Don't say cheese

We often think we need a better camera to take better pictures but very often that is not the case. As a professional photographer you know that your best tools are the ones you’re the most familiar with. So, if the only camera you have is the one on your phone, get to know all their features and get the best out of it.

Aside from the equipment you use there are plenty of other factors that contribute to a nice picture so I'll share my top 5 tips:

Choose the time of day wisely: 

Harsh light provides harsh lines and shadows on people's faces. Of course, that young, soft skin of our kids is beautiful and you might think it's more forgiving but there are other reasons you may want to avoid it. It is very simply unpleasant to have your picture taken when the sun is shining right at you. It’s no different for the little ones. More often than not you'll have kids squinting in your pictures or their eyes closed altogether. To avoid those harsh shadows and eyes shut simply choose to take pictures early in the morning or late in the evening. We like to call them the golden hours. Shortly after the sunrise or just before the sunset the sun sits at its lowest point in the sky. Thus creating softer light and as a bonus you get those beautiful colours.

I know what you’re thinking. At that time you’re likely making your kids breakfast or they are enjoying their baths so there's no way that time of day suits your needs. This next tip is for you!

Shade and cloudy is your best friend:

It's a bride's nightmare when clouds roll over her perfect day! But In the eye of a photographer it is often preferred. Clouds are nature's own scrim. It’s an equipment us photographers sometimes use to diffuse light. It really helps with the harsh sunlight. If there are no clouds, find a nice open shady spot. But watch out for those sun spots seeping through the branches. You don't want little speckles across your images.

Even backgrounds

You’re out on a perfect day at the perfect time but wished you were able to get that blurry background?  Everyone loves that shallow depth of field and often you can't achieve this without proper equipment however one of the reasons we like this so much is because the subject matter stands out. You can simply choose to take pictures in front of a lesser busier background. At the beach, or in the park are great options but it can also be that green wall in your garden. 

Don't say ‘“cheeeese”

Probably one of my favourite tips because it's the one everyone is always so tempted to do. Usually when saying cheese you get that typical smile where you child forcefully clenches their top and bottom teeth together resulting in a not so natural smile. Instead ask them to say silly words like:stinky undies, smelly cheese, etc. Basically any word that would prompt them to laugh or smile naturally.

Photography can be fun

Last but not least. Taking beautiful pictures doesn't mean they have to be posed and calculated. The candid ones are usually what captures your child's character so don't be afraid to let siblings tickle each other, dance and even ask them about their favourite movie. 

When they talk about something they love or do something that amuses them, you're bound to get lots of beautiful smiles.

Top 5 Settling Techniques for a Newborn

Your new little person has arrived safely. You have left hospital where they were sleeping perfectly, and now you cannot get them to sleep at home. I have been there. With my firstborn, I remember days and days of worrying that he would not sleep, spending hours settling him only to have him wake up 20 minutes later.

These are the five techniques that made the biggest difference for me.

Make Sure They Have Had a Really Good Feed

When you are breastfeeding, it is hard to know when your baby has had enough. A warm, cosy baby is much more likely to fall asleep mid-feed, which means they wake up hungry 20 minutes later and you are back to square one.

I had a few tricks that helped me keep feeds going longer. I used to take their clothes off before feeding so they were not too warm and comfortable. I kept the room a little cooler than usual. And I tickled their feet while they fed. All of these things helped keep them awake long enough to get a full feed, which meant longer sleeps afterwards.

Burp Them Properly

I remember thinking in the early days that if they had not burped after a few seconds, they were not going to. I was wrong. It can take a few minutes, and the technique matters. I found holding them upright on my shoulder and patting their back worked best for me. My sister used to lie her babies across her knees and pat. Every baby is different, so try a few positions until you find what works for yours.

A baby with trapped wind is not going to settle no matter what else you do, so this step is worth the patience.

Wrapping is Worth the Effort

My babies all had a strong startle reflex. Every time they stirred, they would startle themselves awake, which meant nobody was getting any sleep. I quickly worked out that wrapping firmly made a huge difference.

There are lots of wrapping techniques, so find the one that is easiest for you. The key is to wrap firmly enough that they cannot wriggle free too easily. If you have a summer baby, use a lighter wrap so they do not overheat. These days there are also some great sleeping bags that do the same job without the wrapping.

Do Not Keep the House Too Quiet

This is one of the best things I did. I never closed the baby's door, and I always had the radio or TV playing in the background. My babies got used to falling asleep with normal household noise around them, which meant they were far less likely to wake at a sudden sound.

I had a friend who insisted on total silence when her kids were sleeping. She would usher us into the backyard, we had to whisper, and she had signs all over her front door not to ring the doorbell. Her babies never slept well. I think there is a lesson in that.

