It’s fall family portrait time! Last Saturday I met up with Melissa Jones and her clan for their family portraits. Melissa is also a Columbus photographer that I met when we were both at Columbus State a few years ago. Ever since, I’ve been in charge of doing Melissa’s family portraits. Back when we started this tradition, there were only two kids and since, her and Josh have added a third. This past March we did her spring family portraits downtown at Ft. Hayes. That day was cold and it had snowed the night before, this time it was just COLD! Melissa picked the location she wanted to use for a unique look and we ventured over to Dublin.

Melissa always does such a great job with her family’s wardrobe for their portraits. She came prepared with 2 different outfits for everyone and also a backup outfit for each. She booked her session weeks in advance so that she would have plenty of time to plan and shop. We only did a few photos before little Brody melted down and had enough. Funny thing is in March, Brody only made it through one clothing change and he was done, this time he made it to outfit number 2 but didn’t last for that round of photos. I love Melissa’s theory on her family photos – everyone doesn’t have to smile. Serious, happy, silly, crying, it doesn’t matter to her. She wants to capture all the emotions and moments of the day ~ not just the “pretty” ones.

Melissa had Kristie of Blushing Basics do her makeup before the session. Kristie did an amazing job! I didn’t really notice anything different with Melissa’s makeup when we were out on the shoot, but as soon as I came home and started working on the photos I noticed that her face looked absolutely flawless. When planning your family (or high school senior) photography I highly recommend having your makeup professionally done. By having your makeup and hair done on the day of the session, you’ll have less to worry about and guaranteed professional results.

Brody went missing in action on this shot ~ he was in no mood at this point of the morning!

You can tell Emma is a photographer’s daughter, she’s got her pouty look down.