Client Prep Guide
I’m so excited our session is almost here—and I hope you are too! With the date and location set, this is where the fun begins: dreaming about outfits, picturing the setting, and getting ready to make the most of our time together.
If choosing clothes feels overwhelming, don’t worry—I’ve pulled together tips from years of photographing families, and I’m always happy to give feedback. The right color and style choices can transform the feel of your images.
Feel free to read through everything or jump to what’s most helpful right now:
Tips for a Smooth & Joyful Session
Hair and Grooming: If it aligns with your plans, consider scheduling hair appointments before the photo shoot to look your best.
Hand and Foot Care: Don't overlook a mani-pedi! Your hands and feet will feature in several shots. Opt for lighter polish shades as they photograph well.
Tanning Considerations: If you're thinking about a spray tan, aim for a hue only 1-2 shades darker than your natural skin tone. If you haven't had a spray tan in a while—or ever—now's not the time to experiment. If possible, get some sun naturally but use sunblock and watch out for tan lines.
Outfit Coordination: Finalize everyone's outfits. Dress appropriately for the weather. Coordinating, not matching, tends to look best. Think complementary tones rather than identical outfits. Outfit coordination; I’ve got you covered with plenty of ideas ↓.
Get the Kids Excited: Describe the photo session as a special family outing filled with laughter and games. Share your excitement about gifting these photos to someone special. To highlight the importance of family photos, look at old pictures together and reminisce.
A Familiar Face: Show the kids my picture ahead of time so I’m not just a stranger with a camera. It will help them feel more comfortable (photo below).
ONE:
Before the Session – Easy Ways to Prepare
3 Essential Tips for Wardrobe & Outfit Planning
When it comes to outfits, think of these three steps as building blocks—they work together, not separately. Each choice supports the next so the final look feels polished, natural, and connected.
Tip 1: Location & Anchor Outfit
Start with one outfit you love (often Mom’s).
Build the rest of the family’s looks around it, pulling colors and textures into everyone else’s outfits.
Ensure that the colors also work well with the backdrop so everything feels connected.
Tip 2: Build a Cohesive Look
Elevate everyday looks — choose outfits that feel a step above daily wear but still comfortable and authentic to your style.
Think casual dresses, skirts, well-fitted tops, blouses, button-downs, and dressier denim.
These pieces photograph beautifully. They add a touch of polish and intention without being overly formal.Limit bold patterns to 1–2 statement pieces.
No logos and graphics.
Avoid performance golf shirts and tight patterns to prevent moiré patterns.
Ensure comfort and fit. Test outfits sitting, walking, and moving.
Tip 3: Choose a Color Palette
Stick to 3 main colors plus neutrals (ivory, cream, tan, denim, gray).
For larger extended family sessions, 3–4 main colors work well.
The key is keeping everyone within the same tonal family so the group feels cohesive.
Choose colors that share a similar depth and intensity.
Examples of color families that work beautifully:
Jewel Tones: emerald, navy, burgundy, deep plum — these pop in parks and under live oaks.
Neutrals & Soft Blues: ivory, cream, charcoal, slate, dusty blue
(perfect for historic downtown Charleston backdrops).Pastels & Sandy Shades: blush, lavender, sage, sandy beige, oyster — timeless for the beach.
Tips:
Avoid neon colors, stark white, and black. Instead, choose ivory, cream, charcoal, navy, jewel tones, or muted shades.
Repeat accent colors 2–3 times across the group (in accessories, shoes, or layers) so no one person stands out alone.
Think harmony first, contrast second—outfits should belong in the setting, not disappear into it.
View my Outfit Planning Checklist here.
Location, cohesion, and color all build together to create a look that feels natural, flattering, and true to your family’s style.
Outfit Inspiration: Color Palettes in Action
Choosing colors can feel overwhelming, so I’ve pulled together a few real-life examples from sessions. Notice how each group uses between 2 and 4 colors plus neutrals, keeping everyone in the same tonal family so the look feels polished but still natural.
