- A popular question I get is “what should we wear for our family portrait ?” Families should coordinate, but do not have to match completely. The easiest way to do this is to pick two main colors and then add one or two accent colors. An example would be denim and cream as the main colors and then add a touch of mint green and brown. Coordinating allows everyone to to blend well together yet still have some variety in colors and style. Pinterst has many good clothing suggestions that will match your style. Once you have decided on what you will all wear, please message me a photo of your clothing laid out before the session.
- Setting out the outfits for everyone and talking about it with your children so they know what to expect might help too. Try to not over pack your schedule the day of the session. I suggest Mom make an appointment to have their hair and makeup professionally done. You work hard and deserve a little pampering before your photography session. Make sure both Mom and Dads nails are looking good too. Very good chance they will be in the image.
- For siblings of your newborn, please bring snacks and drinks, modeling can be hard work for them! I don’t mind taking breaks as needed for little ones. Non-messy snack work well such as crackers, cereal puffs, or small fruit snacks. Non-sugary snacks are best. Good to have a sippy cup with water handy for your little one. If you forget water, I usually have some on hand for you.
- If you have a sentimental item you would like to bring to a session, please do! I love to incorporate those items. Such as a favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or prop from home. You do not need to bring a lot of outfits for your newborn. We find clothing can be bulky and just too big for newborn babies. Wraps and swaddles are best for your new little ones. Headbands and Hats look adorable too.
- I love your Pets in the family photos. If you plan to bring a pet, we definitely need to talk in advance so I can have everything prepared for the special 4 legged friend.
- For newborn session sessions, we photograph family first, then siblings. If you feel the kids will struggle while waiting, maybe Dad or your helper would like to take the older sibling(s) home or for a car ride so we spend the rest of the session with your newborn.
- For your newborn baby, please bring a pacifier to the session. I understand some parents may not want to use a pacifier with their baby…. however, I ask you please consider for just this session. When I am trying to put babies into different poses, I find the pacifier is a great soothing tool and help them relax into a pose.
- Stay away from dairy and coffee products before the session if you are nursing. Do feed your baby when you arrive… so being 15 minutes early for a newborn session is a good idea. That way he/she has a very full belly and going into that wonderful “milk coma”. I love when our little client is sleeping in most of the poses. To help bring in a sleepy baby, try to keep your little one awake for an hour before your session, a bath can help with this right before the session.
- Be prepared for the newborn session to take up to three hours. I will gently pose your little one and let you relax with a book or your phone on the couch. A break good for you!
- Do not schedule the week of any shots. They tend to be a little off that week. We want a happy relaxed baby or child.
