Heirloom Portraits | Southern Style in New England

I am excited to be offering traditional heirloom portraits for my clients in 2023. These classic vignette portraits are a staple for families down south. Being from the south myself, I love this style of portraiture and can’t wait to offer a traditional spin on studio style images. These sessions are perfect for your little one from ages one to 6 years old. They are meant to be printed, framed, and hung on your walls at home. 

A little different from my typical lifestyle family sessions, I am offering 8 images, color + black and white, in an online gallery with options for printing and framing. I will walk you through the process of getting these on your walls with various frame and mat options to suit your style.

October 21, 2023 is my next Heirloom Portrait date!

Here are some typical FAQs for how these sessions work!

Q: What age range is best for heirloom portraits?

• There is no preferred age for these photos, but ideally your child is at least 9 months and sitting on their own. I do find that the 2-3 year old age group is great for capturing the last of the “baby phase” and then again when they are a little older at 5-7 for a more grown up look.

Q: Should I bring a bribe for my child? They can be hard to photograph.

As a toddler mom myself, please understand I feel very comfortable and have a great deal of experience photographing wiggly children. Some children respond well to the promise of a surprise treat at the end of the session. When the treat is a surprise (as opposed to knowing exactly what it is ahead of time) I find they are more compliant.

Q: How long does the session usually take?

• On average 10-20 minutes per session. If needed, I will play or give the child a break and retry after a few minutes. There is no extra charge if we go past 20 minutes. I find that most children this age cannot sit still longer than 5 minutes at a time, so I work fast during these sessions and know how to recognize when we’ve reached a child’s photo limits.

Q: Do you provide clothing options and is there a way to see them beforehand?

• Yes! I have complimentary wardrobe options! Right now I have girls 9 month to 4T available and am currently building my little boys wardrobe, so please inquire with sizing. I also have various bows that you are welcome to use.

Q: If I buy my own clothing, what brands should I look for?

• Wardrobe plays an important role in these traditional childhood portraits. When you’re choosing the clothing for your child’s heirloom portraits, you always want to look for classic and timeless. European styles, french hand sewn heirloom clothing, hand smocked bishop dresses or rompers, and christening gowns. A few of my favorite children’s clothing recommendations are: Feltman Brothers, Lullaby Set, Strasburg, Rosalina, Petit Ami, Petit Bebe and the Beaufort Bonnet Co. Peter pan collars or oxford shirts (5 years and older) are best for little boys.

Q: Does it matter what type of shoes they are wearing?

• You know those shoes that you don’t like but your child loves? Let her wear ’em. For heirloom pictures, they will not be in the shot. This will be fantastic for toddler compliance.

Q: Do you do sibling photos?

• I do offer sibling photos! Siblings are a discounted price and we always get a few shots of the kiddos together as well as separate.

Q: What is your cancelation policy?

• Session fee is non-refundable but it is transferable.