Being prepared for your session not only helps you enjoy it more, it can essentially make or break the session. If you come into a shoot stressed out, rushed or upset, that energy will inevitably boil over into the shoot. I want you to feel relaxed and be in the moment. This way, we can capture the magic and have a blast doing it. Here are a few easy steps to take in advance so you can avoid some common frustrations.
- Don’t worry about the weather! Watching the weather app will not change anything. Nor will it determine if we should move forward or not. I’ve had sessions that looked like for sure they would get rained out but nothing happens. Alternatively, we’ve had shoots that seemed too windy, but the end result was amazing! Don’t stress. If the weather is terrible or you’re not comfortable with the idea of moving forward, we will reschedule, no worries! If it looks questionable, try to embrace the dark skies because a rainbow might be on the other side.
- Don’t worry about the weather – hahah. It’s my most asked question, so it deserves two bullet points here. So much changes with a forecast, so I don’t look at it days in advance. Additionally, don’t worry about sunny vs. cloudy. Let me tell you that both are beautiful and have their advantages. Cloudy skies often mean that we can shoot in areas maybe we couldn’t before. This happens because the light was too harsh. It also creates a pretty even light over your skin.
- Bring water and some snacks and maybe a lovely for littles. If you know your kiddo likes to be rewarded with fruit chews, bring them! I’d rather have a happy toddler with a fruit chew in his hand for pictures then an upset one.
- Use the restroom before leaving – simple I know but often overlooked.
- Plan your outfits (from head to toe) in advance. I always tell moms to pick their outfit first. Then, coordinate the color scheme from there. Don’t forget footwear! Sometimes I have a kiddo decked out with cute clothes only to have dirty sneakers on. In that case, I would say barefoot is better.
- Don’t stress the chaos, embrace it because that is where the magic lies! The genuine moments, belly laughs, and sweet smiles come from letting your kids be kids. I want them to run, play and be silly. Not only because that is the story we are telling but because those are the genuine moments we want. When we try to force a kid to sit and smile, we usually get the opposite outcome. Take a page from Joni Mitchell’s book – “If you hold sand too tightly in your hand, it will run through your fingers.”
- For older kids- bring a football to play catch with or bring your dog! It will lighten the mood and playing with your older kids helps generate a fun dynamic and session.
- Want to do something different? Let’s pick blueberries, apples, visit the sunflower field, or pick out your Christmas tree at the farm! Picking an activity to do for your session not only creates beautiful and unique photos. It engages your kids and showcases the connection you have with them!
