The Client Guide

Family photos can sometimes be a stressful event if you don't know what to expect and how to prepare. I've created this guide to help walk you through some key points and suggestions to ensure a successful session!

What To Wear:

• When coordinating family photos, it's best to stick with a somewhat neutral color palette with no more than three or four coordinating colors.
• White, cream, pastels, soft blues, and greens photograph very well.
• Avoid harsh colors in large quantities.
• Choose clothing that will allow you to feel comfortable. Make sure to try on your outfit beforehand and see if there is any bunching/pulling or areas that will require constant readjustment.
• Be careful with hats as they often shade and hide the face.
• I recommend comfortable shoes since most of my locations require some brief walking.
• See my Pinterest board here for great outfit ideas and suggestions.

Tips For Kids & Pets:

Some families want their furry friend to be a part of the photos and I love that! My only request is to make sure that your animal is well-trained and calm. Ideally, they should be able to sit and stay on command, or be held calmly in the photos. Please also make sure to bring a leash!

Pictures can be unpredictable with little ones involved! To ensure a successful photoshoot, here are my top tips for pictures with kids:

• Take time to talk to them beforehand about your expectations and what is going to happen.
• Having something to look forward to after the pictures is always a great way to get cooperation. Many of my locations are also a park so playing at the park afterwards can be a nice reward for kids!
• Practice smiles beforehand!
• If you have an infant, bringing a toy or having a song pulled up on your phone can help with getting smiles and laughter.
• Please keep in mind that eye contact and smiles may not be possible for every single photo, especially with babies! Candid photos are wonderful as well. If you anticipate the possibility of tears, please come prepared with snacks, a bottle, distractions, etc.

How To Prepare & What To Expect:

• I love when clients communicate with me on specific photos that they'd like to see. If you have a certain "pose" in mind or a picture that you want to recreate, please let me know! Send me your "Pinterest" inspiration if you have it, or feel free to look through my own Pinterest pose ideas here.
• Please prepare to arrive on time. I shoot at the optimal time of day for light exposure, so even ten or fifteen minutes can make a huge difference in the quality of photos.
• My goal is to give you a variety of shots, angles, and poses so we will be changing positions often. I love to include a mixture of posed and candid pictures, so sometimes I may just advise you to play with your kids or whisper something to your husband.
• Please know that I will reach out beforehand if the weather is not cooperating on the day of your session. Likewise, please let me know if someone in your family is sick and we can make arrangements to reschedule.