The Edwardsville Photographer

I have lived in Edwardsville, IL for years. Being a professional photographer I get to photograph so many parts of this beautiful city. We have everything from parks to trails. So many amazing restaurants and businesses. It so wonderful that we can just can drive to anything we need in 5 minutes, years ago this was not the case.

When you need a photographer, most people get on google and type photographer near me. So many photographers pop up even me, a photographer in Edwardsville. The results can be overwhelming especially if you do not know what you are looking for. I hopped on google the other day and did this. I was so surprised by the amount of photographers in the area. It is a lot.

When choosing a photographer, what do you look for? I am here to help you with that question. When I choose a photographer near Edwardsville for my family, I look for a list of things. I am here to fill you in on what to look for. I can make choosing a photographer easier for you!

Here is a list of what I look for when I choose a photographer.

1. Experience. How long the photographer has been in business.

2. Client reviews. Read reviews and see how their customer service goes as well as the experience others had.

3. Equipment. What type of camera do they have? Believe or not some photographers use iPhones to photograph clients.

4. Insurance. Do they have insurance in case anything were to happen?

5. Editing style. Do I like their editing style? Is the photographer’s editing consistent?

6. Price. Is the price within my budget?

Choosing the right photographer in Edwardsville can be easy if you know what questions to ask and requirements to look for. The next time you look up a photographer near me on google keep these questions in mind. You will definitely find the perfect professional photographer in Edwardsville for your family.

Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Newborn Photographer in Edwardsville

As a new parent, capturing those first few moments with your newborn baby is priceless. Finding the perfect newborn photographer in Edwardsville can help you preserve this precious time for a lifetime. But with so many photographers to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to find the best newborn photographer in the Edwardsville area for your family. From what to look for in a photographer to tips for a successful newborn photo session, I've got you covered.

First, it's important to consider the photographer's style and portfolio when choosing a newborn photographer. Every photographer has their unique style, and it's essential to find one that aligns with your vision. Take a look at their portfolio to get an idea of their style and see if it matches what you're looking for. Some photographers specialize in posed newborn portraits, while others focus on lifestyle photography that captures the natural interactions between you and your baby.

Another crucial factor to consider is the photographer's experience and expertise in working with newborns. Newborn photography requires a certain skill set and knowledge of how to handle and pose babies safely. Look for a photographer who has experience working with newborns and has training in newborn safety. You want to make sure that your baby is in good hands and that the photographer knows how to handle them with care during the photo session. By taking these factors into account, you can find the perfect newborn photographer in Edwardsville, IL to capture those precious moments with your little one.Once you've found the right photographer, there are a few tips to help ensure a successful newborn photo session. First, schedule the session within the first two weeks of your baby's life. During this time, babies are more likely to sleep for extended periods, making it easier to pose them. Additionally, try to keep your baby awake for a an hour before the session to help them fall asleep during the shoot.

Be sure to communicate with your photographer about your expectations and any specific shots you want to capture. You can also bring along any props or outfits you want to incorporate into the photos. Lastly, remember to be patient and flexible during the session. Newborns can be unpredictable, and it may take some time to get the perfect shot.

In conclusion, finding the perfect newborn photographer requires a bit of research and consideration. Look for a photographer with a style that aligns with your vision and has experience working with newborns. By following these tips, you can capture those precious moments with your little one and cherish them for a lifetime.

Safe and Cherished Moments: Newborn Photography Done Right

Newborn photography is an art form that captures the essence of a new life, providing precious memories that last a lifetime. While the process is beautiful, it is essential to ensure the safety and comfort of your little one throughout the session.

As a new mother, you may have concerns about the safety measures and expertise required to conduct a successful newborn photoshoot. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of hiring an experienced newborn photographer, address common concerns, and provide valuable tips for a safe and successful session. We will also introduce the Accredited Professional Newborn Photographers International (APNPI) organization as a resource for safety information.

The Importance of Experience in Newborn Photography

Hiring an experienced and well-trained newborn photographer is crucial to ensure the safety and comfort of your baby. Experience matters, as an expert in the field knows how to handle delicate newborns and can anticipate their needs during the session. Additionally, a seasoned photographer is knowledgeable about safety measures, including proper neck support, and can guide parents in preparing for a successful session.

