PHOTOSHOOT CHECKLIST
As a photographer, there are so many questions I get asked leading up to a photoshoot. Parents wanting to know how to dress their families, what location I recommend, or even how they should style their hair. It makes sense, as this is a day that I'm sure you want to be absolutely perfect. I've compiled a list below of all of the main things to get ready before your session.
It is best to plan outfits ahead of time. Especially for family sessions, you may find that the outfit you had in mind for your little one suddenly does not fit or has a stain that went unnoticed. The last thing you want on the day of your session is to be running to the mall to try and assemble something last minute. Avoid crazy prints and try to dress in neutrals.
Think about what it is specifically that you are looking for, and choose the date and time of your session accordingly. If you want nice shots of you and your family in front of the sunset, make sure not to schedule your session at noon.
Some kids (and some grown-ups!) are more shy than others. It’s good to use the week leading up to your session getting everyone acquainted with the idea. Whether it be telling little ones that you are “going to the park with Mommy’s friend” on Saturday or just bringing it up in conversation in general, it can help ease the shyness on the day of.
Think about undergarments ahead of time. You do not want to be on your way to your session and realize you have a bright pink bra showing through your shirt! On a similar note, it is good to be aware of what is in the wash and what's clean. Digging through the laundry room on your way out the door is a bad start.
Footwear matters - whether it be a fall session in the woods with some autumnal foliage or in a beautiful field, you will be very upset with yourself for wearing heels or anything impractical. Thank me later!
Make sure everyone is well fed before the shoot. Even adults sometimes have a hard time hiding it when they’re ‘hangry’.
Choose a location that makes sense for you. You know your family best, and location can have a big impact on the success of the session.
If you need your roots touched up or any family members are planning to get a haircut, it is best to do this at least a week before your session. Scheduling these appointments too close to the day of is a recipe for disaster.
Make sure to not have any chipped nail polish or unsightly colored nails - the little things end up being big things when you get your photos back!
As long as you use this checklist and come to your session excited and ready to make memories, you are sure to have beautiful photos that you will cherish for a lifetime.
If you would like to talk with me about your location, best outfit, or additional questions, please send me an email and let’s chat! Please remember to check your spam folder for my reply!
