Holiday Mini Sessions... What's a Mini Session?

This year marks my 9th year offering Fall and Holiday Mini Sessions at Arabella Design Studio, and I couldn’t be more excited! I often get asked, “What exactly are mini sessions?”

A mini session is a shorter, more streamlined photo experience—typically lasting between 10-15 minutes. The sessions are set on specific dates and at a pre-planned location, and the packages are designed to be budget-friendly. What you get are stunning, high-quality images with the option to add on more digital images, prints, or gifts, making it easy to create the perfect package for your family.

I offer mini sessions once a year in the Fall, and occasionally, I host special events, like the popular School Portrait Event. This year, I’m thrilled to offer the Holiday Mini Sessions again at Arabella Design Studio in Eliot, ME. This is the perfect opportunity to update your family photos, whether you’re looking for beautiful holiday cards, gifts for family members, or just a fun, relaxed session with loved ones.

Why Mini Sessions are So Popular?

Over the years, many families have returned year after year for mini sessions, and it’s been incredible to see families grow! The children get really comfortable with me, which makes for an easy, enjoyable session. When everyone feels at ease, it shows in the final photos. The more fun you have, the more vibrant and natural your images will be.

The Holiday Set Up

Each year, I design a special indoor holiday setup in the studio. This year Arabella Design Studio will be transformed into a Winter Wonderland, with a backdrop of soft whites, sparkling accents, and delicate winter touches. Think snowy, serene, and magical! It’s a perfect setting for families, children, and couples alike. Whether you're after the perfect holiday card photo or a special keepsake gift, this setup will deliver beautiful, timeless memories.

2024 Mini Session Details

The 2024 Fall & Holiday Mini Session Event will be held **Saturday, November 9, 2024, from 9:00 am – 4:00 pm** This is a rain or shine indoor event at Arabella Design Studio in Eliot, Maine. Space is limited, and these sessions tend to sell out quickly, so don’t wait!

To reserve your spot, click the *Book Now* link. After choosing your preferred time, you’ll proceed to checkout and make your payment. Once confirmed, you’ll receive an email to finalize your booking and hold your spot.

I can't wait to see you at this year’s sessions and create beautiful memories together!

New year, new headshot

It’s a new year and with that often comes new goals for the year ahead.  They can be personal, professional or a combination.  You might be exploring changes in your career, maybe expanding your small business or making a dramatic move. Adding and sprucing up your resume, networking and asking for references are huge pieces to the puzzle, but one thing is often overlooked… your updated headshot.

I try to update my professional portrait because my skills as a photographer have changed since my first portrait in 2016.

I will be hosting a week long mini session event designed to get you an amazing update professional portrait to start the new year off right.

It’s probably time for you to update your headshot, but I like to call them your professional portraits.  I know you looked great in your old one, and you don’t want to redo it.  A professional portrait can bridge the gap a resume, references and all the networking cannot.  It’s a snapshot of you, your personality, and an updated portrait can showcase your strengths that your potential client or employer wouldn’t see on the screen or paper.

Over the years you’ve learned so much, gained experience, put in the time and energy to be successful.  A professional portrait can and should reflect all of that hard work and growth.  It should be consistent with your online presence and how you look in real life.  Showcase who you are now, you’ve worked so hard to get here.

I love working with professionals to capture a professional portrait that is a true reflection of who they are and what they want portrayed in their professional life.  There are no rules about being serious, sitting up straight or wearing a full suit for your portrait.

A global pandemic has changed and reshaped the way we do so many things.  I know you’ve taken a zoom call, camera on with a nice shirt on top and sweatpants on the bottom… I won’t tell.

I am so excited to be offering a professional portrait mini session event.  This will be for a week during the day at the studio to allow for professionals to pick a time slot that fits best with their schedule.  Mini sessions are a shorter session, at a discounted rate, that allows you to update your headshot in under 15 minutes.

You will arrive at the studio dressed (from head to toe 😉) in what makes you feel best.  We’ll chat, I’ll pose and prompt you and we’ll capture some amazing shots of you.  I will select some of the best, edit them, and create an online gallery so you can view your photos at home.  You can keep track and compare your favorites, share with friends and family and then select your included digital download.  This can be used for your website, and professional networking sites. All galleries will be delivered within a week of your session.

