Based on past experience, many times it feels like moms and dads call us to set up an appointment for a session because they realize how quickly their children are growing up. They have a sense of urgency to capture a small snippet of family history before it passes. This totally makes sense and I can relate to this scenario personally. What I think clients don’t think about, is that with the right photographer, they can turn this experience of simply documenting their family history, into a session that is personally customized to them, their family and their home. Do a little pre-planning before your session and it will pay off for you in your final result.
Here are some basic steps that will lead you to success:
- Make sure you find the “right photographer” for you. This is a crucial step that can make or break whether you are ecstatic about the images from your session or underwhelmed. It has to do with choosing a photographer that captures images in a style that dovetails with your style and your vision. This step is worthy of its own separate blog post which you can find here.
- Once you are comfortable that you have found your ideal photographer, share with her the reasons that you chose her, what you may have seen on her website that you loved or who referred you to her. Make sure to share your vision with her for your session. The more information that you can share, the better it will help guide the photographer on how to plan your session.
- Take into consideration the photographer’s recommendations on the best type of clothing to wear to fulfill your vision. Clothing can really make or break a portrait. Round up the clothing and shoes for your session at least a couple of weeks before the session and have everyone try on what they’ll be wearing. This helps to make sure that everything fits and serves as a reminder if anything needs to be pressed before the session. Click here for a Cheat Sheet of Clothing Do’s and Don’ts.
- Make sure to schedule haircuts a week or two prior to your session, if needed; however, this is not the time to try out a new do. It’s best to stick with hairstyles that have survived the test of time. Check everyone’s nails as well, including toes, to make sure they are tidy and there’s no peeling polish. For moms, sometimes having your hair and makeup done professionally on session day can go a long way in making you feel and look your best. For others, it might make a big difference to have a mani/pedi before your session. If either of these sound appealing to you, make sure to schedule these appointments ahead of time so you have your pick of the perfect time that fits your schedule. The goal here is to find some time for yourself to make sure you have all the bases covered.
- In the final days leading up to your session, don’t stress. Approach your session with enthusiasm! You’ve handled everything well ahead of time, so now you can show up to your session relaxed and ready to have fun. Treat your session time as a special occasion where everyone is there together as a family, looking dapper and fresh. Your session experience should be a fun memory that can be recalled over the years and the portrait in your home a pleasant reminder of the day.
If you approach your session in an organized way, by the time your session day rolls around, you will feel prepared and ready, and you will look your best!