Planning a photo session can feel intimidating, and may lead to you putting off the task. It doesn't need to be that way! Let me share with you a few strategies to put you at ease prior to stepping in front of the camera. A photo shoot should be a memorable time for you and trust me, your photographer is here for you and wants to help!
#1 Communication
Planning and having your questions answered is part of what you are paying for in your session fee. Do not hesitate to reach out to your photographer prior to booking and up until the day of your scheduled shoot. Ask questions, share ideas, brainstorm together, and most importantly, speak up if you don't understand something or feel like you aren't on the same page at any point. Your photographer should let you know the best way to reach them: email, text, phone call Discussing your plans ahead of time will help the session go smoothly and take away any anxiety leading up to your appointment. The conversations I have most with my clients are usually about location ideas and outfit ideas. Just ask!
#2 Decide what you plan to do with your images
The last thing you want to do is invest your time and money into hiring a wonderful photographer to create beautiful memories for your family, then let them sit on a website. Digital images are awesome for so many reasons - you can post them on social media, you can share your gallery with family and friends, you can look at them whenever want, etc. But you do want to bring your beautiful images out into the real world. Prior to your session think about how you would like to use your photos. Maybe you are sending out cards, updating frames displayed in your home, using them as gifts for family, or creating some new home decor. Whatever you have in mind, make sure you take the time to plan out what you will with the physical prints. Shop ahead of time for frames, or decide which website you'll use to order photo products. If you need suggestions, ask your photographer. Set yourself a deadline and mark it on your calendar. Then make it happen!!!
#3 Get your outfits ready ahead of time
I've discussed this in other posts, but it's worth mentioning again! Plan, plan those outfits! Don't wait until the morning of to get your outfits together. Most people choose their outfits weeks or days ahead of time. However, many times people will wait until the last minute to actually gather everything out of the closets. I suggest taking the full outfit out of the closet at least the day before, including accessories and shoes. Make sure everything fits comfortably. Check for wrinkles and stains. Make sure you have proper undergarments clean and ready. Set everyone's outfits out ahead of time and the day of your session, getting ready will go smoothly. No running around the house looking for items 10 minutes before you leave! Make sure everyone is comfortable and can move freely.
Now you're ready to get in front of the camera! Relax and have fun, your photographer will make sure it's an enjoyable and stress free experience. :)