The bonus of background noise is that my kids used to wake up happy. I could hear them chatting in their cots, and I did not need to rush in the second they stirred.

The "If All Else Fails" Option

Some days, nothing works. You have fed them, burped them, wrapped them, and they are still not sleeping. On those days, I used to put them in the car and go for a drive. There are very few babies who are not settled by the movement and the noise of a car. It can guarantee a decent sleep and saves you from dealing with an overtired baby for the rest of the day.

No guilt required. Whatever gets your baby to sleep is the right answer.

Kate x

Easy Meals for Fussy Toddlers: Quick, Healthy Recipes You Can Make Together

If you have a fussy toddler, you already know the drill. You spend time cooking something nutritious, put it in front of them, and they look at you like you have just served them a plate of dirt. It is exhausting.

After three kids of my own and years of chatting with mums at sessions, I have learned that most toddlers fall into one of three categories: the one who eats everything (lucky you), the one who refuses anything green, and the one who will only eat plain food. If yours is in category two or three, these tips and recipes might help.

Give Them a Choice

One of the simplest things you can do is let your toddler choose. Not from the entire fridge, but from three options you have already decided on. "What does your tummy feel like for dinner? We have this, this or this." It gives them a sense of independence and makes them more likely to actually eat what ends up on the plate.

Cook Together

Meals you make together are not just about food. They are bonding time, education and conversation all rolled into one. My kids always gave me one-word answers about their day at childcare, but put them next to me at the kitchen bench with something to stir or mash and suddenly they would not stop talking. It breaks down that barrier because they are focused on spending time with you rather than running off to the next toy.

Use Their Interests

Whatever your child is obsessed with right now, use it. Monster trucks, unicorns, Bluey, dinosaurs. Unicorn pancakes with a banana horn. Dinosaur toast with vegetable claws. If it is too fiddly to make from food, grab a cheap plastic toy from the party section and pop it on the plate. It sounds silly but it works.

Three Quick Recipes to Try

Banana Pancakes

Ingredients: 

1 x Ripe Banana

1 x Egg 

2 x Table spoon Self raising flour

Mash the banana until smooth, whisk in the egg and flour, let it sit for five minutes, then cook spoonfuls in a non-stick pan over medium heat for one to two minutes each side. Done. Fruit disguised as a treat.

Pirate Ship Tacos

Ingredients: 

Old El Paso - Soft Tortilla bowl

500g x Mince

1 x Shredded Cheese bag.

2x Tomatoes 

1x Iceberg lettuce

1 x taco seasoning 

1 x pack of little flags ( pirate flags, princess flags - relate to your toddlers interest - usually found in party or baking section at the grocery store.) 

Set up five small bowls and get your toddler to separate the ingredients into each one. It will be messy, but that is half the fun. Let them build their own taco, top it with a little flag from the party section at the shops, and call it a pirate ship. Make one for yourself too.

Dippy Eggs and Soldiers

Ingredients: 

1 x Egg ( per child) 

2 x toast.

Boil the eggs for three to four minutes for a runny yolk. Toast the bread, cut it into long strips and let your toddler dip away. My grandma called them dunking soldiers and it is still one of the simplest meals that kids love.

You Are Doing a Great Job

Feeding a fussy toddler is one of the most frustrating parts of parenting. But if they are fed, happy and loved, you are nailing it. Try one of these this week and see how you go.

Kate x

How to Create "Me Time" When You're a Busy Mum

If you are anything like me, you have probably forgotten what it feels like to do something just for yourself. Between school runs, work, cooking, cleaning and making sure everyone else is happy, your own needs end up at the very bottom of the list. And at some point, you stop noticing they are even there.

I get it. I have three kids, and there were years where I could not tell you the last time I sat down with a book or went for a walk on my own. Everything revolved around everyone else. But here is what I have learned: you cannot pour from an empty cup, and taking time for yourself is not selfish. It is necessary.

Start with 30 Minutes a Day

That is it. Thirty minutes. Read a book. Go for a walk. Meet a friend for coffee. Have a nap. Yes, I said it. A nap. Whatever you want to do with those 30 minutes is entirely up to you.

This might mean the laundry does not get folded straight away. The groceries might wait an extra hour. But does it affect anyone? Does it hurt anyone? Not at all. If your baby is safe, fed and loved, you are doing your job.

This does mean working as a team with your partner. And for the record, this is not just about mums. Dads need a break too. Working together on this can genuinely change the dynamic at home.

Meal Prep to Buy Yourself Time

Dinner is one of the biggest time drains. You collect the kids, get home, cook, feed everyone, do bath time, story time, bedtime, then clean the kitchen. By the time you sit down, it is your bedtime too.

