A Big Hug and A Bigger Welcome to 2016 Seniors!

Seniors, oh my beautiful seniors. You’re more than just a high schooler with a pretty face or a fabulous style or that awesome sense of humor. Yes, to me, you are at a peak right now, on the verge of limitless potential to achieve any dream you put your pretty little mind to. YES. That’s right. A-N-Y DREAM, at all. Ever. This is what I see, what I feel, what I love in photographing each and every senior that smiles pretty in front of my lens. More so, this is why I couldn’t be more excited to welcome the Class of 2016! Now’s the time, booking has been well underway, and I’d love to get to know and photograph even more of you this year! I want to know your stories, I want to see that style, that wit, that beautiful heart you possess–whatever it is that makes you who you are.

And because every post is better with photos, here are a few of my favorite shots from some of my fab seniors last year…

Hollie has a personality that radiates so profoundly that I left her session full of smiles. Shelbie brought her dad's vintage car and the most perfect tulle skirt for us to play with in the most whimsical field.

Gaby's sweet and gentle personality matched the soft hues of her cream dress and the field we chose showered by the warm lingering of the sunset.

Brook knew how to work a camera like it was her J-O-B. No tips needed from this photographer.

Kaylei so effortlessly strutted down the streets of downtown like she owned the place.

Oh, my sweet girls, seeing your joy and your beauty through my lens fulfills me like you don't even know.

Seriously, what girl doesn't want to twirl in the middle of a field in a tutu? Oh, is that just me? Well...

Sarah Jane has practiced ballet all her life and all of my reminiscent dancer dreams came true the day she did ballet in the middle of the most dreamy mossy trees for me.

If you haven't noticed a trend, soft colors and dreamy fields are kind of my thing. My jam, if you will.

 If you’re a senior in the Class of 2016, I absolutely cannot wait to hear from you!

Shelbie: Part I | 2015 Senior: Louisiana Senior Photography

Tulle, lipstick, heels, and an open field of wildflowers--from the youngest of ages, I'm pretty sure all of us girly girls in the world dream of a day where someone photographs us in a big skirt, just dancing in a field of wildflowers. When I think of the heart of a woman, of her desires to be captivating, these shots of Shelbie could not describe such a sentiment to more perfection. So, if you've never danced in a field of wildflowers, I urge you to add it to your bucket list. (: I'm pretty sure Shelbie would have been completely content just propping it up in this field with a good book for a few hours. It was so magical.

When we were planning her session, the first thing Shelbie mentioned to me was that she absolutely wanted to incorporate her dad's classic car. I pretty much squealed with excitement at the thought of placing it in such a dreamy field with tutus and pretty smiles.

Shelbie is a girly girl after my own heart--so we had the most fun photographing and bringing our visions to life. 

I don't always jump with excitement at the idea of red in photos, but the gorgeous shade of garnet in Shelbie's romper stood out in the most breathtaking of ways amidst the wildflowers. 

Girl talk, smiles, and deep giggles, I just adore connecting with my clients in such a way. Shelbie, thank you for the most dazzling opportunity to capture such a time of growth in your life. I cannot wait to see the great things you will accomplish.

Stay tuned for PART TWO of Shelbie's session next week!

Hello 2015 Seniors!

Seniors, oh my beautiful seniors. You're more than just a high schooler with a pretty face or a fabulous style or that awesome sense of humor. Yes, to me, you are at a peak right now, on the verge of limitless potential to achieve any dream you put your pretty little mind to. YES. That's right. A-N-Y DREAM, at all. Ever.

This is what I see, what I feel, what I love in photographing each and every senior that smiles pretty in front of my lens. More so, this is why I couldn't be more excited to welcome the Class of 2015! Now's the time, booking has been well underway, and I'd love to get to know and photograph even more of you this year! I want to know your stories, I want to see that style, that wit, that beautiful heart you possess--whatever it is that makes you who you are.

