So your booked, now what?
Things to consider before your session
When deciding what to bring/wear you need to think about where the photos will be taken (or where you want them to be taken) i.e. in the city “urban” style photos, at home in your own space, or out in the forrest ie. mud/trails. So if you want to wear those amazing heels please by all means bring them but maybe throw them in a bag and slip on a pair of flats to get to the location if we decide on something a little more off the grid for your session (which often happens). Also bringing warm clothes to wear “between shots” if you are wanting to wear something that is unseasonable for the weather.
Decide if you want a theme or “Story” to tell with your images.. this can help with location planning and ideas for what props if any we should have on hand. For example, if you are planning an engagement session, bringing things that pertain to you and your relationship or going somewhere that is meaningful to you. If it is a family session, having an activity planned that we can capture as you partake is always a fun way to capture you kids without having to bargain for more photos of them.
What do I wear?
Outfits: It is always good to have OPTIONS, we love to have a couple of ideas to work with when we are out shooting. Typically we suggest bringing a couple different tops for the guys in the photos that are complimentary to what you (ladies) will be wearing; not “matchy matchy” but no crazy logos or brand names showing, also watch out for clashing patterns!
Pick a colour that will compliment the season. (ie. earthy tones for fall, or bright and airy for spring!) It is always nice to choose two or three colours that compliment each other and plan outfits from there or even the same colour but different shades of that colour. If everyone shows up wearing the same colour/pattern that can really overwhelm a photo. Having troubles finding ideas? Pinterest is a fantastic resource with ideas and storyboards showing how to group colours and pick a variety of outfits that will tie everything together beautifully.
Nails: Ladies, please please please clean em up. Polish them if you like, but please no chipped nail polish or dirty nails…and if you are wanting to flash off a beautiful ring (even if it is not an engagement session ) having it cleaned is never a bad idea.
Accessories: LOVE THEM! Scarves, chunky jewellery, mittens, hats, blankets etc… you can not go wrong here. I love getting to dig through other peoples lovely trinkets at a session, I’m kind of like a crow… drawn to shiny things.
How should I do my hair/makeup?
Hair: With my sessions, you wont need to spend hundreds of dollars on a glam squad. I recommend having your hair done like you would on most days. You can get some help but I wouldn’t recommend a formal up-do, this won’t look most natural. (Its best to look like you!)
Makeup: I am obsessed with eyelashes! Thats all i need to say. They look amazing in photos, if you are lucky enough to have them naturally then rock it! For those of us that need help in that department (me included) grab some natural looking false lashes and call it a day! If you have booked a MUA for your wedding, a great time to book your trial is for your engagement session! That way you can see how the makeup looks on camera.
What if my child doesn’t cooperate?
Parents please know that your darling children will likely not last the full hour! Don’t sweat it… we try to take “breaks” to run around and have some fun, which usually allow us to capture the cutest natural photos of your family.
Try to have a “reward” planned for after photos are done. We typically bring treats (both edible and non) to coax a smile and cooperation but if we have you guys backing us up its always helpful.
Can we bring our dog?
We get asked all the time if people can bring their pet to the session… My first thought is always YES of course (I am a dog lover! ) BUT… please consider where we will be shooting and what the weather will be like. Typically someones pet is in one or two shots and that is about it. Sessions can last over an hour so if it is too hot out and the pet can’t safely stay in the vehicle then I would recommend we plan around that and have someone else attend to help with the pet or bring them home after they are done.