Meal prep changes this. Pick a day, maybe Sunday, and cook a few meals for the week. Get the kids involved, or do it with your partner or a friend. Pop the meals in the freezer and you have just bought yourself time during the week. Time to spend with the kids without rushing, time for yourself, or time to just sit on the couch with your family and do absolutely nothing.

Get the Kids Involved in the Housework

The laundry is never going to go away, so you might as well make it work for you. Depending on how old your kids are, turn it into a game. Little ones can match sock colours and line them up on the couch. It is colour practice for toddlers and a bit of bonding time for you.

Toy clean-up works the same way. Create a chart or a whiteboard. If your child picks up all their toys and puts them back in the right spots, they get a mark. Five days in a row and they earn something special on Saturday. A matchbox car, a trip to their favourite park, their favourite dinner, or movie night with popcorn. Positive reinforcement helps them build good habits and gives you a bit of breathing room in your routine.

You Matter Too

There will always be a way to create more time in your day if you look for it. And there is no need to feel guilty about taking it. You are human. You matter. And you are doing a great job.

Kate x

Postnatal Depression and Anxiety: One Mum's Story

Why is this something we never talk about? The number of women that go through it, and you only hear about it after you reluctantly say something to a friend, or even a stranger. And often after the worst of it has passed and you are coming out the other side.

I remember finding out I was pregnant with my second, and if I am completely honest, I felt so much guilt because I was not happy to be pregnant. I wondered if I had made a mistake, and it felt awful inside that I might not actually want my baby.

I then started to get really sick. I was three months pregnant and was skin and bone as they investigated what was wrong with me. In the end, I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease. My feelings totally flipped around. I realised how much I wanted my baby. I was terrified about whether he would be okay. I was told to take medications that can cause birth defects, but was informed by my doctors that if I did not get better and look after myself, it would be worse for my unborn child.

In the end, I gave birth to a perfectly healthy baby boy. I was loving every moment. I had forgotten the newborn touch and smell. I was taking everything in and able to enjoy it the second time around, as I was not filled with the fear and unknown of a first-time mum. But as the months went by, I found myself getting lost in dark thoughts. I would sit in my room feeding and just crying, and not sure why. I never spoke to anyone about how I felt and was confused as to why I felt like I did.

I found myself going to the feeding clinics at the community centre, even though I had no issues feeding. I would find myself crying when the community nurse told me I was doing a great job. I guess this raised some alarm bells with her, so she asked me to come in for an appointment where they get you to answer a questionnaire. I do not think I was completely honest in it, but even still, I was recording levels of depression.

One night, confused and feeling alone and unable to sleep, I took a whole sleeve of anti-anxiety medication. I did not have the intention of self-harm but just wanted to sleep. However, when I look back, I did also know that what I was doing was not good.

I then decided that to get better, I had to talk. I told my psychologist, who I had started seeing towards the end of my pregnancy, and I had never talked to her about my feelings. I had previously only spoken about the children and dealing with trivial daily things. I had the community nurse ring my husband and GP, telling them what was going on, so I could no longer hide it. And had I not started to open up, the healing process may never have started.

It is so important to know that you are not alone. You are never alone. Even if you do not want to seek help from those you are close to, seek it from other places such as helplines and medical practitioners.

Sarah, mum to two boys, Harrison and Hugo

If you think this could be you, please reach out for support.

Lifeline (24 hours, 7 days) 13 11 14 www.lifeline.org.au

PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) 1300 726 306 Monday to Friday 9am – 7.30pm, Saturday 9am – 4pm (AEST/AEDT) www.panda.org.au

Healthdirect Mental Health Helplines www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-helplines

How family photos on the wall boost your kids' self esteem

I talk a lot about why family photos matter, but this one always surprises people.

There's actual research behind the idea that displaying family photos at home can boost your kids' confidence. A 1975 study by Tulane University looked at a group of fourth graders in Tennessee who had low self esteem scores. Over five weeks, the kids were given Polaroid cameras and asked to photograph themselves in different poses and emotions. They created scrapbooks from the photos each week. By the end of the study, those kids showed a 37% increase in self esteem, just from regularly seeing images of themselves.

That's not a small number.

It's about belonging

Psychologist David Krauss has studied the connection between family photos and how children see themselves. He says that when a child sees a family portrait displayed in the home, it creates a visible sense of the family unit. The child can physically see that they belong to something. That they're a valued part of it.

Vancouver-based psychologist Judy Weiser takes it further. She says family photos help children learn who they are and where they fit. They learn about their own family's story and their place in it. It helps them feel safe.

I see this in my own studio all the time. When families come back for their ordering session and their kids see themselves up on the big screen, their faces light up. They point at themselves. They laugh at their siblings. They see their family and they see themselves in it.