I have just launched the schedule for this event, you can book your session at http://www.arabelladesignstudio.com/special-events

Know a friend that is in need of an updated portrait? Share this link and better yet schedule your sessions back to back to make for a really fun experience.

Looking forward to seeing you at the studio soon.

New Year, New Goals

New Year New Goals

I love the start of a new year.  There is something about January, and a fresh new calendar that sets the tone for some goal setting.

I mentioned I’m not a big fan of New Years resolutions.  I am a Capricorn and with an early January birthday its easy to break a resolution within the first 2 days… because… well… CAKE!  Instead I like to set myself goals.  Some might be small like for the day, the week, the month and some are more long term like looking at the year ahead.

After the holidays there’s a lull, and then there is the general quiet that the winter brings.  I think a lot of people take this time to self reflect and assess their own goals and plans for the year ahead.  I am currently sitting in my nice warm house, looking at the gorgeous heavy snowfall and typing on a notes page because I have no wifi… nothing like the silence of a power or internet outage to hear your own voice.

I get a lot of calls, and emails in January/ February requesting professional portraits (also known as headshots). People that are making a career change, or looking to show potential clients who they are and what they have to offer.  An updated portrait is the perfect place to start.

Yes, of course we all looked great in our portraits from 5 years ago, but does that portrait serve you now?  Does it show your clients, or employer who you are and all the insight and experience you have gained in those years?

Professional portrait sessions are a great way to to showcase your strengths, and your personality.  Headshots don’t have to be dry and serious, they can be a true reflection of you, your brand and what you represent.

At the studio I offer clients this opportunity.  The studio is set up to be inviting and relaxing, with everything you need to look and feel your best.  A traditional portrait session is about 45 minutes, which allows for a variety of poses, outfit changes and getting comfortable in front of the camera.  I also offer branding sessions for in studio or on location.  These can be used to highlight you, your business, your space, or merchandise.  Clients use these images for social media, marketing, mailers, and websites.

After your session you will see a sneak peek of select images.  Within 2 weeks you will receive a password protected gallery with your fully edited images.  Your gallery is open for 1 month to make your selections and download your included images.  There are packages for additional digital images as well as prints and artwork. All digital Images are delivered immediately, prints and artwork are delivered within 2 weeks of placing your order.

I would love to hear your goals for 2023, reach out and share.   Make 2023 the year that you invest in yourself by booking your professional portrait or branding session.

Holiday Mini Session Event with Santa 2022

Your questions answered about the holiday mini session event with Santa.

What is a mini session?

A mini session is an photo session that is between 10-15 minutes, on a particular date, and at a pre planned location. I offer mini sessions once a year in the Fall, and sometimes some extra special events sprinkled in here and there like the School Portrait event. The fall session takes place at Arabella Design Studio in Eliot, ME. This is such a wonderful event, and a great opportunity to update your family photos on a budget.

Collage of some of our 2021 Santa Mini Sessions Pictures

When and where is the event?

This years Holiday Mini Session event will be on November 19, 2022 from 9:00 am-4:00 pm. This is a rain or shine event held indoors at Arabella Design Studio in Eliot, ME.

What is different this year?

Santa! Santa makes this event extra special this year!

I have offered holiday mini sessions since I opened Arabella Design Studio in 2016. I have always wanted to offer a special holiday event to my clients that included portraits with Santa. Last years event was so successful I decided to host the Santa Mini Sessions for another year.

The price for the mini session event this year includes a lot of extras and special add ons. Each family will have a session with Santa, allowing children some one on one time with him. They can share their wish lists, tell him some special things they’ve been up to or just stare at him in amazement.

The studio will be festively decorated for the event, with some gorgeous holiday themed backdrops and scenes. I have a special space for portraits with Santa, which is open to the entire family or just the kids. It’s up to you. Families have been telling me some of the amazing and creative ideas they have for their session with Santa and I love it! You should absolutely make this portrait your own.

