FAQ Friday | Can we bring our dog to our portrait session?
Hi there! I’ve decided to introduce a new rhythm to my blog. I’ll be here on Fridays answering Melissa Batzer Photography’s most frequently asked questions and today’s FAQ is…
Can we bring our dog to our Colorado Springs photo session?
The short answer is YES!
I’m 1000% a dog person. Our family dog made it into many of our portrait sessions over the years and I treasure those images she is in now that she crossed the rainbow bridge. I am forever grateful to have those professional photos of our Sadie girl.
Bringing your dog to a photography session can be a run and rewarding experience. Not only will you capture beautiful memories with your furry friend, but it can also add an element of joy and personality to your photos. However, preparing and planning are important to ensure a successful session for you and your dog. Here are some tips for bringing your dog to a Colorado photography session.
Plan the location: Consider the location of the photo session carefully. Choose a place where your dog feels comfortable and safe. Is your dog easily distracted? A quieter location with fewer distractions may be best.
Purchase a photogenic leash: Most locations require your dog to be leashed and so that leash will be in all the photos. In my professional opinion, bright colors like pink, purple, red, and neon colors do not photograph well. Purchasing a brown, light brown, or sand leather dog leash and collar for your session would go well with all outfits. Here are links to a few that will be photographed beautifully. | Brown | Light Brown | Sand
Exercise your dog beforehand: A tired dog is more likely to cooperate during the session. Take your dog on a long walk or play fetch at least an hour before your photo session to help them burn off excess energy. But be sure to cut the fetch off 30 minutes before your session so we aren’t working with a panting dog’s long tongue!
Bring treats and toys: Treats and toys can be very useful for keeping your dog focused and engaged during the photo session. Use them as rewards for good behavior and to keep your dog’s attention on the camera.
Be patient: Dogs can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be patient and flexible during the session. Arrive early to allow your dog to get comfortable with the new surroundings and be prepared for all the unexpected interruptions (like potty breaks) or needed breaks.
Communicate: It’s important to let me know what your dog is like. Are there any specific behaviors, poses, commands, or cues your dog responds to? This will help me capture the best possible photos of your family with your furry friend and ensure everyone is on the same page.
Have realistic expectations: It’s important to remember that working with animals can be unpredictable. I strive to get at least one good classic family photo (everyone looking and smiling at the camera) but the rest of the session is very organically prompted for emotive images. Embrace the candid moments and the unique personality that your dog brings to the photos.
Bringing your family dog to your photography session can result in some incredibly heartwarming and memorable images. By taking time to prepare and communicating properly you can ensure a successful and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. So, don’t hesitate to include your furry friend in your next photo session and capture the special bond you share.
Welcome! I’m so honored you are here checking out my blog. I wanted to tell you a little more about me; I am a lifestyle family photographer and a Mama of two. If you would like to learn a little more about me click here. I’m based out of Castle Rock but serve clients as a Colorado Springs Family Photographer and a Denver Family Photographer as well.
If you love these photos and are looking for a milestone, family, maternity, or newborn lifestyle photographer in Colorado Springs and Denver I would love to learn more about you, your family, and this season of life you are in. I’m booking all of 2024 and into 2025 for my Bump-Baby clients. Fill out the contact form here and we will be in touch!
10 TIPS FOR PREPARING FOR YOUR FAMILY PORTRAITS
A guide to having the best Colorado family photos - by melissa batzer photography
So you’re looking to book a family portrait session with a fabulous photographer (and if you’re between Denver and Colorado Springs I hope that’s me!) and now you're wondering, what’s next? Here is the Melissa Batzer Photography family portrait guide with some tips to plan and prepare you and your family for an amazing family portrait experience.
Book your Colorado Springs Family Photos Advance
If you haven’t already booked I recommend booking your Colorado Springs Family Photos at least a month out to ensure plenty of time for the full MBP experience. You’ll receive open communication, access to my Client Wardrobe, and receive helpful guides for preparing for your family portrait session.
2. Location, Location, Location
Planning the perfect location for your outdoor Colorado Family Portraits can seem daunting. There is so much beauty everywhere. I will always ask what you prefer; urban or rural, mountains or plains? Usually, photographers will have their favorite locations in the area where they are very familiar with the light and can guarantee excellent results. But if you have a location that is special to your family please suggest it to your photographer! Most outdoor photographers like myself prefer scheduling their sessions during golden hour, which is the 90 minutes before sunset or after sunrise.
3. Ask all your questions
Communication is key for every relationship, right? So why would the relationship with your photographer be any different? If you have any questions or need some clarification on anything please ask. There are no silly questions. We are happy to answer them all!
4. Wardrobe planning
I recommend thinking of your family’s outfits when you first book your session. The more time to prepare for that aspect the less stressed you will be. A well-thought-out outfit pallet can make your portrait feel like the artwork it is created to be.
