How to Prepare for
Your Session
Let's talk prep. I see worried messages leading up to a session all the time! Whether it's an engagement shoot, solo session, or wedding/elopement. You're not the only one who asks these questions! Let's get you some answers.
My partner really doesn't want to do this, what do I do?
I've had a lot of partners who are grumpy, sassy, just don't want to smile, or are shocked when they hear there's an outfit change AND a location change.
I can take sass - In fact, I'll give it right back ;) Grumpy? I'll do my best to help you make them feel comfortable and heard.
Remind them that it will be wonderful to have something to look back on in years to come, and that they're part of this relationship and deserve to be photographed, too. We can knock sessions out quickly if they participate. Sessions will only take longer if they don't hold up their end of the stick!
If it's an engagement shoot, ensure they understand you need photos for save the dates, welcome parties, thank you cards, etc., and that everyone is excited to see your love! It's a GREAT way to practice for your wedding day, too.
I try to make sessions as fun and painless as humanly possible - we'll take breaks, hell, bring something to drink if you need. We'll chat and make you both feel relaxed and comfortable.
What do I wear to a photo session?
I've put together a style guide for indoor sessions, outdoor, and engagement sessions. You can find that style guide with suggestions and colors that look great on camera, and also what to avoid wearing to a session here.
Should I share a Pinterest board?
Absolutely! It's great to have a vision for your shoot.
That being said, I like to make sure everyone has their expectations set properly. Make sure you're not losing yourselves on who you are during your shoot or big day!
On top of that, not everyone is as comfortable behind the camera as others (and that's totally ok!). Just keep in mind that a lot of Pinterest pictures are of models or people in controlled settings who are extremely comfortable in front of the camera.
Also keep in mind that lighting, environment, and timing are important - sometimes your vision just might not be reproducible, and I would hate to see anyone get let down! For example, if you expect a golden hour shot but it's 2pm, we probably won't get the results you're looking for.
Pinterest can be great for inspiration on posing ideas, locations, and outfits, but just make sure to not lock yourself into something so strictly that it ruins the shoot/day trying to recreate something instead of just enjoying the day and being yourself.
I'm awkward - I don't like having my picture taken
One thing I always tell people when I'm shooting - when I'm looking through my camera, I see you, but I don't see you. I'm looking at lighting, framing, what's behind you, does your hair look ok; I'm really not here to judge you or think you look goofy doing something. In fact, the goofier and more expressive you are, the better your pictures will turn out!
What do I do with my hands?
I'll give you pose prompts and show you what to do. From there, I'll let you shake into the pose, and ask you to keep moving, put your hand like X, move your chin like Y, etc. I won't leave you hanging!
The prompts I give you might sound crazy and make you feel goofy doing them, but when you see what it looks like in a picture, you'll understand why!
