When the first snow settles over Edmonton, I get the same question every year: “Is it really worth doing family photos in the winter?” My answer is always yes — with a little planning. Snow softens everything, brightens faces, and turns an ordinary park trail into something out of a storybook. The trick is staying warm enough to enjoy it.

Here is how I approach winter sessions with Pearl Photography & Co., and how you can get ready for yours.

Embrace the Short Days

Winter days in Edmonton are short, and that is actually good news for photos. The sun stays low in the sky for much of the day, which means we get that soft, flattering light for longer — not just for a quick window at sunset like in summer.

I usually suggest late morning or early afternoon, when the light is at its best and temperatures are often kinder than first thing in the morning. We also keep winter sessions a touch shorter than summer ones. A focused, happy 30 to 45 minutes in the snow beats a long, chilly hour every time, especially with little kids in tow.

And if a snowstorm rolls in on our planned day, we stay flexible. A fresh snowfall the day before a session is the best gift of all — everything looks clean, bright, and untouched.

What to Wear (Without Freezing)

This is the part most families worry about, so let us keep it simple: warmth first, photos second. A miserable, shivering family does not photograph well, no matter how pretty the outfits are.

Layers are your best friend. Start with a warm base layer, add a sweater or fleece, and finish with a coat you actually love. A wool coat, a classic parka in a solid colour, or a chunky knit cardigan under a jacket all photograph wonderfully.

• Choose colours that pop against the snow. Cream, rust, deep green, mustard, burgundy, and navy all look gorgeous against white snow and dark evergreens. All-white outfits tend to disappear into the background.
• Coordinate, do not match. Pick two or three colours for the whole family and let everyone wear something in that range.
• Bring the fun accessories. Knit hats, cozy scarves, and mittens add texture and personality to your photos.
• Wear boots you can walk in. We will be on snowy trails, so warm, waterproof boots matter more than dress shoes.

Bring hand warmers, and tuck a spare pair of mittens in your pocket for the kids. Little hands get cold fast, and a quick warm-up break keeps everyone smiling.

Keeping Kids Happy in the Cold

Kids and snow are a perfect match — until the cold sets in. The secret to great winter photos with kids is movement and play, not standing still and posing.

During a winter session, I will have your kids throwing (gentle) snowballs, making snow angels, or racing down a little hill. Movement keeps them warm, and it gives us those real, joyful expressions that make winter photos so special.

• A warm drink for after. Bring a thermos of hot chocolate for the drive home — it gives everyone something to look forward to.
• A change of mittens. Wet mittens are the fastest way to end a session early.
• A blanket for sitting shots. A thick blanket keeps everyone dry and comfortable, and it looks charming in the photo too.

If your child does get too cold, we take a break, warm up in the car, and try again. The best photos happen when everyone is comfortable.

My Favourite Winter Backdrops

You do not need a fancy location for winter photos — Edmonton does most of the work for us. The river valley trails are stunning in winter, with snow-dusted evergreens and wide, open views. Mill Creek Ravine feels extra magical under a fresh snowfall, with its bridges and winding paths. I love a spot with both evergreen trees and open sky, so we get that cozy forest feeling and the bright, clean light snow reflects.

Snow is also a natural reflector. It bounces light back up onto faces, softening shadows and making everyone look bright and rested — even on a cloudy day.

A Few Last Winter Tips

If you are planning a winter session, a little prep goes a long way: do not skip moisturizer and lip balm, since cold, dry air shows up on skin. Let me know if anyone in the family is sensitive to cold, so we can plan extra breaks and a shorter session. And if you want winter photos for cards or gifts, reach out well before December — winter dates fill up, and printing takes time.

Winter in Edmonton can feel long, but it is also full of beauty. A snowy session is a wonderful way to slow down, play together, and capture your family exactly as you are right now — rosy cheeks, knit hats, and all. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, reach me through the Book Your Session page on my website, and we will find a snowy day that works for your family.

When people book a family session with me, most of them picture the same thing: everyone lined up, smiling stiffly at the camera, while I count to three. If that’s what you’re imagining — I have good news. That’s not how I work at all.

Here’s an honest, behind-the-scenes look at what a family photo session with Pearl Photography & Co. really looks like, from the first hello to the last frame.

