Heidi Vail | Photography

Season's Greetings! It's the most wonderful time of year and I wanted to update you with a few things!

First, all holiday orders must be in by this Sunday December 10th at midnight (11:59pm EST) to ensure that packages are delivered by December 24th.

I'm currently hosting a 35% sale on all prints at my online print shop and my client galleries. Use the promo code HOLIDAY at check out to save.

You can view the print shop here: https://proofing.heidivail.com/printshop/
And all current client galleries can be viewed here: https://proofing.heidivail.com/

Lastly, I wanted to take a moment to thank all my 2023 clients for making this a fabulous year! I'm so very grateful for your business!

From my family to yours, happy holidays!

- New on the Blog -

http://heidivail.com/family-session-at-lighthouse-point-park/

Earlier this fall I photographed this adorable family at one of my favorite locations here in Florida. We met up just after sunrise at Lighthouse Point Park and walked to the dog beach that overlooks the Ponce de Leon Inlet.
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This beach is really great because there is so much variety in a small amount of space. For example first I captured them walking on the path to the beach from different angles. Then we found a grassy spot that they sat in front of for some shots. We utilized some mangroves as a backdrop and then made our way to the rocks by the shore, and then played on the white sandy beach by the waters edge.
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With little kids it’s best to take lots of photos on the way to the water edge. This is because once they get close enough to the water they often want to touch and play in it, understandably. So for me, once a family makes it to the water I focus on documenting the experience rather than trying to do anymore posed shots. And we wrap up the session just playing and there’s no more looking at the camera.
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I loved the photos we created during this session. The lighting was gorgeous and the green, ivory, and white color palette the family chose to wear really went well with this beach. And most of all we had so much fun and their little guy gave me lots of smiles!

Be sure to visit my blog to see more photos from this beautiful beach session: http://heidivail.com/family-session-at-lighthouse-point-park/

- Fall Portraits & Holiday Order Deadlines -

Hi Friends!

The holidays will be here before we know it. Here's a quick update and some important deadlines in regards to family photos.

First, I just have a few more spots open for family sessions this fall. If you are interested in booking a session, now is the time to save your date. You can start the process by filling out this form: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/64ef97ffc503c7003a8017c4

Second, if you are planning on using photos from your session for this year's holiday cards, please note that all sessions that take place before November 15th will receive their photos by Thanksgiving. Family's that schedule their sessions in late November will receive their photos mid December and family's that are photographed in December will receive their online galleries by Christmas Eve.

Lastly, I will be offering some great promotions in my next newsletter for just my email list subscribers. So if you haven't joined yet, now is the time to do so: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5d70110154c0fa000fbe75cd

Thanks so much for following me here on FB and supporting my business!

All the best,
Heidi

Today I went for a long walk around Lake Baldwin with my toddler and a dear photographer friend. We had a great time and enjoyed the crisp fall air as my little guy scooted on his pedal free bike. While we chatted we noticed that the tall grasses around the lake are still green, but in a few weeks we imagine the fields around the lake will turn to gold and be the perfect location for fall photos. It reminded me of one of my favorite fall sessions from last year which I recently shared on my blog. You can check out that post here:

http://heidivail.com/lake-baldwin-family-session/

And I shared a few photos from that session here as well as two iPhone shots from this morning. It’s definitely a great spot for anyone looking for a more rustic and natural setting for portraits in the Orlando area.

- Location Guide for Central Florida -

My fall portrait season has begun and I'm just so excited! One of the things I love about my photographing families is that I get to visit and explore so many beautiful places with them. And Central Florida has so many wonderful spots to choose from. It honestly can be hard to narrow down your options. So for all the families out there who need help deciding where to do their session, this post is for you.

Here's the link to my Central Florida Location Guide:

http://heidivail.com/location-guide-central-florida/

The guide includes information on how to select a spot that works best for your family, as well as a list of places with descriptions and photos. A variety of gardens, parks, beaches, and other locals are included. The photos below are a small preview of what's in the guide. More than anything I want to provide information that is helpful for you! But if you still have concerns, please reach out! I'm always happy to answer questions or help brainstorm additional ideas!

- Fall Family Sessions -

I'm excited to announce that I am now booking fall family sessions here in Central Florida. If you are interested in working together, let me share a few details with you...

