How to prepare and style for your photo session
Most importantly: Be present.
It is my desire to create photographs that do more than serve as proof that you existed, I want to show that you lived passionately and loved madly. Therefore expectation setting is key. If you’re looking for those unposed and carefree photos, communicating your vision is absolutely crucial.
Documenting you and your family authentically has not much to do with sitting still and smiling at the camera. You should expect to fully be in the moment during your photo session - basically as if I wasn't there. So instead of fearing that your children won’t “behave” or getting frustrated if they wanna do their own thing, I challenge you to just let go and embrace it.
Choosing what to wear for photos can be super stressful! But finding that perfect outfit is easier with a little bit of guidance. A thoughtfully put together wardrobe will make the difference between ordinary images and exceptional ones. Textures, layering and meaningful accessories can add character and depth to your photographs. Because wardrobe is such a crucial aspect, I’m happy to let you know that I offer hand in hand guidance through your entire experience, including access to my exclusive client wardrobe full of beautiful dresses.
In this guide, you will find helpful preparation tips for a stress-free session experience as well as styling tips to create a beautiful look that stays true to your vision and tells your story in the best way possible.
Be yourself
First and foremost, remember to be comfortable and true to yourself. Use your go-to style or dress up - just be ready to embrace the moment and show true emotions. Think about being the best versions of yourself during your sessions.
How much emotion do you want your photos to portray?
Styling can actually be a big part of how much emotion will come across in your photographs. In general, the more flowy and comfortable, the more natural you will feel and the easier it will be for you to move around. Another huge factor is skin - if your wardrobe allows to show off a bit skin, your photos will be full of raw emotions and that carefree vibe!
Location and Season
Location and season can determine your vibe tremendously – you want to somewhat match your style the environment for a cohesive feel. If the weather allows for it, layering items such as cardigans (my all time favorite!) scarves, blankets and hats are great ways to add texture and visual interest to your photos. Not sure about location yet? Have a look at my LOCATION GUIDE here to get some ideas!
Coordinate but don’t match
Tying your outfits together will complete a beautiful cohesive look. Always coordinate but don’t match. Even a slight variation of color tone will look more pleasing than everyone being in the same color. If one of you wants to wear a pattern t-shirt for the shoot, the other one will put a solid color t-shirt and layers as well as textures will help to bring your look together.
Neutral tones
Staying neutral keeps the photos simple and soft with the focus on the connection and emotion between people. When in doubt, I suggest wearing any combination of cream, off white, gray, brown and tan (not necessarily black or white - those can look a bit harsh, unless they come in a textured material). Neutral colors look amazing in every setting and are absolute timeless. Babies and toddlers look adorable shirtless and in just a diaper cover – it doesn’t get simpler than that! Try to stay away from any shiny materials!
Colors
Pick a palette of 2-3 colors and let this be your starting place. Think in terms of tones: green tones, earth tones, neutrals, pastels, etc. Everyone in the family can express their own sense of style within the chosen color palette, and the whole group will coordinate beautifully. Subdued colors, solids, and muted prints work very well for photos. Muted tones look beautiful together in a family picture. When picking patterns, choose smaller and organic ones that won’t pull attention away from the main subjects. Keep patterns to a minimum and consider playing with textures instead.
Patterns, Textures and Layers
Keep patterns to a minimum or use them wisely. Small patterns always are less distracting and can be well coordinated. I personally would recommend floral or other organic patterns over geometric patterns such as plaid. Skip big logos and words as they draw the eye. Playing with textures and layering will add beautiful interest without distracting. When thinking about texture, choose different materials that will give photos some interest such as lace, corduroy, denim, linen and knits. Layering is a fun way to include props, and add even more visual interest. Cardigans are a personal favorite for that carefree look. Try to stay away from any shiny or overly wrinkly materials!
Dresses
I love dresses so much that they get their own category. I believe every girl/woman looks beautiful in a dress, it’s fun to twirl around and it can add a lot of visual interest to your photos. Especially a longer, flowy dress or skirt can give your photos beautiful movement while you’re still able to comfortable do different poses. A dress from a thinner material can also add an extra layer of magic at golden hour when it gets illuminated by the sun!
Shoes
If you’re not the type who likes being barefoot (which I personally love and can look super cute in photos!), be sure to keep your footwear in mind. Nothing will throw off your look more than a ratty old pair of shoes that don’t match the rest of your outfit. This also applies to socks - make sure they match your outfit!