The problem with keeping photos on your phone

Here's where most families are getting it wrong. We take more photos than ever, but they live on our phones. Your kids don't scroll through your camera roll. They don't see those photos unless you show them.

Krauss makes the point that a photo on the wall, one that a child walks past every single day without having to turn on a device or click through a folder, has a completely different impact. It's just there. It's permanent. It says "you matter enough to be on this wall."

When your child sees their face displayed in your home, in a spot where everyone who visits can see it, it tells them something. It tells them they're important. That they belong. That you're proud of them.

It's one of the simplest things you can do

As parents we pour so much energy into giving our kids every advantage. We sign them up for tutoring and sport and music. We worry about their friendships and their screen time and whether they're eating enough vegetables.

But something as simple as putting a photo of your family on the wall, where your kids can see it every day, can genuinely make a difference to how they feel about themselves.

I've been photographing families for over 23 years, and this is the thing I wish more parents understood. The photos aren't just for you. They're for your kids too.

How to get dad to enjoy a family photo session

I can't tell you how often I get dads arriving for a session with a frown on their face, totally stressed about what's about to happen.

No one really loves having their photo taken, but dads in particular seem to dread it the most. The good news is there are some easy things you can do to make the whole experience something he actually enjoys. Maybe even enough that next time you suggest updating the family portraits, he's happy to go.

1. Don't fuss too much over outfits

As mums, we tend to overanalyse what everyone is going to wear. But for dads, being told what to put on is one of the worst parts of the whole thing.

My advice is to pick a colour. It can be grey, blue, black, white. Whatever suits your family best. Then find tops that roughly coordinate around that choice. The bottoms don't matter as much. Jeans work well, or a simple skirt for you, but don't overthink it.

Most importantly, pick something dad is going to feel comfortable in. There is nothing worse than seeing a dad arrive in a button-up shirt and tie when I can tell he's the kind of guy who normally walks around in shorts and thongs. Pick something that reflects him.

This goes for the kids too. So many mums want to dress their kids up in that outfit they don't actually like, and then the kids look miserable the whole session.

2. Reassure him it won't take long

I often get people really focused on how long the session is going to go for. My advice is don't pick your photographer based on the number of hours they offer. Pick them based on the style of their photography.

My sessions never go over an hour. I find with young kids they've had enough after 30 to 40 minutes, and the dads have definitely had enough by then too.

You don't need hours to get great photos. You just need a photographer who can connect with your kids and capture real moments with them.

Check with your photographer beforehand how long the session will take and give dad a rough idea so he knows what to expect. It's always easier for a guy to have a timeframe rather than getting there and finding out he's going to be there for hours.

3. Relax and let your kids have fun

Once you're at the session, relax and let your kids be themselves. The real smiles that come from kids bouncing around and having fun are the ones that make the best photos. Dads love watching the kids enjoy themselves and having a joke with them.

When dad looks back at the photos and sees real smiles from real moments with his kids, he'll treasure those memories. And next time you ask him to come in for a session, he won't hesitate.

4. Talk to him about what you're thinking of buying

So often mums are the decision makers at home, but I really think it's important to involve dad in the process.

Have a look around your home and think about where you'd like to put something. Then have a chat with him about the kind of size he likes. If you like the idea of an album, look at the different options together and make sure there's something that suits you both.

Sometimes I get families arriving to their ordering session and mum hasn't even shown dad the pricing. There is nothing more awkward than that moment when he has no idea of the budget you're expecting to spend. Have an honest conversation beforehand. Talk about the kinds of things you love and what you'd like to buy from the session. It makes the whole process less stressful for everyone.

It also really helps me as your photographer to know what you're aiming for, so I can focus on getting exactly what's going to suit your home.

5. Book a time when you're not racing to get there

Life with kids is busy. But my advice is to pick a time for your session where there isn't going to be a lot of stress around getting there.

If you have little kids, see if dad can take the morning off work. It's so much easier to come in during the week when he's fresh and hasn't been working all week. You could make a day of it. Do the session in the morning and then head out for a nice lunch together.

If you have teenagers, a Saturday is going to be the best option, but try to work it around sporting commitments. So often I have families race from a sporting match, throw the kids in the shower and then race to get to me. Everyone arrives stressed out.

If your Saturdays are always full of sport, look for a time in the school holidays. Sports are off, there's more time, and maybe dad can take a morning or a day off work and spend time with the kids as well.

Why Are Digital Files So Expensive from a Professional Photographer?

Why Are Digital Files So Expensive from a Professional Photographer?

One of the most common questions I get asked is why digital files cost so much. It is a fair question. In a world where we take hundreds of photos on our phones every week, it can feel strange to pay a significant amount for a set of digital images. But there is a good reason, and it comes down to one simple question: what are you actually going to do with those files?

