Session Prep Guide
Thank you for booking a session with me! I am genuinely excited to preserve your memories in an enjoyable, relaxed way. Styling your session is important but it doesn't have to be stressful! I've included some helpful tips below, including color suggestions that photograph well (and some that don't!).
You can also browse my portfolio to see how others styled their sessions.
Earth Tones
- Soft, muted colors tend to complement natural light and produce warm, organic images. Earth tones and soft neutrals create a calm and cohesive feel that aren't tied to a trend or season, creating a timeless feel to your gallery.
- Tan, cream, sage, olive, dusty blue, taupe and warm browns can be mixed and layered to let each person's personality shine through.
*note: softer colors are less visually distracting than bright or highly saturated shades.
Supporting Colors
- Earth tones are some of my favorite choices, but dusty rose, muted lavender, mushroom and soft charcoal are beautiful ways to add depth and personality to your session.
- Dusty rose looks great paired with cream, mushroom and dusty blue.
- Muted lavender works well alongside cream, sage and tan.
- You can add warm brown, terracotta or soft charcoal to any of these palettes to add depth
*These shades give your images warmth, depth and overall variety while still keeping the color palette soft and cohesive.
Add texture
- Once you've chosen your color palette, don't be afraid to add texture. Chunky knits, linen, corduroy, denim and woven fabrics add beautiful dimension and keep neutral outfits from feeling flat.
- I also love subtle, understated patterns - think delicate stripes, soft plaids, tiny florals and muted checks. The key is to keep patterns soft rather than bold or highly contrasting.
*Soft patterns add personality while keeping the overall look cohesive
Colors I wouldn't recommend:
The goal isn't to eliminate color, it's to choose colors that complement you rather than compete with you. Think warm and creamy rather than bright and stark!
A few colors that can photograph beautifully, but should be used sparingly as accent colors are:
- burgundy
- mustard
- deep plum
- forest green
A little goes a long way!
Try to avoid:
Navy. In camera, it often turns dark, hides texture and depth. Swap it for:
- slate
- dusty blue
- powder blue
- Chambray
Red. Bright reds draw the eye more than other shades and can become the first thing you notice rather than the people and expressions. It can also create a color cast on the skin. Instead, wear:
- rust
- wine
- maroon
White. Reflects light, blowing out detail and erasing texture. It may seem like the easy choice, but opt for these neutrals instead:
- cream
- ivory
- oatmeal
- beige
- linen
Neons. Incredibly vibrant colors reflect strong color onto the skin and draw the eye away from the people and connection in the photos. For a timeless option, select:
- muted, earthy tones
- neutrals
- for a pop of color, choose a dusty or muted version of your favorite shade. Think sage instead of neon green, dusty blue instead of bright blue and terracotta instead of orange.
1
Start with one item or color you know you want to use. This can be something you already own or something new. Build everyone else's outfits around that item. This simplifies the process whether you're using items you already own or shopping for new ones.
2
Coordinate - don't match - everyone else's outfits. Use colors and tones that are complimentary. Pick 2 or 3 colors and minimal patterns. Subtly mix in textures, patterns and layers. Accessorize with hats, scarves, vests and headbands. Don't forget to remove hair ties from wrists.
3
One subtle detail: leave the Apple watch at home. It may seem insignificant, but watches and fitness trackers can be surprisingly noticeable in photos. It adds a modern, everyday element that doesn't quite fit with the timeless feel we're going for.
4
Get your kids involved! Let them pick their own outfit from 2 or 3 options that would work. Kids love to feel like they're part of the process and get excited to help choose what they are going to wear. Most importantly, be comfortable and stay true to everyone's personalities.
Tips for kids
Comfort is key
Your session will involve movement, cuddles, sitting, playing, walking and fun. When you're comfortable in what you're wearing, you can relax and focus on your family rather than adjusting uncomfortable clothing. This is especially true with kids.
Kids are kids. They may be silly, shy, energetic, emotional or just not interested. That's okay. Some of the best moments happen when kids aren't doing exactly what's expected.
If you're worried your little ones won't sit still, smile on cue or cooperate perfectly, take a deep breath.
Let your kids know they won't be expected to just sit still and smile. We'll give them room to move, play, explore, cuddle and be themselves. If they know they're going to have fun things will go a lot more smoothly. We're not chasing perfection. We're here for real connection and memories of who your family is right now.
One last thing:
Don't overthink it! Your session is about you - not having perfectly styled outfits.
Choose pieces that feel comfortable and true to you. Use this guide as inspiration rather than a list of rules. Look for complementary colors, incorporate some texture and choose pieces that allow for movement and comfort. Everyone doesn't need to match- you just want everyone to feel like they belong together!
Keep it simple: soft colors, beautiful textures and pieces you feel confident wearing!
Please feel free to reach out if you need help!
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