Whenever someone asks me if it's ok to bring their dog to a photo session, my answer is always YES! I always have fun including them in the pictures. Sometimes they aren't so cooperative, but we can usually at least get them in a few. Pets are family members and a big part of our lives. My husband and I have 3 adorable cats and I photograph them all the time. I also frame some of their photos in our home. Next time you book a photo session for your kids or family, don't hesitate to include your furry family members too. 

It's the second day of Spring and here in Winterville, NC, spring has sprung! I wrote a post in the Fall about why Fall is a great time to book a portrait session. Well, Spring is another perfect time to have your children or family photos taken. 

Why is Spring a great time to book a photo session?

* You will need gifts for upcoming holidays and events.  Lots of gift giving happens during the Spring season ~ Easter, mother's day, father's day, graduations, and other end of school year happenings.  A canvas, framed print, or magnet make the BEST gifts!

* Your family portraits need updating. When was the last time you took family photos? Most photographers run specials at this time of year, so it's the perfect time to book a session and get those updated photos you've been meaning to have done. Spring colors are so pretty and fun, it's a great time to use pops of bright colors. 

* Wall art makes a great keepsake. After you have your session done, do not let your photos sit in a gallery while you keep meaning to have something made. Spruce up your home decor with a beautiful canvas or framed print for your home. Many people love to decorate their kids' rooms with wall art. 

* The weather and greenery are amazing. The springtime days are beautiful for taking photos. The warm air is comfortable for everyone before the heat of summer heads to town. Of course the flowers are in bloom and the trees are full of leaves, need I say more? A park or your backyard are ideal spots. 

* The lighting is oh so pretty.  It stays lighter longer, which makes it easier to book your session. Any time of day is great, but I really love the hour before sunset at this time of year. Most any outdoor spot will do. People usually think of the summer for water pictures, but springtime is really pretty at the beach or by a river. I highly encourage outdoor photo sessions during the Spring, you will not regret it!

Don't forget, $10 of all session fees are donated to a local charity.  It's always a good time to give back!

 When I lived in Massachusetts there was a daffodil field that I would go visit each year with my mom and aunt, usually in April. Sometimes other family members would join us. It was one of the first signs that spring was really on its way! I love the way you can see winter leaving and spring arriving. Sometimes the daffodils will peak through dead leaves, usually there are pine needles or pinecones nearby, often they "hug" each other because it is still chilly out, and you can always see their "faces" looking toward the sun. The bright yellow up against the winter world is refreshing. 

We would make a day out of it and go see the daffodils, go for a walk on the trails nearby, stop by the beach and take in the view and salty air, then go for lunch at one of our favorite seafood spots. Of course I would take tons of photos. 

I miss this tradition, but I was happy to stumble upon this little gem just up the road from my house. We are having unusually warm weather here in North Carolina and I am loving it! All around us flowers have been in bloom a little early. So the other day, on a beautiful 80 degree afternoon, I grabbed my Canon and headed over to this sweet spot. The daffodils were planted and are maintained by a local family, the Ellis Family. The bulbs date back to 1932.  There were lots of people enjoying them and taking photos when I went to visit. I love that the family keeps up the tradition for our community and I was glad I was able to take some new daffodil photos in my new home.