So, you’ve booked a mini session! To help you feel prepared and make the most of our time together, I’ve put together a few helpful reminders and tips to review before your session.
A little preparation goes a long way in helping your session run smoothly but remember that everything doesn’t have to be perfect. My goal is to help you feel comfortable, have fun, and capture genuine moments you’ll love looking back on for years to come.
1. ARRIVALS & TIMING
Please plan to arrive at least 5-10 minutes before you rscheduled session time so you’re ready to begin promptly. Mini sessions are booked back-to-back, which means late arrivals will cut into your shooting time. Unfortunately, sessions cannot be extended if you arrive late.
Allow yourself enough time to park and walk a short distance at the designated spot. If you have young children, try to avoid rushing out the door at the last minute. Giving yourself a little extra time can help everyone arrive feeling more relaxed!
2. WHAT TO WEAR:
When choosing outfits, aim for colors that complement one another rather than matching everyone exactly. Neutrals, earthy tones, and a few complementary colors can create a timeless, coordinated look without blending into the background.
Additional wardrobe tips:
- Choose comfortable clothing. You will likely be walking, sitting, holding little ones, and moving around, so make sure everyone can move comfortably.
- Footwear. Outdoor locations may have uneven ground, dirt, grass, or leaves. Choose shoes that are comfortable and appropriate for the location.
- Check your outfit before leaving home. Look for visible tags, blemish or anything that needs a quick adjustment. While I can edit it out, it would be easier not to have edit it out for each photo.
- Bring extra layers or outfit in case. You just never know what could happen. In that case, bring an extra outfit for little ones or a layer item that can easily be thrown over or switched out in case of accidents.
- I've also put together a short Fall Outfit Guide with color palettes, outfit inspiration, and tips for coordinating your family’s outfit. Be sure to check it out here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1KHReNfeDE/
3. PREPARING LITTLE ONES
For young children, I recommend having them eat about 30 minutes before leaving for your session. This gives them enough time to settle after eating while making sure to prevent them from arriving hungry. Being fed, hydrated and reasonably rested can make a difference in helping them feel happy and comfortable during their session.
Additional tips to help little ones prepare:
- Bring small, mess free snacks. A favorite snack can be helpful if needed for a little smile bribery or to get their attention. Try to avoid anything that could stain clothing, such as chocolate, brightly colored candy or messy fruits.
- Bring a favorite small toy if needed. A small toy, stuffed animals or familiar comfort item can help a shy child feel more at ease. Simple toys can also help me get their attention when needed.
- Pack a backpack outfit for little ones. For children under two, I recommend bringing an extra outfit just in case of spills or accidents. You never know when you might need it.
4. LET KIDS BE KIDS
One of the most important thing I want parents to remember is that your children doesn’t need to be perfectly behaved for us to get beautiful photos.
Kids are unpredictable. Some are full of energy, some need time to warm up, and others may decide they don’t want to cooperate that day. That’s okay! Some of the sweetest photos come from the unexpected moments, silly expressions, snuggles, and little interactions that make your family unique.
Try not to put too much pressure on your child to smile or look at the camera the entire time. Instead, let them interact with you naturally, give them a little encouragement and allow me to guide the session.
Parents, I encourage you to keep smiling and make the experience feel fun, even when you need to redirect your child or tell them "no." Children often pick up on your energy, and seeing you smile can help them relax and enjoy the experience. It also gives me the opportunity to capture those natural, genuine moments between you and your little one.
If your little one isn’t cooperating, don’t worry or feel embarrassed. I can work with their personality and energy to capture genuine movements between you and your family. You don’t need to apologize for being a parent!
Mini sessions are short and sweet, which means we’ll focus on making most of the time we have together. I’ll guide you through posing and interactions, so you don’t need to worry about knowing what to do.
Trust the process, put the pressure and stress aside, and stay present.
Thank you for taking the time to review these tips! A little preparation can help your mini session run smoothly. Most importantly, don't stress about making everything perfect. My goal is to create a relaxed, enjoyable experience and capture your family just as you are. Your children don’t need to be perfectly behaved, everyone doesn’t need to look at the camera in every photo, and you don’t need to know how to pose.
Come ready to spend a little time together, have fun, share laughs and make memories. I’ll take care of the rest!
