Finding your perfect photographer is important. Preparing your kids, spending the money, getting your outfits ready, maybe even having your hair done, all takes time. Making sure you have the perfect photographer will ensure that you are thrilled with the final outcome and have a great experience during your time together.
It is important to me that my families enjoy their time with me as much as they love their final images. So here are a few reasons why I could be your perfect photographer:
1. Do you want photographs that make you feel an emotion?
If you’re looking for photos that make you feel something, then I’m the perfect photographer for you. My families tell me that when they look at their slideshow, it brings tears to their eyes. And this is what makes me the happiest! Many times I let my husband watch the slideshow before I send it out, and if he gets chocked up, then I know my job is done. I want you to not only remember the time we spent together, but also feel what it was like to hold your kids, or play a game, or just sit quietly with them and talk.
2. Do you love when photos are perfectly imperfect?
The imperfect moments are often my favorite. Maybe someone’s face is slightly obscured by their hair because the wind is blowing, or their hand is covering their face because they’re laughing so hard, or the mom’s eyes are closed because she’s soaking up the sun. To me, this is perfection, and part of capturing real moments.
3. Do you like to have fun with your family?
If you like to play games with your family or interact with them in a meaningful and memorable way, then we are a perfect fit. I love when families truly enjoy spending time with each other. You can bring a blanket and a picnic basket, the kids’ favorite books, and a fun snack. Or you can tell jokes or stories from when they were a baby. I always bring activity suggestions with me, so I have plenty to keep us busy. There is lots of touching and affection, and most importantly, focus and detail on each other, and not the camera.
4. Are you affectionate or feel like you have a deep connection in some way?
Affection is key. I know that not all families are “lovey-dovey.” Connection comes in various forms. I have had sessions where I was told that the couple was uncomfortable showing any PDA, although they were very close. Their love language was so powerful, though, I was very moved. The way they looked at each other, the subtle touches and interactions spoke a million words. They truly cared for one another and their kids. I love PDA and love to showcase it whenever possible, but ultimately, it’s about having emotional connections with your partner and children and being vulnerable in front of the camera to show it.
5. Do you want your photos to be different than everyone else’s photos?
Every family is different, and every session is different for me. In the time we spend together, I try to capture your unique story and whatever energy you bring to your session with you. No two photoshoots are the same, even if the location is the same. And I never ask you to “cheese” for the camera. I’m even ok if your teenage child does not want to smile. This is who they are at this point in time.
6. Do you want to capture small moments and details that are often missed?
I love to capture details of hand touches, a smirk, hair flying in the wind, eyelashes of your little one. These little details are so important.
Why I’m not the photographer for you:
- You want to look like every other photo you have seen
- You love to say “cheese” for the camera
- You don’t love spending time with your family
- You’d rather be watching tv than taking photos
- You want your children smiling in all your photos
- You want everyone to look perfect, no hair out of place
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Jenny Sessoms is a professional family photographer with a BFA in photography from RIT in New York. She has over 20 years of experience and has won awards and been published on billboards, in magazines and online. Jenny offers photoshoots that are relaxed and stress-free for everyone. Services available in the Northern Virginia area including Ashburn, Leesburg, Chantilly, Middleburg, Fairfax and more.
