Getting
STARTED
Once your date is reserved, we'll connect to start chatting about possible locations for your session. I generally recommend choosing one location and if it's a place you haven't been before, it might be helpful to visit during the time our session will take place. That way you have an idea of the light, crowds, closing time, etc!
If you're not sure about where you would like to take your photos but you have a general idea of the look you would like, just let me know because I would be happy to recommend a few locations based on your aesthetic!
I'll check in the week of your portrait session to confirm the time & location we’re meeting and the weather. I know it takes a lot of time to get ready for a portrait session and it’s the worst to get dressed up and drive out to your session only to have it rain. If the weather looks like it won’t be great, we typically try to make the call at least 12 hours in advance and if needed, get a new date scheduled.
The Weather
HANDLING
When when we can, I love to begin sessions about two hours before sunset if shooting outdoors. I prefer to shoot when the sun is lower in the sky to avoid harsh shadows and bright sun patches. The first two hours after sunrise is also an ideal time to shoot.
I schedule sessions during what we believe will be the best light of the day - which means that it’s super important to be on time. If you’re late to an evening session, we could run out of light before we’ve finished shooting and if your session takes place in the morning, the sun gets more harsh as it rises.
Is there a "good" time to take photos?
TIME & LIGHT
FAQ
how will we receive our photos?
Within a few weeks of your session, you'll receive a link to a digital gallery that will allow you to download high resolution images.
The gallery is also set up to make ordering prints, canvases and other keepsakes as easy as turning on a Roomba to clean your floors. No worrying about tricky things like color correction, DPI and image format.
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FAQ
how far in advance should we book?
The sooner the better! My weekends tend to fill up pretty quickly - especially during the spring and fall, so the sooner you reach out to me, the more likely you are to get your desired date!
To reserve your date, I'll need a signed contract as well as the session fee. And if something comes up and you need to change your date, just let me know!
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FAQ
but what if we are super awkward or my kids don't sit still?
Unless you've modeled professionally, you're probably going to feel awkward in front of the camera. Heck, I take photos for a living and I can even feel like a deer in the headlights when I'm in front of the camera.
Honestly, you're going to feel awkward at first, but as the session goes on and I coach you a bit, I think you'll find that being photographed can actually be fun. And don't worry about your kids. I'm well-versed in capturing even the busiest of little ones.
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FAQ
what if it rains?
If it looks like it's going to rain, snow, hail or some other weather catastrophe, I'll be in touch via email or phone to reschedule.
Often, when we're scheduling our initial portrait session date, if it works for our calendars, we can actually set up both a main date and a rain date just to make sure we don't have to postpone your session for very long if the weather is bad on the original date.
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My dogs are my kids so I love when clients choose to incorporate furbabies into their session. Keep in mind that bringing a pet along often means that we’ll need to choose a pet friendly location if we aren't photographing at your home!
If you’re going to bring your dog, we recommend exercising them before the session and bringing their favorite toy or treats! Depending on your pet’s fur type, it might also be a good idea to groom them before the shoot.
Pets
Outfits
QUICK TIPS FOR LOOKING YOUR BEST
1. When picking outfits I recommend keeping in mind the word “complement” rather than “match.”
2. I always suggest that the ladies choose an outfit they feel confident and beautiful in.
3. If you have a fun patterned outfit you would like to use, limit it to one person. That way they will pop and still coordinate with everyone else. Multiple patterns can look busy, and this way they won't be competing with one another.
4. Add dimension and interest by mixing up the texture of the clothing material and accents.
5. Feel free to bring cute little accessories such as scarves, hats, belts and basically anything with a fabulous texture. Accessories can pull together an outfit and make it look complete. Plus by switching up accessories and layers, you can get multiple looks without having to do complete outfit changes.
6. Keep our backdrop in mind when choosing your clothing. If we are on a beach, aim to dress in clothes that are light and flowing. If we are surrounded by fall leaves, layering in great textures is a great option. Stay away from wearing a lot of green when having photos taken in grassy/wooded areas. It’s just too much green. Green as an accent color is great, though! You want to stand out amongst all the greenery you’re surrounded by.
7. Be aware of any tan lines and how those will look in your chosen outfit.
8. Most importantly, be sure to wear clothes you feel comfortable in. Your confidence will really shine through in your photos!
Try to Avoid: Large logos, Large text, Neon colors
find it fast
Have you thought about rocking a romantic gown, tulle skirt or flower crown but just never had an occasion for it? This is your chance to do it up! Remember: There is no such thing as “too dressed up” when it comes to your portrait session, so don’t be afraid to have some fun! If you don’t want to add a new permanent piece to your collection, a lot of our clients love Rent the Runway for their session because it’s such an affordable way to feel like a million bucks. Other clients love having a great excuse to bring a new permanent piece (or two!) into their closet!