On top of the portraits with Santa I offer classic portraits for children and families within your mini session time. This will allow you to have some great festive holiday portraits for your cards, and gifts while also allowing you to update your family portrait with a classic and clean backdrop.

And last but certainly not least Santa has a special gift for each child when they are finished with their portraits.

What happens after our session?

I work hard to capture your holiday portraits, so that you can share them on your holiday card, or print as gifts for family. I offer sneak peek images within a few days of the mini session and your gallery will be sent off within a week and a half. I want to ensure that you have enough time to order your cards and get them sent out for the holidays. Again this year there are predictions for delays in processing, shipping and delivery so booking your session for November 19th means you will have your images with plenty of time to spare.

The gallery and ordering is all online so you can place your order in your favorite jammies right at home. I will have options to add additional digital downloads as well as prints and artwork. There is a special pricing for mini session prints and digital images which allows you to get some of your holiday shopping done right at home. Digital downloads through your gallery are instant, you’ll be able to create your cards at home as soon as your select your favorite images. If you plan to order prints, or artwork I will submit your order as soon as I receive it and should have your items within 2 weeks, that means plenty of time to have it wrapped and under the tree for the grandparents.

With rights to the digital images you can download the photos and then design your own holiday cards.

I am ready to book our mini session with Santa… how do I do that?

I can’t wait to see you and your family at the holiday mini session event! You can click on the box below to book your session or follow this link… http://www.arabelladesignstudio.com/special-events/uty9t2rlbvmgir2v8lh34u2urp4twk-zx2ph

You will select your session date and time and add the item to your cart. Once you have answered the questions on the form you will check out by entering your payment details. You will receive a confirmation email as soon as your have completed your order. If you have no received an email your session time may still be in your shopping cart. If you have any trouble or questions, don’t hesitate to call or email me.

What if my child doesn't behave during our portrait session?

What if my child doesn’t behave during our portrait session? 

This is a question parents ask me a lot… Or I have parents that leave the studio after a session and are thinking it the entire ride home.  

Do not worry, I’ve got you. 

I opened my photography studio 6 years ago and in that time I have worked with lots of small children.  Prior to opening the studio I was a kindergarten teacher for 11 years and well… I legit have my degree in babies and children.  I am also a mom. 

I get it, kids will be kids.

The space and what to expect

My studio is set up to be comfortable for you and your family.  I have an area with toys that are safe for your kids to play independently during your portrait session.  

I spend the first few minutes of each session getting to know your child and letting them settle into the new environment.  Then we get to work and have some fun.

Let’s have some fun

When it’s time for the session I am very silly, and find the things that make your child giggle laugh and on occasion sit still for a few photos. Your child may not want to sit with their sibling for a photo right away.  I will not make them do something they do not want to do.  We move through the session and can always revisit a pose as your child settles more into the environment.  Sometimes what didn’t work in the beginning of the session works a few minutes later.  It’s also important to capture your childs true personality, and sometimes those photos become the most favorite portraits.

A few suggestions for things you can do before the session are…

• Have a meal or a snack before you arrive. A full tummy usually makes for happy humans.

• You can always pack your outfits and change at the studio if you want to keep them fresh and clean.

• Keep the session low key, “Were going to have some fun today, and get some photos together!”

• Then have some fun, and enjoy your family… I will do the rest.

 I have even run into my house to get my golden retriever Monty, he really knows how to make a new best friend anytime, anywhere. 

Keep your eye on the prize

As most of the kiddos that have been to the studio before know, I have a prize box! It’s got toys, stickers, and even some lollipops.  I am not above bribery, because even adults need something extra special to work for sometimes.  

We’ve got this

Portrait sessions can be a lot of planning and outfit scouting and time juggling.  You may be feeling a bit stressed and then you start to worry about how your child is behaving… don’t fret.  Once you arrive at the studio you can feel confident that you are in the best hands.  So I encourage you to sit back, relax and enjoy your family while I capture some of your special moments together. 

I can’t wait to see you in the studio soon. 

Holiday Mini Session Event with Santa

Your questions answered about the holiday mini session event with Santa.

