Session Prep Guide

first and foremost

All you have to do is be yourselves. I’ll do the rest.

However, if you want tips on prepping your children, styling, etc- I’m here for you.

Let’s Talk Expectations…

I don’t have them!!!

Investing in lifestyle photography grants you the freedom to relax and let go of perfection.

My newborn sessions last around two hours and I flow with the needs of the baby. Hungry and needs to be fed? Okay. Crying and needs to be held? Then that’s what you do. And I photograph it all along the way.

Do not stress over a messy house- you just welcomed a new human (or two) into your home and your focus should be on the health of your baby and self.

When I arrive, I’ll take a tour of the home and scout out which rooms have the best light. I’ll open up blinds that are closed and move items that may be distracting. I often shoot in the nursery, master bedroom, and living room.

I spent over 10 years as a social worker and a photographer working with families and children. And while my own two rugrats may give me a run for my money, there is nothing that your child is going to do that will phase me. Please let go of your nervousness that about a clean house or minor misbehavior from an older child.

You hired me because you love my work. Let me showcase your wonderful family and the love that shines from within. I promise I will.

Before I Arrive

Let’s be real, nobody is happy when they’re hungry and tired.
So make sure you have **fed yourself,** your older children, and feed feed feed that baby.
Open up the blinds in the house to let the light in.
Have you baby either naked in a swaddle or in a simple, snug white onesie.

Phoenix Newborn Photography-11.jpg — Your Older Kids

Their worlds have just been rocked a little bit- some may be super excited, others a bit taken aback. While I follow the direction of the baby’s needs, I also let the toddler guide the session some. I will ask your older child(ren) to give me a tour and will focus my immediate attention upon him/her/them.
Depending upon your child’s mood, I will start with photos of him/her/them with the baby and then do family photos. However, as mentioned, I flow with the kids, so if it doesn’t happen that way, it’s okay.

Props

The only thing I bring to newborn sessions is a freshly washed white comforter. Pick out your favorite swaddle blankets and I will use those to wrap your baby.
If you have family heirlooms or items that are important to you for me to integrate into your session, let me know.

Phoenix-Family-Photography-Yellow-Room-Photography-3.jpg — **first and foremost**

Most importantly, I want you to BE YOURSELVES! I am here to highlight you and your family for who you are. If you’ve just given birth, wear items that you’re comfortable in. If you love dresses, then this is a perfect occasion to rock one. If you love to wear jeans and tops, then do just that. These are photographs that are going to go on your walls and will be treasured and looked back upon for years to come. You want to be able to feel like these are representative of who you are.

Phoenix Newborn Photographer- Scottsdale Newborn- Yellow Room Photography-42.jpg

Jovie Newborn Session 2019-42.jpg — Let’s Talk Color

**Color Palette:** The easiest place to start is choose a color palette for your outfits. When you’re putting together the outfits for your family, you want to think coordinating colors and pieces, not “matched” outfits. I want each of you to shine individually, while still forming a cohesive unit.
During newborn sessions, I recommend neutral tones because it allows the baby to be the shining star! It also prevents color casting from your outfits onto the baby’s skin during family shots.
**Complimentary Tones:** When choosing colors, work with complimentary tones and mix up how you’re wearing the colors. For example, make sure you’re not all wearing blue tops. Think about the dominant color you want to highlight and what colors can accent that, then use layers and accessories to add visual interest and create different “looks” for each family member.
**Layers & Textures:** The key is to integrate a variety of layers and textures to keep outfits from looking too similar to bland. Mix shirt styles, shorts and long pants, dresses and skirts in different fabrics (i.e. lace, corduroy, denim). Pay attention to your shoes and jewelry choices. Add a pop of color in your necklace to match the plain in your son’s shirt or daughter’s dress. Your goal is to create a pulled together, coordinated look that’s natural without being overly “matchy” or “uniformed”.
**A few additional tips-**
Avoid neon or really bright colors, instead going for a deeper tone (i.e. don’t choose neon pink, go for fushia/plum instead). The bright colors reflect back on your skin.
Avoid graphic shirts or multiple patterns/stripes.