Safety Measures During Newborn Photography Sessions

Common safety precautions taken during newborn photography sessions include:

Proper neck support: An experienced photographer understands the importance of neck support for newborns, as their neck muscles are not yet strong enough to hold up their heads. They will use positioning aids, such as pillows and bean bags, to ensure your baby's neck is fully supported during the session.

Sanitation and cleanliness: Your photographer should maintain a clean and sanitized studio environment, washing props and blankets after each session and using hand sanitizer before handling your baby.

Temperature control: To keep your baby comfortable, the studio should be warm and cozy, mimicking the environment they are used to.

Breaks and feeding: A professional photographer will be patient and allow for breaks, diaper changes, and feedings during the session, ensuring your baby is comfortable and content.

Role of Parents in Ensuring Newborn Safety

As a parent, you play a vital role in ensuring your baby's safety during the session. Be present and attentive throughout the shoot, communicating any concerns to the photographer. Additionally, feel free to ask questions about the photographer's experience, training, and safety procedures.

Common Concerns and Misconceptions

Some new mothers may have misconceptions about the safety of newborn photography, fearing that the poses may be harmful. However, an experienced photographer will prioritize your baby's safety, choosing poses that are natural and comfortable for your newborn.

Tips for a Safe and Successful Newborn Photography Session

Do your research: Choose a reputable photographer with a proven track record in newborn photography.

Communicate your concerns: Openly discuss any safety concerns with your photographer prior to the session.

Prepare your baby: Make sure your baby is well-fed and rested before the session to ensure they are comfortable and content.

Trust your instincts: If something feels off, voice your concerns and work with your photographer to find a solution.

Ana Brandt, an experienced newborn photographer, education with Ana Brandt is known around the world! She has been teaching worldwide for over 14 years and trains the next generation in best practices and newborn safety: "Newborns are the most delicate human beings in the world. They should be treated with the utmost care as if it were your own baby. Photographers should be trained in person on how to handle newborns by educators that are showing safe methods only."

Sources And More Information

APNPI: A Valuable Resource for Safety Information
The Accredited Professional Newborn Photographers International (APNPI) organization is a valuable resource for safety information and guidelines in newborn photography. By hiring a photographer who is a member of APNPI, you can trust that they adhere to high safety standards and have demonstrated their expertise in the field.

Ana Brandt Education: Ana Brandt has been a professional photographer for 23 years and has been teaching newborn photography for over 14 years. She has traveled to 40 countries and teaches online and in person. https://www.anabrandteducation.com/

Capturing Timeless Memories: Your Ultimate Guide to a Perfect Family Photo Session

A professional family photo session is an amazing opportunity to create lasting memories and beautiful keepsakes. Proper preparation is key to achieving the best results, and in this comprehensive guide, we'll provide tips to help your family look great and have a memorable experience. We'll cover choosing the right photographer, preparing for the session, and displaying your final photographs. We'll also touch on common mistakes to avoid during the session.

Choosing the Right Photographer

Finding the ideal photographer starts with researching local professionals who specialize in family photography. Look for someone whose style resonates with you and your family. To gauge their style, creativity, and technical skills, check each photographer's online portfolio. Client testimonials can offer valuable insight into their professionalism and customer service, so read reviews to help narrow down your choices. Finally, schedule a consultation with your top picks to discuss your expectations, pricing, and availability. Choose a photographer you feel comfortable with and who understands your vision for the session.

Planning Your Session

Once you've chosen a photographer, it's time to plan your session. Start by selecting a meaningful location that offers a visually appealing backdrop. Your photographer can help you choose the perfect spot if you're unsure. Schedule the session at a time of day when natural light is optimal, such as early morning or late afternoon. When it comes to attire, plan your family's outfits so they complement each other without being overly matchy. Select a color palette and choose outfits that reflect your family's personality and style. For a polished look, consider hiring a professional hair and makeup artist, or at the very least, ensure everyone's grooming is on point.

Preparing for the Session

To make the most of your family photo session, it's essential to be well-prepared. Ensure everyone gets a good night's sleep before the session to avoid tired expressions and uncooperative moods. Provide a light, non-messy meal for your family beforehand to prevent hunger-related distractions during the shoot. Remember to pack essentials like water, snacks, a change of clothes, and any props or accessories you'd like to include. Lastly, have a conversation with your family about the importance of the session and the need for cooperation, patience, and a positive attitude.

