A Budget Friendly Mini Session

Being a Flowery Branch photographer, I wish I loved using my own surroundings, as much as I love going to Gerrard Landing Park for my sessions. The park is located in Roswell, Georgia and very popular among photographers. One reason is because it’s bigger than it looks and offers so much variety. I love using natural elements to shoot in, such as nature, creeks and all things you don’t have to set up and this place offers so many options.

I’ve used Gerrard Landing Park for several different sessions, in the past. Sometimes I’m amazed this is a park and not a private venue I have to pay to have a session at. Not paying vendor fees really helps to keep my cost down and be a budget friendly photographer. This rock is one of the most popular spots, aside from the covered bridge here. Sam booked a spot, as soon as I posted about this session. It’s been a year since I’ve seen her and this time, her son has grown and learned to run. He was everywhere. No worries mamas! I can work with energetic babies.

Some of the prompts I used below was to just be casual and let him walk around and get comfortable. I give little direction, such as “hold his hand and lead him across the rock.” You’ll see, I had them sit down and embrace in a few hugs. I love the hugs because it looks so sweet and emotional but behind the scenes, no one knows we’re constraining a little one for a good photo.

Believe it or not, kids like when photographers talk to them and include them in what’s going on. I always give kids instructions, like “tell mommy a secret or kiss mommy’s cheek.” Whether they listen to me or give me push back, I snap the photo regardless. The kids give me one of two reactions. They either smile or laugh really big or they frown and act annoyed they have to participate which still gives us funny photos to laugh at later. Most of the time, the best result comes after the direction is given.

Something really important to note, if you have little ones, bring a toy for them to keep them occupied. Sam brought these two toys and we had to toss them in the creek to keep her little one still. We played hide and seek for a little bit until we got the shot. We tossed it in the creek and he sat still long enough to find it so I could get a photo of them sitting on the edge of the rock.

I like to add behind the scene photos in your galleries, along with the photos you came for. My main reason for this is because how many moms have photos including them playing with their kids? I don’t. Moms are usually the ones behind the camera. This is the TOP reason I never tell you how many photos you’ll get back from my sessions. It just depends on what’s going on during your session and how many people are included.

When her little boy was tired of photos, I asked Sam to lift him up and spin around slowly. Most kids don’t like this and most will scream but you can’t tell. I think these look like loving poses.

Oooohhh la la! Look how pretty she is!

If you’ve never used me as your photographer, I invite you to try one of my mini sessions this year. My sessions are found here https://book.usesession.com/i/2vq1XcoTE

If you know anyone getting married and looking for a wedding photographer, please give them my info. I’d love to serve them and can work with any budget. The prices I have listed, is only if you want the full bridal experience. https://paulashtonphotography.com/#start-here.2

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