Planning to Have a Great Photography Session
You've decided this is the year to schedule a family photography session! You know its going to be an investment so you want to ensure you have the best results. As with all things, a bit of planning can make a huge difference.
Here are some tips to help us work together to ensure you will have a portrait session that creates finished portraits that you will love and cherish!
1. In Person Consultation.
The planning starts with us meeting in person to talk about what you are looking to get from your photography session. It is very helpful for me to come to your home or for you to come to my studio to see samples of a variety of finished products. Do you want one wall portrait or a wall grouping? Where in your home do you think you would like to hang your portrait(s)? Is your wall space limited and you prefer an album or a folio box? We also decide if your session will be in the studio or on location, and if the latter, where. Then we select a date and time. If in the studio, we talk about colors and backdrop options.
2. Thinking ahead - How do you want to display your finished images?
While we don't have to make final decisions on your finished products before your session, it is very helpful for me as your photographer to be able to plan the images I take so they fit into your space. Will the finished portraits need to be vertically or horizontally oriented? Do you want a particular arrangement or grouping of portraits? Do have a vision in your mind? Its okay if you don't, and through our discussion, this will likely help you begin to envision what you would like. And if you do already have some specific ideas, when you give me this information we will come closer to making that happen.
3. Clothing choices.
Planning out your clothing choices is a huge part of planning for your photography session. I will send you a Getting Ready Guide that will give you an outline of things to think about and to keep in mind as you are selecting your clothing. In particular, it is helpful for you to decide on a color theme that works with your family's skin tones and hair color, and also the color schemes where you envision displaying your finished products. Look through my family portrait galleries as well as look on Pinterest for ideas. Think timeless and classic so in a few years, you won't be asking yourself what was I thinking? Try on your clothes before the session to make sure everything fits and looks as you expected.
4. Final things before your session.
Bring whatever you will need to your session, like combs and hairbrushes for final touches. Any makeup for touch ups. Have everything laid out in advance so you aren't scrambling at the last minute to find something important. Put hats, scarves or other extra accessories in a bag by the door. If young children are to be photographed, bring along their favorite snack or drink in case they need to take a break and refresh.
5. Day of Session:
Give yourself ample time to get ready and drive to your session location. Now relax and let your photographer give you direction and guide you. Your job is to enjoy the moment!
I hope these 5 tips will help you in preparing your professional portrait session. Here's to a New Year and your beautiful finished portraits!