The Honest Truth About Digital Files

I have been a family photographer for over 23 years, and I can tell you what happens with digital files in most families. They get downloaded onto a computer or a hard drive. They sit there. The parents mean to print them, but life gets in the way. Then a year passes, then two, then five. Sometimes the hard drive fails. Sometimes the files get lost in a phone upgrade. And those beautiful photos from that session you invested in? Gone.

I have seen it happen too many times. As a mum of three, I know exactly how it goes. You have the best intentions to print photos, put together albums, fill in baby books. But the reality is that life with kids is relentless, and printing photos always falls to the bottom of the list.

What You Are Really Paying For

When you purchase digital files from a professional photographer, you are paying for full print rights. That means you can print those images as many times as you like, wherever you like. In theory, that sounds like great value. But if you are honest with yourself about whether you will actually print them, the value changes.

Compare that to having your photographer handle the printing for you. I use archival-quality paper and archival framing materials, which means the prints and frames I produce will last your family a lifetime. The mat boards, the glues, the paper, everything is designed to stand the test of time. If you print at a retail lab or online service, you do not get that same quality or longevity.

Why Printed Photos Are Worth the Investment

There is something about a printed photo on your wall that a file on a hard drive will never give you. Your family sees it every single day. Your kids grow up walking past it. It becomes part of your home, part of your story. A digital file sitting in a folder does none of that.

I help my clients choose the right sizes and layouts for their walls. If you bring me photos of the rooms where you want to display your portraits, I can guide you on what will work best in the space. That is part of the service, and it is something you do not get when you walk away with a USB stick and figure it out on your own.

The Bottom Line

Digital files are not a bad option. But they are only valuable if you are genuinely going to do something with them. If you know in your heart that they will end up sitting on a hard drive untouched, then investing in beautifully printed and framed portraits is a far better use of your money. You will enjoy them every day, and they will last for generations.

If you are not sure which option is right for you, get in touch and I can walk you through what will work best for your family and your home.

Kate x

The 6 Most Important Times to Book a Family Photo Session

The 6 Most Important Times to Book a Family Photo Session

Life moves fast. Between the school runs, the activities and the endless pile of laundry, it can feel impossible to find time for professional family photos. But children change quickly, and one day you will look back and wish you had captured them at every stage along the way.

After 23 years of photographing families in my studio in Gordon on Sydney's North Shore, I can tell you the moments parents wish they had documented the most. These are the six key stages where a family portrait session makes the biggest difference.

When They Are a Newborn

The newborn phase is intense. You are running on almost no sleep, still figuring everything out and barely getting through each day. But those early weeks are also when your baby is at their tiniest, and they will never look quite like that again. I always recommend booking a newborn session within the first few weeks. You will be glad you did, because that blur of sleepless nights fades fast and having photos from that time brings it all back.

Before They Start School

Starting school changes everything. The child who once looked only to you for everything starts forming their own opinions, making their own friends and wanting to do things independently. It is a big shift in your family's rhythm, and having photos from just before that transition is something parents treasure. That wide-eyed, still-little version of your child deserves to be captured before the school years begin.

When They Hit the Tween Years

If you thought starting school was a big change, the tween and early teen years will surprise you. Your child starts growing into a completely different person, both physically and in personality. It happens so gradually that you barely notice until one day they look totally different from the child in your last family photos. This is a stage worth documenting, because it is a version of your child that does not last long.

When They Start High School

High school marks the beginning of the end of childhood. Your teenager is forming their own identity, becoming more independent and starting to pull away. That is completely normal, but it makes this stage even more important to capture. These are the last years before adulthood, and the way your child looks and carries themselves right now is worth holding onto.

During Their Final Year of School

Whether your child is heading to university, starting a trade or heading straight into work, their final year of school is a milestone for the whole family. It is often the last time your original family unit is all together under one roof before partners, new homes and eventually grandchildren come into the picture. A family session during this year captures that chapter before it closes.

Where Is Your Family Right Now?

It does not matter what stage your family is at. Whether your baby is brand new or your youngest is about to finish school, the time you are in right now is worth capturing. I photograph families at every stage, from newborns through to teenagers, and every session is relaxed, natural and designed to capture your family as you actually are.

If you have been meaning to book a family session but life keeps getting in the way, that is exactly why you should do it now. The stage you are in today will not last for ever.

I would love to photograph your family.

Kate x

Why get family photos?

Why you should get family photos done (and stop making excuses)

My mum always said she would get family photos done, but there were always the same excuses:

• I need to lose 10 kilos first

• We just don't have the time as life is so crazy busy

• We'll get them done when you kids don't have gaps in your teeth, or when your brother's braces come off

• When I can talk your father into it, as you know how much he hates having his photo taken

• We'll need to save some money, as things are a little tight at the moment

But unfortunately, all those things got in the way and it just never happened.

