My home studio is located at 202 S Mill in Marionville, MO. I'm open by appointment only.

Contact me with any questions or concerns!

Barbara Neely

Phone: 417-844-4966

Email: barb@barbaraneelydesigns.com

If for any reason you need to reschedule please notify me as soon as possible. 7 days is preferred so I can fill your time slot.

Photography Sessions can be rescheduled one (1) time for illness at no cost. Additional reschedules are charged at $75 per date change. 

Rescheduling due to weather will not incur charges.

What if my child has a bruise? It can most likely be Photoshopped. Just send me a photo and I'll let you know if I can retouch it or if we need to reschedule.

Appointment reminders and will be coming to your inbox.

Let me know your backdrop preference and then choose what to wear. See the what to wear guide below and let me know if you need help deciding!

We also need to plan the artwork we are shooting for before the session. Are we shooting for an album, one large wall portrait or a smaller series of wall portraits? Please see the artwork options (found via yellow navigation titles at the top of this page) and schedule a consultation if you aren’t sure.

Our photoshoots are relaxed and fun sessions where we will play and laugh and get natural expressions. Every shoot is paced for the individual so some take longer than others.

Images from your session will be edited to proof stage and ready for you to see within a day or two. The big reveal will be made in person at my studio or via Zoom within 7 days following your session. At this appointment, I’ll help you select the best images and design the perfect artwork and finishes to complement your images and home.
When you schedule please make sure all decision-makers can be present as your order will be finalized on this day.
Please take time to review instructions and options available via the yellow navigation at the top of this page.

Your artwork will be printed by the best photo labs in the U.S. and quality inspected by me, personally. I’ll let you know as soon as it’s ready to be picked up and loved forever.

Newborns typically require a little more patience and a slower pace. We will take our time to make sure your newborn is calm and settled, this might mean we need to pause for feedings and diaper changes. Newborns are best photographed within the first two weeks of age after which they are a little more alert and less posable.

• Talk to your kids about the session being a fun adventure. Don't make it out to be something they have to be good and "behave" for. Instead, talk about how they'll be playing and having a great time with me, and that I'll capture those joyful moments. This helps set a positive tone and reduces pressure.

• Schedule the session at a time when your children are usually happy and well-rested. Avoid times when they might be hungry or tired to help ensure a smoother experience.

• If your child has a favourite toy or blanket, bring it along. These items can provide comfort and can also be a cute addition to the photos. After all these favorite things often become an heirloom as they get older.

• Children can be unpredictable. Stay calm and patient, and let me handle any mood changes. Sometimes the best shots come from those unexpected, candid moments.

• Bring along some non-messy snacks and water. A quick snack break can work wonders if kids start to get restless or need a little boost.

• Let your children have a say in the session and be themselves. Maybe they can help choose their outfit or accessories. When they feel involved, they’re more likely to be engaged and excited.

• Relax and Enjoy the Moment! Trust in my experience and ability to capture beautiful moments, even if everything doesn’t go exactly as planned. Your confidence can make a big difference in how relaxed everyone feels.

Help your dog arrive happy and relaxed.
If possible, give them a little exercise earlier in the day. A short walk or play session can take the edge off that extra excitement, especially for those high energy ball-loving types.

Bring their favorites.
A special toy, blanket, or even their beloved squeaky thing can help them feel secure. These little pieces of “their world” often make the sweetest additions to portraits and become part of their story years from now.

Bribes are welcome.
I do offer treats but if they have a favorite feel free to bring what they like.

Arrive a few minutes early.
This gives your dog a chance to sniff around, potty, settle in, and feel comfortable in the space before we begin.

Trust the process.
Dogs do not need to “perform.” I work with their personality, not against it. Sometimes the magic happens when we least expect it.

Most of all, relax. They take their cues from you. When you’re calm, they are too.

If you’re here because someone you love said, “It’ll be fun,” I promise they are right.

You do not have to know what to do with your hands.
You do not have to love having your picture taken.
You do not have to be “on.”

Your only job is to show up and love your people.

The best shots happen when you are having a good time so just enjoy your family. I’ll handle the rest.