Before We Even Meet

The session starts before the session, if that makes sense. Once you book, we’ll chat about the important stuff: where to shoot, what time of day works best for your kids, and what kind of feel you’re dreaming of — playful and candid, soft and dreamy, or a little of both.

I’ll suggest locations around Edmonton that fit your vision (I have my favourites, and I’m always scouting new ones). We’ll also talk outfits — not in a stressful, matchy-matchy way, but so everyone looks like themselves on their best day.

By the time we meet, you’ll know exactly where to go, what to bring, and what to expect. No surprises, no guessing.

The First Ten Minutes: Zero Pressure

Here’s a secret: I don’t start by taking photos. When we first arrive, I say hi, let the kids check me out, and give everyone a few minutes to settle in. If your toddler wants to show me a stick they found, I’m looking at the stick. If your teen is giving me the “this is so lame” face, I give them space — they’ll come around.

Those first minutes aren’t wasted. They’re how trust gets built, and trust is what makes the rest of the session work. Kids who feel comfortable in front of my camera give me the real stuff — and the real stuff is what you’re going to treasure.

How I “Pose” You (Without the Stiffness)

I don’t really do traditional posing, especially with families. Instead, I use prompts and little games that get you interacting with each other instead of staring at my lens.

Things like: “Everyone whisper your silliest secret into Mom’s ear.” “Okay, race to that tree — go!” “Dad, swing her around like you did when she was little.” While you’re laughing, playing, and being yourselves, I’m quietly working — finding the light, watching the background, and capturing it all.

For the few classic portraits grandparents will want (yes, I always get those too), I’ll gently guide you into position: chin slightly down, shoulders relaxed, snuggle in close. It takes about thirty seconds, and then we’re back to playing.

The In-Between Moments Are the Whole Point

Some of my favourite images from any session are the ones nobody planned. The way your daughter tucks her hair behind her ear. Your son’s full-belly laugh when Dad says something ridiculous. The quiet second where you look at your partner and just… smile.

I’m always watching for those moments. My camera barely leaves my face during a session because I never want to miss one. A lot of families tell me afterwards that they don’t even remember me taking half the photos — and honestly, that’s the best compliment I could get.

When Things Go Sideways (They Sometimes Do)

Let’s be real: kids are kids. Someone might cry. Someone might decide they’d rather eat dirt than look at the camera. A session I did last fall included a full toddler meltdown — and we still ended up with a gallery the family absolutely loves.

When it happens, I don’t panic, and I don’t want you to either. We take a break. We have a snack (I always tell parents to bring them — goldfish crackers have saved more sessions than I can count). Sometimes the best photos come right after the tears, when a little one curls into Mom’s arms and everything goes soft and quiet.

And if the weather turns on us? Edmonton keeps me on my toes. I always have a backup plan, and I’m quick to pivot — some of my most dramatic, gorgeous sessions happened under moody skies.

What I Bring (Besides My Camera)

Besides my gear, my bag always has: a cozy neutral blanket (great for seated shots and impromptu picnics), a few simple props for little ones, and endless patience. What I don’t bring is a rigid shot list or a stopwatch. Most family sessions run about 30–45 minutes — long enough to get variety, short enough that nobody’s fun runs out.

And Then… the Good Part

When we’re done, the kids usually ask if they can come back tomorrow (true story, more than once). You’ll head home, and I’ll head home to back up your images and start the culling and editing process — which you can read all about in my post on what happens after your session.

So that’s the real behind-the-scenes: less posing, more playing. Less “say cheese,” more genuine laughter. If that sounds like your kind of session, I’d love to meet your family.

Ready to experience it for yourself? Book your session — I can’t wait to capture your beautiful chaos.

You’ve had an amazing session — the kids were (mostly) cooperative, the light was beautiful, and you’re excited to see the results. But what happens next? Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at what goes on after I pack up my camera, so you know exactly what to expect.

Step 1: Culling — Choosing the Best

The first thing I do when I get home is back up your images (immediately — I never risk losing a single frame). Then comes culling: going through every single photo from our session and selecting the best ones.

This is more involved than it sounds. A typical family session might yield 200-300 images, and I’ll narrow that down to the strongest 40-60. I’m looking for sharp focus, genuine expressions, beautiful light, and meaningful moments. The blurry ones, the mid-blink ones, the duplicates — those get set aside.