During the Session: Common Mistakes to Avoid

During the photo session, there are a few common mistakes to be mindful of. First, avoid over-posing, and instead trust your photographer's guidance for relaxed, candid shots that capture your family's true essence. Second, don't force smiles; encourage your family to relax and enjoy the session, as genuine smiles and laughter will result in more authentic and heartwarming images. Finally, refrain from micromanaging the photographer. They are the experts, and allowing them to guide the session will result in the best angles, poses, and lighting techniques to capture your family's unique dynamic.

Displaying and Enjoying Your Family Portraits

Once your photos are ready, it's time to display and enjoy the beautiful results of your family photo session. Consider showcasing your favorite images as framed prints, canvas wraps, or metal prints, creating a stunning statement piece in your home. Another option is to compile a high-quality, custom-designed album that preserves your memories and can be passed down through generations. Sharing your family portraits with loved ones is a great way to spread the joy, so gift smaller prints or photo products such as calendars or photo books. Additionally, you can share your favorite images on social media or use digital photo frames to regularly enjoy and celebrate your captured memories.

Conclusion

A professional family photo session can be a fun and memorable experience with the right preparation. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you'll ensure your family looks its best and creates images you'll cherish for a lifetime. With a skilled photographer and thoughtful planning, you'll be well on your way to capturing timeless memories that will be enjoyed for generations to come.

I'm Christine, the photographer.

Hi! I am Christine the owner and photographer of Conner James Photography Inc. I figured I would hop on here and take the time to introduce myself and tell you some interesting things about my business. I specialize in newborn and family photography. I absolutely love my job and meeting new families! I am a Edwardsville newborn photographer. I am located in Glen Carbon, Illinois.

I have been in business for 11 years. I have photographed over 1000 newborns and counting. I have a ton of experience working with newborns. I have photographed healthy babies and babies who needed a little bit more help. I am newborn certified in posing and safety! Safety is my number one priority always! I always stay up to date on newborn safety!

Photography education is important as well. I stay up to date on my education. Even though it’s been 11 years I still continue to learn and grow. I am constantly trying to learn new things to help my business. I am part of multiple photography education sites. I attend multiple photography summits and workshops. This year I even did 1:1 mentoring with Ana Brandt in my studio! Ana Brandt is the newborn industry standard for newborn photography education. She has been a newborn educator for over 20 years. She teaches all over the world. She has taught in 86 countries and is a celebrity newborn photographer as well.

My newborn sessions are beautiful. When you book a newborn session with me you get access to all my wonderful props. I have a lot of props! You also get digital backdrops! I offer something different than most photographers. I offer digital newborn composites! I can take a newborn posed in a safe pose and using photoshop, I place the newborn into a digital backdrop. The baby is safe at all times! My digital composites are very very popular with my clients.

I offer two newborn session types. I have a mini newborn session and a full newborn session. A mini newborn session is just the baby being photographed. The full newborn session is the baby being photographed and immediately family too. My most popular session is the full newborn session.

My newborn sessions includes a free maternity mini session! I have this promotion going on now. I would book soon to ensure you get a free session! My free maternity mini sessions are great. They make moms feel & look amazing. Whether it is your first baby or last, it’s definitely a must for all moms!

When using Conner James Photography for your photography needs, you can save money and actually earn free sessions! I have a referral program! For each friend or family member your refer, and they book with me, you get a $50.00 credit added to your account. You can use each $50.00 credit as you get it, or you can save them all and use all the credits at once for a free session.

I am so excited to meet you and capture memories for you! If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. You can email, call or text.

Golden hour is the most important hour!

If you have ever booked a session outside with any photographer, that photographer has probably mentioned golden hour. Ever wonder why we say that? Golden hour is the hour before the sun is about to go down. This is the prefect time to shoot a session outside in my opinion.The sunlight is nice and even.

Photographing outside offers a variety of backgrounds and a variety of issues. When shooting outside a photographer needs to do so many technical things to make your photograph the best it can possibly be. From poses to the direction of light to camera settings a lot of things come into play. Please think about that next time you hire a professional family photographer like me! Let’s talk about a few things!

Lighting is very important to a photograph. It can make or break that photo. If your lighting is too harsh, it gives your clients red looking eyes almost to the point of using a flash. It also leaves very dark and harsh shadows too. Eww. By having that nice even lighting you don’t have to worry about the harsh light, and how to get around it.

