Hey there, future brides and grooms! I'm thrilled to walk you through the exciting journey of planning your engagement session. This is not just about taking pretty photos. It’s about getting to know each other, building a rapport, and making sure you're comfortable in front of my camera before the big day. Let's start with outfit choices. You want to feel confident and comfortable, so choose outfits that reflect your personal style. Consider coordinating your colours but avoid matching outfits. Layering is a fantastic way to add interest and depth to your photos. Don't forget to accessorize! A statement necklace or a cool hat can add a pop to your images. Now, let's talk about picking the perfect location. I love photographing in places that hold meaning for my couples. Think about where you had your first date, your favorite picnic spot, or even your home. The more comfortable and connected you are with the location, the better your photos will turn out. The key to great posing is to just be yourself. I'll guide you through the process, but remember, these photos are about capturing your unique love story. Feel free to laugh, play, and show affection - it’s about having fun together! Try to forget about the camera and focus on each other. Finally, don't stress! The goal is to capture your genuine love and happiness. Trust me as your photographer to guide you through this process and create memories you'll cherish for a lifetime. So, if you're ready for an engagement session that's as unique as your love story, filled with fun, authenticity, and a touch of artistry, let's chat! I can't wait to get to know you and tell your beautiful story through my lens.

Your Ultimate Guide to a Perfect Engagement Session

Weddings are beautiful, once-in-a-lifetime events, and capturing every precious moment is crucial. While friends and family with cameras may volunteer, nothing can quite compare to the quality and peace of mind that a professional wedding photographer brings. There are two main reasons why hiring a professional photographer for your wedding is a wise investment: the superior quality of the photos and the ability to put everyone at ease during the shoot. Firstly, a professional photographer delivers exceptional photos. These experts have the training and experience to frame the perfect shot, to manipulate light and shadows for the most flattering images, and to capture those fleeting, candid moments that make your event unique. They have top-notch equipment and understand how to use it to its full potential, not just for taking the picture but also during the post-production process. The result is a collection of high-resolution, beautifully edited photos that truly capture the essence of your special day.Secondly, professional photographers have an uncanny ability to put people at ease during the shoot. They can gracefully handle the wedding chaos and direct large groups for formal shots with confidence and ease. This talent is particularly crucial during the couple's shoot. The couple is often nervous and self-conscious on the big day. However, an experienced photographer knows how to break the ice, make them feel comfortable, and bring out their genuine smiles and emotions. Whether it's capturing the nervous giggles during the preparation, the tear in the groom's eye as he sees his bride walking down the aisle, or the joyous laughter during the reception, a professional has the knack for being at the right place at the right time. They are like invisible narrators, telling your love story through their lens.So, while it might be tempting to save a few bucks by asking a friend to take the wedding photos, remember that you're not just paying for a collection of images when you hire a professional. You're investing in peace of mind, technical expertise, and a personable experience. And most importantly, you're ensuring that your wedding memories are beautifully preserved for years to come.

The Unseen Value of a Professional Wedding Photographer

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With my Great Plains Wedding Photography Package, you'll receive 12 hours of comprehensive coverage, ensuring every detail of your day is captured. You'll get 1400+ enhanced and edited digital images, delivered in a private online gallery. A complimentary engagement session is included to help you feel comfortable and confident, plus I’ll provide a second photographer to capture even more moments from different angles. I’ll also help you create a seamless timeline, and you’ll receive a keepsake USB bundle to preserve and cherish your wedding memories.

The Great Plains

With my Prairie Wedding Photography Package, you'll enjoy 10 hours of full-day coverage, ensuring that no moment goes unnoticed. You’ll receive 1200+ enhanced and edited digital images, delivered to you in an easy-to-access online gallery. A complimentary engagement session is included, and I’ll also provide a second photographer to capture even more angles and candid moments throughout your day. I’ll assist with your wedding timeline to ensure everything flows perfectly, and you’ll receive a keepsake USB bundle to cherish your memories for years to come.

The Prairie

The Focal Essentials All You Need Plan lets you create a beautiful business website with the power of AI. Create Packages, Pricing pages and Blogs. Make booking easy for your client with Focal's Booking System. 5TB of Gallery Storage.

All You Need (Website + Booking System) Plan

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<h1 style="text-align: center;">UNEARTHING NOSTALGIC STORIES ON RURAL ROADS&nbsp;</h1>
Let's preserve your family memories for generations.
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Thank you so much for considering me to be your family photographer! I pinch myself every day knowing my job is to play a small part in capturing your unique story.&nbsp;
Documenting the magic and light in your natural and every day moments is what my Family Lifestyle Sessions are all about.&nbsp;
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On location at your home, on your farm, cottage, your favourite place - or - I am also happy to share a few of my own wonderful outdoor secret spots.&nbsp;
Unposed and posed - these sessions are fun, laid-back and authentic. And... your furry family members are ALWAYS encouraged to join in!&nbsp;
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">WHAT HAPPENS NOW?&nbsp;</h3>
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How to Proceed with Booking:
To proceed with booking, check out my pricing page, select your desired session type, and book from there!
I'm here to serve you, so please don't hesitate to reach out via email if you have any questions or need clarification.

