HOLD ME PORTRAIT SESSIONS

I have a helpful hint for you today. It is for a Father/Child session or Mother/Child. But it is also helpful during a family session when you will also have us photograph you or your husband with a child.

Mothers and fathers create non-verbal communication with their children. Such as snuggling, hugs, smooches and special pats. If this body language comes out during a portrait session it comforts your children which then leads to those magical expressions all snuggled up in your protective arms.

I've noticed that sometimes a parent will be nervous and want to 'perform' the portrait. When performing a portrait we are coming from our head and not our heart. The children are so wise and they sense that you are not really into the portrait.

I encourage you to connect with your child, from your heart, during the days and hours leading up to your portrait session. Be sure to read books. Be sure to laugh. Create special moments.

Then when you come in for your session remember those tender moments with your child. Remember them with your heart. Remember then with your arms wrapped around your son or daughter.

Those tender moments, that you had at home, can be brought into the session. Such as bringing that special book with you and 'replay' the story-reading - just as you do at home. Or use certain phrases that triggered a belly laugh just like a couple of days ago to re-create the warm, genuine laughter during the portrait session.

Perhaps I sound like I am contradicting myself, in a sense. It's not good to perform a portrait which is when you are within your head. But, drop down into your heart - just like you are when you are at home - and be connected with your child during the portrait session. In doing so, your natural expressions will come forth in the portrait.

I love parent/child portraits. I usually refer to them as Hold Me sessions. Isn't it appropriate? I reminisce of when my young son would reach out to me with his little arms and ask me to hold him. He is now a self-competent 28 year old. There are many days that I wish I could hold him on my lap and smell his hair. I would love a chance to hold my little boy in my arms.

........... If only I had a portrait of me holding him. I know that I would treasure it with my whole heart forever.