This process usually takes me a day or two, because I like to look with fresh eyes before making final selections.

Step 2: Editing — Where the Magic Happens

Every image in your gallery is individually hand-edited by me. This isn’t a batch filter — I adjust each photo for:

• Exposure and white balance — making sure skin tones look natural and the light feels true


• Colour grading — my signature warm, timeless edit that gives Pearl Photography & Co. images their distinctive feel


• Cropping and straightening — refining composition for maximum impact


• Subtle retouching — removing temporary blemishes, stray hairs, or distractions. I keep it natural — you’ll still look like you, just on your best day.

Depending on the session, editing takes anywhere from several hours (family session) to several days (wedding). I never rush this part — it’s where good photos become great ones.

Step 3: Your Private Online Gallery

Once editing is complete, you’ll receive a link to your private online gallery. This is such a fun moment — it’s like opening a gift!

Your gallery is:

• Private — only people with the link can view it


• High-resolution — download your favourites in full quality


• Easy to share — send the link to grandparents, no account needed


• Available for a generous window — so there’s no rush

Typical turnaround times:

• Family, maternity, and engagement sessions: 2-3 weeks


• Weddings: 6-8 weeks (there are a lot of images to edit!)

I’ll always keep you updated if anything changes with the timeline.

Step 4: Choosing Your Favourites

Take your time browsing your gallery. Pour a glass of wine, curl up on the couch, and enjoy. There’s no wrong way to do this — but here are some tips:

• Don’t just pick the “perfect” ones. Some of the most treasured images are the imperfect, in-between moments.


• Think about printing. Which images would you love to see on your walls? Start a mental (or actual) shortlist.


• Share with family. Let grandparents pick their favourites too — it makes a great gift guide.

Step 5: Printing Your Photos

Every session includes a print release, which means you’re free to print your images wherever you like. But not all printing is created equal! Here’s my honest advice:

For the best quality, use a professional print lab rather than a drugstore kiosk. The colour accuracy, paper quality, and longevity are significantly better. I’m happy to recommend my favourite labs — just ask.

Consider an album. A beautifully printed album is the single best way to preserve your session. Digital files are wonderful, but there’s nothing like holding your memories in your hands.

Don’t let them sit. The number one regret I hear from families is waiting too long to print. Set a reminder for yourself: within a month of receiving your gallery, order at least something — even if it’s just one favourite framed print.

A Note on Social Media

You’re welcome to share your images on social media! All I ask is that you don’t apply additional filters (my edit is carefully crafted) and that you tag Pearl Photography & Co. when you can — it means the world to a small business.

Questions? Just Ask.

If you ever have questions about your gallery, need help choosing images for printing, or want advice on display options — I’m just an email away. My relationship with my clients doesn’t end when the gallery is delivered. I’m here to make sure your photos live their best life, not just sit on a hard drive.

Ready to start the journey? Book your session — I can’t wait to create something beautiful with you.

Fall in Edmonton is spectacular. For a few short weeks, the river valley explodes in golds, ambers, and russets — and it’s hands-down my favourite season for family photography. If you’re thinking about booking a fall session, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of it.

Timing Is Everything

Edmonton’s fall colour peak is brief — typically late September through mid-October, though it varies every year. Some years we get a glorious three-week window; other years, an early snowfall cuts it short.

My advice: Book early and stay flexible. I start taking fall bookings in August, and I always warn families that we might need to shift our date by a week depending on how the colours are developing. I watch the trees like a hawk every fall — it’s practically a second job.

If you have your heart set on peak autumn colours, aim for the first two weeks of October. If you’re more flexible, late September offers beautiful early-fall light with the added bonus of (usually) warmer temperatures.

Best Locations for Fall Colours

Not all parks are created equal when it comes to fall foliage. My top picks:

• Mill Creek Ravine — my number one recommendation. The variety of trees means a stunning mix of colours, and the trails offer endless beautiful backdrops. This is where I host my fall mini sessions.
• The River Valley — the valley views with a tapestry of autumn colours below are breathtaking. The trails around Forest Heights and Strathcona are particularly gorgeous.
• Hawrelak Park — the lakeside trees put on quite a show, and the reflections in the water add an extra layer of beauty.