First, I wanted to make the booking process as easy as possible while still creating a custom experience. So I designed my signup form with you in mind. The form includes information on my three portrait collections, I share the weekend dates I still have available, and there's a list of locations to choose from. After receiving a completed form, I'll be in touch to confirm logistics and make sure you are all set before emailing you the contract and invoice to book.

In terms of scheduling, if you are planning on using your photos from your session for holiday cards, your session will need to take place before November 15th. Your photos will be delivered by December 1st. And for sessions that take place between November 15th and December 10th, online galleries are delivered by December 24th.

Lastly, I only take on a select number of sessions each season. This ensures that all my clients are well taken care of. I sent out this sign up form to my email list, and I'm already halfway booked. So if you want to work with me this fall now is the time to claim your spot!

Here's the form to sign up: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/64ef97ffc503c7003a8017c4

And of course if you have any questions or concerns, there is a spot on the form or you can reach out to me directly!

As I prep for my fall portrait season, I've been reviewing past work. One of the sessions that I did last fall took place at Smyrna Dunes Park. It was a glorious afternoon and the family was so much fun to work with. Their beach session is on the blog if you want to see more!

http://heidivail.com/smyrna-dunes-park-family-session/

School is back in session which means I’m now spending more time in the office. This week I’ve been catching up on emails and editing sessions from my latest trip to Cape Cod. I love so many of the images I made there and can’t wait to share them with you. But before I do that I wanted to talk about fall portrait sessions.
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You might not know this, but fall is always my busiest time of year. Here in FL our summers are hot and sticky and it usually isn’t until autumn that the temperatures drop and people want to be outside again. Pair that with everyone wanting photos for the holidays and you can understand why so many folks want to schedule portraits in October and November. It can be overwhelming trying so much work into a short amount of time. So this year I’m doing things a little differently.
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At the beginning of September I’ll be sending out my newsletter to my email list with instructions on how to schedule and purchase sessions. There will be information on pricing, locations, and more. Also, if you want your photos in time to order holiday cards your session will need to take place before November 15th. As always spots and dates are limited, so if you are interested sign up for my mailing list here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5d70110154c0fa000fbe75cd
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Here’s some lovely shots of a mother and her daughter frolicking on the beach at Lighthouse Point Park here in Central Florida during a fall session a few years back!

NEW ENGLAND TRAVEL DATES // May 4th - May 7th

I'm flying up to Boston in a couple of weeks and can't wait! I'm looking forward to visiting my family on Cape Cod and spending time with dear friends. I'm also taking on a select number of portraits while I'm up there and have room for a few more! If you are interested in family portraits, sign up with the form below. I would love to work with you and create some lasting memories together!

https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/63ceec857356e12ad2fb858e

- New on the Blog -

Earlier this year I worked with this amazing mother to create her own unique Motherhood Session. We chose Leu Gardens as we knew it would be a beautiful backdrop, especially with all the flowers in bloom. We selected a time of day that would work well with her son’s nap schedule. And I helped her decide on what they should both wear. I love the blue floral dress she chose and how the little pops of blue in her son’s outfit played well with her dress.
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On the day of their session we explored the gardens as I captured these sweet moments. Her toddler is an active guy and was feeling very independent that morning, so we rolled with his energy. We kept things moving and continued to find activities they could do together. The results are a collection of mostly candid photographs that showcase their relationship and this fleeting moment in their lives.

To view more from their sweet session, you can visit my blog here:

http://heidivail.com/motherhood-session-at-leu-gardens/

- Motherhood Sessions -

This spring I am offering Motherhood Sessions here in Central Florida. These sessions are designed to celebrate mothers and the special bond they have with their children. During each session I will guide mothers through a sequence of actions to take with their little ones. Baby cheeks will be kissed, toddlers will be tickled, and big kids will share silly jokes with their Mom. We won't just be taking photos, we will be creating fun filled and heartfelt memories, to be preserved and cherished forever.

