Get Ready! It's almost time for Mini Sessions!

Preparing for Your Family Mini Session with Jenae: A Guide to Capturing Beautiful Memories

Are you gearing up for a family mini session? Family photo sessions are a wonderful way to capture moments that you'll cherish forever. To help you get the most out of your time with me, I’ve  put together a little guide on how to prep for your session, making sure everything runs smoothly and results in photos that show how beautiful your family truly is!

1. Booking and Planning Ahead

• Secure Your Spot

Mini sessions slots fill up quickly so to ensure you book your session well in advance to secure a time and date that works best for your family.

• Set a Date and Time

Consider your family's schedule and pick a time when everyone is likely to be well-rested and in good spirits. Early mornings or late afternoons typically provide the best natural lighting for outdoor shoots. You can check out my dates and times here.

2. Choosing the Perfect Location

• Think About Your Family's Style

Do you prefer a natural, outdoor setting like a park or beach, or a more urban, cityscape backdrop? Discuss the options available and choose a location that reflects your family's personality.

3. Coordinating Outfits

• Select a Color Palette

Choose a color scheme that complements each other without being too matchy-matchy. Neutral tones, pastels, and coordinating colors work beautifully in photos.

• Comfort is Key

Ensure everyone is comfortable in their outfits. Avoid clothing that's too tight or restrictive. Remember, if you're comfortable, it will show in the photos.

• Avoid Distracting Patterns

Stick to solid colors or subtle patterns to keep the focus on your family's faces and interactions.

4. Preparing the Family

• Rest and Getting Good Food

Make sure everyone, especially the little ones, gets a good night's sleep before the session. Plan a light meal or snack (that doesn’t stain faces) to avoid any hunger-induced crankiness.

• Grooming and Appearance

Schedule haircuts a week before the session to allow time for adjustments. Bring along a hairbrush, tissues, and any necessary makeup for quick touch-ups.

• Bring Meaningful Props

Consider bringing a few props that are meaningful to your family, like a favorite book, a cherished toy, or a family heirloom (if this is your thing)These can add a personal touch to your photos.

5. Communicating with me—Jenaé your photographer

• Share Your Vision

Have a discussion with me about your vision for the session. Share any specific ideas, poses, or must-have shots you have in mind. We will refine these ideas into stunning photos. Feel free to email or call with your questions and we can create something awesome!

• Be Flexible

Trust me- it all feels weird to stand in front of a camera and pose! I’ll guide you with some poses, and prompts. I’ll do my best to bring out the beautiful things

6. During the Session

• Relax and Enjoy and Laugh

The most beautiful photos come from genuine smiles and natural interactions. Relax, have fun, and enjoy the experience with your family.

• Focus on Each Other

Instead of looking directly at the camera for every shot, focus on hanging with each other and showing how much fun you all have together. Candid moments often make the most memorable photos.

• Be Patient and Flexible

Allow time for spontaneous moments and be flexible with the flow of the session. I will guide you, but the best shots often come from unexpected interactions.

7. After the Session

It will take me two weeks or less to get your image gallery set and sent over to you via email. I will  to professionally edit your selected photos. I will only choose the ones where you are looking the best.

Print and Share

Once you receive your final images, print them, create albums, and share them with family and friends. Displaying your beautiful photos at home is a wonderful way to keep those memories alive.

A family mini session can be a really fun way to show how much fun you all have together. By planning ahead and preparing your family, you’ll ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience that results in beautiful photos you’ll treasure for years to come. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the time spent together. Can’t wait to see you in front of my camera!

Beach Family Session with the Pelz Family

When everyone is in town you have got to take family photos!

I loved meeting up with the Pelz family. Everybody flew from all over the country to enjoy the cooler temps in New England.

Documenting Life on a farm in Kansas

Not your typical farm and not your typical farmers. Beau and Kristin Davidson grow fresh herbs and mushrooms for teas and tinctures in South Central Kansas. I drove out to see them and document some of the beautifulness going on out there. It’s hard work and it’s also beautiful and uncomplicated. I’m so glad I got to take this assignment. It was good for my soul.

Westport's Annual Minuteman Race for 2024

This was my second year photographing the WYWL’s annual Minute Man Race in Westport on Compo Beach. Always so fun and exciting to see how humans push themselves to the limit. I get to stand at the finish line and see the joy on the faces of these incredible people who just did am amazing feat. Even got to take some pictures of our town’s selectwoman Jen Tooker and Team Triumph’s Andrew Berman. Here are a few of my favorite images from the day.

