What makes Traditions different from all the others?
We truly care about you! We are taking portraits because that’s what we love to do! We’re not going to rush you, and we’re going to do our best to make you and your children feel comfortable at our studio. We have a play area, a changing table, an area to nurse, and fully encourage parents to be a part of the “portrait taking” process.
We are here to create an heirloom portrait for your family. We’re not just taking pictures. We’re capturing your family’s personality in portraits. Please consider your time and money spent at Traditions as an investment in an heirloom piece of artwork, because that’s how we are treating it on our end.
I have a special needs child. Does that change anything?
Only if it needs to. If your child needs anything special (more time, special chairs, etc.) please just let us know. We’re happy to do whatever we can to help your children feel comfortable. We would like to know before the session if there is something you need. This helps everyone be more prepared for any circumstances that may arise.
Do you have clothing suggestions?
The sky is the limit! Enjoy and pick something you feel your cutie is extra cute in! However, for families, we do suggest something that works together. Perhaps everyone wears the shades of brown and black. Or maybe blue and white. Or purple. Or orange. Whatever the case, the color doesn’t REALLY matter as long as you have everyone wear the same color scheme. This makes a more cohesive portrait. If everyone wore something different, the eye would move to the clothing before it gets to the most important part of the portrait – the expressions and meaning behind the portrait. For the BeBe Collection we recommend something that you would feel comfortable repeating at each of the sessions – 3, 6, and 12 months. Babies that are 3 months or younger will probably be photographed nude. Clothing tends to overwhelm them and cover them up too much. Clothing is further discussed at our consultation meeting.
What is a Consultation?
This is a requirement of all of the families that come to our studio for portraits. It’s also a great time to see what we’re all about, even if you haven’t scheduled a session. Why? Because we want to make sure we’re all on the same page. We’ll talk about clothing, sizes and styles of portraits, timing, extra things to bring, and pricing. We’ll go over everything that is important to you and to us so that we know that we are a good fit for each other. It’s a great time to see our work and really talk about what would work for your family. Our portraits are an investment of time, emotion, will, trust, and money. We want everyone involved to be prepared for all parts of the Traditions experience, and we have found that our consultation is the perfect way to prepare both client and photographer for each family’s session and needs.
Can you tell me how I see my portraits once they are taken?
You will be scheduled for a sales appointment about a week after your portraits are taken. At this time you will have the opportunity to view your portrait session and make your purchase. Please make sure that all decision makers are present and allow up to an hour and a half for the experience. We want you to be relaxed and enjoy yourself as you choose your favorite images. Because of this, we ask that no small children attend if possible. Evening times are available if needed, at no additional charge.
Why does it take so long for my finished prints to be ready for me?
We are creating a family heirloom for you. This means we are using professional vendors to create your final portrait, not printing in house. We want your final products to be perfect. A quality product is worth waiting for. You will not be disappointed.
Can I be in the picture too?
We really like to photograph babies with the people they love. Even if you are bringing your baby to be photographed alone, please dress as if you may be in the portrait as well. There are some beautiful natural poses that come about when a parent holds their baby. These moments make a truly beautiful portrait and sincerely mean more than the average photography prop.
What about a special toy, blanket, or really cool pair of sunglasses?
If your child has a special toy, bring it! Similarly, blankets, outfits, stuffed animals that are meaningful to your child make your portrait meaningful as well. Bring them! Sunglasses? Cool scarf? Fun accessory? Bring it! We may not use them all. But if you don’t bring them, we can’t use them.
Who’s the owner of Traditions Photography?
We are locally owned and operated. Eileen is the owner and photographer. She has two children of her own and has worked with babies and children her entire life. (Including daycare! Yipes!) Photography has been her passion since she was a child. She is a graduate of Saint Mary’s College with a degree in Art. Please see “About the Artist” on our main site, or read more of our blog, to learn more.