What is a mini session?

A mini session is an photo session that is between 10-15 minutes, on a particular date, and at a pre planned location. I offer mini sessions twice a year in the Spring and Fall, and sometimes some extra special events sprinkled in here and there like the School Portrait event. The fall session takes place at Arabella Design Studio in Eliot, ME. This is such a wonderful event, and a great opportunity to update your family photos on a budget.

Holiday scene from mini sessions 2019.

When and where is the event?

This years Holiday Mini Session event will be on November 6, 2021 from 9:00 am-6:00 pm. I have added an additional date on November 20, 2021 from 9:00am -1:00pm. This is a rain or shine event held indoors at Arabella Design Studio in Eliot, ME.

What is different this year?

Santa! Santa makes this event extra special this year!

I have offered holiday mini sessions since I opened Arabella Design Studio in 2016. I have always wanted to offer a special holiday event to my clients that included portraits with Santa.

The price for the mini session event this year includes a lot of extras and special add ons. Each family will have a session with Santa, allowing children some on on one time with him. They can share their wish lists, tell him some special things they’ve been up to or just stare at him in amazement.

The studio will be festively decorated for the event, with some gorgeous holiday themed backdrops and scenes. I have a special space for portraits with Santa, which is open to the entire family or just the kids. It’s up to you. Families have been telling me some of the amazing and creative ideas they have for their session with Santa and I love it! You should absolutely make this portrait your own.

And last but certainly not least Santa has a special gift for each child when they are finished with their portraits.

What happens after our session?

I work hard to capture your holiday portraits, so that you can share them on your holiday card, or print as gifts for family. I offer sneak peek images within a few days of the mini session and your gallery will be sent off within a week and a half. I want to ensure that you have enough time to order your cards and get them sent out for the holidays. This year there are predictions for delays in processing, shipping and delivery so booking your session for November 6th means you will have your images with plenty of time to spare.

The gallery and ordering is all online so you can place your order in your favorite jammies right at home. I will have options to add additional digital downloads as well as prints and artwork. Digital downloads through your gallery are instant, you’ll be able to create your cards at home as soon as your select your favorite images. If you plan to order prints, or artwork I will submit your order as soon as I receive it and should have your items within 2 weeks, that means plenty of time to have it wrapped and under the tree for the grandparents.

With rights to the digital images you can download the photos and then design your own holiday cards.

I am ready to book our mini session with Santa… how do I do that?

I can’t wait to see you and your family at the holiday mini session event! You can click on the box below to book your session or follow this link… www.arabelladesignstudio.com/blog/2021/10/26/holiday-mini-session-event-with-santa

You will select your session date and time and add the item to your cart. Once you have answered the questions on the form you will check out by entering your payment details. You will receive a confirmation email as soon as your have completed your order. If you have no received an email your session time may still be in your shopping cart. If you have any trouble or questions, don’t hesitate to call or email me.

Happy Birthday to Arabella Design Studio

And just like that we’re 5…

In August 2016 Arabella Design Studio was born. Well... maybe before that but it was facebook official then, and that as we know means everything. 

I thought I’d take a minute to share my photography journey and what led me to opening Arabella Design Studio… because a small business is not started overnight. 

How it started, how it’s going.

I have had a passion and eye for photography since I was a child.  I learned to use my Dad’s Pentax K1000, after my mickey mouse camera let me down. I started taking photos of family and friends at parties and gatherings and that was when I learned how special and treasured photos were.  

As an early childhood educator I would take photos of my students to document their learning and growth.  I would make portfolios of our year together, and of course a slideshow with sappy songs that would make parents tear up. The photographs would give parents a glimpse into their child's school routines, and personalities.  I know that when asking your child how their day was at school you often hear “Fine.”  These photos helped to fill in the gaps, and bring a year in school to life.  

As we traveled my passion for photography really took off. I had the opportunity to visit places that many people may never get to see, and I never wanted to forget it.  My husband would often roll his eyes when I would make him pull the car over for the perfect sunflower field in Tuscany, or when he had to listen to the shutter click 1,000’s of times as we traveled in an RV across New Zealand.  Now as our walls are lined with photos of far off places, in a time when we were unable to travel I am again reminded of how important photography is. 