There are many aspects to consider when deciding what to wear for your family photos. But, keep this in mind - coordinating outfits for family portraits doesn't need to be difficult. I highly recommend not matching outfits, this can cause the photo and its subjects to look flat. I have created a Pinterest Board with some great recommendations for beautiful and artful portraits.
You can never go wrong with selecting a few main colors and textured clothing items, as well as considering the season. Focus on accomplishing a cohesive look and dressing in outfits that will allow your photos to take on a timeless feel. These tips will help you create a timeless, classic look.
But, perhaps your photographer has a Client Wardrobe you can utilize. You will discover that in your inquiry phase. If you work with me as your Colorado Springs Photographer you will have access to my ever-growing Client Wardrobe for your family portaits.
5. Planning your time well
On the day of your portrait session make sure you leave yourself extra time to get ready, and even more time if you plan on getting your hair and makeup done. Leaving buffer time and not rushing will be a key factor in having a relaxed portrait session. If you have babies or toddlers make sure they have had a nap during the day before the session. If you have older kids, try and make sure their day isn’t jam-packed with activities. You want everyone to feel their best.
6. Full bellies
No one enjoys being hangry, especially children. They will be grumpy and this one-time session will not be what you had hoped for. Usually, sessions will happen in the evening after dinner but occasionally your photographer may recommend an early morning sunrise session. If that is the case, feed them early or let them eat a high-protein snack like Perfect Bar or hardboiled egg on the way to the session, and then go out for breakfast after the session!
7.Bring snacks
I also recommend bringing non-messy snacks and plenty of water in-case they need some fortitude to finish the session strong! Here are some great non-messy snacks to bring to a photo shoot: Goldfish crackers, plain biscuits, cheese cubes, and dried fruit. Leave the lollipops, chocolate, and anything that takes a long time to eat until after your session.
8. Pack extra clothes & Supplies
Let’s face it, kids + outdoors = a mess sometimes. I feel like I’m sometimes more dirty than my kids from holding them and holding the rocks they hand me. Accidents can happen. So while you’re planning and bringing a backup outfit for your children don’t forget to bring something for you and your husband. Photos are a luxury and you are investing a lot of money and time into them. You do not want to feel disappointed when you receive your products back. If there is time with the light and your photographer allows you can even use these clothes for a second “look” if you’d like an even larger variety of images.
On top of extra clothing options for all family members, it would be beneficial to bring wipes to wipe boogers or crumbs from faces and dirt off hands. Sometimes it can be unexpectedly windy and long hair will blow in front of your face, so please also bring extra ties or clips. Bring your makeup for a touch-up halfway through the session, especially if it’s hot.
9. Relax & let your photographer run the show
Woohooo! You made it… it’s time to make the magic happen! Your photographer will lead you through your session with prompts and guidance. Don’t worry, I’ll never leave you without something to do. Your job is to have fun and enjoy each other. Don’t stress if the kids are getting grumpy or aren’t listening. The more relaxed the parents are, the more relaxed the children will be!
10. Get ready to connect as a family
This is about capturing your family’s unique dynamic. Don’t just look and smile at the camera. Snuggle and dance with each other, tickle and laugh together. Parents, it’s your job to make this portrait experience a happy memory with your children and each other. Yes, the photographer is the boss and can give you prompts to bring out your family’s happiness but only you can make this 45-60 minutes of your family’s day momentous with your joy.
You will have these photos on your wall and albums for years. You will want to look back happily on the memory of your portrait session knowing it was full of warmth and love for your family.
An excerpt from a Psychology Today article gives the perfect example of why your family photos can be a happy memory:
"O moments big as years," a phrase coined by the poet John Keats, suggests that some brief experiences are so vivid and powerful that they remain with us for all of our life. These moments tend to reflect experiences that are emotionally resonant. In them, we can find both meaning and joy, and they can serve us long after they occurred, contributing to our overall happiness and resilience. They are a gift that keeps on giving.
I hope these tips for preparing for your family portraits are helpful and will make your next family portrait session a happy memory for everyone in your family. If you have already booked your Colorado Springs Family Photo session with me and still have questions please get in touch. If you’d like to learn more about a Denver family photo session or a Colorado Springs Family Photo Session please, start here.
Welcome! I’m so honored you are here checking out my blog. I wanted to tell you a little more about me; I am a family lifestyle photographer and a Mama of two. If you would like to learn a little more about me click here. I serve clients as a Colorado Springs Family Photographer and a Denver Family Photographer.
If you love these photos, and you are looking for a milestone, family, maternity, or newborn lifestyle photographer in Colorado Springs and Denver I would love to learn more about you, your family, and the season of life you are in. I’m currently booking all of 2024 and into 2025 for my Bump-Baby clients. Fill out the contact form here and we will be in touch!