WHAT'S EVEN BETTER THAN THAT ALONE? Imagine Boutique (@shopimagine on Instagram) wants to be a part of the experience to make YOU feel fresh and fabulous!

SO, WHAT'S THAT MEAN? Glad you asked. Imagine is absolutely one of my favorite places to shop locally. Show Imagine proof of your scheduled session with ME and they will take 15% OFF of your outfits for the session! Contact me HERE if you'd like to get your session scheduled!

And because every post is better with photos, here are a few of my favorite shots from some of my Fall seniors last year...

You might recognize Callie above from more than just her senior session, as she and Renee (in the red a few photos down) were also Imagine's chosen models for their Spring/Summer line this year!

This part of Kaylyn's session (above) was another favorite of mine. She and I had so much fun playing with the piles of crunchy leaves we came across. Did I mention how much I love Fall?

And this is Renee' (above). You probably also recognize her from my site quite a bit. She was also one of Imagine's models this past year.  If you're a senior in the Class of 2015, I absolutely cannot wait to hear from you!

Featured: Senior Style Guide

Callie's session is featured on Senior Style Guide today and I'm so excited to share with you! Hop on over to their blog and check her out, here!

So many lovely weddings and sessions coming at you soon. I've been busy like a bee with some gorg Spring sessions. Happy Wednesday, friends!

Macey {Senior 2014}

Meet Macey. She's a timid personality that came out with her soft, sweet features through my camera. Oh, and maybe I'm just crazy with my celebrity look-alike brain now, but I think she looks strikingly similar to Anne Hathaway. But hey, if I looked like Anne Hathaway, I'd let someone tell me that all day long. (:

Since it's just a few days before Easter, Macey's soft lavendar clothing choice for her field shots were quite appropriate to post, I felt. Pastels mixed with pretty light make for such perfect, ethereal photographs.

She had three outfits, two of which I've highlighted in this post. I really loved her black dress with a heart cutout in the back, also. And our super ninja nook we found in a very public place. You can't even tell. (:

Macey, you are just stunning. I wish you nothing but the best of luck! Happy Easter, my friends!

Emma {Senior 2014}

I love people. That's a broad statement, I know. But I just love the intricacies of different personalities, and different styles, and just what makes a person who they are. Maybe this is why I just have this urge to be friends with almost everyone I meet. I'd like to think it's a good quality, but sometimes I'm not sure! (:

I especially love when we draw the personality of each of my seniors out in a session. Some are timid, some are straight model with their serious face (which I look upon their serious abilities enviously), and some are like me and giggles are the most natural. That's Emma. Emma's personality can light up a room. Her smile and modestly sweet persona just draws you in and makes you wanna give her a big bear hug.

Emma had three outfits for her session, but only two are pictured in this post. The other is for the online store of her parents' company, Louisiana Sportsman. If you're from Louisiana, chances are you've seen their stuff. But if not, you can check out some of their nifty apparel here. 

See what I mean? That smile just makes you SO HAPPY. Emma wanted to take advantage of the gorgeous field of yellow flowers right next to us that just screamed Spring. So, we had more fun with her surplus of smiles in that direction. (:

Emma, you are a beautiful little light. Never lose that little light and big smile. Thank you for the opportunity to photograph you. I know you will be great next year with your big move!

Madison {Senior 2014}

I have had an influx of the most bubbly, big ol' smiln' senior girls lately and I love it. If you know me personally, you know I'm a pretty bubbly person. So, when I'm surrounded by other bubblies, it's just such a bright experience. Madison was one of my most recent senior girls who just captured my heart with her big smile and even bigger heart. Madison, her mom, her sister, and I tra-la-la'd through the streets just laughing away, finding the most perfect nooks and crannies. I love downtown streets, there are so many hidden treasures among them.

The feel of Spring color was all around for Madison's session--er, except for the actual feeling, which was unusually chilly for it being almost April in Louisiana. But we slipped in this college town's favorite little coffee shop, grabbed some hot tea and hot chocolate, and warmed up a little before continuing our venture to make it look as if it was 70 degrees and blue skies. We talked and laughed so much though, that I'm not sure we noticed the chill that much.

