What kind of Photographer are you?

Images from your session often tell a story, capturing a treasured moment in time. I am not after that ‘one’ shot with everyone looking at the camera and smiling.

What does visual storytelling mean?

It means un-posed and un-scripted. It means documenting life as it naturally unfolds. Capturing the precious, fleeting little moments that you want to remember most, but are usually un-documented and quickly forgotten. I am so passionate about this approach to photography because it is the very best way to tell your family's story.

Will we get any posed/ ‘smiling at the camera’ pictures?

Yes, I understand the desire to have those pictures and will gladly set aside some time for a few loosely posed portraits. We may get some with everyone looking and smiling, but I promise if we do, it will be because it happened naturally, not because it was forced.

What you won’t get

You won’t get posed in a studio, in front of a backdrop while I yell ‘cheese’!

What to expect for your session

There's no such thing as perfectly behaved children, and a beautifully decorated, spotless home with glorious light. But it's my job to find the light and see it that way. I've seen it all, and I am confident I can capture the everyday beauty that is YOUR FAMILY. Something Different. Something that is honest, beautiful and unforgettable. Images filled with movement, heart, soul, connection and life. Images that tell your unique story. Where you are right now in your life.

In-home sessions

The main spaces I shoot in during a session are the main bedroom, the kids rooms and the main living area so these are the areas you should focus on when preparing for your session. If you need some guidance you are more than welcome to send me some images of your spaces for advice before your session. Ultimately I will only shoot in the areas of your home with the best available, natural light.

What if my house is messy/ old/ small/ etc?

It doesn't matter! What ultimately matters is that it's yours- and it's where your memories are made. While there's nothing wrong with cleaning up before I arrive, I can work around clutter. In fact some of it just adds to the story. Remember- these pictures are for you. You are not trying to impress anyone, you are documenting your real life for you and your kids to remember.

Location for our session

We can do your session outdoors at the beach, in the dunes or in the centre of Haarlem or Amsterdam. Please note that some of the locations I use charge a fee that will be extra for your account.

--or--

We can do your session in-home. If you love your space and it tells something about who you are I would highly recommend an in-home session. The family dog or cat can be included, animals are part of the family after all. We can also do a mix of images at home, in the park, the centre or a favourite location you’d like to go.

What if it rains?

I will shoot in any kind of weather, EXCEPT rain. If it happens, we will reschedule.

What time will we do our photoshoots?

Early morning or late afternoon is the best time of day to schedule a session. For indoor shoots ten in the morning or two in the afternoon will be best.

What should we wear?

Layers, patterns and textures all do a really great job of helping clothes blend together without necessarily matching. Wear what you would all be wearing on a regular day at home or out and about. That will ensure everyone feels most comfortable. The key is: If everyone FEELS great, they will LOOK great too! Stay away from large logos and prints, it is better to keep the images timeless. If you decide to book me I will send more detail on this.

When do we need to make payment?

All bookings require a 50% non-refundable booking fee paid at time of booking in order to hold your slot (this can always be rescheduled due to illness or other mutually agreed reason). Until the retainer is received, I cannot guarantee the date for you. The outstanding balance should be paid in full no later than 2 DAYS prior to the session.

Ok, I'm ready - How do I book my session?

Just send me an email to vicky@mclachlan.nl to let me know when you would like your shoot. Once we’ve agreed on a date, I will forward a booking form and give you all the information you need to transfer your deposit to hold your session. I do get booked up well in advance, so it is best to book early where possible.

I am pregnant; when should I book my maternity/newborn session?

As soon as you've decided that you'd like to go ahead with your session with me, do get in touch, as I tend to book up quite far in advance. For maternity sessions, the ideal time is around 34-36 weeks, as your bump will be blooming, but you won't quite have reached the stage where you feel heavy and tired. If you want sleepy newborn photos then 6-12 days is an ideal time to book your session. If you want more interactive photos with your baby's personality shining, then any time up until 12 weeks is great for a newborn session. We will book your newborn session for an approximate date based on your due date, and then once baby has made their appearance we can confirm the exact date.

What happens after the session?

After the session, I will post a few images on Facebook or Instagram. Then, about 4-6 weeks after your session, I'll send you a link to your online gallery where you can choose all the images you like, if you want to take more than what was included in your package then you can buy additional images. Once I have received your final selection and payment for additional images you will receive a download link for your final high resolution images. Remember to back up your images in two separate areas of your house. Please note, I retain full copyright of all my images.

Anything else?

The main thing to keep in mind is to be present and let go of control. Don't worry, don't over tidy, and don't stay up the night before worrying about it! I have seen it all, it's going to be great - Make sure everyone had something to eat and just have fun!