What to expect at your photo session
I am so looking forward to meeting you at my studio!
Your session will begin with me introducing myself and getting to know you all, so we can have some fun together. I don't want you to feel like it will be stiff and uncomfortable. We will be friends by the end of the session I am sure!
My style of photography is both casual and natural - sometimes the best images are taken when you're in the moment, not looking at the camera. However, I do usually start with a few photos of everyone looking and smiling (just to make Grandma happy!). I love to play games with kids, or act a bit silly. I’m usually quite aware of how a child is when they come into the studio - if s/he’s shy, I am more likely to do photos of Mum and child first until they feel comfortable with me. Or I might just put my camera down and talk to her/him. It’s important to me that your child feels comfortable and then we can get those lovely, natural smiles, not a forced cheesy one.
Here's a few tips to help the session run smoothly:
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My Studio is located at the back of my house at 10a Kentwell Street, Baulkham Hills. Feel free to park on the driveway and take the gate on the right hand side with the sign directing you to the entrance.
I will text you my address just before the session anyway.
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Preparation starts the night before, especially if you have young kids. Make sure they get a good night's sleep. I know when my little one has a late night that she's at her crankiest the next afternoon. Equally important is not to do too much on the day! You're spending a good amount of money on your session, so if Johnny needs to miss swimming lessons so he's not too tired for one week it may be worth it.
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Embrace the chaos - I know that’s easier said than done, but trust me, we are more likely to get a few laughs if everyone is relaxed. It can be hard to come back from an upset child.
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Tell everyone this is going to be fun, you're going to be spending some quality time snuggling together and maybe there might be something special for everyone after! (Ice-cream or Macca’s are usually winners!)
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I'll be asking you to remove phones/keys etc from pockets if they can be seen so please bring a bag to carry those items. Non-messy snacks/water bottles for young kids if you think they might be needed are welcome. I encourage snacks for children (sometimes it's a nice breather for them), but try to avoid food that will make spills, stains, and dirty cheeks!
You’re also welcome to bring a change of dress/clothing. We should have time to change if you like!
How to dress for your photo session
Colours
Neutrals are always a safe option and look beautiful, but I also like warm, earthy muted (not bright!) tones. In the studio, lighter colours work best. However, if your daughter is adamant about wearing her pink frilly tutu, I am more than happy that she wears what she’s comfortable in and also what makes her really her in this time of her life. Showing your child’s personality is what I am striving for!
I love fabrics like cotton, linen or waffles for texture. Knitwear in winter is perfect. A pop of floral, pattern or colour can add interest but I suggest keeping the pattern or floral to only one family member — it's hard to mix patterns well. Also avoid stripes if you can.
Shoes
In the studio I prefer no shoes! I want you to feel really comfortable and relaxed in there so that’s one less thing to worry about!
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Yes we are probably the pickiest so it's best when deciding on everyone's attire to start with you first. I love to see Mum's in long, flowy dresses as they are so feminine. The movement in them photograph beautifully. I want you to feel beautiful in what you're wearing. Also just a tip to check whether your underwear can be seen - go for nude underwear if you're worried.
If you’re not keen on dresses that's ok - keep it simple with pants/skirt and add some texture with a cardi or scarf.
For Maternity - I have a number of maternity dresses you can borrow and I love photographing expectant Mum’s with jeans and an open shirt. -
A pair of tan coloured chinos is my favourite (jeans/shorts ok too). A knit also will look great or a plain-coloured t-shirt.
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All in one outfits work better than two-pieces - when we're playing around, lifting the baby etc it's best if we can't see the nappy and don't have to worry about keeping it covered. Nappy covers are great without a shirt or tights for girls in skirts/dresses.
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No big logos/loud colours please! We want the images to be timeless. Finding great kids clothes is usually not too hard and it doesn't have to cost the earth. Little girls love dresses to spin in. My current favourite stores for kids are: Best n Less, Target, Cotton on Kids, and Seed.
Follow colour guidelines already mentioned - neutrals/ pastels/ light earthy tones are best. If you’re unsure, send me a text and I can let you know which of your items will photograph best in the studio.
Client Wardrobe
There are items you can borrow that have been hand-picked to work for your photoshoot! Yay for ease, right? There is no additional cost to borrow from the client wardrobe, just please give me 48 hours notice so I can make sure it is washed and steamed. See available items HERE
Need more inspiration?
I have some Pinterest ideas you can have a look at here. I'm happy to help you choose clothing too. Please text/message me with photos of clothing beforehand (ideally lay out everyone's outfit together in the one photo) and I can help you decide which items would work best.