I'm just in love with the soft colors and overall feel we achieved from this look. Truth is, field shots are usually my favorite, but these were my favorites from Madison's sesh. I feel editorial, soft, and perfect emotion when I look at them.

Then, we found another nook. Nooks are fun--like little, sneaky adventures. (:

We ended, as you know by now how, next to a field of course, and well, just look. It's April and that means blooms are everywhere. We found a field that was completely covered in yellow flowers. The bokeh from my lens made it look like the perfect soft yellow blur paired with Madison's golden locks and pale yellow shirt. Oh, and her smile. (: Madison, you are such a bright light. I left your session all smiles from that sweet, bubbly personality you possess. Never let anyone dull that sparkle of yours baby cakes, it's a beautiful thing.

And Happy Thursday, my friends! It's almost the freakin' weekend. We have some of our best friends coming stay with us AND doing an early birthday celebration for P. I hope yours is just as lovely.

Bailey {Senior 2014}

It's Friday and senior season, so naturally, I thought ending the week with another one of my classy and sassy seniors was the way to go. This time, with Miss Bailey and her timid and ever-so-sweet personality. Bailey's mom found me from the Blanchard family I photographed just before Christmas, and if you haven't seen their session, you can hop on over and view it here. Their little family was just picture perfect. Just like Bailey.

She chose to keep her session classic with all whites and creams, which is pretty much always a great option in my book. She jazzed it up slightly with some gold accessories and a floppy hat at the end, but nothing crazy--which I'm always ok with. Classic, you see, never goes out of style. (:

The deep colors around her seemed to be extra saturated and boldly gorgeous in the midst of that overcast day. I really, really love the deep colors and the way it brought out Bailey's best features.

This one below gives me a little Banana Republic feel, and I love it.  Bailey, thank you so much for the opportunity to photograph you. Your timeless style and personality is stunning, and will take you great places in life. Stay classy. (:

Patrick {Senior 2014}...and a Favorite Quote, as of Late.

You know, I thought that I was more of a Winter-loving person, but it turns out, I think I'm just a lover of the seasons changing. As these little Winter storms are becoming more and more sparse, I've been so giddy at the thought of blooming flowers and days where I can wear shorts. It was even warm enough to lay out a few Saturdays ago. The change of seasons is refreshing--something to look forward to, if you will.

I came across this quote a few months ago, and oh, how it resonated with me on so many levels. In addition to being a lover of Camus' work, this quote just spoke to my soul when my soul needed speaking to...

"In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me lay an invincible summer." -Albert Camus

One day, I'll share more personally about how this quote has spoken to me. But for now, I hope that just its mere introduction into your life today might give you some hope if you're needing it. Some strength to know that there's an invincible summer coming from those battles life may be throwing at you. Because you see, you should never forget the beauty life begs to bring from breakdown. Ah, there is SO much beauty in breakdown, my friends.

In addition to loving this quote, the ever-fabulous Chelsea Petaja of Oh My Deer makes the most perfect soul-speaking art prints from quotes in classic literature, among other beautiful things. Here's her fabulous art print (photo credit from her site) that I've been dreaming of for my living room wall since before Christmas...

You should most certainly go check her work out. I'm just dying for a few of her prints to construct the "Us" wall in my house--complete with vintage comics, nerdy posters, and artful quotations of literature. Oh, you just wait. (:

And because every post is better with some actual pictures, here's one of my super awesome seniors, Patrick. He was SO much fun to work with and get to know and absolutely comfortable in front of the camera. We had such a fun little afternoon strolling the streets downtown. Patrick has great taste. In fact, his shoes had me itching to head to the store to get Preston some new kicks...

Patrick, thank you so much for the opportunity to photograph you. It was a pleasure getting to know you! I wish you the absolute best next year into your beginning adventures into adulthood.

