Preparing for your family/milestone session

Let's capture those giggles.


Maybe this is your family's FIRST time having portraits done. maybe you've done them before but it's been years, and maybe you've always had great experiences. or maybe you have had a nightmare session. The first thing I want you to do is to take a nice, deep breath. We're going to make this as stress-free as possible!

 I have three kiddos of my own so I KNOW how stressful and overwhelming this process can be. As a parent to three under 10, there is something so rewarding for ME to give my clients the kind of memories captured that I want to have of my own family. Make sure to read through this packet to help me create magic with your family!


WHAT TO WEAR

- MOMS DID YOU KNOW I HAVE A CLIENT CLOSET??


My client closet is FULL of incredible high-end gowns made for all body types! You are welcome to use one (I actually encourage it) You may look through the images of my gowns or message me to schedule a day to come do a try on.

I always tell moms, to pick your outfit first! Choose something that you feel 1000% confident in, both in fit, style, and colors.

While dresses are always a beautiful choice, don't feel like you need to wear one if you're not someone who normally wears dresses!

Chunky sweaters, cardigans, comfy jeans, or a fun hat are all great ways to change up your look during the shoot!

Pay special attention to details! Necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings, footwear, a good belt, and hair accessories (headbands, barrettes, ribbons, etc) - all contribute to an overall look and are such a fun way to bring your personality to your photos.

Please be mindful of your nails, as your hands will be photographed. Also, be sure to bring your lip color to reapply as needed!

PLEASEEEE let me know if you plan on spray or self tanning before your shoot, especially if you plan on wearing one of my client gowns.


What to wear DADS


 I've found that giving dad options works best -- let him feel like he has a choice in the matter and go from there!

Simple is better! I love sweaters with texture, earthy tones, and nice shoes. Please no bright crazy colors, big logos on tshirts, tennis shoes that don't compliment the outfit.

Another big topic on mens fashion that I get all of the time is HATS. Please have the talk to your partner about whether or not you want a hat. It is totally your call but please keep in mind. the hat will shade your eyes making it hard for me to see your eyes clearly in the photos.

Hands will be photographed. If dad works in a place where his hands are always weathered. that’s okay! Just make sure under nails are cleaned.

Make sure to remind them to empty their pockets -- keys, cellphones, and wallets! 


What to wear KIDS


Some tips for choosing complementing outfits:

  • Don't have multiple kids wearing the same "look" such as all girls in the same dress, all boys in the same color of jeans. Mixing skirts, dresses, jeans, corduroy, and neutral colors looks good!
  • Earthy tones are great... but so are bold colors!!
  • LAYERS are your friend! Mix up patterns and textures with complimenting colors.
  • If your little girl is wearing a dress. PLEASE remember bloomers or shorts underneath.
  • If baby is in overalls or something strappy. make sure the outfit fits properly so it doesn’t bunch up or fall down.
  • Footwear and socks are so important!
  • For longer-haired kids, make sure hair is styled in a way that you won't be worrying about hair in your child's eyes!
  • Try to make sure there’s no dirt or chippy polish on nails.

Locations


  • Light - I'm very particular about where I photograph my families, from the elevation for optimal sunset, to the foliage, terrain, and direction.
  • Accessibility - I choose my locations with little ones in mind. Most of my favorite spots to shoot are easily drivable and walk able. If you are concerned about this let chat some more about it!
  • I love Lake Monroe and some of the local parks!
  • I'm constantly scouting new locations so if you have one in mind lets chat and I can come check it out! 


WHY SO LATE IN THE EVENING??


I always plan my outdoor sessions to start about an hour and a half before sunset. In the summer, that can be as late as 8:30pm! If you have a little one who doesn't normally stay up that late, don't worry! Al of the images you've seen from me outdoor have been photographed during the golden hour, and with a later nap, lots of entertainment, and a fun evening...they should do just fine! 


Who should we bring??

If your contemplating a session with your furry family member let me know! I love incorporating animals into shoots. Not all locations allow this so it must be arranged beforehand. As long as you think your little fluffball will behave and stay near us/safe I say go for it! Make sure you have another person not in the photos to take care of the pet when they are not being photographed.  

My Posing Style


 Every photographer has a different shooting, posing, and editing style. If you chose me, you probably already know I love shooting emotionally. I love my clients interacting with one another and genuinely having a great time. That to me is what a family sessions should be all about. Creating lasting memories with your littles. PLEASEEE keep this in mind for your shoot. The majority of the shoot I will prompt you to just play. Look at your babies, tickle them. If they are older ill have you crack jokes. just anything to drag out those real faces of joy. Unless I ask you to look and smile. I prefer you to not look directly at the camera. Pretend I’m not even there! Your photos will turn out much more real and beautiful. YES I will be goofy and silly. but we will not be badgering kiddos to “SAY CHEESE” 



PREPARE TO BE LOVEY DOVEY



FAMILIES ARE FOUNDED IN LOVE, AND I F I HAVE COUPLES AT A SESSION, I ALWAYS TRY TO CARVE OUT A QUICK MOMENT TO TAKE A SHOT OR TWO JUST OF YOU TWO. 


WHAT TO BRING


  • BUG SPRAY- WERE IN INDIANA AND THE MOSQUITOES AND TICKS CAN BE SO BAD!
  • DRINKS! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND HAVING A WATER BOTTLE!! PLEASE REFRAIN FROM ANY COLORED BEVERAGES THAT COULD STAIN CLOTHES OR MOUTHS/SKIN!
  • SNACKS LIKE PUFFS FOR BABIES! THIS COULD SAVE YOUR SESSION IF BABY GETS HANGRY
  • Wipes for dirty faces. Editing snotty noses is NO fun for me. Let's try and keep that to a minimum haha
  • BRING A CHANGE OF CLOTHES..For you and the kids. SOME LOCATIONS MIGHT HAVE WATER.. WHICH COULD MEAN MESSY. . MAKE SURE YOU BRING CLOTHES TO TRAVEL HOME in.

MEETING UP!


If you're coming from out of town, message me for detailed directions.

My studio address is 3826 w 3rd St Bloomington IN 47404

I'm in the strip mall beside Biglots and Jumpin Joeys

(unless were shooting an outdoor location) I'm in unit P and you will see my sign in the window.

If we are meeting on a location, we will meet in the parking lot of the specified location.

I drive a white Honda Odyssey!

If you have any trouble at all, please reach out to via text 812-325-3136

Sessions last roughly 60 minutes, giving us time to move through different location within the area.

Please arrive at least 5 to 10 minutes early!