• Feel Comfortable

    Choose clothes that are comfortable and neutral (without logo, text, or illustration)

    Tailored clothing always photographs well. However, keep in mind posing when choosing outfits – choose an outfit that is comfortable and flattering when both standing, sitting, kneeling, etc.

  • Consider location and/or time of year

    If the weather is cooler, a heavier sweater or a layered top will provide more smiles than a thin long sleeve.

    If wearing a coat, try to maintain the same thickness amongst the group

    For groups, often times a color palette is helpful to work from. In general, people tend to lean toward cooler tones in the summer and winter and warmer tones in the spring and fall.

  • Don't wait!

    Once each outfit is decided, don’t wait to try outfits on on the morning of your session.

    It is helpful to have everyone try on their outfits a few days prior to your session to make sure the look is cohesive. Plus, it will help identify if a child is uncomfortable in their outfit so any adjustments can occur before the session.

Start with a color palette

  • Start with Mom’s outfit. Then, pull in 2-3 complimentary colors for your partner and/or kids outfits

  • Plain colors tend to photograph best. But it’s okay to add textures or patterns (florals, thick stripes, subtle shapes)

  • Examples of color palettes are as follows:

    • Neutrals (creams, browns, sage)

    • Blue tones, whites, creams

    • Pastels (whites, khaki, pink/peach, light purple, light blue, etc)

    • Autumn (hunter greens, blacks, rust, browns mustard, creams)

    • Nautical (navy, denim, khaki, white, grey)

  • Don’t forget to play with layers such as vests, sweaters, or jackets or tall socks under boots. Note: Accessories such as scarves might be cute they can also appear bulky in photographs.

Plan Ahead

  • Talk about the photo session: This is especially beneficial for younger kids. Describing what a photo session may be like (what a camera is, what a photographer does, what the photo session is for, etc) can be helpful for kids. Children who are prepared for a photo session tend to be more comfortable and have an easier time smiling and giggling in front of the camera.

  • Allowing extra time for shower/baths, hair, makeup, dressing, and loading into the car will ensure you arrive to your photo session on time.

  • If possible, avoid scheduling photo sessions around nap or bedtimes. Kids tend to be less cooperative when they are tired.

  • Similarly, both adults and kids are less cooperative when hungry. If your session is scheduled during a regular meal or snack time, try to eat before you arrive. But, it's okay to bring snacks to the photo session if needed.

  • Have a specific photo in mind? – please send it to us before your session so we can make sure to incorporate your preferences into the session.

Expect the Unexpected

  • As a client, you want everything perfect. As photographers, we want everything to be perfect for you! But, in reality, kids will be kids no matter how much we plan. Even well rested, fed, and prepared children will have bad days. We understand and it is no reflection on you as a parent. The best thing you can do is take a deep breath and together we will find a way to bring a little smile (even if it is a soft smile) to a grumpy child's face.

  • It's okay to bring props and/or activities: Having a special item included in your photo session will make your photos even more unique to you. Sometimes, familiar activities such as dancing to their favorite song, a blanket from home, a book, etc can help children relax and feel more comfortable.

  • Sometimes kids need an incentive. Snacks are often helpful but so are stickers!

Be yourself, keep moving, and have fun!

  • As photographers, we try to have you moving a decent bit of time. Even if we have you in a pose, keep moving. For example, looking at other family members, lay a head on your partners shoulder, a child may wrap their arms around your neck.

  • Remember, photographers are just a third-wheel to family time. Some of the best photos are the ones clients don't realize we have taken. It's okay to not always be looking at the camera. Our goal is to embrace the love you have within your family and that love is often best expressed when families are looking at one another. We will help direct you in where to look but remember, the camera isn't always the target.

  • Family is love. Family is chaos. Family is everything. Toss your kids in the air and hear them giggle. Tickle them until they wiggle out of your lap. Whisper to your partner, "I love you" or a dirty joke. Embrace and cherish all that you have so we can capture the true essence of your family’s lifestyle.