Mother's Day Portraits in Westport, Connecticut

Mother's Day photos are important because they capture precious moments and memories that can be cherished for a lifetime. A mother's love is unconditional and selfless, and photographs are a beautiful way to honor and celebrate the special bond between a mother and her child. These photos can serve as a reminder of the special moments shared between a mother and her child, and can also be passed down through generations as a family heirloom. Additionally, Mother's Day photos can provide a way for mothers to see themselves through the eyes of their children, and can serve as a source of comfort and love during difficult times. Overall, Mother's Day photos are a wonderful way to celebrate and preserve the love and memories shared between a mother and her child.

Click Here to book your Motherhood Session

Motherhood Sessions

Mother’s Day isn't just another holiday on the calendar; it's a heartfelt opportunity to pause and reflect on the remarkable women who have shaped our lives. As we prepare to celebrate Mother’s Day, I find myself reminiscing about the profound impact my own mother has had on me, and I'm sure many of you can relate. From the earliest memories of childhood to the complexities of adulthood, my mother's love has been a steady beacon of warmth and support. It's in the way she tucked me in at night, kissed away my tears, and cheered the loudest at my victories. Her love, unconditional and unwavering, is the foundation upon which I've built my life.

While Mother's Day traditionally honors biological mothers, let's also recognize the countless women who have played maternal roles in our lives. Whether it's a grandmother who spoiled us with treats, an aunt who offered sage advice, or a mentor who provided guidance and support, their influence is profound and worthy of celebration. As Mother's Day approaches, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible woman who raised me and the many other maternal figures who have left an indelible mark on my life. To all the mothers out there, thank you for your boundless love, unwavering support, and endless sacrifices. You are cherished and celebrated today and every day.
As we honor the mothers in our lives this Mother's Day, let's share our stories and tributes. How has your mother or maternal figure impacted your life? Share your reflections and expressions of gratitude in the comments below. Let's create a space filled with love and appreciation for the remarkable women who have shaped us into who we are today.

Thank You Party Slate!

Check out a write up on Party Slate for one of the fun summer events I got to photograph.

Check it out here : https://www.partyslate.com/event-pros/marcia-selden-catering-events/events/54021

Headshot Tips with Jenae Weinbrenner

A good headshot adds instant credibility. It's your first impression and helps you build trust and professionalism. The beginning of the year is a great time to revamp your headshot.

Here are a few tips to ensure you get a good one.

#1. Talk to your photographer before to plan your session

When you schedule your session, talk to your photographer about what you are looking to accomplish. You should walk away from that conversation feeling great about the direction you are going.

#2.Wear solid colors and stay within the basics like black and white, navy or earth tones.

Keeping your clothes simple and classic, ensures that the focus will be on you and not your clothes.

#3. Get a haircut/trim a week before

If you get a haircut the week before your session it will look more like you than a fresh cut. Gives you the chance to get comfortable with the new style.

#4. Practice your smile in the mirror

Smiling is hard! Practicing your smile or poses feels weird at first, but when it comes to the day of the photo session you will feel relaxed and like second nature.

#5. Get some sleep and drink water

When we don’t get rest and enough water it shows on your face. So to make your skin glow, drink water!

#6 Get make up professionally done

Make-up artists know exactly what works to make you look like your best self! I have recommendations for some of the best.

#7 Relax

Take a deep breath and trust your photographer to do fun job of making you look amazing.

Need a photographer? Let me know how I can help you achieve your goals! Visit Jenaew.com to contact me.

XO

Jenae Weinbrenner

Compo beach days 2022 with Jenae Weinbrenner Westport, CT

Ella | senior session 2021

Fall and Holiday Sessions

A promise to love...over again

Sometimes you need reminding of how good love is. I love intimate weddings especially ones that I know how hard they worked to get to the altar. Jason and Faith found their way back to each other and this day was a magical day and a culmination of what it looks like when you fight for another person. It was truly one of my favorites.

Branding sessions with Jenae Weinbrenner

They say your face is your brand. I’m not sure who “they” is, but I do know when you put a face to your business you are making it personal and intimate and inviting.

I’ve been doing some branding sessions for women owned business and it has been so inspiring. I’ve met therapist, life coaches and hedge fund mangers. Such a wide range of incredible women bringing their dreams into the world.

This is Ebru. She is a marriage and family therapist and she needed updated images for her new website.

What happens when you can't say no

These days I don’t shoot as many weddings as I did a few years ago. I only shoot them for friends or if the bride REALLY does her best to convince me to be a part of the day. Well, this bride wrote me a three paragraph email about her story and why I needed to shoot her wedding. I was convinced. I’m so glad I did. Ali is magical. Wherever she is, with whoever she is with, she brings fun and excitement. I fell in love with the entire family and i’m not sure i’ve smiled more during a wedding. It was a fun celebration.

Mini-Session: Hill Family

I’ve been loving meeting so many new and wonderful families this season during my mini-sessions. This lovely family was absolutely so fun and full of spunk. Here’s a few from our session