If you are interested in a motherhood session for yourself or as a gift, please take a moment to fill out the form below. Your answers will be used to create a custom quote and unique photography experience. Whether you are expecting, a new mother, or your babies are all grown up, I would be honored to photograph you and document this part of your motherhood journey.

https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/641cb4a99613a4d45f20351c

- New on the Blog -
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I absolutely adore photographing families, but I have to say that when another photographer asks me to photograph their family it is extra special. I have photographed my friend Cassy of Rooted Love Photography with her family a few times now and every time I pinch myself. Not only is she super stylish and talented, but her family is adorable!
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I only photographed a few families in the fall of 2021 and Cassy's was one of them. My youngest was only a couple months old and I was doing my best to limit how much work I took on. The afternoon of her session I remember thinking that is was really nice getting out for a bit and working with my camera again. We met up in Winter Park near Hannibal Square and amazingly had the place all to ourselves. The light was soft and dreamy and I love the images we created together!

You can see more from their lovely session here: http://heidivail.com/winter-park-family-session-at-hannibal-square/

Hey there! It’s me Heidi! I just wanted to take a moment and thank you for following along here on my Heidi Vail Photography page. I really appreciate your support!

I would also like to share that I have an email list! Would you like to join? It’s a great way for us to stay connected! I typically send a newsletter out each month with little updates about my life and work. Plus, if you are on my mailing list, you get first dibs on portrait sign ups and special offers!
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So if this sounds like something you want to be a part of, be sure to signup with link below. I'll be happy to have you on board!

https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5d70110154c0fa000fbe75cd

- On the Blog -
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Hey friends, this is Shayla Bre and she is fabulous! She’s a branding consultant who helps budding entrepreneurs build their brands and launch successful businesses. She has a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm, and was even sharing marketing ideas during her branding session with me. Needless to say, she was so much fun to photograph and I love the images we created together for her business!
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Photos from Shayla’s branding session are now on my blog, and here's the direct link: http://heidivail.com/shayla-bre-branding-consultant/
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And if you would like to work with me to create a collection of images that showcase you and what you do, please reach out. I would love to chat with you and discuss how a branding session can enhance your brand and business!
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All the best,
Heidi

It always warms my heart when I receive kind words from the people I photograph and this testimonial surely made my day!
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"I can't tell you how thrilled I am with our photos. My daughter can be very shy with new people. Heidi was extremely patient with her and found creative ways of photographing our family that made her feel comfortable. With kids, you never know just what challenges you'll face in trying to take photos in a short period of time, but I felt increasingly confident that Heidi was going to be able to get the shots she needed and be so kind at the same time. I absolutely loved working with Heidi and will be sure to book another session next year"

Sending lots love & gratitude to this sweet family! I can’t wait to work with you all again!

- On the Blog -

When another film photographer asks you to photograph her maternity session at The Ritz-Carlton while she’s in town, the only answer one can have is YES!!!
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Absolutely loved photographing these two! They were so sweet and kind with one another. Plus, I was pregnant with my youngest at the time, so between that and our love of film photography there was much to chat about as we explored the beautiful grounds and took photos!
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It’s been almost two years since their session. Their baby girl has already had her first birthday and is absolutely adorable. I’m so happy for them and glad to be catching up on my blogging. You can see more photos from their sweet session here: http://heidivail.com/the-ritz-carlton-maternity-session/

From my family to yours, we wish you a happy holiday season!

Have you been looking for the perfect gift for a loved one and just don’t know what to get them? Does this person love nature? Maybe they would appreciate a new piece of art for their walls? If you keep saying yes, my print shop is where you want to head next!

Within my online print shop there are four distinct photography collections you can browse. The images below are a small preview of the Florida Collection. For sweeping vistas and vibrant flora, definitely check out the California Collection. If muted tones is your thing, the Cape Cod Collection is where you will want to go. And of course there are lots and lots of flowers in the Garden Collection!

And right now I’m hosting a print shop sale! Save 30% of all order by using the promo code GIVEART at checkout. Sale ends Sunday December 11th, which is perfect because that is also my holiday order deadline.

