Top ways to prepare for you photography session
You’ve booked your photography session and are looking forward to getting your pictures done. Then you start to wonder, what do I need to do to be ready for this?
There are some practical things you can do to feel more prepared for your photos and a couple items I encourage family’s or couples to think about to make the most of their time in front of the camera. Southwest Virginia is an amazing place for photography and these tips will make your session that much more enjoyable. Let’s get started!
The Practical Tips
What should we wear?
Keep it simple. Neutral colors, natural fabrics, and items that are equal parts comfortable and flattering. Choosing a wardrobe doesn’t need to be overwhelming. If you have young children or teens and are worried about whether they will agree to the outfit you pick out, there’s a couple ways you can play your cards.
1. pick out 2 or 3 options and let them chose the final outfit
2. if they are having a total meltdown (thinking of our sweet toddlers) then just roll with what they will put on. Bring the other outfit with you in the event they decide they would like to give it a try later in the session. If not, it’s okay. You will look back on these images & they will remind you of their personality during that phase of life.
There’s a bigger breakdown of how to choose outfits in my “What to Wear for your Photos” that can give even more clarity.
*For some easy ideas of affordable wardrobe options for you & the family for your upcoming pictures check out this Amazon List I have put together. There are some basic options for all ages to keep things classic and coordinated in the best way!
What time should we pick for our session?
Timing is most important if you have younger children or infants included in your session. Picking a time that works best for their schedule is key.
Finding a sweet spot between nap times and meal times is best. I typically suggest scheduling your session during the time of day that your little ones are happiest to help prevent meltdowns or highly emotional moments. I
f you have older children or you’re two adults and timing is less of an issue then it’s helpful to think about lighting for your session.
Do you favor ‘golden hour’ and want the beautiful diffused golden light or do you enjoy rising early and would be up for a sunrise session?
Is middle of the day easiest?
Find the time that favors the overall look you are trying to achieve (and if you’re not really sure, chat with me and we will figure it out together).
Where should we have our session?
Again, this depends.
When you choose to work with me, you have three options: in-home, outdoors or at my ‘in-home studio’.
Newborn tends to work best indoors unless we are doing your shoot during the warmer months. Even then, I tend to favor in-home sessions. I truly think there is something really special about doing a session in the place you are bringing your baby home too. It is the space you are starting your journey together as a family and anything you may need during your session is available to you (bathroom, outfit changes, snacks, diaper needs, etc).
Maternity or family sessions work well anywhere.
I encourage clients to think about a place that has some type of sentimental value to them. It adds greater depth to your images and the story behind them. It could be a place you got engaged at, your favorite park, favorite ice cream shop, etc. If none of these feel like a good fit, then we can use my in-home studio which also offers a comfortable and simple look.
Should we include our family pet?
If it’s an in-home session, absolutely!
If it’s an outdoor session and it doesn’t add much stress to you as you are trying to get out the door, then by all mean, bring them along! *I’ve even hosted a pup in my own home, so it’s an option, just something to be sure to mention ahead of time.
For many people their fur-babies are core members of the family and so including them as part of your photos just makes sense. There’s several tips and tricks to help the experience of including your pet in your family photography sessions so they run smoothly.
Other Considerations
Having your photos done is an investment. It’s more then just a couple quick shots of you and your family smiling at the camera. It’s a time to be together, reflect on what makes your family special, create memories and add to your legacy.
With that in mind, I really encourage all of my clients to think about the intention behind their photos. What does that mean exactly?
It means identify what’s important to you when it comes to these images….
Do you love how much fun you have together as a family?
Are you wanting to showcase a special tradition that you have?
Trying to embrace a difficult phase of life?
Celebrating a transition
Knowing your intention behind your session can help ground you in the energy you bring to our time together and also help you to enjoy the moment and not get overwhelmed or caught up in making everything perfect.
How are you going to display your photos?
Framed wall gallery, albums, digital frame, large canvas, etc.
Knowing how you would like to display photos may also help provide direction for your session and also ensure that we get a variety of shots so that your display embodies your vision.
Getting your photos done is a collaborative experience.
Although I am the expert and ultimately the one taking the photos and providing directions, I absolutely value and want your input for what inspires YOU and YOUR family. Those are the hidden gems that will help make your images even more authentic to you. Check out Pinterest, think about favorite colors, movies that visually inspire you and send em my way so we can add some of these elements into your session!
