Family Session
welcome Guide
Welcome! I am so thrilled to be working with you. This guide is a chance for me to say hello and give you some more information about what our experience together will be like. Coverage begins promptly at our scheduled time so please show up on time. I choose our timing based on lighting and we can only shoot for as long as there is good light. If you’re late we won’t be able to make up the time and you will not get as many images. Read through the following information and let me know if you have any questions!
Get the look
What to Wear
Mom should choose her outfit first and then everyone else can coordinate around her. Texture and movement photograph really beautifully so think linen, silk, knit, flowy dresses, etc.
Keep prints small if you choose them so they aren’t overly distracting.
Choosing colors that are light, white or neutral/muted helps brighten the images and keep from competing with the surroundings.
You don’t have to be super dressy if your family is more laid back and you want to be comfortable. Authenticity is important to the images as well.
Bare feet are really cute for outdoor shoots (location dependent) so feel free to not worry about finding shoes to match if you prefer that look.
Make sure to come with your wrists free of hair ties and all pockets free of phones, keys, etc.
Makeup photographs a few shades duller so feel free to go bolder than you normally would or even get your makeup professionally done. If you’re interested in this, I’m happy to send some recommendations.
What not to wear: words or logos, neon or loud colors, too many accessories, exact matching outfits.
And finally, please leave your Apple watch at home!
Wearing White
White photographs really well in images and is universally flattering. It’s an easy way to brighten an image and it’s typically not difficult to find white clothes for everyone. If you’re unsure what to wear, go with this! Mixing different whites and creme looks really beautiful and timeless.
Patterns
You can incorporate simple patterns but I recommend that they are small so they aren’t too distracting.
Mixing Colors And Fabrics
If you stick with neutrals, it’s easy to have everyone look like they belong together without matching outfits. This family wore white, cream, off white, olive and taupe and it all went together really beautifully. You can match colors or tones but there is no need to have exact matching outfits. It’s much more visually interesting to have everyone look unique.
Muted Colors
Muted or earth toned colors will complement the surroundings without competing for attention.
Simplicity
Keeping things simple is best, no need to be covered in jewelry or accessories. Remember the quote “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”
get the look
Outfit Sources
Kids:
Zara Shop Figge Jamie Kay Nora Lee Doen Rylee + Cru H&M
Women:
Christy Dawn Kara Thoms Boutique Hazel & Folk Shopbop Doen Baltic Born Sea Free People Lulu’s Morning Lavender Reformation Zara H&M
Maternity:
Hatch Nothing Fits But Morning Lavender
Men:
The Shoot
What to expect
I’ll strike a balance between posing/directing you and letting things unfold naturally so I can catch the real you. All you have to do is show up relaxed and ready to hang out with your favorite people. If there are certain images you want to make sure I get, please let me know and I will do my best to include them. Otherwise just come relaxed, I’ll go through my usual shot list and leave room for candid shots as well. You don’t need to prepare yourself or any poses.
If you have any other questions about our session, please send me an email. I’m looking forward to our time together!