You probably think a photographer just shows up to a session with a fancy camera and some good lighting knowledge, right?
Oh, my sweet summer child.
Let me take you behind the scenes a bit, because what I bring to a session is so much more than a camera and a lens. I come ready for unpredictable toddlers, surprise rain showers, wardrobe malfunctions, beach breezes, wild hair days, and yes — bugs.
So, what’s in my bag (and car, and hands, and sometimes pockets)? Let’s break it down:
📸 The Obvious Essentials:
• Camera + backup camera + Favorite lenses + Flash
• Memory cards (about 72 of them… just in case)
• Batteries galore
But that’s just the start.
🧺 The “How Do You Always Have That?!” Items:
• Bug spray – I live and work in Florida. Enough said. 🦟
•Blankets – Great for snuggly family photos, sitting on sand, or impromptu superhero capes.
• Towels – For beach sessions, cake smashes, or that one time a goat licked a baby.
•Sunscreen – Raccoon-eye tan lines are not the vibe. 🧴
•Wipes – Sticky hands, sandy toes, mystery goo? Handled.
•Hair ties + bobby pins + safety pins – Emergency outfit fixes are kind of my thing.
• Snacks – For the kids… and let’s be real, for me too.
•Sweater – It always feels chillier by the water, even in the Florida heat.
•Extra wardrobe pieces and accessories – Just in case what you planned doesn’t quite work or your toddler decides they hate that bow today.
🪨 And of course…
That stick/rock/flower your kid hands me like it’s the Hope Diamond. I will absolutely carry it around for the entire session and probably photograph it like it’s part of the art direction. Because it is.
🎒 Why All This Matters
You’re not just hiring someone with a camera. You’re trusting someone to help make memories with your family — and I take that seriously. I want your session to feel effortless, even if behind the scenes it looks like a traveling circus in a diaper bag.
I come prepared so you don’t have to think about a single thing except being present and soaking in the moment. Whether we’re on the beach, in a flower field, or somewhere in between — I’ve got your back (and your bug spray).
Want to know more about what to expect at your session or how to get the most out of it? Let’s chat. I’d love to help you feel relaxed, excited, and ready for your next round of beautiful, meaningful images.
And yes… snacks are included.
🖤
Jennifer