THE LEE FAMILY | COLORADO SPRINGS FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER
Fall is quickly approaching and I’m excited for one as a Colorado Springs Family Photographer. Fall has to be my favorite season to photograph in. The spring and summer greenery is great BUT sometimes I find it to be distracting and they cast a green tint onto skin. So once the plants go into winter mode I’m the most excited about taking photos! This amazing session took place on a perfectly temperate October evening. I had found the perfect spot in a nature preserve with open shade and dried grasses for a delicious golden look.
A family who loves Jesus, has fun with each other, and loves their children so tenderly truly makes my job so easy! And the Lee family definitely made my job so easy with their big smiles and easy going, fun loving approach to the session. Shoulder rides, hugs and a whole lot of giggles were front and center.
Enjoyed this session? You will love these:
Welcome! I’m so honored you are here checking out my blog. I wanted to tell you a little more about me; I am a family lifestyle photographer and a Mama of two. If you would like to learn a little more about me click here. I serve client as Colorado Springs Family Photographer and Denver Family Photographer.
If you love these photos, and you are looking for a milestone, family, maternity, or newborn lifestyle photographer in Colorado Springs and Denver I would love to learn more about you, your family, and the season of life you are in. I’m currently booking all of 2024 and into 2025 for my Bump-Baby clients. Fill out the contact form here and we will be in touch!
Colorado Springs Family Photographer | Holly & Tatum
I am currently a Colorado Springs Family Photographer but this session was located in Central New Jersey.
The relationship between a mother and a daughter is something so special. There are so many well known quotes which depict that.
“A daughter is someone you laugh with, dream with, and love with all your heart.”
“A daughter is just a little girl who grows up to be your best friend.”
“A mother is the only person in the world, who can turn daughter’s worries and fears into happiness.”
“A daughter is the happy memories of the past, the joyful moments of the present, and the hope and promise of the future.”
Just to share a few 😅
This motherhood session had all the beautiful and true emotions captured. Holly and Tatum played hide and seek, snuggled and sang! I’ll give you one guess which song this two year old little lady sang… If you guessed “Let it go!” you were correct! It was on repeat on my phone to butter her up to the camera.
Thank you Holly and Tatum for the honor of capturing your sweet relationship. I pray you grow up close and bond is fulfilling to you both.
If you enjoyed this session you may also like:
St Louis Family Photography Session
Baby Whitley’s One Year Milk Bath
Welcome! I’m so honored you are here checking out my blog. I wanted to tell you a little more about me; I am a family lifestyle photographer and a Mama of two. If you would like to learn a little more about me click here. I serve clients in Colorado Springs and Denver.
If you love these photos, and you are looking for a milestone, family, maternity, or newborn photographer in Colorado Springs and Denver I would love to learn more about you, your family, and the season of life you are in. I’m currently booking all of 2024 and early 2025 for my lovely Baby-Bump clients. Fill out the contact form here and we will be in touch!
Johnson Family | Highlands Ranch Photographer
Well, this is slightly embarrassing but very telling of how this website has been neglected. I photographed this sweet family over two years ago. It was one of my first’s after Evelyn’s birth. Sarah and Stephen met in Atlanta before moving to Princeton for a new job opportunity. Their sweet first born Livy was a a treat to photograph. They have since welcomed another baby girl into their family. Sarah is a gifted singer-songwriter and we love her songs in our house! Go check her out at www.singalongwithsarah.com.
I really loved this location in Princeton when we were stationed there. I shot more than 10 family sessions there in 2 seasons! What a gift to be able to photograph at such a historical location full of so much beauty and different backgrounds. I hope you enjoy this sweet family session!
If you enjoyed this session you will love:
Welcome! I’m so honored you are here checking out my blog. I wanted to tell you a little more about me; I am a family lifestyle photographer and a Mama of two. If you would like to learn a little more about me click here. I serve clients as a Colorado Springs Family Photographer and a Denver Family Photographer.
If you love these photos, and you are looking for a milestone, family, maternity, or newborn lifestyle photographer in Colorado Springs and Denver I would love to learn more about you, your family, and the season of life you are in. I’m currently booking all of 2024 and into 2025 for my Bump-Baby clients. Fill out the contact form here and we will be in touch!
STRENGTH GIRLS CHRISTMAS | PCB HOME STUDIO SESSION
Princeton Family Photographer | New Jersey Family Photographer
Christmas time is here!!!!! And again these images are so TWO Christmases ago 🤦🏻♀️
I have photographed this family multiple years now but i still have to show 2 year old twins and 4 year old big sis in their cute Christmas jammies during our PCB Home Petite Christmas session! They had a lot of fun drumming on the presents, snacking on cookies and and rolling around on the bed with Jingle Bells playing in background.
