Your Session Prep Guide
This guide is to (hopefully) answer any questions you may have!
You booked. I'm genuinely excited!
Now let's make sure you walk into this session feeling ready, not stressed — because the more at ease you are, the better your photos will be.
This guide covers everything: what to wear, when to show up, what to bring, and what to expect after. Read it once, bookmark it, and come back when you need it.
I. WHAT TO WEAR & THINGS TO DO
Keep it comfortable, coordinated, and true to you.
Avoid spray tans right before the session (they don’t always photograph naturally)
Get nails done or trimmed — close-ups may catch those hands
Seniors/Couples: Bring 1–2 outfit changes. Think variety: casual + a little dressy.
Families: Pick 2–3 complementary tones (e.g., beige, olive, and denim) and dress around those.
Why do i focus on the little moments & telling a story? READ THIS POST.
Outfit Tips
What Photographs Best:
- Neutral tones & earth tones: ivory, tan, rust, sage, soft blue, muted pink. they photograph beautifully and keep the focus on you.
- Textures: linen, cotton, gauze, chunky knits, lace — they bring dimension.
- Movement: dresses or skirts that flow are stunning in motion.
- Simplicity: avoid heavy logos or patterns that distract from the emotion.
What to Avoid:
- Neon colors, loud logos, overly busy patterns or overly bright whites
- Clothes that are too tight or too loose — comfort = confidence
- Matching outfits — coordinate, don’t copy
Want More Outfit Help? Check out my blog post here!
II. Timing & Lighting Tips
The light changes everything. It’s what adds emotion, warmth, and that dreamy softness to your photos. Below is everything you need to know about the best times to shoot, how lighting affects the mood of your images, and how to plan ahead for the season.
Golden Hour: The Sweet Spot
Golden hour is the hour just after sunrise and just before sunset.
This is when the light is soft, golden, and flattering — perfect for skin tones, creating dreamy highlights, and giving photos that glow you often see in my work.
Why it works:
- No harsh shadows or squinting
- A natural, romantic glow
- Softens everything from skin to scenery
- Adds warmth and depth, even on cloudy days
When to plan for golden hour (seasonal ranges):
Spring. 5:00-7:00am~6:00-8:30pm
Summer. 4:45-5:30am~8:00-9:00pm
Autumn. 6:30-7:00am~4:30-7:30pm
Winter. 7:00-7:30am~4:00-5:30pm
(Times vary by location — I’ll help you finalize this based on the shoot date + setting!)
What if It’s Cloudy?
Cloudy days are actually amazing!
The light is diffused and soft, which is perfect for intimate, moody shots. Overcast skies can make colors pop and help eliminate harsh contrast — plus, no squinting or sweating!
I’ll always help reschedule if the weather will truly get in the way of what I feel comfortable with, but don’t be afraid of a little cloud cover — some of my favorite galleries were shot on gray days.
Location & Timing Together
Light changes based on the setting too — a golden field will glow earlier than a forest or canyon. When we pick your location, I’ll take into account how the light behaves there so we can plan your session at the perfect time.
Pro Tip: If you're dreaming of bold skies, rich backdrops, or a mountain silhouette — sunset is the best time. But if you want something light, fresh, and misty — sunrise is the way to go.
Needing to know WHEN? Check this post out.
be prepared.
III. WHAT TO BRING
Here are a few things that might be helpful:
A water bottle, especially in warm weather
A neutral colored blanket or wrap (for sitting shots or cozying up)
Your favorite activity (to add some fun into your session)
Touch-up items: hairbrush, lip balm, blotting paper
Any special items that matter to you—letters, heirlooms, signs, or props (optional!)
Treats/toys for kids (for family sessions)
Looking to create a session that feels like a movie scene or unfolds like a story? Don’t miss this blog post.
IV. RELAX & TRUST THE PROCESS
We aren't looking for perfection
This experience isn’t about performing for the camera — it’s about creating space to be present. Whether you're planning a cozy, intimate engagement session, celebrating a senior year full of memories, or soaking in the fleeting magic of this season with your family, you can rest easy knowing I’ve got you.
For couples, this is your chance to slow down and simply enjoy each other. I’ll guide you gently — no awkward posing, no forced smiles — just real, effortless connection. You don’t need to worry about being “photogenic” or knowing what to do with your hands. Your only job is to be yourselves. Laugh, hold each other close, share the quiet moments. I’ll take care of the rest.
For seniors — this is your moment to celebrate you. You’ve worked hard to get here, and now it’s time to capture who you are, not just what you look like. I’ll help you feel confident, natural, and proud to step into this next chapter.
For families, I approach every session with grace and flexibility. Kids don’t need to behave perfectly. You don’t need to match outfits or worry about everyone smiling at the same time. What matters most is the connection, the love, the little in-between moments. I’m here to make this simple, meaningful, and fun.
Above all, I want you to feel free to let go of expectations and trust that I see you. Every session is built around you — your personality, your pace, your dynamic. Trust the process, and I promise, you’ll walk away with photos that feel deeply, beautifully like your life.
It can feel A LITTLE AWKWARD OR TENSE IN THE BEGINNING... DON'T WORRY.
this blog post gives you the opportunity to take a deep breath & enjoy your session.
V. After the session
SNEAK PEEKS
Within 48–72 hours (excluding Sunday's), I’ll send you a handful of hand-picked sneak peeks. These are my early favorites — the sweet, cinematic, emotional moments that stood out right away. Perfect for sharing with friends or announcing your engagement online (if you haven’t already!).
Full Gallery Delivery
Your full online gallery will be delivered within 2-3 weeks*. I take the time to individually edit each image with intention, preserving the mood, movement, and honest emotion that tells your story. The gallery will be beautifully organized and easy to view, download, and share.
*the timeframe can change slightly based on the demand of the season.
What You’ll Receive
A fully edited, high-resolution gallery delivered through a private online link.
Unlimited downloads and sharing rights for personal use.
A mobile app gallery (by request) so you can carry your memories with you.
Print shop access, if you’d like to turn your images into wall art, albums, or gifts — all through trusted labs I love.
If You’re Planning Your Wedding
I’d love to continue this journey with you! Many of my couples book me for both engagements and their wedding day, and I’m here to help you feel known and supported every step of the way. After your session, I’m always happy to answer questions, offer timeline help, or talk next steps if you're considering full-day coverage.
images loading soon...
Final Tips
Be on time — golden hour waits for no one
Remove phones, wallets, keys from your pockets
Get plenty of rest the night before.
Eat beforehand so no one’s hangry.
Bring the energy you want to remember: joy, love, connection, peace.
Prepping For Your Session - blog post.