Quick Tip: There’s no such thing as too dressed up.
Wardrobe Tips
WARDROBE
COLORS
SILHOUETTES
SHOES
DRESS UP
for the ladies
ACCESSORIES
on to the next
Dresses and skirts look most stunning because they really flatter every female body, especially on camera — which is probably why the red carpet is always full of so many dresses and not very many pantsuits! Unless your session is happening at home, we recommend avoiding pants and shorts for your session, and saying yes to a dress or two instead.
Long, full-length, flowy dresses and skirts look amazing on camera because they bring extra movement to the photos. Especially when juxtaposed with nature, like the forest, vineyard, or beach. Consider softer fabrics like chiffon or tulle which allow for beautiful movement in the images.
Wardrobe Tips
for the ladies
ACCESSORIES
find it fast
WARDROBE
COLORS
SILHOUETTES
SHOES
DRESS UP
ACCESSORIES
on to the next
When choosing colors for your outfits, we recommend selecting softer, lighter tones and more muted shades. By avoiding ultra-bright, bold colors, it will help bring all the attention to your faces and let the eye focus on the way you feel about each other. The camera loves shades of soft pink and muted blues, mixed with sophisticated light neutrals like heather gray, creams, brown and white. That softer color palette fits beautifully into almost all natural outdoor environments.
Color Tones
for the ladies
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WARDROBE
COLORS
SILHOUETTES
SHOES
DRESS UP
ACCESSORIES
on to the next
In our experience, every woman, regardless of her shape has an area of her body that she’s self-conscious about, so recognizing what area that is in advance is key. Choosing flattering silhouettes and colors that complement your natural features is the best way to ensure you’ll love the way you look in your photos.
Three-quarter length sleeves create an awesome slimming effect on all arms, so be on the lookout for an option with a longer length sleeve. You could also bring a cute jacket, blazer or cardigan along, too. Skinny straps or strapless dresses have the opposite effect on arms on camera, so we recommend avoiding those whenever possible if your goal is a set of slimmer-looking arms.
Silhouettes
for the ladies
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WARDROBE
COLORS
SILHOUETTES
SHOES
DRESS UP
ACCESSORIES
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Heels elongate women’s legs, making them look fabulous. Closed-toed heels in particular look great on camera because they carry out the line of your leg all the way down to your toe. If your toes are showing in a peep-toe heel, you might want to schedule a pedicure before your session so you don’t regret letting your feet show. These little tricks make all the difference!
Quick Tip: Bring a pair of easy-to-kick-off flats to wear when moving from place to place in between photos. Your feet will thank you later!
Shoes
for the ladies
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WARDROBE
COLORS
SILHOUETTES
SHOES
DRESS UP
ACCESSORIES
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Pairing an accessory or two with your outfit can really help bring some extra dimension to your images, and be a nice tie-in when you’re coordinating with a group. Big statement necklaces bring a lot of pop to the photos, while the smaller, delicate ones are not as noticeable on camera.
Belts, bracelets and earrings bring great visual interest, so choose one or two that don’t compete for attention.
Accessories
for the ladies
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WARDROBE
COLORS
SILHOUETTES
SHOES
DRESS UP
ACCESSORIES
on to the next
I always suggest neutral, some pops of color, textures and COMFORTABLE clothing. I love bright, airy, whites, grays, bright pops of color and simplicity when it comes to photography at your home. Your session need to represent YOU and your family honestly as possible. Let your everyday wardrobe and activity of choice influence your outfits for the photo session. If you’ll be cuddling on the bed, opt for a more casual attire rather than your Sunday best. Try to steer away from large graphics or words that can be distracting but don’t be afraid of prints and patterns.
At Home Tips
for your home
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WARDROBE
COLORS
SILHOUETTES
SHOES
DRESS UP
ACCESSORIES
on to the next
Want your photos to look more editorial? Bring a little extra something with you! Fresh flowers bring an extra “wow” factor to just about everything, especially when they’re attached to something else, like a bicycle basket, tree swing, tent, or picnic basket. Whether you want to incorporate larger items like classic cars or bikes, or smaller ones like blankets or hats, even planning for just one extra styled item could be a fun way to make your session more unique.
Styling With Props
I'm so honored that you're considering working with me to capture your portraits. To officially reserve your date, please send an email to me with your names, number of family members, ideal date and anything else I should know. I can't wait to work with you!
THANK YOU!
EMAIL SARA