Planning your shoot
THE SESSION GUIDE
I'm so excited to be shooting together!! And what if I told you that your photography session starts before you actually step in front of the camera? These are simple steps I'll walk you through to make this such an easy process.
1. LIGHT & LOCATION
Light and location set the vibe.
Are you looking for a free feeling warm day at the beach? A moody cityscape? The intimacy of your cozy home? Or even the creative space of a studio?
The photograph above is an example of, “golden hour.” Natural warm tones and golden sun are characteristics of this time of day, and being surfers, this location was special to this couple. It made sense for them. I always encourage clients to consider meaningful locations for their shoots because it shows when you're comfortable in your surroundings.
If we’re doing an in-home session, here are some tips:
- Notice where the light is in your home and key rooms you want to shoot in.
- Clean your house! I’m not saying get professional cleaners, but trust me, picking up socks and cups that are just laying around will work wonders. When we shoot, we can focus on our session and not have to clean before or during our session. It makes a difference.
- If your kids will be participating, make sure they know ahead of time what is going to happen and help me make it an adventure for them.
2. WHAT TO WEAR
Looking good=feeling good. And Vice Versa.
The goal is to be clean, comfy, and to feel confident. Sometimes it does mean ordering an outfit, but first, please look through your closet for those pieces you really love. The location and time you choose will also greatly impact your wardrobe too. For example, typically you’re going to wear flowy casual nice clothing at the beach, in the snow, usually you’ll be in a cute warm outfit. Catching my drift?
- Comfortability is essential in choosing your footwear. If you'll be wearing heels, please bring a pair of sneakers in case we need to do some walking.
- Solid colors typically work better than patterns. Is there a color that people say looks great on you? Maybe start there. Think neutral tones like forrest greens, blacks, beiges, and blues. Creams and whites are very classy. Pastels are very beautiful too. Start with a neutral base and build. Please NO LOGOS
- Please reconsider before wearing extremely tight clothing that you can’t move in or clothing that highlights areas you’re insecure about. I like to incorporate movement in my posing because it gives a more natural feeling.
- Check the weather and make sure to bring a coat if it’s cold!
- If your loved one(s) are participating, please do not wear the exact some thing. Having unique outfits looks more natural and makes each person stand out. Choose a color palette, and have everyone dress to that.
- Incorporating accessories and props is a great way to tell your story. Are you a musician? Bring your instrument! A professional? Let’s put you in something that speaks of sophistication.
- When in doubt, send me pictures of what you got! Once you book with me, I am available to help with styling.
3. PREPARING YOURSELF
- Water. Drinking lots of water a week and a half before the shoot will not only make you feel better, but it will help hydrate and clear your skin.
- Eat healthy. Eating your fruits, veggies, proteins, healthy grains, and fats will help reduce bloating, help clear your mind and skin, and make you feel great!
- Haircuts. Getting your hair done can be hit or miss. If you have a trusted stylist and you want to get your usual, go ahead! I encourage you to use caution if you plan to dramatically change your hair for this shoot, just in case you don’t like the outcome.
- Please iron/steam your clothing.
- I typically advise make-up to be kept natural unless we're planning for something dramatic
- If you tend to be shy and feel uncomfortable in front of a camera, think of the end goal of these photographs. Why are you doing this shoot? Kindness to yourself matters. I welcome you as you are. :)
4. WHAT TO BRING
I like to be overly prepared, so a few of these are, “just in case,” items.
- Water & snacks
- A brush, makeup, hairspray, bobby pins, tissues
- A change of clothes
- Comfy shoes
- Accessories
- Props/meaningful trinkets
5. WHAT TO EXPECT
ON SHOOT DAY
- You will receive a message from me prior to the shoot confirming the location, time, things to bring, and parking instructions.
- Give yourself plenty of time to get there, park, and meet up with me. We should meet about 15 minutes early.
- I will be constantly guiding you. I keep the pace moving so there isn't much time to feel so awkward. If I do have you hold a pose, it's because you look AMAZING, and I need to get a few angles. I will ask if you have a preferred side and if couples are okay with PDA. I also like to play music, so if you have a preferred genre, let me know!
I live by the saying, “If you’re early, you’re on time. If you’re on time, you’re late.”
Being approximately 15 minutes early to our photoshoot is really important for us to get situated and begin on time. Most of the time, we are scheduling your shoot based on the available light, so it’s really important that we begin on time.
6. WHAT HAPPENS AFTER
Within two days, you’ll receive an online proof gallery of lightly edited images in which you may choose your favorites.
From that date, I meticulously hand edit each photograph until I invite you into your own finished gallery!
Testimonials
"You made our time so relaxing..
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