Families have enjoyed the Sunflower trails all over Ontario with their cell phones, but have they thought about bringing a professional photographer with them? Here’s five reasons why you should book a Sunflower Session with me!

5. You get to go shopping for new outfits!

I’m having some new headshots done this weekend, and I had a great time shopping for a new outfit to represent myself. There’s something to be said for retail therapy, and when you buy something you can wear again and again that is “instagram worthy”, that’s a win all around.

When you book me for your Sunflower session (or any type of session), I will send you clothing recommendations and invite you to text me your outfit choices. I love making sure my clients look and feel their best for their portraits.

4. Make an evening of it.

A portrait session is a wonderful opportunity to treat your partner or family to a night out. After our session is done, head out to your favourite restaurant for a delicious meal (but bring a change of clothes for the kids), or perhaps head out for a movie.

3. Pamper yourself!

Getting ready for your photo session typically includes hair and makeup. Why not hire a professional makeup artist or have your hair done by your hairstylist. When you arrive at the sunflower field looking glam, people are going to notice, and you’re going to feel great.

2. It will be fun!

I promise that photo sessions with me will always be fun. Let the kids play, be silly, make funny faces, or run around to burn off some energy. If it’s just you and your partner, melt into their arms like it’s your first or second date. We’ll enjoy the sunset behind the flowers together and create beautiful images.

1. You will be in the photos.

This is the most important reason. Way too often, a parent is the “designated picture taker” when the family is together, and they are never in the photo. Hiring a professional photographer will change that. I will document that you exist, and you will have images to show your family as they grow, reminding everyone of that one point in time when the kids were little or when baby was still in the womb.

Summer and Fall are great times to book a portrait session, but there’s something magical about Sunflower Photo Sessions. To me, the flowers have personality, and each one is unique. Walking through the Sunflower trail as well as the wildflowers creates beautiful photo opportunities for all ages.

Ready to book?

Head on over to my Booking Page to choose your date.

The post Five reasons to book a Sunflower Session | Jennifer Gilbert Photography appeared first on Jennifer Gilbert Photography.

Your family portrait session with me is going to capture personality, love and connection. I know that it can be overwhelming to think about what to wear and how will everyone behave, but I am going to help with everything, even if someone has a meltdown. This article will cover some of the basics of family portrait preparation. When you book your session with me, I’ll go through each of these in more detail and be available for any questions you have.

Let’s get into it!

Prepare your family members.

• We’re going to spend time together while someone takes pictures of us playing and cuddling.
• We’re going to a super fun location where we can run around, play at the playground, etc.
• Afterwards, we will go for a special treat (no judgement from me on bribes!).
• We’re going to dress up in our best clothes.
• You’re going to love the photographer. She’s so much fun and likes to make lots of jokes.

From me, there’s no expectation for children to behave or smile on command. When children feel relaxed and safe, genuine expressions will happen naturally. This goes for the spouse or partner who may not be feeling the feels about the portrait session!

Side Note: Consider treating yourself to a new hair style and professional make! I recommend Adriana Walsh Makeup for a look that’s lovely and perfect for family portraits.

Fuel Up!

A well-rested and fed family makes everyone happy! Most of my portrait sessions happen during the evening hours, so try to have a low-key day and a good meal before everyone gets dressed.

If we’re booked for the morning, a hearty breakfast will help as well!

During the Session

We’re going to have fun! We’ll spend about an hour or so together, and I fully expect the children to run around, make funny faces or be silly. If they get a bit dirty, it’s fine; that’s what Photoshop is for! Here’s a few more tips:

• Bring some snacks. Children burn through calories quickly. A hangry child is an unhappy one!
• Bring extra clothing just in case of a clothing malfunction or an unfortunate spill.
• If it’s a bit chilly, bring a warm blanket and jackets.
• A special cuddle toy is always welcome.

We will take periodic breaks during the session. If someone is needs some time to relax, we’ll make sure they have it.

Let me take the lead.

We’re going to have fun. It’s ok to let your guard down and let everyone be who they are while making sure everyone is safe and always in our eye’s sight. We’re here to embrace who you are as a family, and with my guidance and prompts, we will do just that. Even if it feels chaotic in the moment, trust that we’ll capture the most heartfelt and timeless images.

Final Thoughts

Family portrait preparation isn’t about flawless outfits or perfectly posed smiles. It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable and supported. When kids feel relaxed, parents will too, and the result will be authentic family portraits for you to cherish for years to come.