Underneath
Underwear is important. Yes, I will address it because not only does it contribute to you being comfortable but if your pink bra unintentionally peeks through your clothing it will throw off the whole image. Strapless nude bras are your friend! Sometimes, depending on your wardrobe, I’d even suggest to just skip it all together :) Same goes for undies and socks. You might think it’s not a big deal but trust me, once you see it in your photos, you can’t unsee it. Ever.
Make-Up
Keep your foundation simple and matte. Highlighter can look very shiny in camera, be aware! Keep the make-up rather natural than too dramatic. If in doubt, I’d recommend to have a professional make-up artist do your make-up for the day – splurge a little!
Hair
If you are going to have your hair cut or colored, please do so at least a week before your session so it has time to “relax” and look more natural and to make sure you like it. I prefer longer hair to be left down to showcase movement - perfectly kept hair will not happen anyways and that’s OK. But if you’re getting your hair done professionally from a hairdresser for your session, that’s always a great option. But also, don’t forget about the hair on the rest of your body! ;-)
Nails
Even though it’s such a small detail - it can make a big impact. Because chewed up or hot pink nails will draw the attention immediately away from anything else. Make sure they go with your style - when in doubt, you can never go wrong with a plain, natural look.
Accessories
Bringing along meaningful but subtle and simple props that vibe with your photo shoot is a great way to add personality to your images. These can be wardrobe add-ons or other thoughtful details. Another beautiful option are family heirlooms that are woven into your story - this could be a special piece of jewelry or a hand-made blanket from grandma. Other styling elements such as natural elements that are present on your chosen location or my all-time favorite: flowers of any sort, could be part of your session to compliment your style. Just be sure the prop won’t be a distraction - it should make sense and blend well with the overall vision.
Styled Shoot
Are you looking for something extra, way above and beyond customized? Maybe you have a theme in mind or a very specific idea you’re looking to bring to life. Talk to me and we’ll come up with a concept and if needed, we can bring professional stylists, body painter, florists and other creatives on board.
No-Goes and personal Styling Pet-Peeves
Non-fitting clothes – please try them on beforehand
Wrinkled clothes. Just don’t.
Neon/fluorescent colors and shiny materials can create weird color casts
Mismatching color tones - like pastel green and dark earthy olive green are 2 completely different families of colors
Too matching color palette (think all wearing jeans and black shirts - please don’t, it’s very dated)
Big logos can be super distracting - and we want all the focus on you, not some brand
Visible diaper or underwear on little ones - make sure to cover up with leggings or bloomers
Patriotic or typical holiday color palettes can come across kind of cheesy
Very small geometric patterns (think pin stripe, small plaid etc.) can show up odd on camera
Too short skirts and shorts will limit posing options tremendously
Too low-cut shirts might show more cleavage than you want due to posing
Overly trendy clothes and accessories will date your photos
High heels or otherwise uncomfortable / not worn in shoes can cause discomfort and it will show
Glittery and shiny makeup can end up all over your face and it will show on the photos or make you look sweaty
Techy watches (think fitbit) can clash with your outfit and should be taken off
Polo shirts, Cargo Pants and Tennis shoes are my personal pet peeves for guys
A few more Preparation Tips
Talk about your expectations with everyone involved to have all on the same page
Make sure everyone knows your vision - show them example photos
Embrace the moment, no matter how wild or quiet. Let go and just be present.
Please don’t get a spray tan the week before your photo session
Always bring more outfits along to have options
Hungry kids are no happy kids - make sure they’ve eaten BEFORE the session! I can’t stress this enough! (also goes for dads ;-))
Bring some non-messy / dry favorite snacks for kids
Chewing gum is an absolute no-go!
Grumpy dads and bad vibes are never welcome - this is your day to shine, prepare to avoid any stressors that day all together
Don’t be afraid of weather - we’ll make it work unless it’s unbearable conditions
Think of wind as adding all the magic and character to your photos vs. messing up your hair
Get ready to be moving around A LOT. Playing, snuggling, running, dancing – doing all the things you and your kids love the most
Make sure to get a good night sleep the night before your session
Check your route to location a day prior to be aware of distance or eventual detours - starting your session on time is crucial as we might run out of that perfect golden hour light!
Depending on time of day, make sure younger kids get a nap in - as important as having eaten before the session!
If you want to bribe your kids, I won’t judge. But instead, try making it fun by letting them know they’ll go on a little adventure and a lady with a camera will join :)
Dont worry about your kids not behaving. I usually let them run the show and meet them at their current personality to show all their sides. The shy, the silly, the rowdy - believe me, later down the road you’ll want those memories as well.
Depending on location and season, bring some warmer clothes, a towel or an extra set of shoes
Here is your personal Checklist to stay organized for a stress free session experience:
Find more useful information at the FAQ section here!
