Name: Memories By Vanessa
Address: Oakville, ON, CA
Price range: $$
Rating: 5.0

Family sessions

Coordinate, don't match: pick a colour palette (like earthy tones or blues and creams) rather than everyone wearing the exact same outfit.
Full bellies: feed the kids (and yourself!) before you arrive. A hangry toddler is a tough model!
Comfort first: if the kids feel itchy or stiff in their clothes, it will show on their faces. Choose soft fabrics.
Relax: if the parents are stressed, the kids will be too. Focus on playing and interacting; I'll catch the smiles.

Maternity sessions

Timing: the sweet spot is usually between 28 and 34 weeks, when the bump is prominent but you still feel mobile.
Undergarments: wear nude, seamless underwear. If you're wearing a light-coloured dress, avoid dark or patterned bras.
Pamper yourself: we often do close-ups of hands on the belly, so a fresh manicure (or just clean, shaped nails) makes a big difference.
Moisturize: apply lotion a few hours before to avoid dry skin, but skip it right before the session to avoid a shiny look under the lights.

Feeding: feed baby right before arriving or upon arrival to encourage a "milk coma".
Keep 'em sleepy: try to keep baby awake for 1 to 2 hours before the session so they're ready for a deep nap.
Dress light: the studio will be warm to keep baby comfortable, so dress in layers so you don't overheat.
What to pack: bring diapers, wipes, bottles and everything you need.
Patience is key: these sessions take time for soothing and feeding. Don't worry if baby cries; I've seen it all!

The pre-taste: introduce your baby to a cupcake a few days before. Some babies hate the texture of icing the first time they touch it!
The clean-up outfit: bring a change of clothes for yourself and a plastic bag for the messy outfit baby wears.
The bath part: bring a towel if your session includes a bath clean-up.
Simple colours: a busy cake or outfit can distract from baby's face. Keep the smash outfit simple.

Movement: think of this as a date night. I'll ask you to walk, whisper and laugh together rather than just staring at the lens.
Empty pockets: please take phones, keys and wallets out of your pockets. They create odd bulges in photos!
Ring check: if you're engaged, give that ring a quick clean so it sparkles in the close-ups.

Exercise: take your dog for a long walk before the session so they've burned off some zoomie energy.
Treats and toys: bring their absolute favourite high-value treats and a squeaky toy to grab their attention.
Grooming: a quick brush-through or a professional groom a few days before keeps them looking sharp.
Be patient: pets are unpredictable! We'll take plenty of breaks to keep them happy.

See pets photos

De-clutter: you don't need to deep-clean, but clear off surfaces like nightstands and kitchen counters. Tuck away tissue boxes and remotes.
Natural light: open all the curtains and blinds before I arrive. We want as much soft, natural light as possible.
Neutral bedding: if we're shooting in the bedroom, a neutral or solid-coloured duvet keeps the focus on you.
Be authentic: wear what you'd actually wear at home (just a levelled-up version).

Clothing: solid colours work best. Avoid busy patterns or pinstripes, which can look strange on screens.
Fit matters: make sure your outfit is pressed and fits well. Layers like blazers or cardigans add great depth.
Hair and grooming: a fresh haircut should happen about a week before, not the day of or the day prior.
Posture: we'll work on "the turtle" (extending the chin slightly) to define the jawline.