Family Session

<h1 style="text-align: center;">MATERNITY SESSIONS&nbsp;</h1>
Mama to Be: You are a Goddess! You are beautiful, you are powerful, and you are doing something incredible.&nbsp;
 Nine months may seem like a long time, but this is only a season in your lifetime, and you owe it to yourself to celebrate the beauty of your heart, soul, and body before your precious one enters the world. A Maternity session is a great way to do just that. I am ready to guide you and ensure you feel and look nothing less than the beautiful, powerful&nbsp; woman you are! As a Mama of two babes myself, I can relate on many levels!&nbsp;
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When is a good time to do a Maternity session? Great question! I have found that a good time to schedule your maternity session for is between 30-35 weeks. That means it's important to book early in your second trimester. Booking in on the earlier side rather than the later (35 weeks) helps create less stress in case we have to reschedule due to weather or sickness. More importantly 30-35 weeks tends to be a sweet spot in your pregnancy where you feel great. From one mom to another, waiting until close to your due date you are tired and it hurts to move haha plus waiting, you run the risk of going into labour early and missing your session.&nbsp;
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What do I wear? Of course dependent on the session - Some mamas prefer a maternity gown. Some mamas prefer jeans and a top! Some mamas prefer to wear less and some prefer to wear more! It's your preference but I am more than happy to give you some style guidance. It can also depend on the weather and your comfort level... but feel free to have a few outfits if you'd like. Partner should wear something they are comfortable in - preferably no ballcaps or neon colours or big logos... they just tend to be distracting. Hair and Makeup should reflect YOU! If you feel best a little "done up" - perfect. If you feel better "au naturel" that's perfect too! One thing I do like to recommend is to make sure your hands have had a little bit of attention, because they're going to be a star of the show! Whether you go for a full out manicure or just kept tidy and simple, just know that I will be photographing those hands a lot!&nbsp;
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Is there anything we should have on hand or bring? The sky is the limit - Anything that suits your life, lifestyle and togetherness as a couple and family! A favourite blanket, ultrasound printouts (or an image on your phone works too!), little shoes or boots, a sentimental piece of clothing that the babe will wear, a sign, little "big brother or big sister" pieces for siblings and pets ...&nbsp;
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Where do we shoot? 
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Outdoor Maternity The majority of my work is outdoors and on-farm, but I am happy to accomodate whatever location you'd like.&nbsp; I prefer to shoot during golden hour, which is about 1-2 hours before sunset for dreamy, flattering light.&nbsp;
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Lifestyle Maternity We can also do a Lifestyle-Style documentary session, where you just pretend I'm a fly on the wall and document your pregnancy in your home. I will prompt and direct you to do things but these sessions&nbsp; are a lot of fun and relaxed. Think about a cozy time cuddled up with your honey on the couch, or maybe its you two making dinner, or setting up the nursery - or if there is already a sibling and furbabies, we include them too! These photos give a photojournalism vibe, where we focus on your connection and feel all the emotion.&nbsp;
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How long are these sessions? Depending on what we do, usually an hour of shooting time.
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What if I want a newborn session as well? I offer a special rate if you book both maternity and newborn sessions together for once your bundle of joy arrives.&nbsp; Ideally, I find that newborns between 1-3 weeks are the best time to photograph. I shoot newborn sessions in a relaxed, lifestyle vibe.&nbsp;

<h1 style="text-align: center;">LIFESTYLE NEWBORN SESSIONS </h1>
 WHAT IS A LIFESTYLE NEWBORN SESSION?&nbsp; Lifestyle newborn sessions are unique to each family. They tell your story, from the comfort of your home (or outdoors, if you prefer and if the weather cooperates). No rush getting everyone out the door, making sure the diaper bag is packed and baby is strapped in the carseat. In-home newborn sessions are my absolute favorite to shoot. There is little to no posing. From diaper changes to feedings to lounging on the couch, I document it all!&nbsp;
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WHAT TO EXPECT: After your baby arrives, I like to have my mama's shoot me a quick message so I can start to find a good day for our session. Most of my newborn sessions take place when baby is anywhere from 1-3 weeks old. This is important because I like to shoot when baby is still in that soft and sleepy stage. And don't worry if they aren't sleepy - You'll want to remember your little one and every little detail. Trust me.&nbsp;
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WHAT TO WEAR: Simple is best. Comfort is key. Keep colours neutral but don't be afraid to add a little bit of color! Whites, creams, grey, and subdued colours always photograph the best. Try and avoid bright and bold&nbsp; neon colors, big patterns and shirts with large logos can take away from the overall feel and look of your images. We want the focus to be on you and your little one, not what your shirt said. Same rules apply to siblings. Try and avoid clothing with characters, sequins and neons. From a cozy oversized sweater and leggings, to a pretty floral or linen dress, the options are endless for you mamas!&nbsp;
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One thing my Mamas always appreciate is the reminder to have your nails clipped (and polish if that's your vibe...) but I do photograph your hands a lot - so you'll thank me later if your hands look fresh! A nice thing for a sister or friend to do if she comes to see babe before our session - paint your nails for you!&nbsp;
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HOW TO PREP: Once we narrow down our session date and time - preferably during the day, for lighting purposes but most importantly is your (and baby's) schedule.&nbsp; I will ask what areas of you house you would like to session to take place in. I like to have clients pick one or two rooms that have the best natural light. Master bedrooms, living rooms, baby's nursery and spare bedrooms are most common.&nbsp; Opening all blinds and curtains before my arrival will help me to figure out which spaces are best. Please do not feel the need to deep clean your entire house before I come. Please. There is zero need to impress me, like at all..... I'm a mom... of two. So literally nothing scares me. However, if you can, try and declutter items on counters/floors in the spaces you'd like me to photograph in. Less is more when it comes to these sessions. That's why spare bedrooms are always clients' favorite rooms to shoot in because most of the time, those are the rooms with just a bed. Also, keep in mind your bedding - if you have a white sheet/blanket/comforter definitely bust that out and lay it on top. The reason being, bright and bold colours will cast shadows and colours on skin, leaving a tint of whatever colour the blanket is. So if you can, keep it simple and plain. Whites and creams are always ideal.&nbsp;
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If you have older children, let me know before we schedule a time. I always like to make sure we aren't heading towards a nap while I'm there. I try my best to be flexible on the time of day we shoot to accommodate for such schedules.&nbsp; If possible, try and keep your house warmer than usual. Babies love being warm and cuddly and when the house is cold, they'll let you know if they don't like it.&nbsp;

