t have to spend a fortune).
4. Try to avoid dressing like a billboard, logos, characters, slogans – they all tend to date – and can distract from the photo. Florescent colours are another one to avoid.
5. For family shoots, mum, it’s your time to shine! Choose your outfit first and build the families outfits around yours.
6. Don’t be afraid to dress in layers. They can add texture and interest. Think scarves, hats & cardigans.
7. Don’t forgot shoes and accessories. A great outfit doesn’t deserve dirty shoes.
8. Make a Pinterest board for ideas or you can look at my page -https://www.pinterest.com.au/MichelleShrivesPhotography.  

A week or two after the shoot your edited images will be available for viewing in a private online gallery. If you order any additional prints or products they can take up to 4 weeks extra for delivery.

Of course. All sessions include high resolution digital images via digital download. I also have an online store where you can order prints, frames, albums and canvases.

If you do decide to print them yourself just make sure you use a professional printing lab. But I absolutely encourage you to print & display your images.

If it looks like it’s going to be too windy (or even rain!) during your shoot, I’ll be in touch the day prior and we’ll communicate right up until the last possible moment to decide if we reschedule.  Moody grey skies can be great, but wind and rain are not so much fun - especially in the desert!

If you are sick, please try and give me 24 hours’ notice and we can reschedule for when everyone is feeling better.

Head over to my contact page or send me an email at hello@michelleshrives.com.  I can also be contacted on 056 2999 390. I’ll then get in touch and we can schedule a date!
Once your initial deposit is made your date is secured and I will send you a link to my welcome pack which includes all the information you need to make you photo session fabulous.