What to Wear for Fall Photos

Fall is the easiest season to dress for — the season’s natural palette does half the work for you. Here’s what I recommend:

Lean into autumn tones: Rust, mustard, burgundy, forest green, warm brown, cream. These colours harmonise beautifully with the fall landscape instead of competing with it.

Layer up: Cardigans, scarves, denim jackets, boots. Layers add visual interest and keep everyone comfortable when the temperature drops (and it will — this is Edmonton).

Texture is your friend: Knit sweaters, corduroy, flannel, wool. Fall textures photograph incredibly well against the natural backdrop.

Avoid: Neon colours (they clash horribly with autumn tones) and anything too summery. You want to look like you belong in the season.

Preparing for Edmonton Fall Weather

Let’s be real — an Edmonton fall day can swing from 18°C and sunny to 2°C and snowing in the span of a week. Here’s how to be ready:

• Bring warm layers even if the forecast looks mild. A blanket for in-between shots is a great idea too.
• Choose footwear wisely. We’ll likely be on trails with leaves, mud, or even early snow. Boots over heels, always.
• Have a backup date. I always discuss a rain/snow contingency when booking fall sessions. Flexibility is key.
• Embrace it. Some of my favourite fall images have a dusting of snow or moody overcast skies. Not every session needs golden sunshine.

Making the Most of Your Session

Arrive a little early so the kids can burn off energy before we start shooting. A quick run around the park works wonders.

Bring a thermos of hot chocolate for after — it’s a lovely way to warm up, and it gives the kids something to look forward to.

Let the kids play. Fall sessions are perfect for candid moments: throwing leaves, crunching through piles of them, picking up “treasures.” These are the images that’ll make you smile for years.

Don’t Wait Too Long

I say this every year, and every year someone messages me in late October asking for fall photos when the trees are already bare. Edmonton’s fall is short. If you want those autumn colours, reach out sooner rather than later.

My fall mini sessions ($150 for 30 minutes and 10 edited images) are the perfect way to capture the season — they fill up fast every year.

Ready for stunning fall family photos? Book your autumn session before the leaves are gone!

“Smile for the camera!” — three words that almost guarantee the opposite result. If you’ve ever ended up with a gallery full of stiff, grimacing grins from your kids, you’re not alone. Forced smiles are the number one frustration I hear from parents.

Here’s the good news: genuine smiles aren’t about luck. They’re about creating the right conditions. After years of photographing kids of all ages, here are my tried-and-true techniques.

Stop Asking Them to Smile

This is the hardest one for parents, but it’s the most important. The moment you say “smile!”, kids tense up and produce that tight, unnatural grin. Instead, focus on making them feel happy — the smile will follow on its own.

During our sessions, you’ll notice I almost never ask kids to smile. I ask them to laugh, to be silly, to tell me secrets. The expressions that result are real.

Get Them Laughing

Laughter is the fastest path to a genuine smile. Some of my go-to tricks:

• Silly questions — “What’s the stinkiest thing you can think of?” “If you were a dinosaur, what kind would you be?”
• Opposite instructions — “Okay, whatever you do, do NOT smile.” (They always do.)
• Tickle attacks — from mom or dad, not me. Those giggles are pure gold.
• Funny faces — I’ll make a ridiculous face and ask them to copy it. The laughter that follows is completely genuine.

Let Them Move

Kids aren’t meant to sit still, and fighting that is a losing battle. I build movement into every session — running toward me, spinning in circles, jumping off a log, racing dad to a tree.

Action shots capture kids at their most joyful and natural. Some of my all-time favourite images are mid-giggle, hair flying, completely unposed.

Use the People They Love Most

A stranger (even a friendly photographer) can only do so much. But mom’s silly dance? Dad’s terrible jokes? A sibling’s whispered secret? That’s where the real magic lives.

I’ll often direct the parents rather than the kids: “Whisper something silly in her ear.” “Tell him what you’re making for dinner in your funniest voice.” When kids react to the people they love, the emotions are 100% authentic.

Don’t Bribe — Redirect

“Smile or no ice cream!” might work in the moment, but the resulting smile will look exactly like what it is — coerced. Instead of bribes, try redirection:

• If they’re getting restless, change the activity, not the incentive
• If they’re shy, give them a job (“Can you hold my reflector? Can you show me where the best climbing tree is?”)
• If they’re melting down, take a break. Seriously. Five minutes of downtime can save a session.