<h1 style="text-align: center;">FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS&nbsp;</h1>
My baby is so fussy I'm afraid she'll cry the entire time you're here!&nbsp;
This is the wonderful thing about lifestyle sessions. We can stop at any time. I give you all the time you need to relax and recompose. Babies cry - it's normal. Don't stress. And if they only want to cry - I'll photograph them that way. You'd be surprised at how I can capture sweet calm moments between big cries.&nbsp;
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My son/daughter is afraid of the baby or wants nothing to do with them.&nbsp;
This was my life when I brought my second child home. My daughter and son are 21 months apart and my daughter wanted nothing to do with her new brother. It's normal. And I promise, it doesn't last. A new addition is a huge adjustment to a sibling! I never force or coerce kids to get in the frame. Sometimes a simple game of "can you show me baby's nose?" does the trick, sometimes it doesn't and we let them be. The goal is to never force a child or punish them if they're not feeling it.&nbsp;
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My house isn't Pinterest perfect. 
Mine isn't either. Most especially during newborn stages. The goal for in-home sessions isn't about the state of your house. It's so much deeper than that. And really, all I need is one spot with some good light and I can create magic. I live in a 1 bedroom apartment with just 2 windows. We don't even have a crib! Some of my most favorite sessions had taken place in such a space! It's all about angles and light. Cribs are not necessary to show you have a newborn.&nbsp;
There are so many other places inside your home that we can use! Couches, beds, even the floor! And I have a big basket that I bring along (two actually...) that we can put the babe in - with a small selection of different textured fabrics.&nbsp;
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How long does a typical session last? 
Most sessions are about an hour of shooting time, but I am often there for around two hours. I like to leave extra time for feedings, diaper changes and fussy babies.&nbsp;
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Do you use or bring props? 
No. Being a lifestyle photographer, I tend to lean more towards less is more. I don't have props, do bring my basket and fabrics. My goal is to capture you and your family organically.
That said, if you have your own mementos you would like to include in the session - PLEASE have them ready! I love precious heirloom quilts, or baby's first stuffy or perhaps their first tiny pair of boots...&nbsp;
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We are so awkward in front of the camera. Will you help pose us? 
- Yes of course! I will definitely help guide you into a pose using prompts and then ask you to engage with your family.&nbsp;
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Maternity and Newborn Sessions

unearthing your nostalgic stories on (mostly) rural roads

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You will find the about page from my existing website between the “” below. You can use this section primarily for tone of voice and style as opposed to content. Make sure that all references to the self are in the first person singular, as I am the only photographer on my team. Please also ensure that there are no references to “our team” or “our photographer”. Instead, all writing should be coming directly from me. I would also like it to be quite down to earth and without lots of fluff and flowery language.

"I am so glad you’re here.
As a working mama to two thriving toddlers and the devoted wife of an industrious dairy farmer, my daily rhythm is set to the crisp fizz of Diet Coke, fueled by a deep affection for good cheeses, beautiful cows and a very eclectic playlist - from vintage country to classical and everything in between.

You'll find me clad in cowboy boots, ready to offer sisterly advice, effortlessly fix your hair, engage in historical conversations with your dad, captivate your kids, talk hockey and share culinary secrets - and then I’ll find the very best light and make you feel amazing. 

Photographing life and love documentary-style, telling your beautiful stories on (mostly) rural roads and creating a welcoming atmosphere for my clients - has become what I am known for.  

So if you’re looking for a photographer whose approach is candid and fun, splashed with warmth, authenticity, artistry, and a little life experience, I’d love to chat."