I am forever getting questions from clients about what they should expect during their portrait session so today I’m sharing some of my favorite tips and things to expect when you book me for a portrait session. Portrait sessions are reserved for individuals such as seniors and musicians and couples. Couple sessions are perfect for some great loving shots of the two of of you, engagement session or even an anniversary session. These sessions are what I like to call milestone sessions.
Recently engaged? Celebrating an anniversary?
These milestones are worth celebrating! It’s important to capture these moments, because they don’t last long. Your engagement photos will be used for save-the-dates and throughout the wedding. Your anniversaries go by so fast, that you miss them if you blink.
Let me document these milestones and create memories to last a lifetime.
So let’s get started! What can you expect during your milestone session?
- Sessions typically last 1 hour, though the time really depends on clothing changes. It can also depend on if I’m photographing a child. Children do not have a long attention span and I can usually get a great number of photographs in a shorter time than 1 hour. It normally takes at least 15 – 20 minutes for smaller kids (and adults!) to warm up to the camera, which might lead to a session lasting a little longer than normal. Try not to schedule our session in between other events, rushing is never fun! Also please make sure I am aware of your child’s nap time as it’s never good to photograph a baby when they are tired and I am also open to scheduling early morning session even though I prefer the golden hour session times.
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Depending on the type of session, we may utilize props (as in flowers, guitars, suitcases, etc) within the photographs. Talk to me about things you might like to try – it’s pretty easy to work props in as needed, so if you love it – bring it. Just note, you are responsible for what you bring, that goes for me too! There are a few props that I do not photograph and we can discuss that in your pre-session consultations.
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We will meet at our location at our session time. The clock starts ticking at the designated time we are supposed to meet. If a conflict arises and you aren’t able to get there in time (greater than 15 minutes), please let me know no less than two hours in advance. There is a no show fee so please be sure to let me know if something comes up. I am happy to move a session if needed. Sessions also might be moved if there is inclement weather and I will let you know in plenty of time.
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I might ask you to do odd things – you are absolutely allowed to look at me in a bizarre fashion, but realize I am asking you to do something that will achieve a photo you will love. My aim is always to convey real emotion through my photographs and those are the ones you’ll display in your home. I might ask you to dance crazy or shout. These are all tricks I’ve learned to get natural emotion and a flattering photograph. If you aren’t sure if you’re doing it right please feel free to ask me and I’d be happy to demonstrate. I am not afraid of looking silly and I am usually great at getting kids to laugh!
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Sessions should always be fun and a great photo is a lifetime investment. I am not just capturing that moment, I am capturing your legacy. The legacy you will pass down to your children and will be in your family for years to come. I am not afraid to chase your child around to capture fun and natural poses and I am not afraid to be silly with them.
I like to keep my milestone sessions very simple and fun so be sure to talk to me about any props or wardrobe choices you’re thinking about. We’ll have fun planning a session just for you and we’ll have even more fun capturing your love and laughter.
Wondering what to wear to your session? Check out these blogs for ideas:
