About your Session
Guidelines and Tips!

My family sessions are about 1 hour in length of actual shoot time. We tend to lose the attention of the little ones if it goes longer than that. These sessions are designed to capture genuine photos of your whole family. The possibilities are endless!  The goal is not to get stiff posted shots with everyone looking at the camera, but to capture your true personalities and essence of your family. I take the documentary approach to photography and use my skills and knowledge of my gear to use the light and situations to create images that will become pieces you can hang in your home. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your session with me:

As we spoke about our session will be a Beach Session!

I've actually found a new location I would love to take you to! We originally discussed Venice Beach Pier, but the new location has a bit more of a scenic background.

Let me know if you'd prefer to stick with Venice Beach Pier!

If your children are up for it, shooting one to two hours before sunset provides gorgeous light and atmosphere. The light is typically too harsh mid day so this is not a time that I offer. The images in my portfolio look the way they do largely because of my use of light and the time of day your session takes place has a huge impact. Many of my families have told me that they simply have the kids take a late nap or have some down time prior to their evening session.

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Currently I have you slotted for 340pm as that is right around Golden hour.

Remember that kids are not usually very fond of being told to pose or smile. It is best if we just give the children time to relax and try to capture their natural self. Please do not worry if your child is running about and active, I like to capture them while the child or toddler is busy playing and exploring. I will never force your child to smile, if they do, it will happen organically and on their own time.

To get the family shots, I usually direct the adults to simply "be" with the child, or hold the child and we go from there.

To get the most out of your session, make sure that your little one has rested and has had adequate snacks and water. 

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We can take breaks for snacks and play, however I will probably still shoot during the breaks. Bring dry, non messy snacks so their little faces stay clean during the session.

Prepare the child for the session by letting them know that a friend will be taking some photos of them, it's best not to surprise them. I want them to feel like I'm an old friend, someone they can be comfortable with.

***Please do not use bribery to get your little one(s) to behave. I find that using that route makes them only behave for a short amount of time and then all they want is the reward. It is better to treat the session as a fun experience with an old friend, someone they know is ok to be themselves around.***

I most likely have already sent you this information, but for good measure:

I'm often asked for clothing ideas, so I thought I'd include a bit of information on the topic. I offer a FREE service (through https://styleandselect.com ) that can help you plan and coordinate outfits. It gives you the option to purchase reasonably priced clothing, if you want something new, OR choose pieces of clothing that look like something you already have so you can get a visual of what things may look like together. I will provide you with a code so you can use that service free of charge. Please let me know if you did not recieve your link and code to utilize this service.

The main guideline that you want to keep in mind as you plan your outfits is this:

COMPLEMENT & COORDINATE BUT DON'T GET TOO MATCHY!

Find a color palette that you love and choose outfits that compliment each other without looking too matchy-matchy. Everyone will have a unique look without clashing in the photo.  You can choose to do neutrals with a few pops of color or a softer palette that has different ranges in tone of the same shades.

Suggestions:

I always suggest that the woman (especially mom if it's a family session) choose an outfit she feels confident and beautiful in. Then plan the color palette and everyone else's outfits from there.

If you have a fun patterned outfit you would like to use, limit it to one person.  That way they will pop and still coordinate with everyone else.  Multiple patterns can look busy, and this way they won't be competing with one another.

Add dimension and interest by mixing up the texture of the clothing material and accents.

Feel free to bring cute little accessories such as scarves, hats, belts and basically anything with a fabulous texture.  Accessories can pull together an outfit and make it look complete.  Plus by switching up accessories and layers, you can get multiple looks without having to do complete outfit changes.

Keep our backdrop in mind when choosing your clothing.  If we are on a beach, aim to dress in clothes that are light and flowing.  If we are surrounded by fall leaves, layering in great textures is a great option.

Most importantly, be sure to wear clothes you feel comfortable in. Your confidence will really shine through in your photos!

Try to Avoid:

Large logos

Large text

Neon colors (if you like yellow choose mustard, if you like Red use maroon etc etc)

Be aware of any tan lines and how those will look in your chosen outfit

And if you feel like you are in need of assistance, I am happy to help you!  Arrange your outfits on a large bed or on the floor, and then send me photos of your favorite combinations.  We can work together to ensure we find the perfect combination!

I do not provide props for Family sessions.

Occasionally I will bring a blanket or quilt to sit on however I recommend that you bring one of your own that will help bring out your families personality :)

Please arrive on time and/or be ready to start on time: Remember, your session is scheduled according to light. It is important that we start on time. Please plan for traffic or parking constraints. It's best to arrive early.

Thank you for taking the time to read through the details of my family sessions, and answering my questions! If you have any questions at all, please let me know and we can discuss them via email. I'd be happy to answer them! I am so excited to capture your family!

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Please reach out with any questions!

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lifeinthejessielane@gmail.com