Mia {Senior 2014}

I know I say it so much that it probably sounds like nothing more than a broken record at this point, but I truly, truly enjoy every minute of the experience of photographing my high school seniors. You see, I've finally reached the point where I'm not inundated with more sessions than I can handle or stressed editing a session that doesn't match my style and feel of photography; but instead, I'm at a point where nearly every single person who has booked with me in the past year shares a desire for a style and vision similar to my own. They approach me with trust--and more importantly, with a vision that we execute together, as a team. And this, my friends, means SO much more to me than being overly booked and overly busy.

This, for me, means...more attention to each individual.

This, for me, means...more quality, less quantity.

This, for me, means...actually getting to experience what makes a senior, a family, a couple, who they are.

This, for me, means...creating a personal experience with each client, rather than a checklist of tasks.

This, for me, means...time to breathe--for living, experiencing, and documenting life; NOT being so busy that I miss the beautiful parts of life my clients, friends, and experiences have to show me.

This, for me, means...the reason I started my business in the first place.

I'll let you in on a  little secret. I've actually been suuuuper discouraged about some business goals lately. I was just sort of feeling like no matter how far I have come, I still have SO far to go. This is something I tend to do in all areas of my life. Looking at how far others have come, both personally and professionally, and digging out the ugly comparison monster. Sound familiar? I know it does. (:

I'm far from where I dream to be, and in fact, still have so so very many steps left to get there; but after taking a breather and stepping back to realize the gift it is to so pleasantly experience beautiful, radiant seniors like Miss Mia here, I've realized that I am right where I want to be--ever learning, ever changing, and most importantly, ever growing.

So, without further sappy ado from Queen Emotion here, please enjoy sweet Mia. This girl is genuine y'all. A heart of gold...and yet another wardrobe that I'd just like to duplicate for myself. ESPECIALLY that Abercrombie scarf and those Steve Madden boots below. (:

Mia's persona was calm and inviting. She exuded a warmth that said so much about her character, without saying anything at all. Mia, her mom, and I had an absolutely pleasurable time full of giggles and great conversation during her session.

Mia, you were a graceful and welcomed pleasure to photograph. Keep that warmth and big heart always. I know such great things lie ahead for you!

 

The 2013 Portrait Favorites

Whew, what a year of growth and self-exploration 2013 was for both me personally and my business. Since the holidays are over and I refuse to let the post-Christmas blues get me down, I've decided to start a yearly tradition in which YOU get to vote on YOUR favorite portraits of 2013! The client voted favorite portrait will win a $25 gift card to Gap, Jcrew, or Anthropologie (winner's choice). Most of these are from my 2013 portrait sessions, with the exception of a couple from 2012 that I just couldn't not include, since I've never done a giveaway of favorites before. Also, because my favorite portraits are the ones heavy on emotion, I've converted them into black and white. While I love a color portrait, I believe that the black and white allows you to fully observe the beauty of emotion I was trying to capture in each photograph. Here's how it will work: To vote, simply state your favorite of the twenty listed in the comments at the bottom of the post, that's it! 

One vote is allowed per reader; however, you may share the post and get as much friends and family to vote as you'd like! The contest starts today and goes through this Wednesday, January 8th at midnight. The winner will be announced on Thursday's blog post.

Disclaimer: This does not include my weddings, so if you were one of my brides, don't feel left out, I've just decided that weddings did not belong in this category. Instead, I think I may do a summer giveaway especially for brides in the future.