Timing Is Everything

I can’t stress this enough: schedule around your child’s natural rhythms. A well-rested kid after a nap and a snack is a completely different child than an overtired, hungry one.

For Older Kids and Teens

Tweens and teens need a different approach. They’ve outgrown the silly games but still light up when they feel respected and included:

• Give them some control — let them suggest a pose or pick a location within our spot
• Don’t force closeness — a teen leaning casually against a tree can be just as powerful as a posed hug
• Talk to them like people — ask about their interests, their music, their friends. Genuine conversation produces genuine expressions.
• Get a few “cool” shots — when teens feel like they look good, they relax. I’ll show them the back of the camera so they can see how great they look.

The Secret Ingredient: Patience

Here’s what I want every parent to know: I am never in a rush during a family session. If your toddler needs ten minutes to warm up, we take ten minutes. If your baby needs a feeding break, we take a feeding break.

The best images come when everyone feels safe and unpressured. That’s the environment I work hard to create in every single session.

Want natural, joyful photos of your family? Book a session — I promise, no forced smiles.

Thinking about booking a maternity session but have a million questions? You’re not alone. Pregnancy is a whirlwind of unknowns, and adding “hire a photographer” to the list can feel overwhelming. Let me answer the questions I hear most often so you can feel confident and excited about capturing this incredible chapter.

When Should I Book My Maternity Session?

I recommend scheduling your session between 28 and 34 weeks. Your bump is beautifully round and prominent, but you’re (hopefully) still feeling relatively comfortable and mobile.

That said, every pregnancy is different. If you’re carrying multiples or your doctor has mentioned the possibility of an early delivery, we might schedule a bit earlier. And if you’re past 34 weeks and feeling great? We can absolutely still make magic happen.

When to reach out: As soon as you know you want one! My calendar fills up, especially in the busy fall season. Reaching out in your second trimester gives us the most flexibility.

What Should I Wear?

The goal is to celebrate your bump, so fitted is your friend — bodycon dresses, fitted tops, or even beautiful draped fabrics that accentuate your shape.

Many of my mamas love:

• A flowy maxi dress — elegant and comfortable
• A fitted midi dress — shows off the bump beautifully
• Jeans and a fitted top — casual and timeless
• Something intimate — a beautiful robe or draped fabric for a more artistic feel

Soft, solid colours photograph best. And don’t forget — partners and older siblings are always welcome to join for part of the session!

Should My Partner and Kids Be Included?

Yes, please! While the focus is on you and your bump, some of my favourite maternity images include partners’ hands on the belly, a toddler kissing mama’s tummy, or the whole family gathered around in anticipation.

We’ll typically spend the first part of the session on just you, then bring in the family. Best of both worlds.

Where Do Maternity Sessions Take Place?

I offer both outdoor and in-home options:

• Outdoor — golden fields, quiet parks, river valley trails. Nature provides the most stunning backdrops, especially at golden hour.
• In-home — cosy, intimate, and personal. Your nursery (even if it’s still a work in progress), your bedroom with beautiful window light, your living room where real life happens.

There’s no wrong choice — it’s about what feels like you.

I’m Not Photogenic / I Don’t Love My Pregnant Body

I hear this more than you might think, and I want you to hear this: you are absolutely radiant, and I will show you.

Pregnancy changes your body in profound ways, and it’s normal to have complicated feelings about that. But here’s what I know from years of photographing mamas-to-be: when you see yourself through my lens — glowing, powerful, beautiful — something shifts.

My job is to pose you flatteringly, find your best light, and capture the strength and beauty of what your body is doing. You don’t need to know how to pose or feel confident walking in. That’s my job.

How Long Does a Session Last?

My maternity sessions typically run 45-60 minutes. That’s enough time to get a beautiful variety without exhausting you — because I know growing a human is tiring work!

What If I Go Into Labour Before Our Session?

Life happens! If your little one decides to make an early appearance, we’ll either reschedule (if there’s time) or convert your session into a fresh-48 or newborn session. We’ll figure it out together — no stress.

What’s Included?

