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Let the Magic Begin!

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Breathe. It’s easier than you think.

 

Everyone worries they won’t know what to do — but that’s my job, not yours. I’ll tell you where to stand, how to move, and what to do with your hands. Mostly, we’ll just laugh, play, and let the moment happen.

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What to Expect

We’ll keep it relaxed and fun.

 

If you have little ones, we’ll play — chase, tickle, twirl, or just let them explore.

 

If it’s a couples session, think more like dancing in the clouds than stiff posing.

 

I’ll guide you the whole time so you never feel awkward, and I’ll catch the real smiles between the “poses.”

 

You can talk, move, laugh — it’s all part of the story.

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Raven's Roost Overlook VA warm family portrait of a mom, dad, and little girl, cuddled on the ridge side

What to Wear

Getting dressed for photos shouldn’t be stressful — here’s the quick version of what always works:

Fabrics that move: Velvet, linen, cotton, gauze, chiffon, or soft knits. Base everyone off of one pattern if you don't want all solids.

 

Colors that blend:

  • See the next section for palettes! 

  • Pick shades that go together, not exact matches

  • Skip neons and bright primaries

 

Layers + Texture: Cardigans, shawls, sweaters, scarves, fancy hats, or wraps add interest and movement. ​

 

Comfort first: If you can’t move, sit, or pick up your kids, it’s a no.​ Wear shoes that fit the location. (Maybe don't wear heels to an overlook.)

 

A few easy don’ts

  • No big logos, characters, or writing. Avoid everyone in the same color or outfit.

 

⸻ Bottom line: If you feel good in it, it’ll look good.

 

If you’re not here to get dressed up pretty — that’s always allowed. Come as you are. 💛

Seasonal Colors

Spring

 

Sage, soft honey, pale denim, and blush.

 

Summer

Muted blues and teals, seafoam, soft coral, and stone.

Fall

 

Rust, olive, ochre, rose, plum, navy, emerald, strong deep colors

 

Winter

Forest green, soft green, slate, burgundy, cocoa, silver, shades of soft blue to navy.

Always looks good

Neutrals: white, oatmeal, beige, cream, sand, light grey, taupe.

Colors: navy, rose, dusty blue, soft green.

Raven's Roost Overlook VA spring family portrait of a mom, dad, and baby in the background of a little girl holding a flower
Daydreamer Photography | Design Element
Daydreamer Photography | Design Element
Daydreamer Photography | Design Element
Daydreamer Photography | Design Element
Daydreamer Photography | Design Element
Daydreamer Photography | Design Element
Daydreamer Photography | Design Element

- Timeless Colors -

Daydreamer Photography | Design Element
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Nelson county VA senior portrait of a girl wrapped in a bold sunflare

A note about weather...

Before you head up the mountain, here’s a little about what to expect from the air and light up there.The mountains have their own rhythm — soft, shifting, and always a little unpredictable.

 

Up here, it’s often 10–20 degrees cooler than in the valley. In the colder months, bring layers you can open or slip off easily. When it’s warm below, the mountaintop air is delightfully cooler — a gentle kind of relief. Don't fight the wind, it adds the most beautiful movement.

 

Sometimes the weather gets weird.

  • You might stand inside a storm with lightning beside you instead of above. ( We will reschedule)

  • Clouds can roll in and wrap everything in fog. (It's beautiful)

  • On clear days, a temperature inversion can flip the world — warm above, cold below. (Why I suggest layers)

 

The mountains love a little drama, and I plan around it, adjusting times as needed so we still catch that perfect light. Sunset arrives later on the ridge — sometimes almost an hour after the valley.

 

I set every session time to match the light, so all you have to do is show up, breathe, and let me do what I do best.

 

It’s all part of the story — and it’s always worth it.

Foggy family snuggle portrait on the Blue Ridge Parkway, VA
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Blue Ridge Mountains VA portrait of a little girl wrapped in a blanket and sunset golden light by Daydreamer Photography

What Really Matters

These photos aren’t about perfection — they’re about connection.

You’ll never hear me say “smile at the camera” and mean it in a fake way.

I’ll help you relax so your photos look like you on a really good day — a little messy, a lot happy, and totally real.

Ready for your adventure?

Daydreamer Photography | Design Element
Daydreamer Photography | Design Element
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Editorial storytelling for those that crave heart, soul, and mountain air.

Based in Roseland, Va

Daydreamer Photography | Design Element

© 2025 Daydreamer Photography 

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