Before Your Portrait Session:
What You Need to Know
What to Wear
Choose outfits that feel authentically "you" which means if you wouldn't normally wear it, don't wear it to your session.
Color + Styling Tips:
Similar or complementary color tones work best for couples and families (avoid looking too matchy).
Consider your shoot location. Greens and browns disappear if we’re shooting in a forest/among nature; avoid wearing the same colors as your background.
Layers (jackets, blazers, cardigans) and accessories (jewelry, hats, scarves) are easy ways to switch up a look between shots.
For those who have booked a longer portrait session (an hour or more), you are welcome to do an outfit change. Some people like to pick a more casual outfit and a more formal outfit. If we’re on location, you may need to change in your car or a public bathroom.
If you plan to wear heels and we'll be walking around, bring flats to change into between shots.
Budget-Friendly Options: If you want something special but are on a budget, check out Rent the Runway or Nuuly. Feel free to send me outfit photos for feedback. I'm happy to help!
Hair + Makeup
Hair:
If you're getting a haircut, do it a week or two before your session.
Trim or shave facial hair as you'd normally wear it
For windy locations, consider styling your hair up to avoid stray hairs blowing around. Hairspray helps too.
Makeup:
Do your normal makeup routine as you would for daily wear.
If you're planning to work with a makeup artist for your wedding, this is a perfect time for a trial run.
If you don't usually wear makeup, that's completely fine but I would encourage moisturizing your skin and clear lip balm.
Pinterest + Inspiration
Pinterest is great for inspiration, not re-creation. Your board helps me understand the style you're drawn to (candids vs. posed, clear backgrounds vs. soft bokeh, etc.), so I can create photos that feel authentically you.
For family sessions: Keep your child's age and abilities in mind. The kids in Pinterest photos might be much older or more capable than yours, so ask yourself if the activities are realistic for your child.
Bay Area Weather
Summer fog and windy conditions can occur, especially for coastal portrait sessions. Bring a warm jacket or cozy layer to stay comfortable between shots.
If rain is forecasted, we'll touch base a few hours before your session to find a better location or reschedule. If we need to cancel, let's lock in another date ASAP as my schedule fills up quickly.
For Family Portrait Sessions
Starting the Session: We'll begin with larger group photos, then move into different pairings and individuals, giving kids breaks as needed. Let me know if you want me to focus on anything specific (more of the second child, candid play moments, etc.).
During the Shoot:
Adults should stay focused on smiling and looking at the camera so I can concentrate on the kids.
Let go of "perfect photo session" expectations—children are wonderfully unpredictable, and that's part of the fun.
Avoid overwhelming kids with too many directions.
Tell me beforehand what makes your child laugh or feel comfortable (ticklish spots, whether they like being lifted, bring some favorite toys, what songs make them laugh etc.)
Save any food/treat “bribes” for the end of the session.
Clothing for Kids:
Keep the same color coordination rules as above—matching tones make better group photos.
Make sure outfits allow kids to move freely and feel comfortable in their skin (that poufy tulle dress might look cute but won't help if they're fussy).
Wipe your child's face and nose before we start.
At-Home Sessions: When I arrive, I’ll scout a few locations with good light: a backyard (under a tree), front yard, or a well-lit living room. For babies and newborns, bedrooms make great photography locations. Make sure the space is warm and cozy, have plain, neutral-colored bedsheets ready to use as a simple backdrop and attention-grabbing toys nearby.