Greetings! I’m looking forward to photographing you at our upcoming photo shoot. I want to capture beautiful images that will provide you with precious memories for years to come.

In preparation for your photo session, here are a few great recommendations for looking your very best in portraits:

Sessions will usually be scheduled between 7am - 9am or 4pm - 8pm (depending on daylight savings). It is best to shoot 2 hours before Sunset or within 2 hrs after Sunrise. The color and direction of the light is optimum during these “Golden Hours”. Photographing portraits outside of this window can create harsh shadows and eye squinting.

What to wear: Select colors that complement the surroundings. For beach portraits: aqua, turquoise, dark blue, and seafoam green always photograph well and work with nearly all skin tones. Family beach pictures in navy blue and a complimenting color is always a sure winner. Lilac, pink, and orange tones in clothing really pick up on the colors of a beach sunset. For park or city portraits: Jewel tones; navy, burgundy, mustard, dark green, brown, black and denim will always look classic and timeless. The trend of modern portraits is to simply coordinate outfits with complementary colors, patterns, and textures. Pick 2-3 colors from a complementary color palette, and combine with denim or linen fabric to create some texture. Sticking with solid colors is best. However, you may choose one pattern for Mom and pull solid colors from there to dress everyone else. No matching Polo shirts and khakis, please. Using a bold accent color will contrast nicely and create a more contemporary portrait.

Go barefoot on the beach - Shoes do not make sense in the sand.

Loose fitting and soft flowy fabrics in cotton or linen are my favorite on the beach to create a sense of motion.

Personalize your sessions with accessories or props, like a hat, belt, scarf, or theme toy.

Avoid wearing any items that are shiny. Some metal jewelry items can cause harsh reflections.

For maternity clients: long, opaque, maxi dresses (stretchy non-maternity styles) look fantastic.

For babies: I always recommend bringing a diaper cover or tights, a change of clothes, a towel, a blanket, baby wipes, and a small rattle or toy. Don't worry, baby acne and crusty noses can be edited out.

Avoid trying out new trends or hair color right before your session. If you step too far out of your comfort zone, it may translate in your expression.

Lastly, Don't forget to SMILE & have fun!