Why Camp North End is the Perfect Spot for Holiday Family Photos in Charlotte

Camp North End

Camp North End is still a secret when it comes to photography locations. Most of the time, I am the only one there. I especially love it around Christmas time, because they have the cutest ice skating rink, frosted trees, murals, yet, still of the backdrops that make photos still feel timeless.

I have a routine. From the meeting spot, up the stairs, the broiler yard and making my way back to the over grown train tracks at the end of the road.

This is the type of location that you’ll want the full hour for. It requires some walking, some exploring, and some extra time. This is great for kids who need constant movement. I love to point out things to look for- like the vintage campers or the snow globes, but each family session takes on its own personality. There are so many backdrops and things are always changing with new spots to explore.

WHAT TO WEAR

Because the backdrops are sop busy, I suggest the light neutral colors so you will pop off and stand out from the background. Patterns and colors can over power the image and we may lose the star of the photo- your family.

WHAT TO DO IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA

Like all of my sessions, I will prompt and cue like a movie and let the rest unfold naturally. I love using the location and incorporating it into your story.

What’s included

For 1 hour story sessions, you will get my full attention on your family for the hour (or if we need a little more) and all of my directing and guiding (plus all the prep before- i.e. style guides, etc).. Shots of the family, the kids, and yes, the parents. The details, the different moods, and all the moments you’ll miss one day.

If you’re thinking, “my kids will not last that long,”.. that’s because you are picturing it all wrong. I do not expect kids to sit still and smile, these are fully immersive sessions that create an adventure for your family to go on. A lot of times it can take 15 mins for a child to warm up. It takes some time to really feel like the pressure of looking perfect is off and actually enjoying your family- they way they hold you tight when nervous, the way you comfort them, the way your husband looks at you, the way they authentically smile (even if I’m cuing them to yell “poopy butt”), the way you can still carry them or fly them or be silly… so much to capture that WILL change in a year- maybe even tomorrow? Cutting teeth, loosing teeth, getting glasses, getting contacts, wearing diapers, wearing pull-ups, etc. SO much change. So I want to pause and capture everything I can about this season.

*Disclaimer- I will not push your child for 1 hour in full on melt-down mode. I can typically gauge a child and offer advice on how to redirect (check out this post on how to prep your kids for photos) and if we’ve shot 30mins and your child just can’t hang.. I pretty much have what I need to make a great gallery. The hour + is available to take advantage of but doesn’t HAVE to be used.

AFTER THE SESSION

Photo Delivery

Photos are delivered in an online gallery for download 2-3 weeks after our session. Need them sooner? Add on the 48-hr rush option! This moves your photos to the front of my workflow and has them back to you within 48 hrs.