Preparing for your Session

 

What to Wear:

 

Most clients spend a lot of time searching through their closets and/or buying new outfits for their sessions–and they should, right? These are, after all, pictures you will have forever!

That is why it is so important to be yourself!

So, the big question is “What do we wear?” I say, find a style (casual, beachy, dressy, etc.) and then pick a color scheme.

 

Mom’s Inspiration

 

Let’s be honest, usually mom will be the one picking out the outfits for the whole family. Find your outfit first, use it as inspiration, and build the rest of the family’s outfits that way!

 

Patterns or…?

 

Patterns can definitely be used, if done so tastefully. Patterns can overly consume the photo when they’re too loud, and too clashy. We don’t want crazy patterns taking away from the beauty in the image–which is YOU! Subtly is key!

 

Layers

 

Layers are a GOOD thing! If you have a cardigan/shrug/scarf that you’d like to incorporate into an outfit–bring it! Think it might be too much? Bring it anyway! You never know how it will look in the camera!

 

Squint Test

 

Still can’t figure out what will work best? Let me introduce you to the squint test! On your bed or couch, lay out the outfits you have for each person in your session. Once all outfits are laid out, step back so you can see all the outfits, and squint your eyes. Everything should blend in perfectly! If there’s something that pops, it doesn’t go. Remember, we’re looking for articles of clothing that complement each other. Put your energy into getting everyone dressed their best and I will do the hard part!

 

 Preparing your children for their session:

 

1.  As parents, you know when your child is going to be hungry and when their nap time is. If it’s been a while since they ate, give them a little snack on the car ride over (a mess free snack) – that way they aren't hungry while we are taking their photos:)
 

 

2. Do things you know they like. If you’re daughter loves her blanket, Let her bring it! If your son loves wagon rides, bring the wagon! That would make for some adorable shots! Make the session about them and they are sure to enjoy the experience much more.

 

3. Let go! Try not to worry about your kids smiling and looking at the camera. I found with my own kids that when they are introduced to something new and/or a person other than myself is playing games with them, or giving direction (As in me probably making a bunch of strange animal sounds ) they usually are more excited about participating and having fun.

 

What to Bring to the Session

• Baby Wipes

• Bottled Water

• Any special toy if needed

• Snacks

 

It’s so important to be prepared because you never know how your little one is going to act!

They could be the happiest child ever and then show up and be grumpy at the session! As long as I have parent’s permission, I bring smarties to reward them for good behavior. The best thing is that most kids are motivated by candy and smarties aren’t messy!

 

Most importantly, let go and just enjoy your family! You can tell in the images if you are thinking about your perfect angle or trying to get after your kids. Engage your kids and have fun with them and then they won’t dread coming to family pictures! The goal is to capture happy moments with you and your children so it’s your job to play with them and create moments that are real and genuine. Usually the ‘perfect’ shot comes unexpectedly when you are just being you with your kiddos!