In 2011 my dad had a heart attack and suddenly he was gone forever. Now it was too late.

I would give anything to go back and take an hour out of our busy schedules to capture those photos with him.

I would love just one photo that captures the amazing friendship my dad and I had. The incredible granddad he was to my kids. How much my mum and dad still loved each other after 49 years of marriage.

Those memories are in my mind, but I would give anything to have that captured in a photo that I could look at every day.

My Dad and I

The purpose behind über photography

This is the purpose behind the über photography brand, to make sure every child has a photo with their parents to treasure as time goes on.

I understand it's hard to find the time to take that important photo of your family. I photograph families in a relaxed, natural way that tells the true story of your family, unlike those awkwardly posed family photos with false smiles.

I photograph everyone from newborns to teenagers to extended families, so no matter what stage your family is at, I can capture that time in your lives for you.

Imagine having beautiful family photos you will proudly hang on your wall, that capture real moments with your kids that you can share and treasure forever.

My own family photos

When I lost my dad I made a decision that I never wanted my kids to not have photos with me, so I've hired a photographer every year since.

I hate having my photo taken, and I used to make every excuse:

I'll lose some weight first. My kids have never once mentioned my weight in photos.

Running a business and having 3 kids doesn't leave much spare time. But I just block it on the calendar now and make it happen.

We've had kids with braces and missing teeth. But I think that is part of my family's story and they are actually some of my favourite photos.

As a photographer, I don't enjoy being on the other side of the camera. But I know in my heart that it's more important to capture those memories than to worry about an hour of feeling uncomfortable.

Like all parents, sometimes the bills all seem to come in spurts and money can be tight. But when you really understand how important it is, you always seem to find the money when you need it.

This is my family's journey.

How I make updating your photos as easy as possible:

1. My online booking system makes it easy to find a time to suit your family. I'll send you my online calendar which shows all my availability for the next 6 months, so you can sit down with your family and find a time that suits everyone. I know if you're a busy family there are sports and activities to work around, so I make it easy to find a time.

2. My beautifully designed studio means that no matter what the weather is, your session can go ahead. I have ducted air conditioning so that on a hot day everyone stays cool during your session. No one wants to be sweating away during their session. In winter and for newborn sessions, I can pump up the heating so the studio is cosy, warm and comfortable.

3. My information guide makes picking your outfits for your session easy. I understand every mum's first thought is "what on earth are we going to wear?" So I have a custom guide that makes it simple and easy to choose outfits for the whole family.

4. My simple pricing structure makes it easy to understand the costs. I'll give you every cost upfront. I believe in total transparency with pricing. I understand that every family is in a different place with their budget, so I have a range of options to suit every budget. I take the time to sit down with you and work out the option that suits your family best.

5. My in-person ordering session where I take the time to find the right size photos to suit your home. At the end of your session I'll make a time for you to come back into the studio to view and order your photos. I'll show you your photos on a large screen and help you pick your favourites.

6. My easy payment plan options so that if the budget is a bit tight, you can still order exactly what you'd like but have a way to pay it off easily over a period of time to suit you.

7. My in-house framing service. Once you've decided on your favourite images, I can help you choose which frames work best for your home and your photos. I arrange custom framing for you, so all you need to do is take your gorgeous framed print home and get it hung on the wall. I can even recommend someone to do that for you, if your husband isn't too handy with that.

Why I wish I had more photos with my dad

Why I wish I had more photos with my dad

When a house burns down or is destroyed by some other sort of disaster, what do people most regret losing? Barring people and pets, the things that people tend to miss the most are the family photos and other precious keepsakes.

All of the furniture, clothes and electronics can be replaced, but those school photos of the kids or old pictures of grandma and grandpa are irreplaceable. Many people overlook the importance of family photos until it is too late.

My dad was my best friend

Growing up, my dad was my best friend. Whenever I had a problem or was upset about something, I knew that he would be there to help me talk it out. If it was something that couldn't be talked through, he was the shoulder I could cry on. He celebrated my wins with pride, and he helped pick me up again when I failed.

When he died from a heart attack in 2011, it was sudden. He wasn't sick, and him dying came with no warning whatsoever. I lost my best friend in an instant, and all that I had left were the memories and the random photos that were taken over the years.

One of my biggest regrets was not taking more pictures with my dad as I got older. Sure there are always plenty of pictures from the growing up years, but as we all get older, our family photos tend to switch to our new little created families. Most people start taking family photos with their spouses and their own kids once they reach adulthood.

