Get Ready

Session Prep Guide

Everything you need to know to feel confident, relaxed, and camera-ready for newborn, family, and wedding day sessions.

Newborn Family Wedding Day
Sleeping newborn in a floral headband wrapped in a soft knit blanket
Newborn Sessions

Preparing for Your Newborn Session

Newborn sessions work best when baby is calm, fed, and comfortable. Here's how to set the stage for those sleepy, curled-up portraits.

  • The sweet spot is the first 5–14 days, when babies naturally curl and sleep more deeply, though every baby is different, so don't stress if you're outside this window.
  • Keep baby's feeding schedule as close to normal as possible; a full, content baby settles far more easily.
  • Warm the room beforehand. A warm, cozy space helps baby stay relaxed and sleepy throughout.
  • Pack a favorite wrap, hat, or outfit, plus a backup in case of any last-minute mishaps.
  • Trim baby's nails a day or two before; hands and feet are often photographed up close.
  • Keep the schedule flexible. We build in time for feeding, soothing, and diaper changes as needed, there's no rush.
  • Simple, soft, neutral colors and minimal patterns photograph best and keep the focus on baby.
Mother walking with two children through a sunlit orchard
Family Sessions

Preparing for Your Family Session

A little planning goes a long way toward relaxed, natural-feeling family photos everyone will love.

  • Coordinate outfits in a complementary color palette rather than matching exactly: think shared tones, not identical outfits.
  • Avoid busy patterns, large logos, or text on clothing; they tend to distract from faces and expressions.
  • Dress for comfort and the season so kids (and adults) can move naturally without fussing.
  • For outdoor sessions, early morning or late afternoon light is softest and most flattering.
  • Keep young children fed and rested beforehand, happy tummies make for happy smiles.
  • Bring a favorite toy, snack, or comfort item to help little ones feel at ease.
  • Arrive a few minutes early so everyone can settle in, breathe, and relax before we start shooting.
Bridal shoes styled with baby's breath flowers
Wedding Day

Preparing for Your Wedding Day

Your wedding day moves fast, so a little advance planning helps us capture every moment without anyone feeling rushed.

  • Build extra buffer time into your hair & makeup schedule, since wedding mornings almost always run a little behind.
  • Share your day's timeline with us in advance so we can plan for the best light and key moments.
  • Assign a point-of-contact (a bridesmaid, parent, or planner) to help gather family members for group photos, it saves precious time.
  • Let us know about any must-have shots or specific family members or moments we shouldn't miss.
  • Set aside your rings, invitation suite, and other detail items in advance so we can photograph them early.
  • Most of all, trust the process and let go: the most beautiful photos happen when you're truly in the moment.

Have more questions about getting ready for your session? Reach out to us, we're happy to help.

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Session Prep Guide

Everything to arrive relaxed and ready, covering outdoor minis, maternity, newborn, milestones, engagement, boudoir, and corporate headshot sessions.

Wedding Day Guide

A full wedding-day walkthrough: planning timelines, the detail box checklist, family formals, first look guidance, and what we need from you before the big day.

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