These palettes show how variety works beautifully when tied together by depth and tone—not identical outfits. Whether it’s jewel tones in the park, sandy shades at the beach, or soft blues downtown, color harmony brings the whole story together.
Soft neutrals with sandy tones — a timeless look for the beach.
Jewel tones with grounding neutrals — vibrant and connected for the park.
Coastal blues with warm accents — playful yet polished.
Warm sunset hues balanced with soft blues — perfect for the shoreline.
Stuck on outfits?
Text or email me your ideas—I’d love to assist
TWO:
Session Day - Little Details That Matter
Time Management: Allow ample time to get ready before the session. A rushed or stressful start can color your memories of the photoshoot.
Make-up: Your make-up should amplify your natural beauty, not transform it. Apply a bit more than usual to accentuate your eyes, lips, and cheekbones, and to create an even skin tone.
Outfit and Footwear: Ensure everyone's attire, including shoes, is neat, lint, stain, and wrinkle-free.
Child Care: Make sure the kids are well-rested and fed to ensure a smooth session.
Snacks and Hydration: Pack water and some non-messy snacks. A small treat could act as a great motivator during the shoot.
Arrival Time: Try to arrive at least 10 minutes early. Use this time to clean up any "snack faces" before stepping out of the car.
Wristwear Check: Take a moment to examine your wrists and remove any hair ties, Apple Watches, or other items you'd prefer not to show up in the photos. Keep in mind that an Apple Watch, if worn, will be prominently visible in many of the shots.
Prepare an Essentials Bag: Consider bringing a bag to carry snacks, water, cell phones, Apple Watch, car keys, personal touch-up items like a brush or lipstick, bug spray, and even a blanket for sitting poses.
THREE:
During the Session - Relax and Enjoy
Final Preparations: Pocket Check: Just before we start, remove any bulky items from your pockets for a cleaner look in the photos. (hint, hint… CELL PHONES)
Your Role: All you need to do is love your family and have a great time!
My Approach: Sometimes, I'll be up close, other times I'll step back. As a mom of three, I adore children and have some tried-and-true techniques to engage your little ones.
Don't Worry, Be Happy: No stress needed over poses or whether your kids are smiling at the camera. I've got that covered.
Initial Shots: I'll begin by capturing the specific images you requested in your questionnaire.
Traditional & Individual Shots: I'll only ask your kids to look at the camera a couple of times—for the classic family photo and individual portraits.
Creative Directions: For the rest of the session, I'll guide you with prompts to capture the beautiful closeness and love that defines your family.
Follow My Lead: I'll be on the hunt for the perfect light and backdrop. Trust my direction to create wonderful, meaningful images of your family.
Posing Pro Tips:
Be Natural: When in doubt, smile, and look at your loved ones. Try to forget I'm there!
Close Comfort: Stand or sit closely to each other, minimizing gaps. After all, family means sticking together.
Express Love: Did you realize that, next to our eyes, our hands are the most expressive part of us? Use them to amplify the love and connection in your photos. Whether you're holding hands, resting them on a shoulder, or sharing a warm hug, keep your hands relaxed and natural. Let your genuine affection for each other radiate in every shot.
FOUR:
After the Session - What Happens Next
Sneak Peek Within 48 Hours
Shortly after our session, I’ll send you a few favorite images as a sneak peek—perfect for sharing with family, friends, or on social media.
Your Full Gallery
Within two weeks, you’ll receive an online gallery with all of the best images from our time together—each one carefully edited in my signature style. No choosing, no stress—every image that tells your story is included.
Prints and More
Want to bring your photos to life? Your gallery includes access to a professional print store, offering high-quality prints, wall art, holiday cards, and more—all delivered straight to your door.
Here to Help
Once your gallery is delivered, I’ll check in to see if you have questions, need help selecting products, or just want to chat about your favorites.
I am looking forward to creating a gallery of beautifully authentic photos for you and your family. Please don’t hesitate to call with any questions.
-Amy