Prep The Family

Children can be tricky and the challenges vary depending on the age. Babies of course are typically unpredictable so the best thing to do is be flexible and go with the flow. For children, it’s important to prepare them for the session by giving them advance notice and providing reminders as the session date approaches. Don’t underestimate their capability of understanding the importance of a photo session and their need to prepare mentally. Sit your kids down and include them in the session prep. Get them as excited as you are about these photos!
If Dad isn’t thrilled about having his picture taken, I can guarantee Timmy will share the feeling.

Pick out your outfits as a family. Adding to the fun is getting them involved in the entire experience. I recommend offering 1 or 2 options to ease the process along. If they want to bring their stuffy or their cape along to the session, let them. These are details that reflect their personality and mark this time in their life; you want those captured.

Keep it natural! While some children may require a little practice when it comes to smiling for photos, it’s important to never overdo the practice. Over practicing can lead to smiles looking fake or strained.

Arrival Time

Give yourself a little extra time to find the location, to park and to prep so we can get started  right on time. If your children or furry friend need a little more time to get comfortable – feel free  to come a little earlier and walk around before your sessions starts. Arriving late my cause you to  shorten the amount of time we have to photograph your family. If this does happen; you are welcome to stick around and see if we can capture a few more shots after the other sessions are  complete.

Give yourself plenty of time to get ready. Rushing to the session will most likely result in a rushed feeling during the session! Don't come hungry! This could make for some cranky models.

Clothing

Dress for the weather. If it’s cold outside, you should make sure they arrive in an outfit that keeps them warm. Conversely, if our photo session is scheduled on a forecasted heatwave, dressing your child in warmer clothing (even if it’s your favorite outfit) could result in sweat showing up in the photos and a very uncomfortable child.

Keep it casual by wearing comfortable clothes that reflect your personality and style. We wouldn’t want anyone to wear clothing that makes them cringe  or itch. If your little one lives in a superhero cape – fun! Let them be themselves. Let hubby have  a little scruff and leave the tie behind. It is very important to coordinate outfits without being too  "matchy" and to avoid bold patterns, wording or logos. If you need some color or clothing  inspiration I can send you my pinterest page for some examples and ideas.

Props

If you have any items of special meaning, such as a baby outfit, shoes,  blanket, picture or toy, family ornament, please bring them along and I can incorporate them into  a shot. I will have a few festive items as well. If you have a specific shot that needs “set up”  time – please call to discuss in advance so my assistant can get it set up for us.  

Hair & Accessories

Don’t get a new haircut right before your photoshoot.  Try to get it  done at least one week before your session. This will ensure that any bad spots have time to grow back in before the photos.

Try to stick to a neutral haircut. Find a hairstyle that is both neutral and something that represents you /your child’s unique personality.

Keep the hair out of their face. If your child’s hair naturally falls in front of their face, try to use hairpins, hair spray, or even a fresh haircut to keep their bright smile shining through.

Accessories

Glasses - Be sure to clean any smudges from their glasses beforehand. Keep jewelry minimal. You never want a child’s jewelry to distract from their photo. If they do want to wear some sort of jewelry, make sure that it’s small or understated.

Avoid hats if possible - they tend to cover up faces and often cast a shadow. 

Keep makeup simple. If your child wants to wear makeup, try to keep it clean and simple. If their everyday style is already pretty minimal, there’s no need to change it.