I am the wife of a student pastor and mama to three little ones all under the age of seven. We have been married for almost ten and a half years, and we have have served in ministry in several different places over the past ten years. Four years ago, the Lord planted our lives in the Jacksonville area when my husband took the position as Middle School Pastor at our church. It did not take long at all for us to fall in love with the people and this beautiful city. It has definitely claimed the name "home" for us.
I have loved photography since I was young. I could often be found with a camera taking photos of my family and friends, but it was nothing more than a hobby. My husband is the one who recognized my talent when I did not, and he encouraged me to pursue photography after we got married. As a wedding gift, he purchased me my first dslr camera. I was intimidated by it for a while, but I made it a goal to learn how to use the camera properly. I practiced with my daughter who, at the time, was just a baby. She was my favorite subject and capturing her sweet little personality as she grew fueled my passion to learn more about photography.
Between 2010-2015, I gained some experience in wedding photography, but I primarily captured families, little ones, and seniors. I also did photography work for my church, several mission trips, and student camps. In 2016, I decided to primarily focus on learning the ins and outs of becoming a family and portrait photographer.
When we first moved to Jacksonville, it took some time to build relationships and find community. After a year or so of being at our church, friends began to take notice of the photos I would post on social media of my kids, and I started picking up a few sessions here and there. Of course I was excited to gain more experience and practice. I always dreamt of opening a photography business one day, but I wasn't sure what that would look like with our family being in ministry. I wanted to be wise in making such a big decision. By 2019, my calendar was filled with the most sessions I had ever had. I spent the year wrestling with what the Lord wanted for Nicole Stanland Photography. Through prayer and the guidance of some godly mentors, I decided to step out in faith, and take NSP from just a hobby to a part-time business endeavor. It has been a long journey to get where I am now, but one step in forward motion and the love and support of my clients has allowed me to live this wonderful dream of being a family photographer.
Photography is so much more than an income to me. It is a gift God has given me to use as my ministry. The purpose of this business is represent Jesus by loving and serving my clients and providing families with beautiful heirlooms they can cherish forever.
If any success comes out of this business, it is not mine to boast. I boast in Christ alone. To God be all the glory!
Hi, i'm Nicole.
Preparing for a family session can be stressful - from coordinating outfits, to getting haircuts, deciding on the perfect location, etc. Then session day comes, and you have a little one that didn't nap well, kids that have a bad case of the grumpies, teenagers that having been dreading this session before it was even scheduled - you name it! I have three kiddos of my own, so I can relate to the many fears and anxieties that come with planning family portraits. My hope is to calm your nerves and make this the most enjoyable experience for you and your family!
What to expect before the session:
We will discuss what you are hoping to get out of the session, who will participate, and your choice of location. Once we have nailed down the details, I can help you with coordinating outfits for the whole family. I have recommended color palettes that are my go-to's for all the different seasons, as well as my favorite places to shop for outfits! The most important thing is that everyone is comfortable!
What to expect during the session:
Flexibility and patience are key. Kids can be predictably unpredictable, which I think is the number one cause of fears and anxieties during a family session. You may have a fussy baby, a rambunctious toddler, someone may get a boo-boo and need hugs and kisses, there may be attitudes and grouchy faces, and the list goes on. It is normal, and it is okay. I want you to trust me as your photographer to be able to work through that with you. I recommend bringing their favorite snacks or treats, or promise to take them out for ice cream after the session. Sometimes a little ice cream or a fun treat can be the cure to little tears and unhappy faces. I will never force you and your babies to do anything you do not feel comfortable with. I will work with you to encourage interaction with one another. We will take breaks when needed because taking photos is a lot of for little ones. Some of my favorite moments ever captured have been those candid, unplanned, in-between moments. My goal is to help create authentic, joy-filled, contagious smiles and beautiful family memories you never want to forget.
What to expect after the session:
After session day, I will begin editing and preparing your gallery. This usually takes about two or three weeks to complete. Once the gallery is finalized, you will receive an email with a link that directs you to your gallery. This link will give you full access to all of the high resolution digital images inside your gallery. All images will be available for downloading and sharing as much as you would like. You will also have the option to order prints directly through your gallery, but it is not required. As part of your portrait package, you will receive a print release for ordering prints through any company of your choice. I have several quality printing labs that I use and would be glad to recommend them to you. No matter where you choose - print your photos. Hang them on the wall. Gather your images and create a photo album. Let your memories come to life in a very tangible, beautiful way!
the experience
"Nicole is so professional. She took two teens that were shy about pictures and made them model. They loved it!"
- Natasha
"Nicole was so great. She has such great skills and captured my crazy toddlers so quickly, yet was so patient with them at the same time!"
- katrinna
"Sometimes fear does not subside, and one must choose to do it afraid."
elisabeth elliot
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