Feeling anxious about a stranger coming over to document your life? Not sure how to prepare your home to make sure your photos reflect your families unique and beautiful qualities? Did you figure out what your kids will wear and have no idea what you will wear now?
Don't worry! You do not have to have a magazine worthy home (or wardrobe) with amazing natural light for your in-home session to turn out gorgeously. Here are a few tips to on how to prepare.
WARDROBE:
Try to stick to a few colors, but it is best to not be matchy-match (think not everyone in all white T-shirts with denim).
Pale or neutral/earth tones work great with my editing style. Cream, Light pink, light blue (chambray is great!), grays, ivory, navy, black, etc. all work well.
Add a pop of color and/or a little pattern. Florals, lace and different textures help add contrast. Pops of olive green, red, and mustard all work amazing with my editing style.
Lipstick and painted nails can add a fun pop of red, and make you feel a little extra special (if you happen to find time for that and it suits your personality).
Wear make-up as you normally would when you wear it (or don't). You want to look and feel like your (best) natural self.
It works well to add contrast with light and dark solid colors the different shades of grey here). And those nails!
Cream and pink with a touch of red work super nice together! Notice the texture of the lace and sweaters as well.
HOME PREP
I love to take photos on your bed together. I reccommend a plain white or light colored duvet so that it reflects the natural light back onto your faces.
Make sure there are no phone chargers plugged in near the bed or any other cords/things on the nightstand that might be a distraction.
I love to work with natural light. If you can have all of your blinds open and lamps/overhead lights turned off in common areas, we will be good to go!
Please leave (or add) your kids' art taped up on the walls! Not only does it add color and character, it is fun to look back on as time goes on.
Add a few green plants or fresh cut flowers, they always add a fun pop of color and add quick character to your home.
Plants! You can't have too many in my opinion. I am giving you an excuse to go treat yourself!
Include your pets! I have had chickens, goats, dogs, cats...bunnies! They are a special part of the family and always add fun smiles and laughs.
Do not stress about deep cleaning. I have two little boys, I get it! I never judge and your dust or dirty windows are really not going to show. Throw anything you don't want to be seen in the closets and you are good to go. Trust me, I do the same!
I love kid art! Leave it up for added personality and color.
A few extra tips:
Since I lean towards a natural/ documentary style, I like to see how the time unfolds naturally. I will help get you into good positions based on the light in your home, but I leave a lot room for natural personalities to shine through. Don't feel like you have to look awkwardly at the camera, if there is a moment where I think it would be nice, I will ask you to look.
If you start to feel awkward and not sure of what to do with yourself (like me, always) a good thing to do is to find someone to kiss/tickle/cuddle. The closer together and more interactions you have, the more genuine and authentic your images will be!
Tickles always bring out those gorgeous genuine smiles
Having an in-home sessions means extra snuggle time!
Please! Do not ask your child to smile, or to say "cheese!". You will get stressed out when they don't listen, and even if they do listen, they will have an awkward fake smile. I'll take a soul infused eye stare any day over a cheesy smile.
These are just some ideas/tips to remember and the most important thing is for everyone to feel comfortable and their best selves, even if you break all of the rules.
I always find a moment of calm amidst the chaos.