Session Prep Guide
first and foremost
All you have to do is be yourselves. I’ll do the rest.
However, if you want tips on prepping your children, styling, etc- I’m here for you.
Let’s Talk Expectations…
I don’t have them!!!
Investing in lifestyle photography grants you the freedom to relax and let go of perfection.
I tailor each session to the family I am photographing. We talk about what you want to preserve and remember during this time and work on making it happen for you.
This is a chance to capture how amazing your body is and what it is doing- growing a human!
You may feel bloated or out of sorts or like a goddess- regardless, you are stunning- let’s highlight you.
You hired me because you love my work. Let me showcase your wonderful family and the love that shines from within. I promise I will.
first and foremost
Most importantly, I want you to BE YOURSELVES! I am here to highlight you and your family for who you are. If you love dresses, then this is a perfect occasion to rock one. If you love to wear jeans and tops, then do just that. These are photographs that are going to go on your walls and will be treasured and looked back upon for years to come. You want to be able to feel like these are representative of who you are.
Let’s Talk Color
Color Palette: The easiest place to start is choose a color palette for your outfits. When you’re putting together the outfits for your family, you want to think coordinating colors and pieces, not “matched” outfits. I want each of you to shine individually, while still forming a cohesive unit.
During newborn sessions, I recommend neutral tones because it allows the baby to be the shining star! It also prevents color casting from your outfits onto the baby’s skin during family shots.
Complimentary Tones: When choosing colors, work with complimentary tones and mix up how you’re wearing the colors. For example, make sure you’re not all wearing blue tops. Think about the dominant color you want to highlight and what colors can accent that, then use layers and accessories to add visual interest and create different “looks” for each family member.
Layers & Textures: The key is to integrate a variety of layers and textures to keep outfits from looking too similar to bland. Mix shirt styles, shorts and long pants, dresses and skirts in different fabrics (i.e. lace, corduroy, denim). Pay attention to your shoes and jewelry choices. Add a pop of color in your necklace to match the plain in your son’s shirt or daughter’s dress. Your goal is to create a pulled together, coordinated look that’s natural without being overly “matchy” or “uniformed”.
A few additional tips-
Avoid neon or really bright colors, instead going for a deeper tone (i.e. don’t choose neon pink, go for fushia/plum instead). The bright colors reflect back on your skin.
Avoid graphic shirts or multiple patterns/stripes.
LADIES…
YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL!
And I want you to feel that way. We spend day and night putting those precious little people ahead of us. During our session, I want to showcase you for the goddess that you are. When you’re choosing outfits, I recommend starting with you! Choose an outfit that you love and highlights you. I want you to see that photo on your wall and think- “damn, I’m hot”, and “holy cow, I love that outfit”.
Showcasing Your Gorgeous Self
Flattering Your Figure
Often times, pregnant mamas feel out of sorts in their growing body. I want you to shine and feel sexy and glorious.
Choose an outfit that flatters your growing belly. You want to highlight that gorgeous bump. Long dresses work best to elongate your frame and focus on your stomach.
Stick to solid colors or simple patterns; avoid stripes.
Buying the Right Size
If you purchase a piece of clothing that’s too big, it can make you look larger than you are. Simultaneously, if you wear a top that is too tight, it may pinch or show bra lines in a way that’s not flattering. When shopping, ask for help from the fitting room assistant or order multiple sizes online to see which one works best for you.
If we have scheduled an intimate, indoor session, make sure your bra and underwear fit comfortably, so they are not pinching at your sides.
Let’s Talk Make-Up
These tips are only here if this suits your personality. If this doesn’t speak to you- that’s okay! As I’ve said- I’m here to highlight you for you.
Make-Up should highlight your beautiful features. Here are some tips from Cassidy Schweigert IG: @cassidy_kay !
Where to Start
Choose a foundation with NO SPF! Titanium Oxide that is found in foundations will create a white cast to your photo. This means that no matter how long you spend on your makeup, it will not look the same in your photo as it did in the mirror.
Contour
Add a contour to your forehead, jawline, cheekbone (under your blush), side edges of your nose, on each side of the throat, and under your bottom lip. This will enhance all of your features.
More is Better
When applying your makeup for a photo session, always apply more pigment than you think you need. Having our makeup enhanced with more pigment will allow your features to stand out so much more.
Lips
Pucker those lips up and add a good liner that is a couple shades darker than your lipstick of choice. Pop a little gloss on right before the photo shoot. Applying it right before the photo shoot allows your lip color to stay on longer.
Easy on the Eyes
As far as eyeshadow goes, keep the pigment of your eyeshadows in the neutral earthy tones.
Lashes
Even if they are as natural as can be, always apply false eyelash strips if you don’t have eyelash extensions. Cassidy recommends the Luxe False Lashes at Sephora because they bring drama to the game, are lightweight, and look super real, yet super natural looking. Apply it with the Duo brand eye lash adhesive in black.
Perk Up Those Cheeks
Don’t skimp on the blush! Rose cheeks will add dimension and add the perfect amount of color. Use creme blush in a tone that compliments your outfit (cool/warm). Add a little powder illuminator to the top of your cheekbones, the tip of your nose, and your cupid bows above your lip.
The Gentlemen
Fit Tips
Make sure button down shirts close properly. Sit down, move around and make sure nothing is popping open.
Ensure that pants are fitted, sleek, and not sagging. Avoid cargo pants, which add extra fabric and then detract from the photo.
Styling
A collared shirt always looks good on gentlemen- be it a button down or a polo shirt.
When choosing plaid or patterns, make sure that the design is not too busy and does not clash with other patterns.
Layers look fantastic- think sports coats, vests, or sweaters. They add texture and depth.
Pants: Choose solid color dress pants or nicer jeans.
Make sure that belts and shoes coordinate.
Choose shoes that tie the whole outfit together- avoid sneakers, open toe shoes, and crocs.
Finishing Touches
Just like jewelry, these touches will create a polished look: ties, suspenders, pocket squares, belts, leather shoes, vests, watches, and socks (because yes, they will show!).
Children
Personality
I want your children to shine for who they are. Don’t force them into something they absolutely hate because it’s going to show in the pictures.
Bloomers
If your child wears a dress, make sure to put bloomers, tights, spandex shorts, or leggings underneath to cover their diaper/underwear.
Fit
For children of all ages, make sure that their clothing fits correctly- that pockets don’t bulge, pants are long enough, shirts don’t ride up. If an outfit is too large or has a lot of fabric up top, it will bunch up around their shoulders, blocking their face.
Onesies are helpful with babies because they will tuck into pants and not ride up.
Comfort
Comfort is super important- choose fabrics that are soft and cut out tags if they bother your child.
Finishing Touches
Avoid shirts with graphics on them because they’re distracting.
Bows and hair bands: keep them simple and small. Large bows will detract from their adorable faces.