The post Family Portrait Preparation Tips appeared first on Jennifer Gilbert Photography.

Make a Shortlist

Even better than searching on Google is referrals. Ask your friends about photographers they have used. You can pre-qualify photographers by asking some very simple questions:

1. Were they an Accredited Photographer? (More on this below)
2. Were they happy with your photographs?
3. Did they offer portrait printing, custom framing, Christmas cards, etc?
4. Overall, were you happy with their services and professionalism?
5. Would you use them again?

If you don’t know anyone who has used a photographer recently, then a Google search should give you some quick results. Do a simple search, for example “Tottenham Ontario Family Photographer”. Change the words as needed but be sure to include the location and the type of shoot you want.

Use Google and see how many times the same photographer appears on the first page. This means that their work is concentrated in that particular area and they should have a number of positive Google reviews. Skip over the sponsored ads. Those are businesses who paid to be at the top.

You’ve got some names, now what?

Visit their website and review their portfolio. While you’re looking at all the photographers’ websites, there will be some that make you go “wow, those are awesome” and some that will make you go “oh, that’s nice”. Concentrate on the “wow those are awesome” sites and add them to your short list.

Are they passing the vibe check with you? Does their website give you a sense of who they are? Do you feel like you could be friends with the photographer? Getting a good feeling will go a long way in the relationship/experience.

Are they a professional or a hobbyist?

Finally, check to see if the photographer is a member of a professional photography organization, such as the Professional Photographers of Canada or a similar association. Accredited members of the PPOC have been pre-qualified by a group of their peers and awarded a nationally recognized accreditation in their photography genre. This will help you find a true professional – someone who has extensively studied their craft; someone who will not disappoint you.

Style

I asked on my Facebook Page what people look for when they are researching photographers. The number one answer that came up was “their style”. What is style when it comes to photography? In my opinion, it’s how their work makes you feel. When looking at a photographer’s style, you have to look at all their pictures on their website and decide what resonates with you. Some factors to consider are posed or candid images, studio or outdoors looks and if the people in the photographs look stiff or at ease.

Reviewing Photo Quality

While you’re looking at their photographs, look past the “oh those are cute” feeling of the pictures, and look for things like sharpness, focus problems, lighting and colour (or black and white). Ask yourself these questions:

• Do the pictures look sharp?
• Are there any shadows on their face?
• Are the people squinting?
• Does the skin tone look correct?
• Does the background look natural (grass isn’t washed out or overly saturated, for example)?
• When looking at black and white photos, does the skin look muddy or is it creamy looking?
• Does the photographer have a good mix of images in their portfolio?

Have a notebook handy when reviewing portfolios to jot down answers to these questions. It will help you with your shortlist.

Finally, price.

I understand that budget can affect your decision, but consider that it should not be the primary factor. There is a lot of truth in the saying that “you get what you pay for”. Professional Photographers have spent years learning their craft, purchasing professional equipment, learning how to edit meticulously and have many business expenses the client doesn’t see. It is typical for clients to spend several hundred to several thousands on their portrait session, depending on what they want to purchase.

I would love to speak to you about your family portraits.
Visit me at https://jennifergilbert.ca/ and see if I pass your vibe check!

The post Choosing the Right Photographer | Tottenham Ontario Family Photographer appeared first on Jennifer Gilbert Photography.

Fall family portraits can be stunning thanks to the vibrant autumn colours and cozy atmosphere. In the New Tecumseth area, there are several amazing places such for family portrait sessions. These include Gibson Hills in Alliston, Ontario and the Trans Canada Trail in Tottenham, Ontario. Gibson Hills has a rugged, picturesque landscape with various hills and interesting vegetation. In the autumn season, the Sumac trees turn a vibrant red colour to provide a gorgeous background for your family.

Family Portraits are Important!

Hiring a family portrait photographer is an act of love. Documenting this beautiful time in your life helps you to preserve memories by freezing this moment in your life. Your children are only little for such a short time. When you hire Jennifer Gilbert Photography, you’re hiring someone to curate these memories each time. You will be documenting growth and change, year after year.

Fall family portraits also helps to strengthen bonds. You’re creating a shared experience with your partner and children, and by decorating your home with lovely wall art, you are creating a visual representation of togetherness and love. Family portraits also serve as a legacy. These are images that you can pass down to future generations. While sometimes memories fade, family portraits serve as a reminder for years to come. Photographs are also comforting, especially when a loved one has passed away or even if you’re having a bad day. Looking at a picture of your loved one will make you feel better and provide a sense of closeness.