Posing is very important as well. I pose my subjects with the sun to their back. This way the harsh sunlight isn’t in their eyes causing them to squint. There are some cases when I change it up and pose front facing. I do this just before the sun will go down or if I am shooting in the shade. Shooting in the shade is always great. This makes posing easier as most of the time the lighting is great and soft.

Camera settings are very important. They can make the photos or break the photos as well. Believe or not, it is easy to mess up your settings. This is why hiring a professional photographer is always best. They know the light. They know their camera and which settings to use in each situation. Each situation is completely different, we do more than push a button.

Sunsets are always beautiful in photos. Shooting in golden hour, you usually get those amazing sunsets. You can also get the warm glow in the background of the photo that the sun provides. You also can get some amazing sun rays or light leaks too.

All these things help to make the perfect photograph that you see. Next time your photographer suggests golden hour photos, you will know that photographer wants you to have the best images possible for your family.

Tips for booking and planning sessions.

Time for a new blog post. I wanted to hop on here and talk about a few things! Let’s talk about some tips for sessions. Tips for booking sessions and tips to help your session run smoothly. We could always use some tips to help out and make things easier. I know I sure could!

When you book a session, if you are me, as a mom, my head starts spinning. I start to think about what type of session I need, which date and time and clothing choices. Oh, what are the going wear? Will the kids behave? I am thinking about everything as a mom. I know I could definitely use some tips to help me prepare.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for booking.

1. I recommend booking your session in advance. By booking in advance you can save money, ensure you have a session spot, and help you when scheduling the prefect time for you and your family.

2. Think about which days and times you have available to schedule a session. Make sure on the day you choose that you do not have a bunch of other things planned for that day. You don’t want to rush to getting to and from the session.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for the session.

1. Always schedule out in advance the directions and see if your session takes place during traffic busy times. This way you can plan to leave earlier if it’s rush hour.

2. Give your self and your family enough time to get ready. I say as a good rule of thumb to give each person at least 20 minutes of getting ready time.

3. Have clothes, shoes, jewelry, and possibly coats out the night before ready to go to make things even easier.

4. If you have a diaper bag, pack it the night before! Don’t forget to include water and snacks for the little kids.

5. Let the photographer know ahead of time what makes your little ones smile.

6. Relax. If you are relaxed then the kids will relax. You got this!

Every family deserves those beautiful photographs for their family. I love being able to watch families grow, it’s the best part of my job. I am so happy that I am able to meet new families each year, I am definitely a people person! I hope this blog helps you have a great session!

Behind the scenes with CJP Inc.

Good morning! What a week! Whew! It has been busy. I have been shooting, editing, and doing some behind the scenes things. The life of a photographer never stops, but I love it! I was asked to show some behind the scenes things so I want to hop on here, and show you.

I’ve been a professional newborn photographer for 11 years, will be 12 in December! I absolutely love what I do. I love being able to meet new families, being apart of their journey, and watching them grow. I adore watching little ones grow and seeing their personalities shine through. It is truly amazing.

Being a Edwardsville Illinois photographer, I get to meet kids of all ages. I photograph families with older children and young children. I specialize in family photography as well! I enjoy photographing families and having those interactions. Seeing the family connection, watching the emotions grow, and the love. Showing this in my work is very important to me.

Whether I am shooting outdoors or in studio, I try to have my assistant take behind the scenes photos so you can see what I do. Not all the time do I have an assistant, but when she is there I make sure to have her be on her game to get the shots.

I tend to edit true to color, as it is my style. I love color. I love black and white photos too but color for me, is my personal preference. I have a in home studio. My studio is filled with props and backdrops. I also off digital backdrops as well. But we will save that for another post.

Here are some behind the scene photos from various sessions. I am so happy I can show you photos of me doing what I love!

Spring is almost here and a few updates.

Hi Y’all. I am here again to talk about what all is going on with Conner James Photography. Spring is coming and I am currently booking up. If you needed a session I would book soon. Whether you need an outdoor session or studio session, spots are moving fast.

March is almost fully booked. So booked that I may just go ahead and close out booking for March. This is your heads up if you need it. A new idea that I would love to do is Mini Sessions. I will be using a white backdrop and keeping things very simple in term of props. My focus would be to get updated portraits of clients at an affordable price. I am really excited to be offering these!!

