Nervous for your upcoming photo session? Don’t be! I’m here to walk you through everything. I mean, you’ve made it this far so there’s no backing out now! Grab a snack, your favorite glass of wine, and get your face mask ready (because yes, that’s part of your homework!)
Let’s not even waste any time. I’m jumping right into this!
Clothing. Pick out clothes you are comfortable in and don’t mind running around in. If you have a fun photographer picked out (hopefully me), they will likely have you move around quite a bit. Make sure to iron out clothes ahead of time so you aren’t scrambling the day of the session. Think about bringing comfortable walking shoes and jackets for in between shots if you’re shooting in chilly weather.
Location matters. I promise it does! It’s beneficial to pick a spot that holds some type of significance to you. If you and your family love target trips like 99% of us, ask your photographer to do a fun target shoot! Often times stores will allow you to shoot there if you get permission beforehand. Maybe you and your family love nature and greenery! If you and your fiance met at an arcade, incorporate that into your session somehow. You will feel so much more at ease if you are shooting somewhere you love. Your photographer can help you with this as well! Often times I will send my clients a detailed list of cool locations based on what they are looking for.
Timeliness. Trust me when I tell you this… You want this A+ grade from your photographer in timeliness. Do whatever you need to do to get to your photo session on time. Set an alarm. Heck, set 16 if you need to (yeah I see you. But I do the same thing so I’m not judging). Map out where you are going ahead of time so you aren’t frantic on the day of the shoot. Tardiness happens, but your photo session will be off to a great start if you can make sure to be on time or early to your session.
Self care. Let’s chat about it real quick. We want to feel like the best version of ourselves that we possibly can! This means physically and mentally. I want to share my favorite self care tips that will help you achieve those beautiful images you’ve been wanting.
Make sure to keep yourself hydrated and drink tons of water! I know, I know. You aren’t going on a run or nursing a hangover, but your body will love you and that will translate through photos. We all know this but water helps reduce dark circles and puffiness around the eyes. Because let’s be real, most of us are drained in our day to day life so a little pick me up can’t possibly hurt.
SLEEP. I mean it. Cut the binge watching on The Office and get a good nights sleep. This is something else that can and will translate through your photos. We all feel and look better after a good nights sleep. Even though the zombie version of you is probably pretty badass.. I’d prefer to photograph the lively version!
Use this photo session as an excuse to do those little things you may not have gotten around to before. Treat yourself to a girls day and get your nails done. Get that hair trim you’ve been dreading and putting off for 6 months (okay, I’m really just talking to myself in the mirror now). But really. Pamper yourself! Throw on a face mask on and relax on the couch while the little ones are running around. Have you been wanting to whiten your teeth? These whitening trays from Amazon are wonderful and lighten teeth extremely fast (and with no sensitivity which is a huge bonus). If you are considering spray tanning before your photo session, try to do this a few days before so it has time to set in.
We are all beautiful and perfect just the way we are - But a little self care can go a long way and feed into your mental and physical health.
Professional Hair and Makeup. Once upon a time, the earth gifted us makeup artists and hair stylists. And thank the lucky stars for that. If you don’t do your makeup often or are hesitant about doing your own, this is something to consider. Now you don’t have to go crazy or over the top. I always suggest having your makeup artist make you a va va voom version of yourself. You can always schedule a fun date night after the shoot is over so you can get full use of your makeup and hair!
If you’d prefer to rock your normal look or do your own makeup, more power to you sister. I don’t know my bronzer from my blush so I like to have a little help when I can.
Here are little things to pack in your bag that can act as a saving grace if needed!
Chapstick
Floss
Napkins
Snacks
Gum
Lotion
Water
Umbrella
A few additional tips to ensure your photo session runs smoothly:
) Hype our photo session up! Tell your kiddos how fun and exciting it will be to have their photo taken. Maybe even let them pick out a fun outfit to wear. If they feel comfortable with me, that will lead to amazing photos. If you aren’t past bribery, maybe offer them a toy or a snack afterwards if they are on their best behavior!
2.) R E L A X. I know it can be nerve wracking to be in front of a camera. But I’m going to make you feel like we have been besties for 10 years so you can feel at ease during your photo session. I can guarantee you that I’ll be more goofy and awkward than you!
3.) Props are always something to consider. If we have a maternity session, bring your sonogram or those cute baby sneakers you picked up the other day. If it’s a family session, bring a blanket we can get some cute shots of you guys all snuggled and sitting down. Engagement session? Bring a bottle of champagne so we can shake it up and have some fun! Also… Make sure to have your ring cleaned!
