Welcome to Your Session Guide!
Congratulations on booking your session! I can't wait to work with you. This page is designed to provide you with all the information you need to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
What to Expect:
From the moment we start planning to the final shot, I'm here to make sure everything goes perfectly. Below, you'll find detailed guidance on how to prepare for your session, choose the best locations, and coordinate outfits.
Preparing for Your Session
To help you get ready, here's everything you'll need to know:
Outfit Coordinating: Tips and tricks on how to pick the perfect outfits that complement each other and the setting.
Choosing Locations:
Guidance on selecting the ideal backdrop that matches your vision, whether it's a natural landscape, urban setting, or a cozy indoor space.
What to Bring:
A checklist of items to bring along to ensure you're comfortable and ready for every shot.
Explore the sections below to get all the details and feel free to reach out if you have any questions. I'm here to help you every step of the way and ensure your session is a memorable and fun experience. Let's make magic happen!
Clothing Tips for Your Session
Feeling comfortable in your clothing is key to capturing natural and relaxed expressions in photos. Whether you're having a family, couple, or maternity session, here are some tips to help you look and feel your best:
Comfort is Key
Avoid outfits that are too tight or restrictive, as discomfort can affect your mood and expression during the shoot. Similarly, ensure that your shoes are comfortable to prevent any distractions or discomfort. Aim for a balance between comfort and style to exude confidence and ease in your photos.
Fun Accessories
Elevate your look with fun hats, textured scarves, bold jewelry, and stylish shoes. These accessories can add personality and flair to your outfit and make your photos uniquely yours.
Mood Board
Creating a mood board can help visualize your session's style and theme. Collect images, colors, and outfit ideas that inspire you to ensure everything aligns with your vision.
Sleeves or No Sleeves?
If you are conscious about your arms, opt for fitted 3/4 length or longer sleeves to create a flattering look in photos.
Think Outside the Box
Consider incorporating personal accessories such as journals, favorite coffee mugs, or even your pet into the photoshoot. Add some of your own flowers, a stool, chair, blanket, bike, or anything that adds a personal touch! Love fast food? Bring a baggie of your favorite! Wait a painting session, let's add that, too! These elements can add a personal touch and make your photos more meaningful.
Textures
Incorporate textures like lace, linen, knits, and airy materials into your wardrobe to add depth and visual interest to your photos. Textured fabrics can elevate your outfit and make your images stand out.
Colors
If you’re unsure about color choices, go neutral. Avoid fluorescent-colored clothes as they can cast an unnatural tint in your photos. Neutral tones provide a timeless look and complement various backgrounds and settings.
By following these tips, you'll be well-prepared to look and feel your best during your session, ensuring your photos capture your true personality and style.
WHAT DO I WEAR!?
A neutral color palette
to guide you!
MAximize your session!
Think Outside the Box
Consider incorporating personal accessories such as journals, favorite coffee mugs, or even your pet into the photoshoot. Add some of your own flowers, a stool, chair, blanket, bike, or anything that adds a personal touch! Love fast food? Bring a baggie of your favorite! Wait a painting session, let's add that, too! These elements can add a personal touch and make your photos more meaningful.
Tips and Tricks for a Successful Family Photo Shoot with Kids
The Golden Rule: Nap and Feed!
Ensuring your kids are well-rested and well-fed can make a world of difference. Here are some key tips to keep your little ones happy and cooperative during the session:
- Naps Are Crucial: A well-rested child is a happy child. Give them a good nap on the day of the shoot. Sometimes, even a drive around the neighborhood can help them get some rest before the session.
- Full Bellies: Feed them a full meal before leaving for the session, or have them eat on the way—just not in their nice clothes!
Will My Child(ren) Cooperate?
This is a common worry for parents. Here are some tips to help your kids get ready and ensure a smooth session:
Mention Nap Time to Your Photographer
If your child takes naps, let me know! I'll adjust the session schedule to avoid the “cranky time” kids often experience before their nap. This might mean our session won't be during the golden hour, but we can find another time and place with great lighting to accommodate your child’s nap schedule.
Talk to Your Kids About the Shoot
Preparing your kids mentally can make a big difference. Talk to them about the photo shoot before the session date. Explain that it's a fun activity and the reason why you're shopping for new clothes. Setting positive expectations helps kids view the experience positively. For older children, share your excitement and explain how you’d like their cooperation. Let them have a say in choosing their outfits if possible.
Be as Full and Rested as Possible
Make sure your family is well-rested and full before the shoot. Feeling sleepy or hungry can lead to crankiness for kids and adults alike. Prioritize having a snack before leaving for the session.
Praise Good Listeners
For preschoolers to around third graders, being called a “Good Listener” is very motivating. Let your kids know that good listeners might get a special treat. Bring along candies or crackers that your kids love, or plan a post-shoot treat like ice cream. I usually have a small bag of snack-sized chocolates for everyone, including the adults and older kids!
Give Your Children and Yourself Grace
Remember, kids are kids and will behave like kids! If you’ve done your best to prepare them, give yourself and them some grace. It’s okay if they get cranky or need breaks. I incorporate a lot of play and movement to keep young children engaged and take breaks to let them regroup. And if some photos capture a cranky moment, that's part of documenting your family's life in this season.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared for a fun and successful family photo session, capturing beautiful and authentic moments. Let's create some unforgettable memories together!
Okay, now all that's done!
Final Steps for Your Session
Relax and Enjoy!
The final step is to relax! Don’t worry about how to pose or what to do—I have you covered. Prepare to smile and laugh, and get ready for the best session with me! You won't be disappointed. Feeling shy? No worries, I have a knack for helping people come out of their shells. Whether it's a family, maternity, or couple's session, you're in great hands with your forever photographer. I live for capturing these moments!
Weather Watch
The week of your session, I'll keep a close eye on the weather and update you if anything severe is headed our way. While reschedules can be a hassle, they sometimes happen. I will only reschedule when absolutely necessary. Otherwise, prepare for the best time, rain or shine!
Final Details
The day before your session, you'll receive an email with all the important details: addresses, meeting points, and your final invoice. If you don't receive it, shoot me a text!
I'm so excited to make your session the best it can be. Let's create some unforgettable memories together!