Family portraits aren’t just pictures—they’re emotional anchors and visual legacies for years to come.

Hiring a professional photographer in New Tecumseth

Hiring a professional photographer in Tottenham, Ontario offers several advantages that can significantly elevate the quality and impact of your family photos. Choosing someone, like me, who is an Accredited Professional Photographer will ensure that the person you hire has in-depth knowledge of lighting, composition, camera settings, and post-processing. This technical skill ensures your photos are sharp, well-exposed, and visually compelling. I have additional tips on Choosing the Right Photographer in my blog. Remember, amateurs might get a few good shots, but professionals deliver an entire set of polished and gorgeous images.

Choosing the same photographer, year after year, helps to create a legacy for your family. It also makes the portrait session fun and enjoyable because the family has become friends with the photographer, and the children are very comfortable around them. Your family legacy photographer will know how to work efficiently with your family members, minimizing your time investment while maximizing results.

An experienced photographer will bring direction, helping with poses, angles, and concepts you may not have thought of; it’s their job to be creative! They can turn a basic setting into a compelling story. They show up prepared, respect your time and space, and know how to manage logistics smoothly. A professional family photographer that works with young children regularly will know how to engage with family members, making everyone feel at ease. This will encourage natural interactions and lead to more genuine and relaxed family photos that truly capture the essence of your family’s dynamics.

What to Wear

• Suggested Color Palette: Earth tones, burnt orange, mustard yellow, deep red, olive green, creams, browns.
• Coordinated but Not Matching: Mix textures (knits, denim, flannel) and patterns (subtle plaid or stripes).
• Layers: Scarves, vests, cardigans add depth and allow easy changes in look.

When working with Jennifer Gilbert Photography, I will help you every step of the way. You and your family will look stunning for your family portrait session.

The Experience

From picking out your outfits to choosing your portraits, I will help you every step of the way. The portrait session will be fun and relaxed, and you will LOVE the amazing images we create together. We will start with a conversation over the phone to make sure we’re a good fit for each other, then we will plan your dream portrait session. After our fun and relaxed session, I will meticulously review the images and present only the best ones to you during your in-home image reveal and ordering session. From there, we will choose your wall art and create stunning pieces that you, your friends and family will admire for years to come.

Who am I?

Since 2008, I have been working with families to curate gorgeous images for their homes. Family portraits is where my heart is, and the definition of ‘family’ is all-encompassing. Based in Tottenham, Ontario, I provide family portraits in Alliston, Tottenham, Beeton, Newmarket, Orangeville, Barrie and all places in between. I love long walks with my dog, travelling with my family, kayaking with my husband and have recently taken up camping (in a trailer)! I am excited to get to know you and create something that will make you smile every single day.

Using a mix of ambient and artificial light and outdoor settings, I strive to capture candid, joyful moments that reflect the unique personality of each family. My sessions are relaxed and fun, designed to put clients at ease and bring out genuine expressions. Many portrait sessions take place in scenic local spots like sunflower fields near Cookstown, Gibson Hills in Alliston or the Trans Canada Trail in Tottenham, providing beautiful backdrops for her storytelling style.

I have earned several Accreditations with the Professional Photographers of Canada (PPOC). My work has been accepted into the PPOC’s National Image Salon, and I currently serves as the Ontario Director on the PPOC’s National Board. I have also held leadership roles in the South Simcoe Arts Council and the local Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, I am a nationally certified image competition judge through the Professional Photographers of Canada.

Whether you’re looking to capture a special moment or update your family portraits, I offer a personalized and professional photography experience rooted in creativity and care.

Contact me today to start our journey together.

I look forward to hearing from you soon!

The post Fall Family Portraits – Tottenham Family Photographer appeared first on Jennifer Gilbert Photography.

Looking great for your new headshot is easy, and at Jennifer Gilbert Photography, your Tottenham and Alliston Headshot Photographer, we do everything to make things simple and easy for you. I will help you look your best and take all the worry out of your session.

• Not sure how to do your makeup? I’ve got you covered. 
• No idea what to wear? I’ll help you there too!

