Guidelines for a Successful Photo Session
I'm so glad we will soon be getting together for a photo session. I want you to be comfortable and for our time together to go smoothly. In order to be successful in your session, please use the following guidelines.
Basics:
In general, it is best to come dressed in solid-colored shirts and tops. Coordinating colors on different individuals work best. Try to stay away from busy patterns as they usually detract from the portrait. I have a number of background choices, so please discuss with me ahead of time what you wish to use. I will then be able to give you suggestions as to appropriate clothing choices. Make-up for women should be a little more than you normally wear but still natural. Please use powder to control shine. Please make sure you arrive a few minutes early or on time for your session. Larger groups and infants require the most time, so plan accordingly.
Maternity:
Clothing for maternity shoots can include any or all of the following suggestions: solid black top, button down shirt in a solid color (white is nice!), white top. If you have a special stuffed animal or prop that will belong to the baby, please bring that and we can incorporate it into some of the photos.
Many maternity photos also include older siblings. Your other children are very welcome. Please dress them in coordinating colors. I have toys just outside of the studio for them to play with when we are doing mom-only shots.
Infants:
Please allow 2 hours for an infant session to allow for feeding and diapering time. A couch is available for you to feed your precious baby! Bare skin always looks great on infant photos. You may also bring a special outfit for the dressed shots. Make sure you bring an extra outfit, in case the first becomes soiled. If you would like me to create a special birth announcement, please let me know ahead of time in order to plan the appropriate poses.
Children:
Depending on the age of the child, we may take bare photos, diaper-only photos or fully dressed photos. A variety of props are available or you may bring your own. When photographing multiple children, please coordinate their clothing. Please plan between 60-90 minutes for your session. I will be able to give you a better estimate when we pre-plan your session, depending on the number of children and your personal needs. It is sometimes easier to shoot outdoors for the two and three-year-olds. We can certainly plan an outdoor photo-session if you desire.
Large groups/Families
Please plan 2 hours for your session. Again, follow the coordinating colors, rule for clothing. In addition, if there are multiple familes in a photo, you may wish to coordinate with-in each smaller family unit. Very large groups cannot be photographed in my studio and will instead be photographed outdoors.
Make-up Consultations
If you desire to have a make-up consultation, you must request an appointment at least one day before your photo session.