Welcome! I'm so excited to work with you + your family!
I know preparing for photo sessions can often feel overwhelming - 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

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 in it? Can you bend down and move around? I'm also a big advocate of using what's already in your closet + not having to buy new clothes (unless you want to of course) 

A lot of clients opt to choose Mom's outfit first and then coordinate the rest of the crew based off of that choice. I suggest not being too matchy matchy - combine colors that compliment each other and patterns that don't compete. Some things to avoid when choosing your outfits include big logos or graphics, neon colors + 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 a 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.

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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

- Their favorite toy, stuffy, etc to be used to get them to smile or be more comfortable (it can be sweet to capture little ones with something they love at this age!)
- Bribes are our friends for photo sessions! A treat or a promise of going somewhere special afterwards can do wonders for your kiddos (and gives them something to look forward to!)
- Pack baby wipes / kleenex. You never know if a stray crumb, boogers, or anything else could pop up!
- Never a bad idea to bring a change of clothes + if doable, I suggest avoiding 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 during our time together!




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!

If it's important to you that leashes / collars aren't distracting in the photos - I suggest choosing accessories with neutral coloring or that coordinate with what you are all wearing in the session. 

Bring treats and toys! I will use these to get their
attention and reward their good behavior. And always be sure to have poop bags with you too! We don't want to leave anything behind. 

TIMING + LOCATION

Mini Session start times are always predetermined when you book - and locations are chosen by me (This is to make sure that you are getting the best backdrop possible based off weather conditions, construction work, accessibility for families + time of year)
When booking you will notice that a specific location is not given, but instead a general idea is provided based on time of year.

Location information will be communicated a few days
beforehand via email so everyone can plan accordingly.
I like to try and get a good feel on the week's forecast before choosing just in case we need to plan for high winds!

WHAT TO BRING 

for Kids

for Dogs

Mini Session galleries will be delivered within an 8 week turnaround timeframe. I acknowledge that this may be longer than other photographers you may have worked with, but this is due to my high volume of sessions + client work (as well as personal life and schedule)

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, keep temperature considerations in mind when dressing little ones. Our lake effect can cause quick weather changes and we want to keep kids as comfortable as possible!

Have fun with your outfits! Don't be afraid to layers, textures, accessories or fun patterns! Feel free to bring a blanket to sit on or for littles who may not like the feel of grass, sand, etc. and if needed, pack warm outdoor clothing for colder days. My goal is to always create a safe, fun + relaxed space for your families - so however that looks for you, works for me!

Please note that I CANNOT ENSURE THE EDITING OF TAN LINES, APPLE WATCHES, SUNBURN, INSECT BITES NOR GLARE ON GLASSES. I try my best to minimize + remove noticeable blemishes, bruises, etc - but specific editing requests may require additional costs - always feel free to reach out to me with questions!



ADDITIONAL NOTES

AFTER YOUR SESSION

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


Email Amanda!