Prepare For Your Session
Wardrobe Advice
If your session is outside, wear non-transition glasses. If you wear transition lenses (or photochromic lenses) on a sunny day, it's going to look like you're wearing sunglasses in your photos. So bring a non-transitional pair or consider taking them off during your session.
Wear cream or ivory instead of white. White clothing reflects too much light and color. Neutral colors (like cream, black, gray, brown, beige), earth tones, and jewel tones always photograph really well. Don't wear neon colors. They create an unflattering color cast.
Avoid clothing that is piling a lot.
If your shirt easily wrinkles, keep it on a hanger until right before your session.
Patterned clothing can be a great way to express your personality! But choose something that won't be too busy or distracting.
If you plan on using these photos at your place of employment, make sure you check with your employer about whether or not they have any standards for what to wear, how to style your hair, etc.
Right Before Your Session
Apply face lotion and chapstick. Especially if you are prone to dry skin or chapped lips.
If you wear makeup, make sure you’ve blended your face makeup into your neck. Sounds obvious, but lots of people forget!
Use a lint roller (especially on dark clothes or if you have a pet that sheds).
Take a minute to check yourself out in the mirror. Do you like to smile with teeth? No teeth? Is there a side of your face you like more? Knowing these little nuances ahead of time can help make the session go smoother and ensure you get a picture you’ll like! (That said, I know how to find your good side so don't sweat it if you're unsure how to pose yourself.)
What To Bring | Kids
For Kids Personality Sessions, it's always a good idea to bring water with you. If you want to bring snacks (or bribes), I recommend cheerios, goldfish, pretzels, raisins, or marshmallows. Avoid snacks that may cause your kids to drool (like fruit snacks) or ones that melt (like M&Ms).
For a first birthday/cake smash session, please bring wipes or paper towels, extra clothes, a plastic grocery bag for trash, and a blanket you don't mind getting icing on. Hand towels can be helpful too.
If you're going to bring props (like a favorite book or balloons), give me a heads up so I can plan how to best incorporate your ideas.
What To Bring | Headshots
For headshot sessions, you are welcome to bring small props to incorporate if that would be useful to you. Ideas: cell phone, smart watch, notebook or journal, laptop, headset, coffee mug, product, lab coat, books, etc.
Another idea is to bring a jacket or cardigan or a different set of accessories to quickly change your look. For example, you could do one picture in a lighter shirt to be used during the spring and summer months, then you could put on a sweater for one picture to be used in the fall and winter. This is not a full outfit change, just something you can throw on top of whatever you're already wearing. Or you can switch out jewelry or do two different pairs of eyeglasses. That sort of thing.
Need more help?
I am always available to consult with you about your session ahead of time. We can chat about posing, outfits, location, etc. If you have any concerns or ideas, reach out via email anytime.