01

keep things cool & calm!

You are the best judge on what time of day your kids are at their happiest. They should be well-rested and fed. Many of my clients succeed with bringing great energy to their session and letting their kids have fun. I’ve gotten to know many of my clients so well that I usually get hugs to start, and then we ease into the session. Snacks are fun and can make for cute shots, along with their favorite toy, blanket, or hobby item. Try to stay in routine the day of your shoot, and never schedule a session during a child’s nap.

02

get your look together!

Decide before the shoot what look you’re going for. Where in your home will your portraits be displayed? If in a more formal room, be sure everyone’s clothing is coordinated to this look. If the room is less formal and more “family” keep this in mind as well. Furnishings from desired rooms can also be used if the shoot is in-home, guaranteeing a perfect match to your decor.

03

hair aware!

Get haircuts at least a week before the shoot. It might take a few days to grow into (or fond of) a haircut, especially if the scissors went amiss. This buffer allows for some growth, tweaks and perfections to the hair style prior to your session.

04

pets allowed!

If you bring your pet to the family shoot, please make sure to get some brisk exercise with your pup before coming. This will allow for a (hopefully) slightly calmer canine during your shoot.

05

Feel comfortable

Please do not feel like you have to dress smart for the photo shoot. Relaxed and casual clothing like jeans and a t-shirt or light shirt/blouse or a floaty dress work particularly well for in-home and outdoor family sessions. Starched shirts and Sunday best will feel too formal and make it harder for you feel relaxed and in the moment. The most important thing is to be yourself and feel comfortable.

06

Think about the the location of the photo shoot

Another consideration when thinking about outfits and colours for your photo shoot are the backgrounds we are shooting against. Go for shades and tones that complement the decor and styling of your home, especially if you are looking to display the photographs as wall art. A good guide is to keep things neutral.

In the spring and summer shorts and a tee are perfectly relaxed as are summer dresses. Outdoors, there is a lot of bight green around at this time of year so, consider complimentary pastel hues as well as natural shades. Dusty rose pinks, soft blues and dove-greys are beautiful spring-time colours and work particularly well when shooting against cherry and apple blossom.