And so with the birth of our daughter Sofia Arabella, I became a portrait photographer.  It started in the hospital where I was completely overpacked and regretted many things that I brought, but I do not regret bringing my camera. I set the camera up, and coached my husband on the types of photos that I thought he should capture.  The details, like the clock when the nurses came in and said “Lets do this!” and the white board with all of the notes, and then… her. :::swoon::: I relive those moments often in my head, but I have the amazing photos of the day to remind me of the most life changing moment.

Arabella Design Studio is 5 this year!  It is a long time coming, a lot of learning and growing.  A huge amount of change, and adapting. When I look around my studio, work with a wonderful client, or deliver very special photographs I feel so content knowing I am exactly where I have worked so hard to be, and I love what I do.  

I have had the support of some wonderful people over the years.   Here are a few suggestions to help support a friend that has become a small business owner, and they don’t cost a thing.

• Visit their website to see what’s new. 

• If they have a blog, give it a read and leave a comment. 

• Follow their page on social media.

• Engage with their posts on social media by Liking them and/or sharing them with friends.

• Leave a positive review.

• Ask them how it’s going

Thank you for all of the love and support over the past 5 years.  I look forward to many years ahead of photographing your families. 

Now for some cake… 

Christmas in July.

It’s officially 5 months until Christmas and I am feeling the holiday spirit over here!

My daughter was so sad to miss out on our annual visit with Santa at our friends house last year. We have come to love the tradition of sitting with him, chatting and sharing Christmas cheer. I think kids and grown ups alike are ready for this year to be a very festive Christmas! I know a visit with Mr. Claus is high on our list.

Well I have some great news! Santa Claus is coming to Arabella Design Studio!

This is an event that I have been daydreaming about since I opened the studio 5 years ago. I had really hoped that 2020 would be the year, but I am even more excited that 2021 will be! Santa and I have been hard at work planning this special event and I am so excited to share some details with you.

Mark your calendars.

This mini session event has sold out each year… THANK YOU! This year I have added an additional Saturday to ensure we can have lots of happy boys and girls! Not to mention some extremely special Christmas cards and gifts for you to share with family and friends.

Santa will be coming to Arabella Design Studio in Eliot, ME on November 6th and November 20th 2021. This event will be held indoors to ensure that we don’t have to worry about that tricky New England weather.

Christmas in July.

I am so excited to be offering a pre-sale event… a true Christmas in July to my newsletter subscribers. Not a newsletter subscriber? No worries, follow the link below to sign up.

Tickets will go on sale on July 25th starting at 9:00 am. Subscribers will receive session details, and a link to order tickets. This is sure to be very memorable holiday event, we look forward to seeing you at Arabella Design Studio in November.

Want to receive up to date news and information on special events just like this? Subscribe today by filling out your details below.

What should you wear to your family portrait session?

“What should we wear for our photos?” is probably the question I get asked the most before a session. It can feel like a difficult task, especially when you are dressing an entire family.

:::Deep Breath::: I have got you covered.

Be comfortable and keep it simple…

Well… After a year and a bit of quarantine I guess I should be careful using the term comfort when suggesting what to wear. You may love your pajamas and sweats especially this year, but let’s leave those at home for your portrait session. They will feel great to change into when you get home.

Wearing clothes that fit you well and feel good when you wear them, will mean you are comfortable during your session. Most importantly this will make you look great in your photographs. It is never fun adjusting a shirt that’s too big, or trying to sit just right in pants that are too tight.

Keeping your outfits simple, allows you to focus on what we are really trying to capture… your family. Wearing something that is classic will make for a timeless portrait. Avoiding too many patterns, or logos can help you to achieve this look.

Coordinating…Doesn’t mean everyone needs to match.

Coordinating your outfits doesn’t mean everyone needs to match. Selecting a favorite color, and building from there can be a great place to start. I find keeping the grown ups in a more neutral pattern and color allows for the children’s outfits to be more playful, fun and colorful. Kid’s always add the pop!

