Children and Relationship Portraits

It takes a creative, sensitive, experienced photographer to capture a child's personality. Let us show you how we've delighted parent with outstanding children portraits.

Now's the time to capture those priceless expressions, and our studio is the place. Our special approach to photographing children creates memories you'll love sharing with family and loved ones.

Q. How much is a child's portrait session?
A. The session fee for a child's portrait session if done at the studio is $39.95 or a location session is available for $89.95. The session fee pays for the time and talent used in creating your portraits and is due at the time of your session. The session fee does not include any portraits, nor does it apply to the cost of your order.

Q. When is the best time for my child's first portrait session?
A. If you prefer your child to be photographed alone, then the child should be strong enough to lift their head from the pillow for at least 45 seconds. This varies of course, but generally the infant should be at least 10 to 12 weeks old.

Q. When is the best time of the day for children to be photographed?
A. Think of the time of the day you think your child is most alert and playful. For some children, this would be immediately following his or her nap. For others, it might be after meal time. Observe your child and schedule your appointment accordingly. We will try our best to service you and your child's needs.

Q. What do I do if my child becomes ill the day of the portrait session?
A. Please call us as soon as you are aware of the illness. We will reschedule you appointment when your child is feeling better. We want your child to be healthy, happy and alert. (It's a good rule to avoid the week after any baby inoculations.)

Q. Can I bring my own personal props to be included in my child's portrait?
A. Your personal items will make a wonderful compliment and create a special memory for you to cherish in the years to come. Some items to consider are: heirloom christening gowns, engraved baby rattles, mom's jewelry, special comforters or hand made blankets, musical instruments, teddy bears, old family photographs, fresh flowers or rose petals, etc. These items add a personal touch to your portrait. We look forward to working with your ideas.

Q. Do you take outdoor portraits?
A. Yes, weather and season permitting of course. Please keep in mind, the best time for an outdoor portrait session is during the spring and summer months. We recommend casual clothing for most of our outdoors set.

" Soft pastels and offwhite outfits are great in the springtime."

" Denim overalls, jean outfits and khakis during the summer."

" Earth tone colored sweaters and long sleeved shirts in the fall."

Q. When do I get to see the previews?
A. Approximately 7 working days after your portrait session, your images will be ready for viewing and order selections. We advise you to review portrait packages and policies and allow sufficient time to make your selection on this day, as we do not allow previews to leave the studio.

Q. How do I make my appointment?
A. You may stop by for a studio tour and to view our portrait samples, children's props, background selections and outdoor sets. Or, if you prefer, you may call our studio to make your appointment. 208-772-4244 or 1-800-764-5373

Children's Clothing Guide - A Guide to Dressing Your Child For A Priceless Portrait.

For those special times you want to capture you child's uniqueness, and a portrait that possesses a timeless quality, it is important you understand how clothing and prop selection can affect the artistic success of the portrait.

" Simple garments are a perfect choice for children, as they don't overpower their delicate features."

" Coveralls present a classic look for boys or girls, and the portrait is particularly appealing when cute little bare feet are revealed."

" A casually styled portrait can have a timeless quality when the play clothing is selected from "basic" styles such as jeans outfits."

" Pajamas are great for "bedtime" portraits for little boys or girls."

" Little girls always look precious in a slip."

" White clothing and a white background are a perfect combination."

" Props should always be chosen to complement the clothing and support the mood of the portrait."

" Clothing coordination is very important when more than one child appears in the portrait."

" If your child wears glasses, let them wear the glasses for the portrait, but have the lenses removed. This is also helpful if the lenses distort the outline of their face. "

A Few More Helpful Hints…

" Arrive at least 15 minutes before session time, so that your child may get acquainted with the studio's surroundings."

" Be sure your child is rested and fed before their portrait session."

" Don't forget your child's favorite toy or stuffed animal."

" Make sure to bring a brush and hair spray for the quick touch up."

Capture A Lifetime… The Best Ages For Children's Portraits.

The First Year - When changes occur most rapidly… be prepared to capture this magic time at 3, 6 and 9 months.

Age 1 - When permanent facial characteristics first begin to show future family likeness… a baby still, but a robust and growing person.

Age 2 - When the language barrier has been broken and the child responds to reason… humor… action.

Age 4 - When the child begins to display individuality and the emerging personality.

Age 7 - When second teeth change the facial contours and a growing mind develops a more mature, inquiring outlook.

Age 12 - When the child approaches the teens.. entering a dress rehearsal for adulthood… taking steps towards independence.

Age 17 - When childhood ends and the adult shows sings of emerging.