1. Waller - Lifestyle Family Portrait

2. Dunckleman - Lifestyle Portrait

3. Blanchard - Lifestyle Family Portrait

4. Callie - Senior Lifestyle Portrait

5. Nelson - Lifestyle Engagement Portrait

6. Kaylyn - Lifestyle Senior Portrait

7. Rebecca - Lifestyle Maternity Portrait

8. Franklin - Lifestyle Family Portrait

9. Waguespack - Lifestyle Engagement Portrait

10. Ducote - Lifestyle Family Portrait

11. Fabre - Lifestyle Family Portrait

12. Franklin - Lifestyle Newborn Portrait

13. Blanchard - Lifestyle Family Portrait

14. Dunckleman - Lifestyle Portrait

15. Bailey - Lifestyle Senior Potrait

16. Owen - Lifestyle Family Portrait

17. Waller - Lifestyle Newborn Portrait

18. Cefalu - Lifestyle Family Portrait 

19. Harrison - Lifestyle Portrait

20. Minear - Lifestyle Family Portrait

To vote, simply enter YOUR favorite in the comments below. Contest ends at midnight on Wednesday, January 8th. The client voted favorite portrait will win a $25 gift card to Gap, Jcrew, or Anthropologie (winner's choice). Happy voting!

Kenyetta {Senior 2014}

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who'll decide where to go...”- Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss's Oh, the Places You'll Go, always comes to mind as I meet a new year's seniors. Every year, actually more like every session, my seniors absolutely blow me out of the water. Eighteen years old, club presidents, cheerleading captains, top of their class, you name it. Gorgeous, ambitious, prepared. I always wonder as I'm editing their sessions, truly curious as to what great things they will go onto achieve--because I know they are destined for nothing less than that.

I had so much fun photographing Kenyetta. She was a sweet, kind soul. I could feel it in her aura from the second I met her. Kenyetta wore some of J'adore Lexie Couture's gorgeous headbands, and oh sweet goodness did they make her session!  And of course, since I've been on a fruit kick this Fall with my sessions, we decided for a basket of lemons with Lexie's Pumpkin Woods Headband. The warmth in these shots had me squealing with excitement. I can't even handle it...

Kenyetta also wore, my personal favorite, the J'adore Lexie Couture Le Halo Angélique, Flower Crown. Stay tuned in the coming weeks for a special giveaway from J'adore Lexie Couture on here!

Kenyetta, I know you will to great things. Keep that sweet glimmer in your eyes and that gentle persona. You are a beautiful soul!  Happy Friday!

Bailey {Senior 2014}

"Take pictures in your mind of your childhood room,Memorize what it sounded like when your dad gets home. Remember the footsteps, remember the words said And all your little brother's favorite songs."

Those are words from a Taylor Swift song, but, oh my sweet, beautiful, goal-driven seniors, remember them. You're ready to move onto the next chapter of your life, I know you are -- and rightfully so. Your college years are a great, exciting new adventure. These years ahead will open your mind and your heart to places they've never been. You will meet people from all places and walks of life. Some will befriend you, many will teach you, some will be parts of some of the most memorable nights of your life, and then others will let you down. These years will be ones of exponential growth. You're headed for the beginnings of your walk into adulthood, and when you're done with the next four years, you will look back and see just what I meant when these words were written.

Every year I have a few seniors that I truly see small bits and pieces of my high school self in. Bailey's drive in school and extracurriculars and her bubbly personality were just that. On the other hand though, I did NOT have her style in high school. I'm not even old, at all, but for some reason I feel like the seriously rockin' styles my seniors come to the table with now just weren't nearly as awesome...or maybe I was totally out of the fashion loop. Ew, let's not dwell there.

Let's dwell on Bailey's earthy crochet-style dress that I need as a wardrobe addition and the to-die-for light in her field shots...

Hats and pearls will forever remain classy to me and tans and blacks do far too much for my soul. My mom used to fuss me when I was little because she claimed I only had grays, blacks, whites, and tans in my wardrobe. This still remains about 70% true and I'm not mad about it. Sorry momma! I just think they're such classy, earthy colors.

Bailey, and my many sweet seniors that will leave an imprint on me this year -- savor these moments. Enjoy the experiences ahead, and never, ever lose that beautiful drive that exists in you now. It will get you many places in life. It will be your intuition and your guiding light when adult things begin to muddle your sparkle. It will be your satisfaction at the end of countless hours and days of studying or working towards some huge, scary goal. It will be much of what's left in you when those you count on let you down. And somewhere among the muddle when all of these things happen, you will remember your drive. You will remember the strong, beautiful woman your momma, your daddy, your grandma, your teachers, your mentors helped you become in those definitive years of your childhood. Never let anyone dull that beautiful sparkle!