Every maternity session with Pearl Photography & Co. includes:

• A pre-session consultation to plan location, outfits, and vision
• The session itself (45-60 minutes)
• A private online gallery of professionally edited images
• A print release for personal printing

My maternity collections start at $150 — see full details on my maternity page.

One Last Thing

You might be tempted to skip maternity photos. To tell yourself you’ll do it next time, or that you don’t look good enough right now, or that it’s not a big deal.

But this — this — is a big deal. You’re growing a person. That deserves to be remembered.

Ready to celebrate your bump? Book your maternity session — I’d be honoured to capture this chapter for you.

Here’s a question I ask every family after delivering their gallery: “What are you going to do with these?” And you’d be surprised how often the answer is a sheepish laugh. We live in a digital age where thousands of photos sit on phones and hard drives, never to be truly seen.

Your family photos deserve better. They’re not just files — they’re your story. Here are my favourite creative ways to bring them into your home where you can enjoy them every day.

The Classic Gallery Wall

A gallery wall is timeless for a reason. It’s personal, it’s impactful, and it grows with your family.

My tips for a gallery wall that works:

• Plan it on the floor first. Lay out your frames on the ground and arrange them before a single nail goes in the wall.
• Mix frame styles or keep them uniform — both work, but pick one approach and commit. Matching frames in different sizes looks clean and modern; mixed vintage frames feel eclectic and cosy.
• Include a variety — not just the “perfect” portraits. Some of the best gallery walls mix professional photos with candid snapshots.
• Start with an anchor piece — one larger print in the centre or slightly off-centre, then build around it.

Statement Prints

Sometimes one big, beautiful image says more than twenty small ones. A large canvas or framed print above the couch, in the entryway, or at the top of the stairs makes a stunning focal point.

For maximum impact, go bigger than you think. Most people underestimate — a 24×36″ print often looks just right where a 16×20″ would feel lost.

Photo Albums and Books

There’s something irreplaceable about holding a physical album. I always encourage families to print an album from their session — it’s the kind of thing that gets pulled out at holidays, shown to grandparents, and eventually handed down.

Modern lay-flat albums are gorgeous: thick pages, stunning print quality, and they lie perfectly flat so panoramic images shine. Many of my clients order one after each major session, building a family archive over the years.

Unexpected Spots

Don’t limit yourself to the living room walls:

• The hallway — a chronological series down the hall is like walking through time
• Kids’ bedrooms — children love seeing photos of themselves displayed proudly
• The kitchen — a small framed favourite on a shelf adds warmth to the heart of the home
• Your workspace — a desk frame with your favourite family moment is an instant mood-lifter

Seasonal Rotation

Here’s a fun idea: keep a few favourite frames with easily swappable prints, and rotate them seasonally. Fall family photos in autumn, snowy session prints in winter, golden summer shots when you need a reminder of warmer days. It keeps your walls feeling fresh without buying new frames.

Digital Frames

If you’re torn between too many favourites (it happens — I take a lot of photos!), a digital frame is a great solution. Load up your entire gallery and let it cycle through. It’s especially lovely in a kitchen or home office.

Gifts for Grandparents

Grandparents live for printed photos of the grandkids. A framed print or small album makes a gift that’s genuinely cherished — far more than another gadget. Trust me on this one.

Don’t Wait for Perfect

The biggest mistake I see? Waiting until you have “the perfect” photo or “the perfect” wall. Your home doesn’t need to look like a magazine. Start with one frame, one print, one album. Your future self will thank you.

Every session with Pearl Photography & Co. includes a print release, so you can print your images wherever you like — and I’m always happy to recommend my favourite professional print labs if you want the best quality.

Ready to create images worth framing? Book your session and let’s make something beautiful together.

Your engagement session is such a fun milestone — a chance to celebrate this exciting chapter before the wedding whirlwind begins. And one of the biggest questions couples ask me is: “What should we wear?” Let’s break it down.

The Golden Rule: Coordinate, Don’t Match

You don’t need to wear the same thing (please don’t wear the same thing). Instead, think of your outfits as two pieces of the same puzzle. Choose a colour palette of 2-3 complementary tones and build from there.

For example: she wears a flowy sage green dress, he wears dark jeans with a cream button-down and a sage pocket square. Coordinated, not matching. It looks intentional and polished without being cheesy.