I am learning new things!! So with being in business brings new growth and education! I am currently in a AI workshop to broaden my horizons with learning this new technology and how it can be implemented with my photography. I am also being 1:1 mentored this month by another photographer! Always be learning and growing is my motto.

On a personal note, I am going on vacation the last week of February. We are going on a family cruise to Cozumel Mexico! We are a family of five, so to make this a more affordable trip we are driving down to the port in Texas. Also this was even more affordable because the cruise is in the off season and kids sail free! I am a big fan of cruises. This will be my second cruise to Mexico. I will be checking my messages once daily on the cruise.

Let’s talk family sessions! I specialize in family sessions! I am booking for them currently. I don’t know if you know this but April & May are the queens of family sessions. My evening outside family sessions spots book up quickly. I am offering two session types for families this year. First up is Spring sessions. Spring sessions are cheaper and shorter than a family session and have less digital images included in the session. A family session which is longer at 45 minutes to an hour, includes more images and more areas for us to use during the session. I love shooting family sessions! They are my jam!

This year I will be releasing new mini sessions! I wanted to change things up and offer some new things. Change is good. I will be releasing the new mini sessions in my email newsletter. Keep a look out for them! One of these mini sessions I will be offering all year long because I already love it so much!

I am always curious to see who reads my blogs I post. I write so many, but I feel like sometimes they get overlooked. It’s easy as we all can get busy! I am going to do a secret $50.00 off credit to those who mention this secret blog code. The code is secret blog! I will give this code to only one person. Email me with the code before booking. Code may be used by the time you email so hurry and email/book your session!

Thank you for hang out here with me today. Have a great week!

5 ways to save money with Conner James Photography.

Hey, Hey it is blog writing time today. I thought I would write about saving some money. As a business owner, inflation sucks. There I said it. As a consumer, inflation sucks. I know I am always telling my family to try to save money and shop smarter. During these times we have to. Have you seen the price of eggs? Wow!

We need to save money, but also we still want be able to do the things we want. You can still spend money. All it takes is being a little smarter with money. We all want photos. We need photos of our family. Memories do not stop just because we do not have money. If anything over the last few years we have learned that photos are very important. I am sure you have heard the saying. “You never know how important a photo can be until it is all you have left.” For me, this statement rings very true. I cherish the photos of my son, Conner very much.

In my family there are five of us. Six of us if you include our dog, Buddy, which I do. Lol. When having a big family things get expensive fast. I know you feel it too. I have been shopping smart and with more intention than ever. So if I see a bargain or sale. I’m on it! I have been posting sales and promotions since November last year. If you have been paying attention, you may have already scored some big savings! This is great! If you haven’t then start reading to save some money for your beautiful family!

5 ways to save money with Conner James Photography Edwardsville Professional Photographer!

One. Referrals! We have recently started a referral program. Refer a friend or family member and you will receive a $50.00 credit! The credit can be used to save money off of sessions! You can use the credit one at a time or save them up and use all at once for a FREE session. Everyone has friends and family. Why not refer them? You can save money and they can start saving money. It is a win win for everyone. Another way you can refer is by commenting on the post on Facebook and Instagram when they ask for photographer recommendations. Just have them mention your name when they book, and you can earn credits!

Two. Black Friday Sales. In November I have my Black Friday sales. This sale is ONE day only. The sales are amazing and you can save ALOT of money. It is my biggest sale of the year.

Three. Promotions. I tend to run promotions. The promos don’t last forever so when you see them I would book them! I personally love promotions. Right now I have book a newborn session and receive a free maternity mini session. Another promo I have going is purchase a detailed 1st birthday session and receive a free milestone session.

Four. This year I added a new way to save. My customer Thank you sale. I like to thank my clients. This year I offered $100.00 off a session. This sale will change every year, will not be as big of a sale the years to come. This sale can not be combine with any other promotions or sales but is an amazing deal! Essentially it is a surprise sale that I wanted to do. This year I celebrated 11 years in business!

Five. Model calls. Sometimes throughout the year I offer model calls. I do because I want to try something new or test something out to see if I like it. These model calls book up so fast! If you see it, jump on it quick.

There are so many ways you could be saving so much money and/or potentially be earning free sessions with Conner James Photography. Yes, your memories are priceless. But saving your hard earned money is important too.