The task of deciding what to wear for your session always seems daunting, but it doesn’t have to be that way! Picking your outfit can actually be one of the highlights of planning your session. What you wear really does impact the final outcome of your images, so let’s take a look at some tips I have to share with you.

COORDINATE but do NOT match!

This is the most important tip I can give you. If you have more than one person in your photo session, you want your outfits to go together, without matching exactly. Choose colors that look nice together, but don’t fall into the trap of all wearing the exact same blue shirt. Your photos will be more interesting with some variation. Start by picking 3 colors that look nice together, and have each family member wear two of them. Adding in a pattern or two can look nice too. If you prefer a more subtle look, neutral colors photograph beautifully, and you can easily add some color for variety. Finish your look with accessories and layers. Accessories are the perfect way to put a finishing touch on your outfit, and they can really set your photos apart. Please, avoid wearing all white; this tends to wash out most skin tones, which isn’t very flattering. This doesn’t mean you can’t have any white on, but it is best to not make it your color of choice for everyone in your session. Also avoid neon colors. These cast bright colors onto your skin in photos, and can make it difficult to capture your natural skin tones. If your session just includes you, you’re in the clear!

MAKE sure your outfit goes with your surroundings.

Keep your location and season in mind. If your session is in a garden, wear something light, springy or floral. If you have a fall session and the colors are vibrant and rich, wear something that will make you stand out and not blend in with the foliage. Neutral colors are your best bet if you can’t decide on what goes well with your setting. If your session is an in-home session, wear something light and comfortable. You want to look like you fit in with your surroundings.

KEEP patterns light.

If you choose to wear a pattern, pick one that won’t be distracting. We want the primary focus to be YOU, not the busy pattern on your shirt or dress. The same goes for logos; small ones are fine, but big logos should be avoided. If one person is wearing a pattern, the other(s) should consider dressing more plain.

MAKE sure you are comfortable (if possible!).

Movement is everything! It’s what brings your images to life. Make sure you’re able to comfortably move around. We will walk, jump, twirl and do a lot of fun things during the session. Try to keep this in mind especially for kids, if they are uncomfortable, it’ll likely show in the final images.

CONSIDER heavier makeup, but don’t cake it on.

This can be tough — even if you’re not big on makeup, I recommend wearing some, at least on the face. My camera truly captures every detail, so wearing some makeup can help to smooth things out and keep you from looking washed-out. Heavier eye makeup can really make the eyes pop.

OKAY, now remember…

These are ideas and tips to guide and help you while you prepare for your session, and help you get the most out of it. The most important thing is that your photos are a reflection of you, and that you have an awesome time in front of the camera!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When and where do sessions typically take place?

• Most sessions take place 2 to 3 hours before sunset. This can change depending on the location and availability of natural light.

• We will discuss the location together. Your style and goals will help us make that decision.

How do I receive my photos?

• I will send you an email with a link to your gallery. Once you open the gallery, you’ll be able to view your high resolution images, download them and even purchase prints from the gallery.

How long will it take to get my photos?

• After you have selected your favorite photos, it usually takes me about 2 weeks to finish editing them. The sooner I get your selection, the sooner you get your final images.

Can I get my images on a flash drive?

• Yes! If you can’t download them for any reason, or just prefer to have a USB drive with your images I can get that for you. The cost will vary depending on the product you choose to get.

What other products do you offer?

• 10x10 Lay-flat photo book starting at $545

• 8x8 Lay-flat photo book starting at $385

• Other products like canvases, framed prints, metal prints, etc. are also available upon request. If there’s a specific product you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to ask.

What should I do after I get my pictures?

• Download them from your gallery. This should be done on your computer, not your phone. You want to keep the quality and high resolution of your images, which is vital for gorgeous prints. Your gallery will be taken down after 4 weeks.

• Back up your images. If your computer crashes, you’ll still have your pictures. I would back them up in 2 different places to be extra safe.

• Print them! You’ll want to display your pictures throughout your home. Isn’t it wonderful to see your kids beautiful faces every day when you walk down the hallway, or enter your living room and see your walls decorated with memories? You can order prints from your gallery, and if you don’t find a size you want, just ask me. I can place an order for you!

• Show me some love! kind words are good for the soul. Please take a minute to leave a review on Facebook/Google and share about your experience. Hearing how much you love your pictures fills my heart with so much joy.

How do you edit your photos?

• I first select the best ones to go in your proofing gallery and apply the basic edits to them. After I receive your selection, I hand edit the photos one by one, keeping them as natural as possible. I edit them in Lightroom. If needed I use Photoshop, mainly to remove unwanted objects. I promise that your images will never be over edited nor look fake. My style is true to life and vibrant. You can probably tell that I love colors. I work hard to ensure that your pictures will be consistent and high quality.

• Please do not apply filters or alter the images in any way. You have invested a lot of money to get your pictures taken, and it would be a shame to ruin them with cheap filters.

What if it rains on the day of my session?

• Don’t worry, I’ll keep an eye on the weather and contact you a few hours before our session. If it’s raining we can reschedule, but if it’s cloudy, we can still have our session. Sometimes the weather in Northeast Ohio can be very unpredictable, so having a little flexibility is great.

Do you own a studio?

• No, I don’t. All of my sessions are outdoors or in the client’s home. We will discuss what your preferences are and choose the best location for your session.

How do I pay for my session?

• I require a deposit of $100 when you book your session, I’ll email you an invoice. The balance is due on the day of your session. I accept checks, cash, Venmo, Cash App, Zelle.

Do you offer any other types of photography?

• I do! I offer headshots, these have to be done outside, since I don’t have a studio. I have done some promotion and branding shoots and a few small, intimate weddings. Please, contact me if you’re interested in any of these and provide as many details as possible. I’d love to work with you!

Any other questions?

• Please click here and I’ll get back to you!