Family Prep Guide

for your upcoming session

Outfits:

When thinking about your outfits, I suggest starting with a piece of clothing you absolutely love (whether it’s yours, your spouse’s, a new dress or outfit you just bought for your child, etc) and then pair accompanying clothing with that. If you plan on buying all new outfits, I’d encourage you to shop for whoever is *hardest* to dress first!

Things to keep in mind:

  • It’s important for everyone to be comfortable at your session. We'll be moving around, so make sure you put yourself and your kids in something that moves with you and isn't itchy or too tight! Please also be mindful of shoes & weather (if the ground is wet from rain, etc).

  • I encourage my clients to stay away from neon coloring at all times. It is harsh against skin tones and is disruptive / non-complimentary in most settings.

  • I love patterns, but make sure they are complimentary! I am here to help. You can send pictures if you think your outfits are too “busy” and I can help steer you in the right direction. A really great option to help with patterns is to bring in multiple textures.

  • Bows for little girls, knotted headbands or a fun hat for older girls / young teens. For boys, cardigans or an extra layer is always so charming. For women, a scarf or even a knotted headband or fun statement earrings can truly take an outfit from normal to impressionable. For men, a blazer over their chosen shirt or even a nice bomber / jacket can add an elevated look without compromising the clothing palette.

  • Some of my very favorite outfit combinations are all the same color but different textures and layers. For example: neutral/cream colors compliment each other always. For one family of four, the mother could wear a cream-colored midi dress with an off-white chunky knit cardigan. The dad could wear a cream colored plaid or beige gingham-print button down with denim. Child number one could wear a denim dress with a cream colored top layered underneath, and child number two could wear a cream colored skirt with a white long sleeve shirt. See? Same colors — lots of variation in textures and how it is worn. It doesn’t have to be complex! I am a HUGE texture person and will likely steer you towards considering this if you find yourself stuck on outfits!

    • Neon: No neon, please!

    • Logos: Please do not wear clothing with logos visible as it is distracting.

    • Matching: I encourage clients to not wear duplicate matching patterns (this includes mommy + me clothing lines; or perhaps buying the same print for each family member in a different clothing style from same retailer) Matching might be easy, but it does not yield much variety and can be difficult in terms of posing.

    • Characters & Graphics: I encourage clients to stay away from clothing with graphics or characters on it such as sports teams, dinosaurs, Mickey Mouse, etc. 

Preparing the week of your session:

Things to Remember:

We’re going to have fun! My sessions are laid back and easy-going. I have endless prompts for little ones to create engagement, even if they aren’t having the best day. Don’t stress! This is my job, I’ve got you covered! These photos are meant to capture the current season in your life — this is special! Remind yourself that even if it feels chaotic running out the door to your session, it will be worth it!

Be prepared for lots of snuggles! I will, of course, get lots of posed portraits — but my interactive photos are typically very engaging. Lots of tickles, laughs, and snuggles.

A few tips for the day of your session:

Don’t Stress:

If your kids are nervous, having an “off day” or acting a little wild, it’s going to be okay. Remember, I am a mom, and I’ve been a photographer for fourteen years! I’ve seen it all.

If you have young children (under 18 months or potty training) I do recommend putting their outfits on once you’ve arrived at the location in order to avoid any carseat mishaps. Plan to leave your house 10 minutes earlier to give yourself enough time to get them dressed and still start your session on time!

If you are bringing snacks / little treats to encourage kids during your session, I recommend marshmallows. They aren’t overly messy, and don’t stain. Fruit snacks and crackers also work, but just take a little longer to chew. I strongly encourage leaving m&m’s, skittles, chocolate, colored juices, and cheesy snacks at home to avoid staining / color transfer.

Family Session Questionnaire:

Please be as detailed as possible!

I am so excited to work with you!

I will review your answers and be in touch!! Thank you so much for placing your trust in ME to capture your family. I will never be able to explain how abundantly blessed I have been through the gift of photography and all of my client families.

See you soon!

— Katie