Here are a few tips when choosing your clothing and appearance:

Fashion yes:

• The layered look! Choose a blouse or shirt with jacket or sweater over top.
• Avoid wearing too much white; creams or beiges photograph better.
• Choose solid colours that compliment each other.
• Have your hair styled before your appointment.
• Make sure your face is free from facial hair, adjoining eyebrows or rogue nose/ear hairs.
• 3/4 length or long sleeve shirts are best.

Fashion faux pas:

• Please avoid striped and plaid shirts.
• No striped or plaid shirts, please.
• Did I mention no striped or plaid shirts?
• Avoid sleeveless shirts unless you are wearing a sweater over top.
• avoid clothing that has large writing or logos. A small logo is fine.

Accessories:

• Ties, Scarves, necklaces, earrings and bracelets – YES!
• Watches, FitBits or other wearable tech – NO!

Makeup – no need to worry! I’ve got you covered with Adriana Walsh Makeup. Her expertise will make sure you look and feel glamourous!

Arrange your outfits ahead of time, including accessories, and determine which outfit would be best. Choose an outfit that flatters your body type. If possible, have your hair styled before the session and wear makeup that is natural looking but slightly heavier than usual. Avoid sleeveless shirts which tend to not flatter adults, as well as clothing with a logo and/or bold patterns.

If you’re having trouble picking out an outfit, all you have to do is give me a call! I will help select something perfect for you.

Are you ready to book your new headshot with me, your Tottenham and Alliston Headshot Photographer? I would love to see you in my studio soon!

The post Look great for your new headshot – Tottenham and Alliston Headshot Photographer appeared first on Jennifer Gilbert Photography.

I first met Ashley at The Cedar Kitchen in Tottenham soon after we first moved here. We became friends, and she hired me for her daughter’s one year photos in early 2016, and since then, I have had the privilege of watching her family change and grow over these past 8 years. Thank you Ashley and Rob for always thinking of me first, and trusting me with these special memories. When we hit our ’10 year anniversary’, I’ll do a collage of the kids through the years!

Although Ashley and Rob have moved from the area, we happily meet up somewhere in between their new home and mine. This year, it was at the Guelph Arboretum, which is one of my favourite locations because of the tall grass, shady areas and something new to see at every turn. The kids all gave me a big hug when they arrived and listened to all my instructions, some of which I don’t think I actually gave! Regardless, we captured beautiful images for their family to cherish.

My favourite memory from this portrait session was when their oldest said “I don’t like family photos”.

Ya, ok kid. It looks like you had fun to me!

Thank you, Ashley and Rob, for another fabulous year! I look forward to seeing you again in 2024 and seeing how much the kids have grown! Will your youngest son still have those cute curls? I sure hope so!

Would you like to connect with me about this year’s family portraits? Head on over to my main website at https://jennifergilbert.ca/family-portraits!

The post Year After Year | Alliston Family Photography appeared first on Jennifer Gilbert Photography.

One of my last sessions of 2023 was for the McCabe Family. They are expecting a baby girl at the end of January, and I am so excited to meet her for her newborn portraits. When Cassie first contacted me about hiring me for a newborn session, she was unsure about doing a maternity session. We came up with the idea of it being a combined portrait session to include her boys, and it turned out perfectly! We all had so much fun together at the Tottenham Conservation Area.

Cassie and Morgan were very happy with their images. Because this is their last baby, they understood the importance of documenting this special time in their lives. They have received such an outpouring of love from their friends and family that has supplied them with lots of outfits and other baby needs for their daughter. After their newborn photography session, we will get together to create an album with images from both sessions that will be a beautiful keepsake for the rest of their lives. We will be doing an in-home, lifestyle newborn session which will include everyone, and hopefully their lovely dog also! I love being able to come to people’s homes to create beautiful, heirloom images.

It was such a pleasure to photograph this family who have deep roots in Tottenham! Thank you so much, McCabe Family, and we’ll see you soon!

If you would like to book at Tottenham Maternity Session, please contact me today!

PS: If you are in need of a lawyer, check out Morgan McCabe Law!

The post Tottenham Maternity Photography – Tottenham, Ontario appeared first on Jennifer Gilbert Photography.

1.    Let your child know ahead of time that you would like to take a picture.

Asking for consent is important. Additionally, it will avoid a meltdown at the time of the photo because it gives your child a bit of time to prepare. Not all children enjoy being photographed, and it’s important to respect their feelings.