Fall Promo + Senior 2014 Peek!

Oh happy day! I'm a sucker for Fall and all of its cozy goodness. To ring in October, I've decided to offer a little promo. Feel free to SHARE this photo with anyone you think that might be interested! $50 OFF COLLECTION BOOKINGS! Check the photo below for details. Fall books up super quickly as it is, so take advantage of this offer to secure your spot. I will be accepting sessions in time for Christmas and Christmas card printing thru November 21st!

And to get you hyped for the beginning of my seniors I adore so very much, here's a peek at Bailey's session! Stay tuned for her full blog posting and more from her session next week!

Have a happy, safe weekend! I'm off to one full of baby showers to welcome some sweet little ones into the world soon! I told you all of my friends were expecting. (;

Upcoming Gulf Coast Date

If you are located in the Fairhope/Gulf Shores/Mobile/Pensacola area and would like to book your Lifestyle Session, senior session, or annual family session, contact the studio at kali@kalinorton.com. I'll see you then!

Morgan {Senior 2013}

Style, grace, beauty, personality, ambition. I don't think you fully grasp at eighteen years old just how much of the world is at your fingertips. Such a resplendent age of maturation, knocking at the door of more life experiences than you'll ever know. The next few years will bring some of the best times of your life, some of the best people in your life, and also, the bitter and sweet tastes of what it means to be an adult. These years are your transition into adulthood. Having experienced them not long ago, I'm here to tell you, savor them. And by savor them (don't worry parents) I don't mean to live up your college years partying it up on your parents' dime. No. I mean savor the opportunity you have to let people from other walks of life teach you, to let instructors mold you and expand your mind, to dream big dreams and allow yourself to explore the scary and exciting notion of achieving them.

Here are a few photographs from Morgan's session. Another one of my senior girls to take my breath away. Morgan, I'm so excited for you to go out and experience the world these next few years. You will do fabulous things. (:

Erin {Senior 2013}

There are certain people in this world--and I know them instantly every time I meet them--that just simply have so much sunshine in their soul. It radiates to those around them, just simply by being in their presence. Whether they are clients or friends (or both), these people always leave a happy mark on my heart. Their beautiful, radiant existence just makes the world a brighter place.

Meet Erin. Erin is one of these people. Just from looking at her photos, I see the light in her eyes and love for all things surrounding her. I've known Erin for years, but hadn't seen her in probably almost ten years before we did her senior session. Seeing the beautiful, intelligent, strong leader she has become made my heart smile.

We did Erin's session in the Fall, and oh, how I'm a sucker for the brown leaves on the ground! Seeing them in photos gives me the same feeling as a Starbuck's Pumpkin Spice latte.

Erin brought her pup to the session. After getting Chewie this past February and learning what it's like to love an animal, these pictures of the two of them just pull at my freaking heart strings. And now I'm itching to do a session with Chewie. (;

Erin, you have grown up to be an absolutely radiant young lady. I have not one doubt that you will be so successful at all that you do. Thank you for allowing me to document such a monumental time in life, as you start your steps out into the adult world.

And just a last little reminder for all of my new, 2014 Seniors--TODAY is the last day to secure a date for your earlybird senior session and receive the promo offer! Here's the promo, in case you missed it:

Happy Wednesday, my friends!

Taylor {Senior 2013}

Still celebrating my 2013 Seniors over here and ringing in welcomes for my 2014s! It's been so exciting emailing and planning with those who have taken advantage of the July Promo already, and SUPER excited for meeting new ones! If you are a Senior this year and want to take advantage, you still have until next Wednesday, July 31st to snag the sweet little deal. I cannot wait to hear from you. (:

In celebration, here's another one of my favorite sessions from last year. Taylor's porcelain skin made for the most beautiful glow. Which reminds me of a little tip for ladies that I'll be posting more about soon...STAY AWAY FROM THE TANNING BEDS before photo sessions. They might give you a tan you're loving during the summer months, but tanning bed color doesn't do the skin many favors when it comes to photographs. It makes for uneven, less-than-natural skin tones. Nobody wants that, right? I'll talk more about this and other pre-session tips for ladies in a blog post next week.

