How to prep for your session

with janecane photography

Welcome! I'm so excited to work with you + your family!
I know preparing for photo sessions can often feel stressful - so I'm here to lend a helping hand and
give you all the tips and tricks you will need to have fun (and get great photos!)

WHAT TO WEAR

THE DAYS + WEEKS LEADING UP TO YOUR SESSION

This is the most asked question by all of my clients!
My number one tip is to make sure you are comfortable in what you are wearing. Does it fit? Do you like the way it feels? Do you feel great when you wear it? Can you bend down and move around in it?

I suggest picking out Mom's clothes first and then coordinating the rest of the crew based off of that outfit choice. Try not to be too matchy matchy - combine colors that compliment each other and patterns that don't compete. Things to avoid when choosing your outfits include big logos or graphics, neon colors, or patterns that clash with each other. Want some inspiration?

Planning to get hair cuts or coloring done prior to your session?
I suggest doing this at least a week before your session date.

Double check that all the outfits you've chosen fit!
You don't want to find out the morning of your session
that Dad's shirt is a size too big or someone's pants don't fit.
(Give yourself some time to get backup outfits just in case.)

Make sure everyone's nails are either plain or freshly painted.
I do not edit out chipped nail polish for clients.

When it comes to makeup, it's best not to try out a new style - stick to what makes you feel good and what makes you look most like yourself! I always suggest keeping makeup fresh + natural.

Click here!

POSING

Don't feel like you need to come to your session with posing ideas! I've been doing this for years and I know exactly how to pose my couples + families to feel natural and look flattering! I will tell you everything you need to do, so all you need to do is show up!

We will be moving a lot and letting your kiddos play - I'm here to capture your family naturally and give your kids the space to be kids. There's no need to tell your kids to smile (I've got some tricks up my sleeve) but if a promise of something special after the session helps bring those smiles ... I'm all for the bribe! This is a judgement free zone!

WHAT TO BRING

- Bring along their favorite toy to be used to get them to smile or laugh.
- Don't be afraid of bribery! A treat at the end of session or a promise of going somewhere special afterwards can do wonders for your kiddos (and gives them something to look forward to!)
- Have some baby wipes on hand. You never know if a stray crumb, boogers, or anything else could pop up during our time together.
- Bring a change of clothes, don't let them eat snacks on the way to the session or just wait to change them into their outfits once arrived (this cuts down on stress about stained clothes for you!)
- If possible, make sure littles are fed and well rested before sessions. Bring along easy to eat snacks just in case they need a little refueling between photos!

Bringing your furry friend along? I can't wait to meet them! Here are a few tips to make sure your pets have as much fun as the humans!

Make sure leashes and collars aren't a distracting color!
Neutrals (like leather) look best and they don't draw attention.

Bring treats and toys! I will use these to get their
attention and reward their good behavior.

Make sure to have poop bags with you too!
We don't want to leave anything behind.

TIMING + LOCATION

If you don't have a specific location in mind, I can help you choose one based off of what kind of photo backdrop you are looking for - rocky shores, beach dunes, wooded trails- I know endless beautiful locations that are sure to give you the feel you are hoping for.

For the best possible lighting, I will choose to have our session at certain times based on what time of year it is (of course working around your family's routines + schedules) And will coordinate all of this information beforehand so you can plan accordingly. When possible, planning for sunset sessions - what we call "Golden Hour" is suggested.

WHAT TO BRING

Kids

Dogs

My editing turnaround time is 5 - 7 weeks.

Especially during busy season (June - October) you can expect to possibly be waiting up to 7 weeks for completed galleries,
as I have a fully booked session schedule. But I also know how hard it is to wait for photos, so I will do my best to try and post sneak peeks on my Instagram or send to you over email!

Your final, complete gallery of images will be delivered via email and will include download instructions, along with printing suggestions. You are welcome to print through your gallery, but the images are yours to download. share and print as you choose.

Depending on the season your session takes place, there are a few things to keep in mind!

FALL: Have fun with your outfits! Don't be afraid to layer with sweaters, add in hats, or fun patterns! Bolder colors like navy, gold, maroon, and green look great in the fall!

WINTER: Layer up! Winters here are cold and we don't need everyone freezing! Sweaters, boots, scarves, and hats all look great when they are coordinated well!

SUMMER: Soft bright colors look best in the summer! Floral patterns, sandals (or barefeet!), and shorts or dresses are always winners!

SEASONAL NOTES

AFTER YOUR SESSION

I hope this was helpful and you feel more prepared for your upcoming session! Of course, if you have any other questions feel free to email me! I'm happy to help with whatever you need!