Prep guide
1.Location!
Whether you’re going for an out-in-nature or downtown vibe, I’ve taken the guess work out for you and have scouted several locations that would be perfect for our session. As soon as you inquire about a certain type of shoot (maternity/family/engagements), I usually start envisioning where would be best right away!
Our session will typically take place about 90 minutes before the sun sets!
However, if there’s a significant place that has your heart, let’s chat.
2.WardRobe
I suggest planning your outfits well in advance. You do not want to feel stressed days leading up to your session, if things ordered don’t fit right, etc.
I suggest coordinating your outfits instead of matching entirely. You can mix solids with patterns for example but try and stick to similar color families/palettes. Think earth tones, jewel tones, pastels.
Whatever you select, make sure you are comfortable in it so you won’t be worried about things like your top being too low cut or your dress/skirt being too short.
Another thing to think about is what you plan on doing with the images. Will you be displaying them on a wall on your house? Maybe you’d like to compliment the tones in your home!
I have created a Pinterest board with some outfit inspirations!
*PLEASE: No characters, super distracting patterns, logos, athletic shoes. If you have any questions or want opinions— message me!
3.Prepping the Fam
If you have any family members that aren’t super excited about having their photos taken, it’s best to talk about it before it happens. Talk to your kids about how fun it will be, practice some of your happy faces in the mirror together, maybe even tell them they’ll get a special treat after! If your spouse/partner isn’t super keen on having their photo taken, talk to them about how special it will be to have photos to cherish for years to come.
the day of:
4.Plan your time Well
Schedule time for everyone to get dressed. Check Facebook or Maps to make sure there will be no traffic—if so, plan accordingly. The less rushed you are the more relaxed you will feel coming to your session.
5.Feed everyone and make sure the littles are rested/Have napped
Hungry and tired kids make for grumpy kids. Make sure everyone has eaten before the session. If you have babies or small children, make sure they have had a nap. Older kids shouldn’t have had a jam packed day with activities. You want everyone to feel their best!
6.Relax anD have fun!
You’ve made it…it’s photo time! I will give you guidance on where to place yourselves so the light is best. Your job is to have fun and enjoy each other. Don’t stress if the kids aren’t listening..and being..well, kids! The more relaxed you are as parents, the more relaxed the children will be.
I’m a Mama to a young one too, so I totally get it. I promise that I’m not stressing, so you shouldn’t be either!
7.Dont just smile!
I will give you cues and prompts so that I can capture natural moments in between everyone. Don’t worry, I will never you just hanging! Of course, I will get a couple images of everyone looking and smiling at the camera. But where the magic comes in, is the in-between moments. I will also be telling you to interact with each other… be playful with the kiddos, tickle fights, lots of hugs, and laughter! These moments are the ones I love capturing the most.