Ammabelle Newborn Session-179.jpg — LADIES…

YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL!
And I want you to feel that way. We spend day and night putting those precious little people ahead of us. During our session, I want to showcase you for the goddess that you are. When you’re choosing outfits, I recommend starting with you! Choose flattering silhouettes that make you feel confident and complement your natural features. I know how it feels to have just given birth. Pick clothes that flow well, and an outfit that you love and highlights you. I want you to see that photo on your wall and think- “damn, I’m hot”, and “holy cow, I love that outfit”.

Let’s Talk Make-Up

These tips are only here if this suits your personality. If this doesn’t speak to you- that’s okay! As I’ve said- I’m here to highlight you for you.

Make-Up should highlight your beautiful features. Here are some tips from Cassidy Schweigert IG: @cassidy_kay !

Where to Start

Choose a foundation with NO SPF! Titanium Oxide that is found in foundations will create a white cast to your photo. This means that no matter how long you spend on your makeup, it will not look the same in your photo as it did in the mirror.

Contour

Add a contour to your forehead, jawline, cheekbone (under your blush), side edges of your nose, on each side of the throat, and under your bottom lip. This will enhance all of your features.

More is Better

When applying your makeup for a photo session, always apply more pigment than you think you need. Having our makeup enhanced with more pigment will allow your features to stand out so much more.

Lips

Pucker those lips up and add a good liner that is a couple shades darker than your lipstick of choice. Pop a little gloss on right before the photo shoot. Applying it right before the photo shoot allows your lip color to stay on longer.

Easy on the Eyes

As far as eyeshadow goes, keep the pigment of your eyeshadows in the neutral earthy tones.

Lashes

Even if they are as natural as can be, always apply false eyelash strips if you don’t have eyelash extensions. Cassidy recommends the Luxe False Lashes at Sephora because they bring drama to the game, are lightweight, and look super real, yet super natural looking. Apply it with the Duo brand eye lash adhesive in black.

Perk Up Those Cheeks

Don’t skimp on the blush! Rose cheeks will add dimension and add the perfect amount of color. Use creme blush in a tone that compliments your outfit (cool/warm). Add a little powder illuminator to the top of your cheekbones, the tip of your nose, and your cupid bows above your lip.

The Gentlemen

Parker Family Session 2019-140.jpg — Fit Tips

Make sure button down shirts close properly. Sit down, move around and make sure nothing is popping open.
Ensure that pants are fitted, sleek, and not sagging. Avoid cargo pants, which add extra fabric and then detract from the photo.

Hornsby Maternity Session-135.jpg — Styling

A collared shirt always looks good on gentlemen- be it a button down or a polo shirt.
When choosing plaid or patterns, make sure that the design is not too busy and does not clash with other patterns.
Layers look fantastic- think sports coats, vests, or sweaters. They add texture and depth.
Pants: Choose solid color dress pants or nicer jeans.
Make sure that belts and shoes coordinate.
Choose shoes that tie the whole outfit together- avoid sneakers, open toe shoes, and crocs.

Knudsen Family Session 2018-67.jpg — Finishing Touches

Just like jewelry, these touches will create a polished look: ties, suspenders, pocket squares, belts, leather shoes, vests, watches, and socks (because yes, they will show!).

Children

Personality

I want your children to shine for who they are. Don’t force them into something they absolutely hate because it’s going to show in the pictures.

Bloomers

If your child wears a dress, make sure to put bloomers, tights, spandex shorts, or leggings underneath to cover their diaper/underwear.

Fit

For children of all ages, make sure that their clothing fits correctly- that pockets don’t bulge, pants are long enough, shirts don’t ride up. If an outfit is too large or has a lot of fabric up top, it will bunch up around their shoulders, blocking their face.

Onesies are helpful with babies because they will tuck into pants and not ride up.