What Photographs Well

Solid colours and subtle textures. Knit sweaters, linen, chambray, soft wool — texture adds visual richness that flat fabrics lack.

Soft, muted tones. Blush, sage, cream, dusty blue, warm grey, soft rust — these tones are flattering on almost everyone and they don’t compete with your surroundings.

Layers. A denim jacket, a cardigan, a scarf — layers add dimension and give you variety without a full outfit change. They also come in handy when the Edmonton evening gets chilly.

Dresses with movement. For my lovely ladies: a dress that moves when you twirl or when the wind catches it? Chef’s kiss. Flowy fabrics create the most romantic, dynamic images.

What to Avoid

Neon and super-bright colours. They cast unflattering colour onto your skin and draw attention away from your faces.

Large logos and graphics. Unless it’s meaningful to you, skip the branded tees. Your love story is the focus, not a clothing brand.

Busy patterns on both of you. One subtle pattern is fine — but if you’re both in bold prints, they’ll fight each other in the frame.

Anything uncomfortable. If you’re tugging, adjusting, or can’t sit down comfortably, it will show. Confidence is the best thing you can wear.

Consider Your Location

Your outfits should feel at home in your setting:

• Nature/park session — earthy tones, boots, cosy layers. Think romantic and relaxed.
• Urban/downtown session — you can go a little dressier. A nice dress and blazer look fantastic against city backdrops.
• At-home session — comfortable and casual. Bare feet, soft knits, lived-in and lovely.

Two Outfits or One?

I always recommend bringing two outfits if you’d like variety — one dressier, one more casual. We can do a quick change mid-session. It essentially gives you two mini-sessions in one, and the variety in your final gallery is wonderful.

That said, one great outfit is absolutely fine too. Quality over quantity.

Hair and Makeup Tips

• A little extra makeup photographs well — the camera tends to wash things out slightly. But stay true to yourself; you want to look like you on your best day.
• Consider professional hair and makeup — many of my couples use their engagement session as a trial run for their wedding day glam. Two birds, one stone!
• Bring touch-up supplies — lipstick, powder, a brush. Edmonton wind is real.

The Most Important Thing

Wear something that makes you feel like the best version of yourselves. When you feel good, you relax. When you relax, you’re present with each other. And that’s when the magic happens — the laughter, the quiet looks, the genuine connection. That’s what I live to capture.

Engaged and ready for beautiful photos? Let’s plan your session — I can’t wait to celebrate with you.

Your wedding photos are one of the few things from your wedding day that last forever. The flowers will wilt, the cake will be eaten, but your photos? You’ll look at those for the rest of your life. So choosing the right photographer is a big deal — and I want to help you get it right, whether you end up booking with me or someone else.

Start With Style

Every photographer has a distinct style. Some are light and airy, some are dark and moody, some are documentary-style, some are more traditional and posed. There’s no right or wrong — it’s about what speaks to you.

My style at Pearl Photography & Co. leans toward genuine, natural images — real laughter, real tears, the moments in between the poses. If that resonates with you, we might be a great fit. If you’re drawn to something dramatically different, that’s okay too! The key is to choose someone whose portfolio makes you feel something.

Tip: Look at full galleries, not just highlight reels. Anyone can pull together 20 stunning images; you want to see how a photographer handles an entire day — getting ready, the ceremony, family formals, the reception.

Personality Matters More Than You Think

Your photographer will be with you for 8+ hours on one of the most emotional days of your life. You’ll want someone who:

• Makes you feel comfortable and at ease


• Can gently direct without being bossy


• Stays calm when things don’t go as planned (and something always doesn’t go as planned)


• Blends in during candid moments but steps up when direction is needed

I always suggest meeting your photographer before booking — even a quick video call. You’ll know pretty quickly whether the vibe is right.

Questions to Ask

When you’re interviewing photographers, here are the questions that really matter:

1. What’s included in your packages? Hours of coverage, number of edited images, second shooter, travel fees — get the details.


2. How do you handle a timeline? An experienced photographer will help you build a photography timeline that actually works.


3. What’s your backup plan? Equipment fails. Photographers get sick. Ask about backup gear and contingency plans.


4. How long until we get our photos? Turnaround times vary widely. Make sure the timeline works for you.


5. Can we see a full wedding gallery? As mentioned above, this is non-negotiable.


6. How do you handle family formals? This is where many wedding days get bogged down. An organised photographer keeps it moving.

