PORTRAIT SESSION PREPARATION
So you booked your session. Now what?
Via e-mail we will discuss location selection, wardrobe selection, and answer any questions you have.
I am excited to capture you and your loved ones. Custom photography is unique because it not only captures what you look like at a certain point in time, it captures who you are. I aim to capture honest photos of your family and children. The goal is not to get a stiff and posed shot with everyone looking at the camera, but to capture the true essence of your family. I take a documentary approach to photography and use my understanding of my equipment and natural light to create images that will become works of art that you can hang in your home and pass down for generations. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your session with me.
Location:
Together, we will decide on the best location for your photos. Outdoor natural locations are always a win. We can shoot in your home as long as your home has adequate natural light. I have many locations that I love to shoot at regularly but I am always open to new locations as well. You should choose a location that fits your style and personality. I can help you along with this decision.
Time:
If we are shooting in your home, I prefer late morning, because that is when homes are usually lit up the best. If we are shooting outdoors we will shoot either in the morning or in the evening during the golden hour time of the day. The light is typically too harsh mid day and we fight squinting eyes. If your children are up for it, shooting one to two hours before sunset provides gorgeous light and atmosphere. The images in my portfolio look the way they do largely because of my use of light and the time of day your session takes place has a huge impact. Many families tell me that they simply have the kids take a late nap or have some down time prior to their evening session.
Length Of Session:
Plan to be there for about an hour. I try to get a diverse and adequate gallery in that time so you have many images in your gallery because of the time you put in to preparing for the session.
What To Wear:
Wardrobe should be comfortable and reflect who you are.
QUICKLY:
Avoid busy patterns, matching clothing and stiff clothing that does move.
Try this instead - earthy colors, clothing that moves/flows with a mix of textures and coordinate your outfits - layer - bring a brimy hat
I do not recommend matching but rather coordinating. I am happy to consult you directly on wardrobe or recommend a personal stylist if you are interested. Just let me know. Some fantastic choices are: long flowing gowns, hats and scarfs mixed with different textures and color can be dynamic in evening golden hour photos. Guys can wear jeans, khakis, earthy colors. Kids can mirror parents in dress, but keep it simple and fun for them. Colors that always work are oranges, reds, yellows, browns, whites, and greens. Stay away from busy patterns and logo t-shirts. Solids and different textures just add to nature and photograph beautifully. If you simply lay out the clothes and accessories together on your bed - it should all flow and be comfortable to look at. You shouldn't get distracted to one item. If they tie in neatly and all flow/blend together, it will photograph well. You can go to Pinterest for ideas: portrait family dress in nature. If you are ever in question. Please lay it all out - take a photo and send it to me. We can do this!
Props:
I do not use props during my regular sessions, however if you have something in mind please let me know.
Your Children:
Remember that children are not usually fond of being told to pose or smile. It is best if we just give the children time to relax and try to capture their natural self. Don't worry if your child is running about and active, most of the images you see of young children on my site were captured while the child or toddler was busy playing and exploring. To get the family shots, I usually direct the adults to simply "be" with the child, or hold the child and we go from there. To get the most out of your session, make sure that your little one has rested and has had adequate snacks and water. We can take breaks for snacks and play, however I will probably still shoot during the breaks. Bring dry, non messy snacks so their little faces stay clean during the session. Prepare the child for the session by letting them know that a friend will be taking some photos of them, it's best not to surprise them. Tell them they will get to play some too. I love to get shots of kids just playing or interacting with nature and each other.
Tips for fabulous Bluebonnet and Wildflower Mini Session Clothing:
PREPARE YOUR CLOTHES – Traditionally, people choose white, cream, or jeans when taking bluebonnet pictures. That can look nice. Also, consider light blue, yellow, pastel pinks and salamon. These colors photograph well because they compliment the dark blue of the flowers.
When taking a session outside bluebonnet time, be sure and try to not exceed 3 color families and coordinate your clothing so that with any grouping, your clothing will look fabulously coordinated. Textures and straw big brim hats are adorable as well. No big patterns or logos on t-shirts. Simple does best and you can add different textures as well.
Note:
Come to your session with no expectations on how your session should go. Expect to play and move. Expect to get close and personal with one another. I want to capture what is authentically you. It may feel odd at first, but eventually you will not think about the camera, but will start enjoying each other and that will be what is captured in your images.
WHAT TO BRING:
Bring shoes you can walk in - even if you change them when we arrive at a location. Bring bug spray and water to drink and a towel to blot your faces and tidy up if needed and of course a hairbrush and any make up that you may use or need to touch up.
Please arrive on time or be ready to start on time: Remember, your session is scheduled according to light. It is important that we start on time. Please plan for traffic or parking constraints. It's best to arrive early.
I can't wait to capture your family! Do not hesitate to ask me any questions you have. See you soon!