Family photos are important

While it is definitely important to take family photos with your own kids, don't forget your parents too. Life changes quickly. Your parents won't always be around, and you will definitely appreciate having these reminders when they are gone. I wish that I had more pictures of me and my dad.

Tangible memories

Think about what you would miss if you lost all of your possessions in a fire as I mentioned at the beginning of this article. All those adorable photos of your child's first birthday? The pictures of your great aunt? These tangible memories are some of our most treasured keepsakes.

I wish I had more photos of me and my dad, but it is too late for that. Don't make the same mistake I did. Get in the photos with your kids now, while you can.

How I changed this for my family

When I lost my dad I made a decision that my children would never go through the same feelings of missing out. Like most women, I don't like having photos of myself taken. I know I should lose a few more kilos, my hair has a tendency to go frizzy on the dates I want it to be straight. I'm never sure what clothes suit me best.

But I realised that my kids will never look at photos of me and think any of those thoughts. They will be glad of the memories that I capture for them. So every time I get our family photos done, one of my must-have shots is me individually with my kids.

What if my kids won't sit still?

Here's the final copy with everything applied:

What if my kids won't sit still?

As a mum of three, I totally get that mums are nervous about how the kids are going to behave during their family's session.

Do you have the kind of kids that don't sit still even for a minute?

Do you try to go out for a meal and they last about 5 minutes at the table and then they're wanting to race around the restaurant and check everything out? You never seem to be able to get that relaxing meal at the restaurant. You watch the other family sitting around with the kids at the table behaving normally and dream of having kids that will sit still.

When I see these kinds of kids arrive at a session I can clearly see the look on mum's face. She's nervous that the kids aren't going to behave and listen to what they're asked to do.

Here are my tips as a mum and photographer about the best way to prepare:

Firstly, explain to them what's going to actually happen at a session

Have a chat to the kids a few weeks before your session about what's going to happen.

Explain that the photographer is going to take some pictures of you as a family and then the kids together and then the kids by themselves.

Set some expectations of what you expect of your kids.

Explain to them that they need to listen to what the photographer asks them to do.

Reassure them that if they listen and do what they are asked then the session will be quick and easy.

Make sure you ask the photographer how long the session is going to take and then explain that to your kids.

My sessions never go for more than about 45 minutes. Young kids have short concentration spans and I would never expect them to be sitting still and concentrating for that whole time.

Reassure them that it will be fun.

Let them pick their own outfits

As a mum I dream of having those perfectly coordinated photos with everyone sitting in white, with hair perfectly brushed, shiny white teeth and kids looking like perfect angels.

The reality is with energetic kids, if you saw a photo of your kids like this it wouldn't look like your kids.

I've had issues with my kids not liking labels on clothes, not liking certain colours, only wanting to wear one kind of look.

When they're not keen on getting photos done, and then we try to dress them up for the perfect look is most often when the fighting starts.

So my advice is pick out a bunch of their favourite clothes, lie them on the bed to check which ones roughly coordinate best with each other. Most blues work well together, or grey can work well with blue. Throw in a splash of colour and it will still work.

Give your kids 2 to 3 options each. Then let them pick which one they want to wear. You'll end up with happy kids who feel comfortable in what they're wearing.

When you get to the session

Be guided by what your photographer tells you.

I start our sessions by explaining to the family exactly what's going to happen. That way mum knows what to expect and the kids know what to expect.

I find quite often it's dad who's the most nervous, worried about having to smile and be told what to do. He has often been dragged along as well.

The important thing as a mum is just to relax.

An experienced photographer is used to dealing with kids that don't sit still. I have lots of tricks that will help the process go smoothly.

If you get stressed your kids know you're stressed.

Relax and enjoy your session.

Watch your kids interacting with each other. Watch them interacting with the photographer.

A photo session is about capturing your kids at this age. Enjoy those moments as the session unfolds. Enjoy those little quirks that make your kids who they are. Let me engage with your kids and capture their individual personalities.

Most importantly don't tell them to smile. Kids often have that awful fake smile, especially between the ages of 5 and 10. As a photographer I have lots of tricks to get them to laugh.

Life changed in a heartbeat

Growing up I had always been close to my Dad and shared a special bond with him. He loved fishing, and from a young age I loved going out on his punt  and he would teach me all his fishing tricks. I could never sleep on a car journey, so when we were driving on family holidays we would chat all the way, while everyone else slept around us. He ran an orchid nursery and I loved being able to work with him on the weekends & school holidays.

When I got married and moved away from home, we developed an even stronger bond; He was the first person I would call when I had a problem, needed some advice or a shoulder to cry on. He was an amazing Grandpa to my 3 kids. My parents retired to a property in Bowral, and he loved teaching the kids about his cattle, riding horses, feeding the chooks and gardening. The perfect weekend getaway for city kids.

