Knowing when to expect emails and following the guidance is essential for a seamless and stress-free photography experience. As shown in the timeline from the provided guide, key milestones are outlined clearly, ensuring you stay informed and prepared at every step. From the initial booking, where you fill out a questionnaire and pay a retainer, to receiving a wardrobe guide, each email is designed to guide you through the process smoothly. Confirming wardrobe options two weeks prior, handling the final balance a week before the session, and getting packing and reminder guides ensure everything is in place. This organized approach allows you to focus on enjoying the moment, knowing that all the details are taken care of, culminating in a delightful experience on the day of the session and beyond.
Hi, I’m Mercae (pronounced Mer-say), a neurodivergent Seattle mother to one wild preschooler boy and a family, maternity and newborn photographer. I am deeply passionate about providing parents with tangible reminders of their families connection and love story because of my own challenging first years as a mother. Looking up at the wall, seeing myself at the heart of my beautiful family brings me so much light and joy and made even the toughest days of postpartum depression bearable. I know it can help other parents both in the moment of the session, taking time to be together, and after, when it comes time to mount their photos on the wall or thumb through their album again. Click here to learn more…
The Experience
From the very first hello to the moment you open your gallery, this experience is designed to feel thoughtful, unhurried, and deeply personal. Family photographs should feel like a pause in the noise of life, a chance to slow down, connect, and be fully present together.
Inquire
After reviewing the investment options, you’ll submit an inquiry form to get started. You’ll then receive the investment and welcome guide, which offers a clear, detailed overview of the experience. From that email you’ll also set up a brief 10-minute phone call so I can get to know you, learn about your family, and personalize your session from the very beginning.
Book Your Session
Following our phone call, you’ll receive a private booking link with the date and time we discussed. From there, you’ll sign your contract and pay the sitting fee to officially reserve your session. Everything is handled online to keep the process simple and stress-free.
The Day You Book
Once your session is confirmed, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a short questionnaire. This helps me understand your family dynamics, your children’s personalities, and what you hope to preserve most. These details allow me to photograph your family with intention and care.
One Day After Booking
Your wardrobe guide will arrive in your inbox, along with access to my curated client closet. You’ll choose the dress you’ll be wearing and find inspiration for styling your family around it. The focus is on effortless coordination that feels natural, comfortable, and timeless.
Five Days Prior
You’ll receive a helpful packing guide designed to remove last-minute stress and ensure you feel prepared. It’s a simple checklist to support a smooth, calm session day.
Seven and Three Days Prior
Gentle reminders will be sent with your session date, time, and location so everything stays top of mind. No scrambling, no second-guessing, just ease.
The Day Of
Please plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early. This allows time for parking, small outfit adjustments, adding or removing layers, and gathering everything you’ll need before walking to the session location. When I arrive, I’ll text or call you so we can meet and begin right on time.
Two Weeks After Your Session
Your gallery will be delivered via email, beautifully set to music. This is your invitation to slow down, relive the experience, and choose the images that will live on your walls and in your hands for years to come.
Ready to Begin?
If this feels like the kind of experience your family has been craving, I’d love to hear from you. Reach out to begin a session that’s slow, intentional, and centered on connection, with guidance every step of the way so you can simply show up and be present. When you’re ready, submit an inquiry and let’s start creating something meaningful together.