So go head over to my shop and enjoy the beauty I’ve captured!
https://proofing.heidivail.com/printshop/

Thanks so much,
Heidi

// New on the Blog //
Is it me or do most family photographers only showcase babies and toddlers and completely neglect to share portraits of tweens and teenagers? I get it, kids during this age may not be as adorable as tiny tots. And they are often awkward and self conscious, but I believe this stage in their life still deserves to be documented.
Now I don't know how these kids felt during their family session but they were certainly awesome to work with. I loved how everyone had fun making each other laugh, and loving on each other! And, believe it or not, all of the photos in this post did not make it onto my blog. Yea, that's how fabulous this session went.
Also, I have to say the light was on point for this session. We were literally just standing on the sidewalk in their new neighborhood. I typically backlight my subjects so that they aren't squinting looking at the sun, and I did just that. However, the trees really did a nice job softening the light and creating a really dreamy bokeh in the background. The result were glowing portraits that I hope this family will always treasure.
Be sure to check out my blog to see more stunning portraits of this beautiful family!

http://heidivail.com/winter-garden-family-session/

Hang on tight! Another hurricane is heading our way!
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It’s only been six weeks since Ian barreled across the state of Florida and I feel like I’m having deja vu.
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Like last time, Nicole is set to arrive here in Orlando late on a Wednesday night. School has been canceled. We’ve done lots all the same prep work, and of course we feel a lot of the same dread. But I’m hopeful this time around things are going to go better for our family and the rest of the state.
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To all who are in the path of the storm, I hope you stay safe & sound! Sending lots of love and good vibes your way!

My youngest just had his first birthday! He’s walking everywhere and climbing everything. He’s officially a toddler! Which means my baby is no longer a baby, and I’m over here feeling all the feels!

I’ve been really looking forward to this stage of his life, but now that it’s here I’m realizing how bittersweet the moment is. He will never be this little ever again and it hurts knowing that these sweet days of toddlerhood are numbered.

I think that is one of the reasons why I truly value the work that I do. It’s not just my job to deliver beautiful photos. I’m responsible for creating lasting memories. Life is fleeting but photography helps us hold on to moments longer. And even on our hardest days as parents we want to always remember our little ones and our precious time together.

So if you are looking for someone to document your family, know that I would be honored to. I only have a couple dates left for this fall, so now is the time to claim one of those remaining spots. You can do so by filling out this form: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/61f481e3f62803c0177d12de
And if not this fall, I hope our paths cross soon!

Take care,
Heidi

- New on the blog -

Photographing this maternity session was extra sweet, as I’ve known this gorgeous mama for a while. She’s been my chiropractor since I first moved here to Florida. Over the years she has worked on my back, as well as helped me heal after having my babies and a couple miscarriages. Along the way we have shared stories of our hopes and dreams for the future. So when she told me she was pregnant and wanted to do a maternity session I was thrilled.

The day of her session we both showed up with our round pregnant bellies. Her first and my last are only a couple of weeks apart. We beamed with delight knowing the beauty of the moment. We then created these lasting memories of her and her husband. Our babies will grow and our bodies will change, but these moments of expectation and hope will never be forgotten.

To see more images from this Winter Park session, you can view my blog here: http://heidivail.com/winter-park-maternity-session/

And if you are expecting and would like to have me document this special moment for you, reach out! I would love to chat with you and set something up!

Hey there friend!
Do you remember that old tv commercial where the Dad skips around a store with his two kids while picking out school supplies? The holiday song It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year plays in the background and the Dad looks a little too happy. Well, I’m at the point in my parenting journey where I can totally relate to his over enthusiasm.
Don’t get me wrong I loved having my three kids home with me all summer. I’m so grateful for the adventures we had and time spent together, but I also appreciate the change of pace now that my oldest two are back at school. And I always find this time of year to be invigorating. I’m honestly pumped for the start of fall next week and all that this season brings for my family, as well as my business.
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Autumn is such a popular time for families to have their pictures taken. With cooler temps arriving here in Central Florida and the holidays approaching, it totally makes sense why October and November are my busiest months year after year. To help ensure that all my clients receive the time and attention they deserve I only offer a limited amount of portrait sessions each season. I’ll be reaching out to past clients via my email list this coming week, but if you’re ready to start planning your fall portrait session, there’s a sign up form here: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/61f481e3f62803c0177d12de And of course if you have any questions you can DM me!
Here’s hoping your summer was a breeze and let’s make this fall the best season it can be!
Warmest wishes,
Heidi
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The photo above was taken during an early morning family session at Ponce Inlet a couple years back. I loved how playful the family was and the ease in which this little one smiled.
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