A Few Tips and Information for Successful Photo Sessions
We want your photography session to be a memorable and enjoyable experience! Here are a few tips and key pieces of information to help you prepare for your upcoming photo shoot:
1. Relax and Have Fun
The most important tip is to relax and enjoy the process! Natural, candid moments often make for the best photos. Try to focus on having fun and being in the moment, and we'll capture your true personality.
2. Choose Your Wardrobe Wisely
Your wardrobe plays a big role in how your photos will turn out. Here are some guidelines:
- Avoid bright, neon colors: These can be distracting and take focus away from you.
- Go for classic styles: Solid colors, neutrals, and timeless patterns tend to photograph best.
- Complement, Don’t Match: If you're taking group or family photos, opt for colors that complement each other instead of matching exactly.
- Layer Up: Layers add texture and interest to your outfit, and can give you more options throughout the session.
3. Hair and Makeup Tips
Whether you prefer a natural look or enjoy getting glammed up, make sure you're comfortable with your choice. A few tips:
- Avoid heavy makeup that doesn’t match your natural style: If you’re unsure, consider going for a natural but polished look.
- Hair touch-ups: If you’re styling your hair yourself, bring a small brush or comb to smooth things out if needed.
- Freshen up before the shoot: If possible, get a quick touch-up right before the session to ensure you're looking your best.
4. Bring Props (If You Like!)
Props can add personality and fun to your photos! If you have a favorite book, musical instrument, or personal item that’s meaningful to you, consider incorporating it into your shoot. If you're taking senior photos, things like your letterman jacket, sports equipment, or items that reflect your hobbies are perfect.
5. Be On Time
Arriving on time helps ensure we can maximize your session and avoid any rushed moments. If you're shooting at a specific location, please arrive a little early to get settled in.
6. Prep for the Weather
Check the weather forecast the day before your shoot. If you’re outdoors, bring an umbrella, a jacket, or sunscreen, depending on the forecast. We’ll always have a backup plan in case of rain, but it's a good idea to be prepared just in case.
7. Stay Hydrated and Rested
Make sure you get a good night’s sleep before the session and stay hydrated! Feeling refreshed will help you look and feel your best during your shoot.
8. Trust the Process
We’ve got the experience and knowledge to guide you through the shoot. We’ll direct you in posing, framing, and all the details to ensure the best results. Just trust us, and we’ll make sure you look amazing!
9. Special Requests? Let Us Know!
Have any specific ideas or requests for the session? We want to hear them! Whether you want a certain theme or particular poses, sharing your ideas with us will help ensure you get exactly what you're looking for.
10. What to Expect After Your Session
After your shoot, we’ll begin the process of selecting and editing your photos. This may take some time, but we’ll ensure the final images are worth the wait! We will contact you to schedule your viewing and ordering session, where you can choose your prints and digital images.
FAQ
How many pictures will we receive?
My packages do not include images, but most offer a print credit that can be applied toward purchasing digital photos. Typically, a one-hour session will provide around 60 images to choose from, with longer sessions offering even more options.
If there are outfit changes or multiple locations, the number of final photos may vary. Sessions with young children, for example, may require more shots but result in fewer usable photos due to focus or framing challenges.
When you book me, you're not just paying for photos, but for my expertise in selecting the best images to preserve your memories. Some images may not be perfect, but I include them because they tell your story. I'll exclude any blurry or unflattering shots to ensure you only receive the best.
What’s the best time of day to have an outdoor session?
The best lighting for outdoor sessions is typically early morning or an hour or two before sunset. Many people love the “golden hour,” which is the period just before sunset when the light is soft and warm.
Keep in mind that cloudy days offer a softer light than sunny ones. Check the weather forecast a few days before your shoot and be flexible if needed. As a general rule, avoid scheduling between 11 am and 3 pm, when the sun is harsh unless you're shooting in a shaded area.
Feel free to let me know if you have a specific vibe in mind, and we’ll choose the best time and location together!
Also, you will get different results on a cloudy day versus a very sunny day. Check the weather a few days before your shoot and be prepared to pivot to a different time frame.
As a general rule of thumb, it's best to avoid anytime between about 11 am to 3 pm as the sun will be at it's brightest and harshest..... unless you can find a really shady area.
Please let me know if there is a particular look you are going for so we can work together to choose a location and time for your shoot.
How should we dress for our session?
Wear something that makes you feel comfortable and confident (aside from pajamas!). Consider the purpose of your photos and choose outfits that reflect your personality. If you're not used to dressing formally, avoid overly fancy attire. Instead, opt for something in between.
For most shoots, casual attire works beautifully—whether it's for a holiday or graduation session. The key is feeling at ease, as your confidence will show in the photos. Be sure to try on your outfits ahead of time to check for comfort, fit, and color.
Check out my Style Guide for tips on colors that photograph well!
I will always advise that even holiday photos or graduation pictures can look great in casual wear, as long as that is what you feel comfortable in.
Whether or not you feel comfortable will show on your face, so don't wear anything too tight or too loose, too colorful, or too fancy. Try on everything several days before your shoot so you can determine how you feel in it.
Go to my Style Guide for tips on color choices!
I don’t feel very confident in front of the camera, is that ok?
Absolutely! It’s completely normal to feel a bit unsure in front of the camera. My goal is to make you feel relaxed and comfortable. I prefer to capture candid moments, especially at the start, so you can forget I’m even there. I’ll also guide you on how to position your body and face for the most flattering angles.
If you'd like, I can share some great resources to help you practice posing naturally. Just let me know!
There are also some great resources online that you can check out to learn how to pose and look natural. Let me know if you want me to send you a few.