If you are in the studio for your session keep in mind that my backdrops are most often white, gray and black. If your session is planned for outdoors, think about the season and the location to help you highlight some bits of color in your outfit. In the colder months adding a layer like a blazer, jacket or scarf can make for some great texture.

Just be you…

Being yourself is the most important part of your family session. Engaging as a family, and enjoying the moment means you will look back fondly at your photographs. These are all suggestions to help make planning your outfits for your session a bit easier. At the end of the day, you and your family have your own personal and unique style… so just be you!

I cannot wait to see you for your portrait session soon. Got a question or ready to book your session? Get in touch… Click the link below.

What's new at Arabella Design Studio?

Spring feels closer with every passing day. This past weeks warmer temperatures had me daydreaming about all kinds of upcoming sessions. I have some amazing events planned for the studio in the next few months and I cannot wait to share some details with you.

Heres a little update on what’s been happening in the studio….

In the past few weeks the studio has entered the “last phase” of renovations. This winter I added a pellet stove to the space, which allows me to offer sessions all year and it’s so cozy. The last phase was to finish the trim on the windows and doors, and most dramatically installing french doors to the front. Don’t worry the classic barn doors will stay, i’ll be keeping them open while the french doors allow in all kinds of warm natural light. Yay! I can’t wait to welcome you to Arabella Design Studio’s space for your next portrait session.

Last week I started my school portraits. I travel to local small/ private schools to photograph the children. This is such a treat for me because I was a Kindergarten teacher before opening the studio, I love being able to work with young children and be silly for a few hours to capture some really sweet portraits. The batch of photos I just delivered are some of my favorites, it’s nice to know I still have that teacher magic! I have more schools in the next few months, but if you are looking for school portraits for your small school or even your pod, get in touch! I would love to add a few more schools to my list.

Here’s a little glimpse at what’s coming up…

As I mentioned I have a few events coming up in the next few months. On April 17th, I will be hosting a child portrait session event in the studio. This is a formal portrait sitting for your child, and a wonderful opportunity to capture their personality, and all of the magical things about them at this moment in time.

A few months ago I had an impromptu session with my daughter, and the portraits have become our new favorites. She let me know that she had a wiggly tooth… something she had been talking about daily for at least a year. This time it was the real deal, and I realized that her smile would soon change dramatically and I wanted to have a few special photos before that big day. She picked out her favorite fancy dress, and we did her hair and made sure she had a clean face. We spent about 15 minutes chatting, laughing and capturing some amazing photographs. Since that time, the photos have become our phone screen savers, computer backgrounds and even printed and framed by our bed.

I was inspired by this special moment to offer this as an event because children have such amazing and deep personalities. By having time to have a conversation with the individual child I am able to bring out some expressions that will truly capture their character. Follow along on Facebook, and Instagram for event updates and sign ups.

May 1st I will be hosting a mother and child portrait event in the studio. As an added bonus these galleries will be delivered in time for Mother’s Day. I always love photographing mothers with their children, and I feel like moms should always be in more photographs. I know the struggle because I am usually the one behind the camera, so I have to remind myself to hop in the photos so I don’t miss out.

The setup for this event will be a bright and airy, with some spring florals and greenery. This can be given as an early mothers day gift… for moms, step moms, grandmothers, expectant moms or any mother figure in your life. Dad’s this could make the perfect gift… so feel free to forward this and drop a hint.

So many exciting things happening at Arabella Design Studio this Spring! I can’t wait to see you in the studio soon!

What is studio portrait photography?

I am a studio portrait photographer.  

I can understand the perception of what studio photography might look like. Remember when studio portraits were the norm?  You would get dressed in matching outfits and visit the mall for your family photos.  My brothers and I have pictures as kids at the department store Globe… does anyone else remember Globe?! 

Thanks to my mom for digging this relic out… Coombs Kids circa 1991

Last year so much changed when it came to the studio.  I renovated the first floor of our barn and moved my studio into that space.  Slowly and steadily I have been making improvements to make it functional and comfortable.  A few things we have added are a pellet stove so the space can be warm and cozy during the colder months, gorgeous french doors are being installed as we speak to allow in lots of natural light, and so much more. 