Taylor was up for anything, which I love! Complete trust in me with styling will truly let the most natural photographs come out. Taylor has a sweet, quiet personality -- soft and inviting was her aura. And this rustic field at sunset, well, you know how I feel about fields at sunset...

Did I mention Taylor is a dancer? She's got some of the prettiest lines in her moves. We decided to incorporate that into some of her shots, in her dainty white dress. Oh, I love these shots. I also love that she will be able to show her kids one day all of her mad dance skill.

Taylor, you will do great things. I know it.

FAQs {Lifestyle Sessions}

Lifestyle sessions are the best ways to document growth every year. Whether it's growth of a child, relationship, or family as a whole, I truly believe in the importance of having this documentation yearly. In fact, as I mentioned in this post, Preston and I make it a point to fit a stylized lifestyle session into our budget every year. You should go read THAT POST about the invaluable meaning of these sessions and the way it's helped us grow as a married couple, documenting the first years of our family and the journey of learning life together.

Yes, a Lifestyle Session is an investment, but it's an absolutely invaluable one for me. It's a monumental experience, planned meticulously to capture raw and organic emotion, style, and love into a curated time capsule. I love the profound joy I have in knowing that the milestones of my own life with Preston have been beautifully documented.  I pray that I give you an inkling of such joy in your own photographs. It’s not just about the photographs for me, though — it’s about the ups and downs, trials, and tribulations of life that you have experienced with the people you love in those photographs. It’s the feeling of accomplishment of making it through those ups and downs with that boyfriend, fiance’, or spouse.  It about the feeling you get when looking at your beautiful grown-up daughter as she graduates from high school and imagining the nine months you carried her in your womb.  I do what I do because I love capturing these milestones so you always remember these blessed feelings.  I want to create treasured heirlooms for you as well.  I want you to feel your own radiance when you look at my documentation of your life. Life is beautiful and it should be documented. You only get one, and oh, how it passes ever so quickly!

I've put together a little informational post for you guys answering some frequently asked questions about my Lifestyle Sessions. Please feel free to contact me if you'd like to learn more! Below are some of my favorite shots from recent Lifestyle Sessions. Scroll through to see these and read through the FAQs. (:

How much do you charge for stylized lifestyle photography?

My consultation, curating, editing, and disk of final images costs $500. Sessions are for individuals, couples, or immediate family members. Please inquire about extended family sessions. I also have additional offerings, including prints, canvases, albums, and other art pieces. If you’d like to learn more about additional offerings, please inquire here (kali@kalinorton.com).

How long after the session does it take to get all of our edited images?

It typically takes 2-3 weeks for full editing completion. It’s probably tempting to ask how the progression is going, but just know I am working very diligently to finish your beautiful images in a timely, yet quality manner.

Do I get printing rights to all of the images?

Yes! Once I finish editing the images from your session, I deliver a DVD to you. You are then allowed the printing rights to these images. I have a list of preferred printing locations that will print your images with the best color and quality. You are also able to post these on Facebook, Twitter, or wherever you choose. If you wish instead, a $250 credit towards prints through me is offered with the collection purchase in lieu of the DVD. All of the images will also be posted in an online proofing site where you can view them and order if you’d like.

Can I order prints, albums, and other specialty products through you?

Yes, you sure can! Many of my clients like to own the digital copy of their session; however, still prefer to print products through me with my professional lab. You can inquire about printing, album design, and other product offerings here (kali@kalinorton.com).

When do you book sessions?

