Engagement Session Tips
1. If you are getting hair and makeup for your wedding, and your hair and makeup artist offers a trial, book your trial and your engagement shoot on the same day.
2. Choose colors that are flattering and complementary to what your partner is wearing. For example, your partner may look great in maroon while you look fabulous in blue - choose an outfit that is blue with maroon accents so you can both wear colors that that are flattering while also having a coordinated look.
3. Choose two looks! It can be fun to do a quick wardrobe change. Some couples are surprised by how much they love their "back-up look" in their images.
4. Even if you don't want to do more than one look, bring a back-up in case something happens to your outfit (spill, rip, etc.)
5. Think about your story and things that are unique to you as a couple. Consider discussing ways to incorporate these sentimental touches in your session.
6. Ask questions! Don't be afraid to ask if you are wondering about what to wear, have ideas about some shots you would like, or anything else you might think of!
7. Remind yourself that you are beautiful and in love and just have a good time!
Wedding Photography Tips
1. This is a very special day and no matter what happens, it's your story. How many things can you think of that were upsetting in the moment but you now look back and laugh? Try not to let worry steal your happiness.
2. Get a planner - even if it's just for day-of! This can be incredibly helpful at relieving stress.
3. Assign someone to keep the getting ready area clear of trash and unnecessary items. This does not mean the place needs to be spotless - it can be fun to have images that show what was in the room the day of your wedding. That said, trash is hardly nostalgic and it can be helpful to have someone in charge of keeping the area photo-ready.
4. Make sure you carve out enough time for photos! We can always talk about this more and I will accommodate client needs but for maximum wedding photography potential, we do need some time.
5. If you are comfortable with it, do a first look! They are SO FUN and it's just lovely to have really good images that show the emotion of this moment.
6. Consider scheduling your first dances, toasts, cake cutting, etc. back to back. This can allow for folks to cut loose and have fun at your reception without having to round everyone one up intermittently.
7. Allow for candid moments. I will be there taking photos of all the things - don't worry about looking at the camera for each shot; enjoy your day!
Family Session Tips
1. Plan to have fun! Try not to worry about "what if" situations - we can figure it out most times :)
2. Coordinate your wardrobe so pieces go together but aren't' exactly the same. For example, a family of 4 may choose to have 1 person wear a dress that includes all colors the other 3 family members will wear. This usually pictures well.
3. Avoid competing patterns (e.g. 1 person in stripes and another in floral) or wearing exceptionally "busy" patterns.
4. Share your vision with me - I want to know what you are hoping for in your photos.
5. If you have small children, consider setting up some positive reinforcement to reward their cooperation. The joy of the anticipation comes through in the photos.
6. Avoid coaching children to smile. Instead, think of things that will make them smile or laugh. (I have played baby shark during many a photoshoot!)
7. For photos where the whole family is looking at the camera, be sure to look at the camera. Parents often check to see if their children are smiling :)
Portrait Tips
1. Get a good sleep the night before and hydrate.
2. Give haircuts some time - try to get your hair cut more than a week before your session. This will you give it time to settle and give you time to learn how to style it if need be.
3. Choose a flattering color for your wardrobe and bring a couple options.
4. Choose tried and true hair and/or makeup looks that you've seen and liked in photos.
5. Consider getting your hair and makeup done professionally. These artists often know what the camera will like.
6. Bring layering items to quickly and easily change up a look and give you some options.
7. Try to have some fun! I LOVE doing portraits and really want folks to enjoy their experience.
Lifestyle Session Tips
1. Ready your home. Consider spending extra time on areas of your home that have a lot of natural light. Think about what you do (and don't) want in your photographs.
2. Think about some activities that your family does routinely and do them during session. Activities that feel natural will come out nicely in your photos.
3. Wear clothes that complement one another (see family session tips.)
4. If you do not want to do lifestyle photos in your home, consider your backyard or at another location where everyone will be themselves. Think about some activities that you could do together.
5. Lifestyle photos can be done about town where you are all just being candid as well - think of a place you would want to spend a while just hanging out.
6. Lifestyle portraiture is kind of like " a day in the life" of your family. It's important to allow for some time for your family to feel comfortable to be themselves.
7. Think about your vision and share that with me! Ask me any questions you may have - I am here for you!
