Session guide
What should I prepare in advance?
Your home will be the setting for your images so consider the look that you would like to see in them. I have a few suggestions that will assist with creating more timeless images that keep the focus of you and your family.
Focus your tidying efforts on the master bedroom...
I will photograph in the room with the best light and in most homes this is the master bedroom. Having fresh light or neutral toned linen on the bed would be ideal. Whites and neutrals will allow more light to reflect up onto your faces, this will brighten all of your images, and create a timeless feel. If you don’t have something white or neutral, consider other linen, or blankets that you have and love. I will also bring a selection of blankets and bedspreads with me, so don't panic if you forget the washing, or the dog gets on the bed.
Another thing to remember for your indoor session is that I will often shoot toward the bed so if you have items on your end tables or around the room that you don’t want seen in the final images, please move them out of the bedroom or tuck them into some drawers out of view. If you do not have time to tidy up, I am happy to help you when I get there! Having said this please, please, please don’t feel the need to clear all your things from your home, I love lived-in homes and the objects you love and display can add so much to your images.
It’s important to understand that your decor and clothing are going to sway the overall feel and vibe of your images. Soft tans and whites will be much brighter and softer than deep reds. In the end, these are your images so you are welcome to choose whatever you would like!
LADIES
o Mums - I suggest you wear light neutral tones - knits and clothes with soft textures look great. Layering adds texture and can give variety in your images. An example of a chic 'at home' look would be a cable knit wrap cardigan over a soft cotton t-shirt or blouse (that skims rather than clings) paired with comfy stretchy jeans. A more bohemian look might be loose cotton print pants and a simple linen shirt. Casual maxi-dresses are also a beautiful look just be sure to choose one that doesn’t look out of place in your own home.
o Daughters – Age and location appropriate outfits are key here, little girls look lovely in knit or cotton dresses depending on the season, I won’t go on with this category as most mum’s I know need no assistance in dressing up their little girls 😊
GENTLEMEN
o Dads – I often worry about saying dress comfortably for guys as I have rocked up to a shoot where dad was wearing boardshorts and no shirt, so let’s go with, comfortable with company. Some options might be chinos or jeans matched with a plain t-shirts in warmer weather or knit jumpers (or cardigans/vests if that’s your style) in cooler weather.
BABIES
Babies – I usually photography babies swaddled to start with and unwrap them as the session progresses (if they're asleep or happy). It's easiest if they're is dressed with a light coloured singlet or sleeveless bodysuit underneath an easy to remove bodysuit. If your bub particularly dislikes having clothes pulled over their head then just leave them nude underneath the bodysuit. If there are any special swaddles or blankets that you would like included please let me know when I arrive as I love to include special sentimental items in your images.
What to expect on the day
When I arrive, it would be great if you could show me around the house so I can see what room will offer the best light for your photos, in most houses this tends to be the master bedroom.
My approach is pretty laid back and I love capturing moments of connection between family members. I will direct you into pretty light and give you suggestions about things to do to bring out some natural smiles. I will also follow you as you complete the everyday tasks of caring for a tiny human.
I tend to wander around intently looking for the best angles and have even been known to climb up on furniture (I will always ask first) and hide behind pot plants. I like to let people know so you are prepared for my antics, I can look and feel like a goose, but I promise I'm just very focused on getting the very best images for you!
What I really ask from you is that you really allow yourself to be just that-- yourself. I’m not here to make judgements; I’m here to capture you at this moment in your life.
Please, be open. Don’t be afraid to cuddle and love on your babies or your partner as if no one else was there. I want you to laugh wildly, snuggle tightly, slide your fingers affectionately through their hair, tell them how much you love them. Silliness and laughter is always welcome, tears of joy and small smiles of love are encouraged.
Allow yourself to be in the moment as much as possible and enjoy the experience.