2.    Use great light!

Check to see what time the sun is setting where you live. You can Google “sunset *location* *date*”. For where I live, the sun will set at 6:11 PM, therefore, I would aim to take pictures around 5:30 PM.

3.    Take the photos outside!

This goes hand in hand with using great light. Because of the time of day, the sun will be low in the sky thus creating beautiful light. Indoor lighting is horrendous if you do not have proper lighting. Find a shady spot and make sure your child’s face is nicely lit. You may need to turn them a bit but make sure the sun is not shining in their eyes.

4.    Strike a pose!

Here’s their big moment! Have them do a pose that maybe relates to their costume. Have them get into their character and let them be a little bit silly; candid images make for great photographs!

5.    Reward/Praise them!

Let them know they did a great job and you’re happy with the photo. This could help them be more accepting of the idea of being photographed in the future if they know that their parent enjoyed the experience also!

I hope that everyone has a safe and happy Halloween, and I hope that these Tips for a great Halloween Photo have helped you out. Feel free to join my Facebook Group, Moms of South Simcoe, and share your favourite image on our Photo Friday post!

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The first day of school may be quite the milestone in your home.  Whether it’s your child’s first day of preschool, kindergarten, high school or college/university, it will be an emotional day for all involved!

Being that it is such an important day, make sure you document the memory with photographs! Here are some great ideas for poses:

• Child ready for school with backpack on.
• Waiting for the bus.
• Walking to the school.
• Meeting friends at the school yard.
• You with your child, giving them a hug before they go in.

Whether or not they realize it now, your child will love you for it later in life (especially at their wedding or other life event!).  It’s a special memory that should be should never be forgotten.

Here’s a quick checklist to help you get ready:

• Are your batteries charged/fresh (if not rechargeable), or is your phone fully charged?
• Is your lens clean?
• Is your camera/phone working properly?
• Do you have space on your memory card or phone?
• Do you have tissues in your pocket, just in case you get a bit weepy?

Once you’ve tackled that list, here are some tips for a great picture:

• Find good and even light.  Avoid direct sunlight because it makes people squint. Utilize the shade under a tree if possible.
• Make funny faces or noises to get them to smile naturally.
• Try to take a picture when they’re not looking and seem to be pensive.  Those are great images showing your child’s inner personality.
• Even if they start crying, take a picture anyway.  It’s still a memory that can be beautifully remembered for years to come.

Finally, make sure you save that picture somewhere safe because you’ll be taking a Last Day of School picture in June too!  It’s great to see how much the kids will have changed over the school year! The example below is what I consider to be the penultimate First Day/Last Day photo of my daughter, now heading off to university!

I invite you to join my Facebook group – Moms of South Simcoe and post your first day of school photo! We will have a contest to see which one gets the most likes. The winner will receive a $25 coffee gift card for Starbucks, Second Cup or Tim Horton’s.

I wish all the best to a great start of the school year!

While you’re here, why not have a look around and enquire with me about Fall Family Portraits!

The post Tips for a great First Day of School Photo! appeared first on Jennifer Gilbert Photography.

New Tecumseth Public Library

All three libraries are offering free programs throughout the summer months. They include Pyjama Time, Take and Make Craft Kits, Baby Time and Lively Tales. Some of the programs are at one of our local parks and some are at the library themselves. You can check them all out on their website: https://ntpl.ca/for-kids/kids-programs-events/.

Dinoland Family Fun Centre

Who doesn’t love an indoor playground especially on a hot or rain day? Dinoland, located in Tottenham, has a 12,000 square foot play area with party rooms, lounge area and snack bar. Check out their website for the most up to date information as well as day camp and special event registration.

Tottenham Conservation Area

Nestled in our lovely little town is a wonderful conservation area with a campground and beach. Day Use is free if you’re a resident of New Tecumseth, and it’s a great way to cool off with a swim followed by a picnic. Personally, I love it as a back drop for Fall Family Photos!

On the east side of the park, the Trans Canada Trail starts at Mill Street and can be travelled all the way to Terra Cotta. While you’re on the trail, you can explore our Fairy Village, created by local Artist, Becky Crawford. She and her husband diligently take care of the Fairies and their Village so that all that visit enjoy their stay.

Of course, another fun activity for families is to book a family portrait session with me! But seriously, I really do my best to make it a fun and memorable experience for everyone. I would love to see you in front of my camera during the summer and fall months, and you can contact me at https://jennifergilbert.ca/contactform.

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