preparing for your session
the process
curating wardrobe
location & Timing
It's in the details.
After all these years photographing families, there's one thing I can tell you for certain, preparing for your session will give you the best results! Now, I know we can't control everything, but we can at least be ready for whatever your session throws our way! Whether it's having the right things on hand, or considering what time of day is going to work best. There are details we can sort to ensure your only concern that day is enjoying an adventure with your family!
without the stress!
"It was only a sunny smile, and little it cost in the giving, but like morning light, it scattered the night and made the day worth living."
- F. Scott Fitzgerald
let's plan the photo session you've been dreaming of!
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Preparing for your session
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You might need to be up past bedtime - If you're wanting that dreamy light it may interrupt your typical evening routine. Plan ahead by moving nap times a bit later in the day or bringing pjs for the car ride home. I have more details on timing your session here.
Give yourself time - Avoid that awful rushed feeling on the day of, plan to give yourself plenty of time to get ready and arrive at your location. Book in advance to make sure you have time to organize details like attire. I'm so happy to help with planning! Check out curating wardrobe for more details.
Mom! I'm hungry! - Make sure to have something to eat before your session. Having a snack & water ready for the car ride home is also a great plan! Because you know, kids and snacks LOL
Just in case - If we've chosen a location with a water source bring a beach towel in case feet get wet. If you know kiddos might get carried away have some fresh clothes in the car to change into. Wipes are also great to have on hand!
Be present, have fun! - Being fully present will encourage magic to unfold! Allow yourself to let go of the busy and enjoy some uninterrupted time with your loves! Focus on enjoying some time with your family, and I'll make sure I document it beautifully for you!
"courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen."
- Brene Brown
Timing & location
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I have spent years studying light and the use of light, so I can shoot in any lighting situation I encounter. That being said, not all times of day and light are treated equally. There are only a few hours each day that create that soft dreamy golden hour light. No matter the season or where you are in the world, this light falls in the hour or so after sunrise and the hour or so before sunset. Unfortunately this isn't something you can fake or alter. If you want the delicious golden light you must be willing to time accordingly. If you know your kids cannot handle the later night required in the summer months to achieve this look, it’s best to book in the fall.
If you are hoping for a more moody, darker look, we could consider scheduling based on a more grey cloudy day. Want a bright, fun and carefree feel? Maybe a full sun, beside the ice cream truck with sunnies and graphic T's look is in order!
Know that light, which is based on timing, tells part of your story. You are investing a lot of time and effort to create these treasured images, let's do everything we can to help make them the best they possibly can be!
First and foremost you want to select a location that suits you and feels right when you hang those beautiful new photos on your walls! Homebodies? Consider a cozy in-home session. Outdoors enthusiast? Let's get to those mountains or your favourite picnic spot! Farm girl? Maybe a field of hay bales! Love architecture and lines? Downtown might be the spot for you!
Consider the whole story when narrowing down your location. Dynamic geography to interact with and entertain the kids is always a great choice. Just as simplicity never disappoints. If you are more of a minimalist there is always something to be said for a simple brick wall or open field.
Wardrobe and location go hand in hand. So either use your wardrobe to help decide on the best location, or use your location to help with the best wardrobe. Flowy dresses love a breeze to create a romantic feel so an epic backdrop on a beach or in the mountains will help. Cozy fall knits look at home in the forest or amongst hay bales. Casual attire looks great on a rooftop parkade with city views or an old-school yard! The key is to consider how your location will add to the overall feel you want for your session.
Okay so now you're thinking, "Great how on earth am I finding this 'epic' location??" I got you! I always scout locations for my clients. I prefer to avoid overly manicured parks or hot spots where you'll have an audience. Unless of course that's the look we're going for. Once you've booked we'll discuss your vision for your shoot and I can suggest locations based on that info. Not sure what you want? No worries! I can help you narrow down options and get things rolling for you!
it's all in the timing.
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Steer clear of fluorescents - If you love bright colours, I recommend primary colours. Yellows (mustard, gold), reds (brick, maroon, wine), blues (navy, royal), and deep greens (emerald, juniper, forest).
Make sure clothing fits - Make sure everyone tries their outfits on BEFORE your session so you have time to make a swap if needed. Ensure you have the appropriate under garment, no one wants to see a diaper or bra strap sticking out.
No logos, characters or crazy graphics - As a general rule, I say no to all of these things as they can be very distracting in the final product. If you decide to use a graphic make sure it's intentional vs. tacky. This goes for footwear as well!
Check your feet- Footwear can easily be an afterthought, but can just as easily ruin a good outfit. Avoid brightly coloured, character, reflective, or light-up shoes. Going barefoot when location allows always works really well!
No Matching - The goal is to coordinate, not match. Avoid using one colour for everyone- i.e.- everyone in a black shirt. This can cause everyone to blend into a giant black lump.
Layers, textures, patterns & accessories - Easiest way to set the vibe! Accessories I love to use include hats, headbands, jewelry, scarves, suspenders, jackets and vests. Adding a simple prop such as a blanket, guitar, flowers or a child's toy are another way to add texture. Patterns are essential! I encourage using at least one pattern, just try to avoid using multiple similar prints.