I book sessions on Monday-Thursdays. We work most weekends shooting weddings, the weekends off are generally spent with family. I ask that you plan work schedules in advance to shoot on weekdays. I typically start the shoot 1-2 hours before sunset or, sometimes, early mornings during busy seasons.

Where are you located?

I’m located in Ponchatoula, Louisiana area, but I take sessions along the entire Gulf Coast…and will travel wherever families, love, or seniors request! For local sessions, I typically shoot in the Hammond/Ponchatoula area or arrange a customized travel fee for locations over 30 miles.

How can I reserve my session date? Can you hold my date?

I require a 25 percent non-refundable retainer of the total collection you choose to reserve your session date. I do not hold a date without a retainer and signed contracts, as dates are booked on a first come, first serve basis.

Do we get all of the images you take on the session day?

No and we do not allow the extra photographs to be seen as they are typically duplicates with eyes closed. I break down all of the images taken into the best collection that beautifully represents the scope of your session. I believe in quality above quantity. These are all hand-picked and edited in detail, then delivered to you as well as posted in an online gallery.

Do you touch up all of your photos?

I do edit each image individually to make sure the color, saturation, and lighting looks as it should. I strive to curate your entire collection with cohesive, timeless beauty.

Do you help me plan outfits and choose a great location?

YES, oh yes! This element is equally as important to me as the actual editing of your images. I truly believe a thoughtfully planned outfits and location coordination are central to beautiful photos and a stress-free shoot. Once you begin the booking process, I will send you details of how we will go about a specific planning process to ensure we are on the same page about the entire style and feel of your session.

What happens if it rains?

All of my lifestyle and senior sessions take place outdoors on location, so I watch weather forecasts days before sessions to try to gauge if rain will affect the session. If it is the case, I will contact you and we will reschedule for another Monday-Thursday available session date that suits the both of us.

What do your albums look like?

I offer premium leather albums. The pages are thick and extremely durable as the photos are printed onto the pages. Each album is custom designed by yours truly in a classic, timeless style. I also offer Fine Art Coffee Table Books with the same classic, timeless design techniques and a linen outer cover.

How long does it take for our albums to arrive?

After the design process is complete, it takes around 6-8 weeks for your albums to be delivered.

Do you make any of our images black and white?

Yes. Some images look better in black and white! I use professional, creative judgment on this. My goal is to make your entire collection as beautiful and timeless as possible.

Does sales tax apply to us?

Yes! If you reside in Louisiana, I am required by the state to charge sales tax.

I hope this answers some of the questions you may have had. If you'd like to learn more or book a Lifestyle Session with me, you can email me at kali@kalinorton.com. I'd absolutely love to get to know you!

Kaylin {Senior 2013}

Here we go! Another celebratory post celebrating my 2013 Seniors and reminding you of the FAB senior offer available only for another week! In case you missed it, for 2014 Seniors who book during the month of July, I'm offering some lovely little package add-ons COMPLIMENTARY. You can read more about that promo HERE. Many of my 2014 Seniors have already taken advantage of this lovely little offer. If you'd like to be one of them, email me at kali@kalinorton.com or using the CONTACT form at the top of this page and we can get things going -- I'd love to chat!

Enough about that, here's some goodness from another one of my gorg 2013 Seniors, Kaylin. Kaylin's session was filled with poise, lots of giggles, and the most perfect eyelashes and hair I've ever seen. Seriously, her ombre luscious locks had me picking my chin up off of the floor and asking her a-million-and-one hairstyling tips. Fun fact for you, if you are one of my seniors, be prepared for a little game of twenty-one questions about beauty and style when we meet. My seniors have fabulous beauty and fashion sense and I'm not too shamed to pick their brains about all of it. (:

There's something about ending a session in an open field as the sun is setting that will never get old to me. It's rustic, it's timeless, it's whimsical. It makes my heart sing that infamous happy tune.

Kaylin, you, your eyelashes, and your hair all rocked the camera fabulously. You are a beautiful girl, inside and out. Stay fabulous! Happy Tuesday, y'all!