Wondering if you should tip your photographer? Short answer: it’s not expected. Here’s the real deal on tipping; no guilt, no math required.
CATEGORY
What, Why, and How
Where to take prom and homecoming pictures in Iowa City
Looking for the best place to take prom or homecoming pictures in Iowa City? Here are my favorite spots, plus a few hidden gems, with tips on lighting, shade, parking, and what to avoid.
Beginner’s guide to senior pictures in Iowa
Senior photos = exciting, mildly terrifying, and easy to overthink. This guide covers when to book, cost, how to pick the right photographer, and much more.
Should I wear my hair down for family photos?
Hair up or down for family photos? I’m a family photographer and I’ll break down why hair down usually wins—and when hair up is the smarter call.
Best colors to wear for photos in the fall
Peak fall color outfits don’t have to be a guessing game. Here’s how to use the color wheel to choose tones that work… and avoid the ones that fight the scenery.
Best timing for family pictures: A month-by-month guide
Why are so many family photos taken in the fall? Why not July? Let’s talk about the “best” time of the year to do family photos, and the timing that’s best for YOUR crew.
What to wear for cold-weather outdoor photos
A complete guide for what to wear for family photos when it’s cold, to keep toes warm and smiles plentiful!
What to do when your husband hates family pictures
Tired of dragging your partner to family photos? Learn how to prep even the most reluctant spouse for fun, real, and stress-free sessions.
Prep your house for newborn photos at home
Get your home ready for newborn photos—no deep cleaning required! Just a few simple tweaks to keep the focus on what matters most: you and your sweet new baby.
How often should you get family photos?
Your family is constantly changing, but how often should you book professional photos? I break it down by age—from baby milestones to grown-up kids—so you can capture what matters, without feeling like you’re living in front of the camera.
How to prep your house for an in-home photo session
In-home family sessions are the best for their relaxed vibe. I’ll cover step by step how to prep your home for an upcoming in-home photo session.
Where to print your professional photos (and what to avoid)
You had photos taken by a pro and you’ve got the jpegs from the shoot. But how do you go about turning them into art for your walls? Check out my top 5 tips for printing your own photos.
Extended family photo color schemes and wardrobe tips
Keep your extended family looking cohesive and put-together (without being matchy-matchy) for family photos. Bonus: the do’s and don’ts for wardrobe.
How I prepared for my family photos
From finding the perfect photographer to wardrobe styling, get the lowdown on how a family photographer (that’s me!) curates her own picture-perfect moments.
What to wear for senior photos
Senior photo outfits are hard because there are SO MANY options. Let’s simplify it!
Why photographers don’t give RAW files
Find out exactly what RAW files are, and why you’d be getting the raw end of the deal (no pun intended) if you had them anyway.
What to wear for in-home family photos
In-home sessions have a vibe all their own: relaxed, chill, and intimate. Here’s how to choose clothing for your in-home session that works with the vibe, not against it.
How to deal with grumpy adults in family photos
Grumpy adults can ruin a family photo session, but there are some ways to get out in front of a bad attitude. Try these tips before your family photos.
How to find a local photographer
Where to start, what to ask, and what to expect when you’re looking to find a local photographer.
Should I let my photographer choose the location?
Locations, like wardrobe, can make your photos better or be a huge distraction. When hiring a family photographer, look for one with a long list of locations near you.
Do family photographers help with what to wear?
What you wear for family photos can make the difference between “great” and “knock-your-socks-off” photos. Find out how to ensure you get the wardrobe help you need.
What do photographers automatically fix in Photoshop?
A mismatch of editing expectations between photographer and client can be a major disaster. Find out ahead of time what to expect, and what’s extra.
What to ask when hiring a family photographer
Asking the right questions is key when hiring a family photographer. These are the important questions to ask about digital images, prints, turnaround, and backup plans.
Family photography posing styles
Posing style sets the overall tone for your photos. See what makes lifestyle different from traditional photography, plus how to find family photographers in your area.
What’s a photography style?
Are you hiring a family photographer for the first time? Get informed and find out the questions to ask yourself and your photographer to find the perfect fit for your family photography session.
Why you should order canvases through your photographer
Sure, you can print your own canvases through online retailers. But that doesn’t meant you should. Here’s why.





