With Covid came scheduling challenges for studio and on location sessions.  Beach sessions were difficult due to no parking, or needing a reservation well in advance.  Not knowing if a location was open to the public or would accommodate required a lot of flexibility.  While I have been working on the inside of the studio I also have amazing landscapes around my studio which allow me to have sessions at Arabella Design Studio all year... no scheduling conflicts, admission fees or tickets needed.  

I am a studio portrait photographer, but with a more modern take on the old classic.  

My studio space is bright and airy, my portrait style is clean and classic.  The focus of your session when you visit Arabella Design Studio is you, your family, your children.  A studio session is relaxed, and fun… we don’t need to rush to get the perfect light before the sun sets, or wait for the breeze to die down so your hair isn’t flying away.  The soft natural light that I can create in my studio means we will have consistent light any time of year, any type of weather, any time of day. How great is that? 

I love to see you, and your people as you are… and I want your portraits to reflect the same.  If you haven’t had a chance to experience studio portrait photography give me a call, or send me an email… I am happy to answer any questions you may have. 

What is an unposed newborn session?

There are so many styles of newborn photography and very talented photographers out there. Newborn photos have changed a lot over the years. There are the lifestyle sessions that can take place in your home. The posed sessions that happen in the first week or so of your newborns life with colorful wraps and props. My favorite type of newborn session is an unposed portrait session.

My approach to a newborn session is unposed, but what does that actually mean? 

A newborn session at Arabella Design Studio is baby led. Since they are the star of the show they are also in charge. I have a clean and classic approach to newborn portraits, I want your first photos of your child to be timeless. I love to focus on all of the little details… tiny toes, swirls in their hair line, that new baby skin.  Things that new parents spend hours each day staring at, and will want to remember forever.

The first thing we do is get you and your family settled into the studio.  You will have some time to change and feed your newborn, and get them settled for their session. We start baby in a clean diaper and a nice full tummy.  I lay them down onto the warm, cozy bed and let them pose naturally. Some babies settle in easily and some need some comfort so I may swaddle them with a neutral wrap. I will gently move your newborn into different positions and capture different angles.  I will shift around them to get the photographs so that we do not disrupt them too much.  Sometimes they are sleepy, sometimes they are alert and once in a while I will even capture a sneeze.  It’s all gorgeous. 

We will work through the session to include siblings, grown ups and the whole family.  I will talk with you as I am moving your newborn, as well as posing you and your family… so you always know what is going on. We build in breaks as needed for snuggles, feedings and changes. You are busy… and your time is important to me, you can plan for a newborn session to be an hour and a half.

After our session I will process your photographs and share a sneak peek within a few days of the session.  I then create an online gallery for you to view your photos in the comfort of your own home. You can then highlight your favorites, make your final selections, and most importantly create some artwork.  A newborn session at Arabella Design Studio will mean your photographs are timeless, and sure to be treasured for years to come.

What are Mini Sessions?

This year will be my 5th year offering Fall and Holiday Mini Sessions at Arabella Design Studio. I often get asked “So what are mini sessions?” The session time for a mini is shorter and the packages are smaller. What you do get are amazing images on a budget and the opportunity to add on more digital images, prints or gifts.

A mini session is an photo session that is between 15-20 minutes, on a particular date, and at a pre planned location. I offer mini sessions twice a year in the Spring and Fall, and sometimes some extra special events sprinkled in here and there like the School Portrait event last week. The fall session takes place at Arabella Design Studio in Eliot, ME. This is such a wonderful event, and a great opportunity to update your family photos on a budget.

Over the years I have had families come back again and again for mini sessions. The children get really comfortable with me and we have a great time together, this makes settling into a session fast and easy. The more fun you have at your session the more it shows in your photographs.

The session time for a mini is shorter and the packages are smaller. What you do get are amazing images on a budget and the opportunity to add on more digital images, prints or gifts.

Each year I design an indoor holiday set up for the studio. Arabella Design Studio has a signature pine shiplap wall where I stage my holiday minis each year. I will be adding white, gold, and of course some gorgeous evergreens to make this years styling a sweet and simple holiday theme. This event is for children, and families, its a wonderful chance to get that perfect holiday card or a treasured gift for family.

