Capturing a fleeting moment.
The goal of these portraits is to capture “how we hold each other”… how our kids hold us just as much as we hold them, our entanglements, and how our bodies are sculpted and shaped by the way our children grow, connect, and uncouple from us mothers.
by Allison Usavage
I've been working as a professional photographer for over a decade, primarily working in a documentary style with natural, available light. My focus has always been documenting life's honest stories. The idea sprouted with a few self-portraits of my own postpartum belly and my son gripping my shoulder, but there's so many more moments in time and diverse experiences to capture, and I can't wait to find them.
I'm currently accepting bookings for sessions on Sunday, April 30, with all photos guaranteed to be delivered by Mothers Day. Book now →
Future sessions in Ithaca, NY will be announced through my mailing list. And if you're interested but not local, let me know too! If we can drum up enough interest I'll find a studio space and have a studio day wherever you are.
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FAQ
What does a session cost?
Portrait sessions are $400 and last 45 minutes. The fee is for the session only, and includes web-resolution digital downloads of all of the images delivered plus one high-quality 8x8 or 8x12 print. Additional prints & wall art will be available for purchase through the gallery system upon delivery of your images.
What is the best age for these portraits?
These sessions are for 'children in arms'. The expectation is that you'll be holding your child in your arms, dancing, snuggling, and rocking. That means different things for different families... some children still love to be held at 5, and others constantly wriggle from our embrace at 2 (my kid!). You know your family best!
Portraits with children between 6-18 months have been reliably wonderful, as they still tend to be quite attached but are developing their own unique (and fleeting) ways of exploring their interactions with you, which makes for great energy and variety in the photographs. Newborns are very welcome and loved, but when browsing the images already in my portfolio, remember that there isn't a lot of flexibility in how you interact and move when you're supporting a delicate body,
What should I wear?
This portrait style is all about intimacy and shedding the extraneous, external stuff to capture the core of your relationship expressed through your bodies. Once you book I'll send you a guide with more specifics, but in general, black simple tops and black leggings or jeans work best.
Does my child have to be naked?
If you’re comfortable with your child being naked for a portion of the shoot, that’s great! Especially for younger kids, it creates a sense of intimacy and warmth. If not, I have a few simple cotton and wool neutral diaper covers that should fit newborns through 24ish lbs, though I can’t guarantee fit. Simple black shorts, pants, or bloomers are a great option. If you want to keep your child clothed, please choose simple, neutral colors: tans and browns with no patterns or designs.
Can I bring multiple kids?
Of course! Juggling more than one tiny body in your arms is a beautiful piece of parenthood. The goal is to be in contact with each other, so please come with realistic expectations about your children's ability to connect physically with their sibling(s) in respectful ways. We'll be capturing whatever family dynamic you show up with and you know your family best!
How often are sessions available?
I'll open up bookings for another day of sessions once I have enough interest. So if you're interested, please join the mailing list so I know!
Where is your studio?
Portraits will take place in downtown Ithaca. Exact location information will be provided once you're booked. The studio is a 4th floor walk-up, so please let me know if you need any assistance getting your kiddo up the stairs. I'm always happy to help!
Other questions?
Feel free to email me at hi@allisonusavage.com with any questions before booking.