So you have booked your photography session . . . that was the easy part, now on to the more difficult decisions . . . How to make the most of your photo shoot, and what in the world to wear?! Below are a few helpful tips and links on what to wear to your photography session, plus we can discuss the details more while planning out your session!

Sessions can be in your home or at any location of your choice

If the weather is nice, it is always lovely to get outdoors and of I know many great outdoor photography spots around Sioux Falls.

If you have chosen an in home shoot - typically on arrival I will walk around to check out the light in different rooms – show me those windows! I may ask you to move furniture or items around to utilize the best light. Then, we will select the best location for the photo session, and won’t even need much space. Often times the living room sofa or master bed are utilized for their furnishings and snuggling abilities.

 During your family or little one session:

There are a few key things to keep in mind the day of your session.
– sessions typically last one hour -

- #1 and most important… relax & have fun! We have plenty of time to allow your little one(s) to get comfortable. If you are stressed, they can feel it and it will affect them, so please remember to be patient and remain calm. This will be fun!

- If your little one needs breaks for snacks, diaper change, or even just a moment to calm down we can do so at any time! This is their session and we can work on their time.

- In order to get the most natural expressions from your child(ren) I like to let them do their own thing as much as possible with minimal instruction. I have also found that being able to interact directly with your little one(s) myself with minimal distraction usually produces the best results.

Lastly a little bit about lifestyle photography— it’s all about capturing real life – your relationships, connections, and personalities. I always love creating family photographs in addition to the solo images of your children. Please be encouraged to cherish this moment, enjoy each other, and show the love!

We are striving to capture real emotion in unique and natural lifestyle photographs.

NEWBORNS:

 It is best to capture your newborn within the first 10 days of life. Photography sessions are scheduled based on your due date and as the date nears we will choose a tentative date for the shoot. Newborn sessions can last over two hours, so please schedule accordingly. Not all parents choose to be in the portraits at this time, but I do encourage it!

With their soft newborn skin, tiny features, and small fingers & toes, newborn photography is such a joy. It is my goal to make this first photo experience relaxing, enjoyable and beautiful, beginning with a few tips to give you an idea of what to expect during our session together.

The best place for capturing your new family and those cozy newborn images is right at home! Newborns do not require much space for their photo session, but they do require quite a few items. Thus, me coming to you for the session is quite convenient – you will have everything you need for your new baby right at your finger tips. I will bring along swaddles, blankets, and other props for an adorable session. Plus, we can also incorporate the nursery and many of the things that are important and meaningful to you, all while capturing your family where you are most comfortable, in your element . . . right at home.

Newborn sessions are a combination of lifestyle photography and those sweet, snuggly slumbering baby photographs.

How to prepare for your newborn session:

There are a few key things to keep in mind the day of your newborn session — in order to achieve all of those sleepy, snuggly poses, it’s important to have a slumbering baby.

- newborns are best captured in the first 10 days of life.

- heat & white noise really help keep baby comfortable and sleepy! I will bring a small space heater and have a white noise app to play but when shooting at your home please turn that thermostat up.

- capturing your new family in a few lifestyle images is also encouraged, parents please dress to join in. Layers and neutral colors always work well.

- please try to limit the amount of napping prior to the session by keeping your baby up for a couple hours prior so they are ready for a good nap!

- also, a full tummy equals a sleepy newborn, so if baby is nice and fed right before the session we can jump right in. Also, do not worry there will be breaks during the shoot for feedings as sometimes all it takes is a light feeding to get right back into a deep sleep

- since most images show off baby’s brand new skin it is best to dress your baby in the least amount of clothing possible before the shoot. Also avoiding any tight items that could leave impressions or clothing that has to go over their head to avoid startling them.

During your newborn session:

– sessions typically last 1.5 hours, though sometimes longer as we take all cues from baby and never rush. I usually have several set-ups planned for each session. Special requests on backdrops and props are welcome! Please also let me know if there are any shots you have your heart set on.

relax and enjoy the beauty of your new little one during the shoot!