Arabella Design Studio’s Holiday Mini Session Event goes on sale October 1, 2020 at 12:00 pm. Space is limited, and this event sells out quickly. To find out more details and to reserve your mini session click to Book Now. Once you have added your selected time to your cart, you will checkout and make your payment. Then you will be sent a confirmation email reserving your time. Cant wait to see you there!

What to wear for senior portraits?

We are headed into senior portrait season and one of the questions I get asked most often by my seniors before their session is “What should I wear?”

A senior portrait session is special, not only to the senior but to the family as well. This year with a global pandemic I found out just how important the portraits that I took in the late summer and early fall were to the Class of 2020 and their families. These photos not only ended up in yearbooks, or on display in their home… some of the even ended up on yard signs!

Take a deep breath, I have a few tips and tricks to make selecting these outfits a bit easier.

Tip #1… Pick 3 Outfits

Something classic, something with style, and something that represents you.

Ladies:

Classic & Timeless:

Good ideas include: black or navy top with white pants, solid top and jeans, or a simple dress. Avoid: looking too casual (sweatpants for example), lots of prints, and graphic logo tees.  You want to avoid bra straps from showing.

Something With Style:

This is an opportunity to get a bit dressier but show your personality and your style.  You can add to an outfit you have, by adding accessories such as statement jewelry to make it a bit more polished or switch your outfit up completely.  What style do you love to wear Artsy, Boho, Trendy, Sporty etc. This is your chance to show your personality.

Something That Represents You:

This is the opportunity wear whatever you want that represents you.  If you play a sport you could wear your uniform, your cheerleading sneakers, bring equipment like your softball bat, or your dance shoes.  Play an instrument?  Bring it along.  Have you already been accepted to a college or university?  Bring along a shirt or sweatshirt with the name.

Bring a couple of pairs of shoes and socks (if needed) to coordinate with your outfits… sandals, flip flops, boots, sneakers, ballet flats.

Gentleman:

Classic & Timeless:

Good ideas include: A button up and jeans, polo and shorts, casual tee shirt and jeans and/or shorts, and solid colors.  Avoid: t shirts with graphics and logos. 

Something With Style:

This is an opportunity to get a bit dressier but show your personality and your style.  You can add to an outfit you have, like throw on a tie or a blazer to make it a bit more polished or switch your outfit up completely. 

Something That Represents You:

This is the opportunity wear whatever you want that represents you.  If you play a sport you could wear your uniform, bring equipment, or a letterman jacket.  Play an instrument?  Bring it along.  Have you already been accepted to a college or university?  Bring along a shirt or sweatshirt with the name.

Bring a couple pairs of shoes and socks (if needed) to coordinate with your outfits… sandals, flip flops, boat shoes, sneakers, dress shoes if applicable.

Tip #2… Dress from head to toe.

Plan your entire outfit… from your head to your toes. True story, I once had a senior show up in their worst flip flops for their session. They totally forgot to pack shoes, luckily mom was the same size and we snagged her cute sandals and got some great photos. If you want to add accessories, or need special undergarmets for your outfit include them, that way when you come for your session you are prepared. You will want to take some time to put your outfits together. I have a changing pop up tent so that you can change in private and get yourself ready for your next look. The more orgazined you are the smoother your changes will go and the more relaxed you will feel. Iron your clothes and hang them on a hanger. If you have a special watch, or a necklace for one of your looks hang a bag with your accessories inside for easy access.

Shoes should be clean and presentable. Makeup should be simple. Clothes should be ironed and well fit (avoid clothes that are too tight, or too large.)

Tip #3… Be you…

There is only one you, so bring your favorites with you to show your personality in your senior portraits. If you are a dancer bring one of your costumes and shoes, If you play a sport bring your jersey and a piece of your equipment, play an instrument bring it along. We can incorporate some of your favorite things into your photos to truly reflect you. Relax and have fun, this is your time. I can’t wait to see you soon for your Senior Portrait Session