IF YOU ENJOYED THIS SESSION YOU’LL LOVE THESE
STRENGTH FAMILY | PRINCETON NJ PHOTOGRAPHER | PRINCETON BATTLEFIELD | NEW JERSEY FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER
Still rolling deep in the 2019 sessions friends! There are so many to share I’ll be at my computer for years editing my Princeton Family Photography sessions.
A 4 year old and 2 year old twins… does that give you anxiety? Not me! It’s such a fun challenge to get them to warm up and have fun. Usually by the end of the session toddlers are laughing and smiling so easy for me. I have some tot-friendly no candy involved tricks up my sleeve.
The Strength family had their Princeton Battlefield Photography Session not too long after all the leaves fell from the trees. Leaving a crunchy blanket prime from throwing! And throwing of leaves we did. What a fun and lively bunch this was. A delight to work with and capture their wild season of life in.
IF YOU LOVED THIS SESSION CHECK OUT:
CHRISTMAS AT PCB HOME WITH THE PORIGOWS
princeton photographer | pcb home
I have about 20 sessions I haven’t shared between November 2019 and today! Between a deployment last year with an infant, the first trimester yuckies, then the Vid (this is what I’m calling Covid bc its like saying "you know who’s name”) and newborn life I really haven’t invested much time into this online space. But here is one of them!! Now don’t get too excited because unfortunately I’m not able to offer indoor mini-sessions in 2020. I am very much praying 2021 looks different and we can have PCB Home minis again!
Its not everyday a military family moves back to the region they went to college and definitely not common to even live 15 minutes from your college roommate and dance team Big! But that happened. Jess and I met when I was a freshman at Penn State when I joined the Whiplash Hip-Hop Dance Team. And we were housemates my Sophomore year! Oh we saw the good, the bad and the ugly of college life together as most college roommates do.
Jess and Alex met at Penn State in their program! And so I met Alex in the last 2000’s too! So to be able to photographer their sweet little family was a joy! Enjoy their 2019 Christmas Session at PCB Home in Cranbury, NJ.
JP, KRISTA & COPELAND | Family Photographer in colorado springs
(This session is from my time in New Jersey. I no longer serve New Jersey but as a Colorado Springs Family Photographer.)
My, how time seems to fly by! I’ve been in the throws of mothering our little baby boy and the world keeps on turning. The time has come, after nearly a year of “maternity leave”, I am so ready to take on clients in New Jersey!
One of those first clients was the O’Connor family. JP & Krista moved to Princeton from Seattle a few years ago as JP attends the Princeton Theological Seminary. We met at The Bridge Church back when Krista and I were both pregnant with our boys. Copeland is just about 2 months younger than Elijah so they’re basically besties! I’m so glad God has brought our families together during our time in NJ. Our love for the PNW and our boys made us quick friends.
The air was a most welcomed crispy one on this first of November day. Nearly the end of daylight savings time, the sun hung low and peaked softly through the trees in its golden splendor, wooing me back after a long hiatus away. Dappled golden light, a happy family… I’m hooked again.
Thank you, JP, Krista and Copeland for allowing me to capture this sweet season in your life at the Princeton Battlegrounds.
IF YOU ENJOYED THIS FAMILY SESSION YOU MIGHT ALSO LOVE:
Welcome! I’m so honored you are here checking out my blog. I wanted to tell you a little more about me; I am a family lifestyle photographer and a Mama of two. If you would like to learn a little more about me click here. I serve clients in Colorado Springs and Denver.
If you love these photos, and you are looking for a milestone, family, maternity, or newborn photographer in Colorado Springs and Denver I would love to learn more about you, your family, and the season of life you are in. I’m currently booking all of 2024 and early 2025 for my Bump-Baby clients. Fill out the contact form here and we will be in touch!
WHITLEY CELEBRATES ONE YEAR | MILK BATH | ONE YEAR PHOTOS
colorado springs family photographer | milk bath | one year photos
I have been waiting for a solid nap when I don’t want to sleep to share this magical one year old photo session.
Way back in the fall when I was passing through Oklahoma a dear friend was also in town and asked me to take one year photos of her daughter. The weather was fantastic in November for a Golden hour milk bath photo session! Lindsey was extremely thoughtful choosing the details of Whitley’s photo session. There is beautiful meaning behind every detail of this shoot. The most meaningful are those sunflowers you see. Lindsey’s brother unexpectedly passed away over the summer and those bright yellow sunflowers embody everything about her brother. And so of course Whitley honored her uncle by dawning beautiful sunflowers in her hair and in the bath!
Thank you so much Ambrose family for choosing me to capture such a sweet time in your baby girls life! Love you very much
xoxo Melissa
