What to expect when you are expecting…a photo session.

What Happens at a Toes and Beans Session?

At Toes and Beans Photography, we believe the best portraits don’t happen when everything is perfectly posed—they happen when your baby giggles mid-wiggle, or your rescue dog flops over with wild joy. Our sessions are built on one core idea: the experience should feel just as good as the final photos look.

Whether we’re photographing tiny toes or muddy paws, every session is baby- or pet-led, meaning your little one sets the pace. You’ll never find stiff posing or rushed timelines here—just a cozy, easygoing atmosphere where everyone can breathe, play, and be themselves.

So, what actually happens during a Toes and Beans session? Here’s a little peek behind the scenes.

First, We Chat

Before you ever step in front of the camera, we start with a conversation. Whether you’re a proud new pet parent, a sleep-deprived mom of three, or someone booking a gift for a loved one, we take the time to understand what matters most to you.

Do you want to capture a baby’s sleepy yawn or a kitten’s first pounce? Is there a particular heirloom you’d like included in your photos? Are you nervous about how your rescue dog might react to a new space?

These are the kinds of things we love to hear about—because knowing your story helps us tell it better through images.

The Space Is Calm and Safe

We shoot in-home or at chosen locations that suit the comfort level of your baby or pet. That means familiar surroundings, no harsh lights or intimidating setups, and room to explore. For studio-style sessions, we bring our setup to you—lights, backgrounds, props, and all—so your little one doesn’t have to travel.

Our gear is compact and quiet, and we keep distractions low. We know the difference between a newborn needing a feed, a pup needing a treat break, or a toddler needing time to warm up. There’s no pressure and no stopwatch—we go with the flow.

Baby- and Pet-Led Means No Forcing the Moment

There is no “perfect pose” we’re chasing.

Some of our favourite photos come in the moments in-between. The ones where a baby drools mid-laugh, or a puppy sneaks a lick at the camera lens. These authentic moments say more than any stiffly posed shot ever could.

We might guide a setup lightly—helping place a baby safely on a soft blanket, or coaxing a curious cat toward the best light—but we always follow your little one's lead.

And if someone needs a snack, a snuggle, or just a minute to themselves? We pause. It’s all part of the magic.

The Session Itself Feels Like a Playdate

Most sessions last 45–90 minutes, depending on the comfort and cooperation of the subject. Babies may need breaks for feeding, changing, or just a moment to regroup. Pets might need time to explore the room before settling in. We plan for all of that.

There’s plenty of chatting, laughter, and quiet moments, too. We bring toys, treats, or soothing sounds if needed—and we always listen to what your little one is telling us. No rush. No stress. Just space to be themselves.

Props, Outfits, and Options

We keep things simple and cozy. You’re welcome to use our collection of soft blankets, neutral props, and classic accessories—or bring your own favorites from home. Some parents like to include a special toy, a family heirloom, or even a pet’s first collar.

We’ll help you decide what works best depending on the look you love—timeless, playful, or something in between. And if you’re unsure what to wear or bring, not to worry, we are going to send you a prep guide to make everything easy-peasy.

We Create a Story, Not Just a Portrait

Sure, we’ll capture that gorgeous shot you can hang above the mantle. But what we really love is storytelling.

The curious reach of a baby’s hand, the way a senior dog’s eyes soften when they look at their person—those are the memories you’ll treasure in five, ten, twenty years. Our goal is to photograph the relationship, not just the subject.

You’re not just booking a session. You’re investing in the story of your family, right now, as it is—wild, sweet, messy, and real.

After the Session

Once the session is done, you can breathe easy—we take care of the rest.

We carefully review and edit your gallery, keeping the natural tones and character of your images intact. We don’t do heavy retouching unless needed—we believe in celebrating what’s real. If you’ve chosen a package with prints or albums, we’ll guide you through the next steps to make sure everything is easy and beautiful.

Your online gallery is delivered within two weeks, and from there, you can download, share, and enjoy.

It’s About the Experience and the Image

At the heart of it, a Toes and Beans session is about more than just getting the shot. It’s about how you feel during the shoot, and the memories you’ll carry long after the camera is packed away.

We want you to walk away not just with stunning portraits, but with warm memories of a relaxed, happy time together.

So whether you're celebrating a new arrival, capturing the magic of your fur baby, or simply freezing a moment before it slips away—you're in the right place.

Welcome to Toes and Beans Photography. We can’t wait to tell your story.