T H E C L I E N T G U I D E
I'm excited you are considering me to capture these special moments for you! This guide is designed to provide everything you may need to know about your session. Here, you'll find helpful tips and advice to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. If you have any questions or need additional guidance, please don't hesitate to reach out - I'm here to help!
WHAT TO EXPECT
BEFORE
About 1 week prior, you will receive location details. It will include directions, where to park, and where I will meet you for the shoot. If the session needs to be rescheduled due to rain or bad weather, that will be communicated also. You can expect to receive a reminder about the final payment (if not already paid) before we meet. Of course if you have any questions, feel free to reach out!
DURING
During our photo session, be prepared for silly jokes (especially if there are kids), funny noises, and high energy! If you are worried about how to pose, what to do with your hands, etc., don't worry, I've got you covered! I'll be prompting you so you don't have to worry about that. I take LOTS of photos during the short time that we're together, including a lot of candids.
AFTER
You can expect to receive an email with your gallery link 1-2 weeks after your session. You'll be able to download the digital photos straight from the gallery. Although I recommend to print through the gallery link sent to you for high quality results, you have the option to download the photos and print anywhere you'd like with the print release included in your package.
STYLING TIPS
PICK A COLOR SCHEME
I recommend selecting a color scheme/palette and staying with it when selecting outfits (examples below). Pastels
or light earth tones always give that "soft" feel in photos. I recommend to NOT be too matchy-matchy (don't all wear the same outfit or color). If you're ever not sure what color scheme to go with, neutrals never fail. They photograph very well, you can use the photos for different occasions,
and they're timeless and classic.
LIGHT OVER DARK
I will ALWAYS suggest lighter over darker colors. Darker colors can tend to wash you out in photos. Pops of darker colors are okay, but try to stay in lighter colors for more of that "light & airy" look in photos.
NEON / LOUD PATTERNS
Neon colors and loud patterns CAN be distracting in a photograph because that's the first place everyone's eyes will go to. Most patterns are okay (like plaid, for example). If one of you is wearing a pattern, the other(s) should not so that the
outfits balance each other out.
MULTIPLE OUTFITS
If you have a full session (hour session or longer) feel free to bring multiple outfits (2 at most)! I think every full session should have a casual and a dressy outfit choice. Causal will
show off your personality, whereas dressy should be something you would wear out on a nice date night. I love this idea because it brings multiple looks to your gallery.
TIPS FOR HER
SAY YES TO THE DRESS!
When you're choosing what to wear, think about the features that you love the most and choose something
that flatters those features. For example, heels always elongate women's legs and make them look fabulous. On the other hand, if you're insecure about your arms (like me),
consider something with sleeves.
FLATTER YOUR FEATURES
During our photo session, be prepared for silly jokes (especially if there are kids), funny noises, and high energy! If you are worried about how to pose, what to do with your hands, etc., don't worry, I've got you covered! I'll be prompting you so you don't have to worry about that. I take LOTS of photos during the short time that we're together, including a lot of candids.
TREAT YOURSELF
This is a great reason to pamper yourself. Get your nails, hair, and make-up done. Get dolled up! It makes you look good as well as feel good and confident in your photos.
TIPS FOR HIM
FIND THE BEST FIT
I always suggest dressing the men up to match their lady. Closed toed shoes and fitted pants always do the trick. For your session, it’s best to leave the shorts, sandals, and loosefitting pants at home.
USE LAYERS
Layers on men like blazers, sweaters, or vests always photograph really well. Layers give your photos more
dimension and are especially good if you have a man that sweats a lot as it hides the sweat (wearing an undershirt can catch a lot of that sweat). Plus, you can take off/add on
layers for different looks.
REMEMBER THE DETAILS
Yes, even men can add in some details to their outfits! Ties or bowties, colored socks, suspenders, and watches are
nice compliments to any outfit for men. Although small, they add great pops of class to your photos. Just remember to
take your cell phone out of your pocket!
TIPS FOR THE KIDS
ACCESSORIZE
Even though they're still little, think about what you would do for yourself. For the girls, dresses and accessories are perfect! Maybe add a fun flower crown or bow for an extra pop of beautiful. For the boys, layers are adorable! And don’t forget about the cute details like suspenders or a fun
bowtie!
STAY FLEXIBLE & HAVE FUN!
Dressy clothes on the kids will automatically make your photos stand out more! I suggest choosing something more dressing over casual playwear. You can find great children's outfits in many places these days. Pick something you will
all look back on and love!
WHAT TO BRING
- Bribes, treats, & toys - these are what we turn to if all else fails
- Makeup - just in case you need to touch up
- Wet wipes - especially with kids
- Hand towel - if you sweat a lot
CHOOSE DRESSY
I certainly know how kids/pets can be unpredictable at times, so it's best to stay flexible and have fun. If they need to run around, I’ll let them run and be silly before being still to capture the shots we need. If they don’t want to stand but will be held, we’ll do that instead. I tend to read each child for cues to capture the best photos we can! I want the most genuine smiles and laughs from your kiddos during the session! So, if that means silly jokes, funny prompts, fun games, and crazy noises, that's what I'll do! I want everyone to enjoy this session!
LOCATION TIPS
OPEN SHADE
As a natural light photographer, finding beautiful light for your session is a PRIORITY. The ideal scenario is finding a place with nice, open shade. That way the harsh, direct sun isn't hitting you in the face and making you squint as the sun should be behind you in photos. This will create a beautiful, soft looking image as a final product and also gives us more flexibility in where you can be positioned for the photos.
EVEN LIGHT
The next thing I look for is placing you in even light. If there are spotty areas behind or on you, I may direct you somewhere else because I don't want the spots to be a
distraction. Usually shooting within 45min after sunrise or 1.5 to 2hrs before sunset will help alleviate this problem.
AVOID DARK /DISTRACTING BACKGROUNDS
Lastly, but importantly, I look for a place that will be providing a lot of beautiful light behind you. If there are thick bushes or dark walls behind you, I will most likely pull
you away. I'll also be watching out for people or cars in the background. I don't want anything too dark or distracting taking the focus away from you in your photos!
FAQ
Do you take posed photos?
Yes, we will spend some time during your session taking relaxed and posed portraits, but I spend more time taking candid photos and capturing natural moments as they unfold.
How do I view/print my photos?
About 1 to 2 weeks after your portrait session (or 1-1.5 months after your wedding day), I will deliver your photos via an online gallery sent to your email. You will be able to download your photos easily via your phone or computer (contact me if you need help with this). While I do offer printing services through your online gallery, you will be able to print your photos wherever you'd like as I provide a print release with every gallery.
What if the weather is bad?
Texas weather is unpredictable! If the weather forecast is not looking good for your portrait session, we can reschedule or opt for an indoor photo session. I usually reach out a few days before the session if I notice a bad forecast to discuss what you'd like to do.
What time/place do the photos take place?
Usually shooting within 45min after sunrise or 1.5 to 2hrs before sunset makes for
the best lighting! If you don't have a location in mind, I can find one for you! I have a list of local spots that I love and can send your way.