On August 8th, 2011 I received a phone call that shook me to the core, my Dad was being rushed to the hospital.

5 minutes later we received another call to say that he had passed away from a massive heart attack….he was only 68… I believed my Dad would be around forever, that he as a doting granddad would watch my kids grow up… and in a heartbeat that was all taken away from me. 

My brother, sister and I took on the responsibility of arranging his funeral, as my mum was in total shock. I offered to put together a slideshow of family photos for his service. I cried as I was sifting through all of those memories, There were Santa photos taken religiously every year, the summer holidays at our favourite place with photos of us all on the jetty proudly holding the fish we had caught, watersking and swimming in the lake, and our birthday parties….

The only photo of my Dad and I was the photo below, taken on my wedding day… 

I will forever wish that could have been different...

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Classically styled photos on our dark backdrop. These are timeless colour & black & white images, capturing your families connection.

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the über photography story

We wanted to reach out and tell you a bit more about the über photography story 

I am Kate, mum of 3 kids, Felix, Max and Millie and wife to Chris for 25 years.

über photography began in 2004, when Chris and I decided to start our photography business photographing weddings.

Chris had loved photography since we first met, and I having grown up in a family business, I liked the idea of running the business from home, while looking after our kids. We had both had corporate careers that we loved, but we realized it was time for a change. Our boys were 5 and 3 and I was pregnant with Millie. We both wanted a different lifestyle so that we could spend more time together as a family, and so über photography was born.

The name über came from Chris's German background (we had it well before uber cars existed lol). We wanted a business name that was simple and easy to remember, and it just so happened to mean the best of the best, and seemed like the perfect name...

We started out photographing some friends weddings, then before we knew it the business took off. For 5 years we photographed 50 weddings a year. We were fortunate to get hired to photograph in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Noosa, Fiji and Bali; and we loved being able to capture the stories of our couples. We felt privileged to be chosen to capture the story of our couples special day.

I had originally trained as a primary teacher, so when our brides started contacting us for family portraits, as they started having babies, I naturally offered to do this. I loved being able to capture the next stage of their lives. And I felt like I had discovered what my purpose was, to tell the story of families as they grow and change and to create a legacy to pass down through the generations.

Around 2009 , when all our kids had started school, I began to realize that things were changing. Photographing weddings meant spending at least one whole day every weekend away from them, and I was missing out on seeing them play sport, and spending the time together as a family on the weekend. So I made a decision to stop photographing weddings and to focus on what I knew in my heart made me happiest... capturing families.

Then on August 8th, 2011 my world was changed forever...

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Mums Need to be in Photos Too!

As a mum, you are almost always super busy holding down the fort, right? It seems there are always lunches to be packed, clothes to be washed, outings to plan. The vast majority of the things that you do for your family each and every day goes undocumented. Heck, sometimes it even goes completely unnoticed!

Unfortunately, because mums are generally the ones doing all the “things”, they are also the ones taking the majority of the pictures. Having a ton of photographs of your kids is great! You will love looking at them and reminiscing, but since mum is almost always taking the pictures, it means she isn’t in very many of them. Oftentimes, mum is actively avoiding being caught in any of those photos due to various insecurities.

You need to fix that, mum. You’ve got to switch to being on the other side of the camera sometimes, and here is why.

Your Children Deserve the Memories

It may be hard to think about, but someday, you won’t be here anymore. And when that day comes, all your kiddos will have left is the photos of you. They are going to want to look back at those good times and see your smiling face. The way they remember it.

But if you don’t put yourself in front of the lens once in a while, they will be left with very few glimpses of the person you once were. These moments that you are all enjoying together, all these milestones, should be documented with you in the mix, not hiding out behind the camera.

You Want to Teach Your Daughter to Love Herself

Of course, you want to teach all of your children to love themselves, but in our society, it is especially important to teach your daughter that you love yourself. Society is going to be rough on your girl, mum. It is going to constantly tell her to look thinner, younger, and more beautiful. She needs to see your confidence, and she needs to see you loving yourself even if you don’t fit into society’s ideas of what is beautiful. In fact, she needs to see you loving yourself ESPECIALLY if you don’t fit into what society deems beautiful.

Every time you cringe at the sight of a camera pointed in your direction or run to hide from the flash, you are showing your daughter that you don’t consider yourself worthy of being in the photo. You are showing your children that you don’t think of yourself as beautiful. Is that really the lesson you want to be teaching them?

Give your children the memories that they deserve and show them just how beautiful each and every one of you can be. Scheduling a family photo shoot with a professional family photographer is a great way to love your photos. The photographer will know exactly how to flatter all of you and make everyone look their absolute best. You will love the memories that you are creating, and your kids will love looking back on them when they are all grown up with kids of their own.