Understanding Pricing

Wedding photography pricing in Edmonton varies quite a bit. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• You generally get what you pay for. Photography is skilled labour plus expensive equipment, insurance, editing time, and years of experience.


• Compare what’s included, not just the bottom line. A $1,500 package with 4 hours of coverage isn’t comparable to a $2,200 package with 8 hours and a second shooter.


• Ask about payment plans. Many photographers (myself included) are happy to work with you on a payment schedule.

My wedding collections start at $1,500 — you can see the full breakdown on my weddings page.

Trust Your Gut

After all the practical considerations, trust your instincts. If you love someone’s work, enjoy talking to them, and feel confident they’ll take care of you — that’s your photographer.

Your wedding day goes by in a blur. Choose someone you’ll trust to capture it beautifully while you stay present in the moment.

Planning your Edmonton wedding? I’d love to hear about your day — let’s see if we’re the right fit.

“When should we schedule our session?” It’s one of the first questions I get when someone books with Pearl Photography & Co., and it’s a great one — because timing genuinely affects how your photos turn out. Let me walk you through the options so you can make the best choice for your family.

What Is Golden Hour?

Golden hour is the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset when the sun is low in the sky. The light is warm, soft, and incredibly flattering — it’s the glow you see in those dreamy photos where everything looks kissed by honey-coloured light.

In Edmonton, golden hour timing shifts dramatically with the seasons. In the summer, evening golden hour might not start until 8:30 or 9pm (hello, long northern days!). In the fall, it’s more like 5:30 or 6pm — much more manageable, especially with little kids.

Why Photographers Love Golden Hour

There’s a reason it’s the most requested time slot:

• Flattering light — the low angle minimises harsh shadows under eyes and noses. Everyone looks their best.
• Warm tones — that golden glow adds richness and warmth that you just can’t replicate at noon.
• Beautiful backgrounds — backlit scenes, glowing fields, sun flares through trees. Magic.
• Calmer atmosphere — parks are quieter in the evening, which means fewer photobombers and a more relaxed vibe.

If your schedule allows it, golden hour is almost always my top recommendation for outdoor sessions.

The Case for Morning Light

Morning golden hour (just after sunrise) offers the same beautiful light as the evening version, with a few extra perks: locations are usually empty, the air feels fresh, and for early risers, everyone’s energy is at its peak.

The catch? Sunrise in an Edmonton summer is early — we’re talking 5am. That’s a tough sell for most families. But in the fall and spring, a 7:30 or 8am session is very doable and the light is gorgeous.

What About Midday?

I’ll be honest: harsh midday sun (roughly 11am to 3pm) is the most challenging light to work with. The sun is directly overhead, which creates unflattering shadows and makes everyone squint.

But — and this is important — midday isn’t always avoidable, and it’s not always bad:

• Overcast days are a gift. Cloud cover acts like a giant softbox, diffusing the light beautifully. Some of my favourite sessions have been on cloudy afternoons.
• Shaded locations help. In a ravine or forested area like Mill Creek, the tree canopy filters the light even at noon.
• Winter light is different. The sun stays low all day in an Edmonton winter, so “midday” light is actually quite lovely for snowy sessions.

If midday is the only time that works for your family, don’t worry — I’ll choose a location and shooting style that makes the most of it.

My Honest Recommendation

For most families, I recommend scheduling 1.5 to 2 hours before sunset. You get that beautiful warm light, the kids are usually still in good spirits, and we wrap up before anyone gets overtired.

For maternity sessions, golden hour is pure magic — that warm glow on your skin is unbeatable.

For engagement sessions, I’m flexible. Some couples love the romance of sunset; others prefer a bright, airy morning feel. We’ll figure out what suits your vision.

What If the Weather Doesn’t Cooperate?

Edmonton weather is famously unpredictable. If it’s overcast on our session day, don’t panic — I’ll reach out and we’ll decide together whether to proceed (cloudy light is actually great!) or reschedule. I always build flexibility into my scheduling for exactly this reason.

Have questions about timing your session? Let’s chat — I’ll help you pick the perfect time for beautiful light.