Wear what you feel good in- If you don't feel comfortable in your outfit it will show and distract you! Be true to your personal style!
Dress for the season & location- Dress appropriately for the season. Also consider the colours you'll be encountering so your outfit selections are complimented by your surroundings.
Dressing for in-home sessions- Consider the colours in your home; you'll want your wardrobe to suit the space. Neutrals with texture are always a great choice indoors.
Okay, so where do you start?
Here are my three go-to starting points for getting your wardrobe selection going:
1. Choose a colour palette- Pick 4-5 complementing colours, don't forget to consider the colours at your location.
2. Pick a print and pull from there- Use the colours in the print to find other clothing items in those colours.
3. Neutrals- Neutrals are a great choice if you like simplicity in your images. They are my fave for newborn sessions. Classic neutrals white, cream, black, grey.
never under estimate the power of a good outfit.
I know this can be a daunting task, together we have got this! The effort you put into picking your outfits will pay off in the final product! Here is my collection of things to consider when selecting wardrobe for photo sessions.
Remember I'm here for you! Together we can use these tips and plan your wardrobe to photograph beautifully and reflect your personal style!
Can I order prints?
Nothing brings me more joy than seeing your photos hung on your walls! I offer professional print options directly in your final gallery! Making the printing process super easy, leaving you no excuse to not print!! My session fee also includes print release on your final images, meaning you can take those files and print them anywhere you choose.
So how does the actual session work?
My goal is to tell your genuine story. My favourite images are always the candid real smile moments. You know, the ones that feel effortlessly unposed. These moments are often the product of gentle direction and subtle guidance. I'll ensure we utilize the best light available through out and take advantage of our surroundings. Creating a captivating gallery filled with your love story.
UGH! My kids are being crazy!!!
Can I tell you a secret?? So are mine!! LOL sorry I know that's not helpful! I want you to know that kids are kids. They feel the energy around them, especially from their parents. Getting organized for your session can feel stressful, allow yourself a deep breath when you arrive to your session and relax into your time being photographed. No need to force anything, let's enjoy our time together!
Ready to book your session?
I would love to work with you! Click the book now button and let me know what type of session you're looking to book and the approximate date. I do recommend booking in advance for ideal dates. To secure your session I'll send you a quote that will guide you through paying your booking retainer (50%) and contract. The remainder of your balance will be due one week prior to your session date. Don't worry I send a reminder.
What's next?
Now we get to have fun! 24-72 hours after you've confirmed your booking I will be in touch via email to book our session details phone call(text also works if you're really not a phone talker). Let the planning begin!
What happens after our session?
That session was everything!! I'm so excited! I must share a handful of sneak peeks with you via email/text or social media in the days after! I hand edit every single image I send you. My editing process isn't just slapping on a preset and firing a gallery off in an hour. Every edit is unique to every individual session. My average turn around for gallery delivery is 3-6 weeks. If you selected The Essentials Session you will first receive a proof gallery to choose your favourite images, the finals will be delivered 24-72hrs after they're selected.
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Ready to book your session?
I would love to work with you! Click the book now button and let me know what type of session you're looking to book and the approximate date. I do recommend booking in advance for ideal dates. To secure your session I'll send you a quote that will guide you through paying your booking retainer (50%) and contract. The remainder of your balance will be due one week prior to your session date. Don't worry I send a reminder.
What's next?
Now we get to have fun! 24-72 hours after you've confirmed your booking I will be in touch via email to book our session details phone call(text also works if you're really not a phone talker). Let the planning begin!
What happens after our session?
That session was everything!! I'm so excited! I must share a handful of sneak peeks with you via email/text or social media in the days after! I hand edit every single image I send you. My editing process isn't just slapping on a preset and firing a gallery off in an hour. Every edit is unique to every individual session. My average turn around for gallery delivery is 3-6 weeks. If you selected The Essentials Session you will first receive a proof gallery to choose your favourite images, the finals will be delivered 24-72hrs after they're selected.
Can I order prints?
Nothing brings me more joy than seeing your photos hung on your walls! I offer professional print options directly in your final gallery! Making the printing process super easy, leaving you no excuse to not print!! My session fee also includes print release on your final images, meaning you can take those files and print them anywhere you choose.
So how does the actual session work?
My goal is to tell your genuine story. My favourite images are always the candid real smile moments. You know, the ones that feel effortlessly unposed. These moments are often the product of gentle direction and subtle guidance. I'll ensure we utilize the best light available through out and take advantage of our surroundings. Creating a captivating gallery filled with your love story.
UGH! My kids are being crazy!!!
Can I tell you a secret?? So are mine!! LOL sorry I know that's not helpful! I want you to know that kids are kids. They feel the energy around them, especially from their parents. Getting organized for your session can feel stressful, allow yourself a deep breath when you arrive to your session and relax into your time being photographed. No need to force anything, let's enjoy our time together!
Can I ask you a favour?
I love that you want to show your new photos off to the world!! My best advertising is you, my amazing client! I appreciatively ask you tag me if you decide to share images on social media!
I love that you want to show your new photos off to the world!! My best advertising is you, my amazing client! I appreciatively ask you tag me if you decide to share images on social media!
I want you to know exactly what to expect!
Can I ask you a favour?
We'll be in touch soon!
Thank you!