Family Session Preparation Guide
I want your session to feel effortless and enjoyable, so I’ve put together a short guide to help you prepare. A little planning beforehand makes a huge difference in how your photos turn out!
Styling Your Outfits
Outfits can truly make or break a photoshoot, so I recommend starting with a color palette and building each family member’s outfit within that palette.
I’ve included a few color combinations below for inspiration.
A few styling tips to keep in mind:
Dresses photograph beautifully for women and girls — they create natural movement and provide more flattering angles in photos.
Choose outfits that make you feel confident. If you don’t feel good in it, that feeling will show in the photos.
I recommend mixing textures and fabrics rather than having everyone in denim.
If you’re ever unsure about outfits, feel free to send me photos — I’m always happy to help!
Hair & Makeup Tips
Professional hair and makeup are always encouraged, but not required. The goal is simply to feel like the best version of yourself.
A few things to keep in mind:
Slightly fuller makeup tends to photograph better than everyday makeup.
Avoid heavy shimmer or SPF-heavy products, as they can reflect light in photos.
Soft waves or natural movement photograph beautifully for most sessions.
Make sure everyone’s hair is styled and brushed before arriving.
The most important thing is choosing a look that still feels like you.
Color Palette Inspiration
Here are a few color palettes that photograph beautifully for any session - family, engagement, senior.
A Few Days Before Your Session
If you plan on doing any of the following, please schedule them at least 48 hours before your session:
Spray tans
Waxing
Hair coloring (I would recommend a week before our session)
Also, please make sure outfits steam or iron all outfits beforehand so everything photographs beautifully.
If you have any inspiration images you love, feel free to send them my way. I’ll happily incorpoate the feel of them into your session while still keeping everything true to my style.
What to Bring to Your Session
Most sessions are simple and relaxed, but a few small items can make things easier:
Any props you would like - Blankets, books, flowers. Whatever vision you have in mind, I am here for it.
A small brush or comb for quick touch-ups
Lip gloss or lipstick
Water and small snacks if you’re bringing kids
Comfortable shoes for walking to the location (you can change once we arrive)
If you’re bringing little ones, their favorite small snack or toy can also be helpful between photos.
Preparing Kids for Photos
Kids feed off the energy around them, so the best thing you can do is keep the mood light and fun.
A few tips that always help:
Make sure they have eaten beforehand
Avoid scheduling sessions during normal nap times
Let them know we’re doing a fun family activity rather than calling it a photoshoot
Try not to stress if they’re a little wild — some of the best photos come from natural moments
I will guide the entire session and keep things moving so everyone stays engaged.
The Day of the Session
A couple quick tips for the day of:
Avoid wearing glasses or ball caps at least two hours before your session to prevent marks on your face (tell your man 😉).
Arrive relaxed and ready to have fun.
Trust the Process
My goal during your session is to create images that feel natural, connected, and genuine.
I’ll guide you through the entire session so you never have to wonder what to do with your hands or where to stand. The best photos happen when you’re simply interacting with the people you love.
So don’t worry about perfection. Laugh, play with your kids, and enjoy the moment — I’ll take care of the rest.
