How to get the most out of your shoot

Being comfortable and confident is such an important element to your shoot. I want you and your family to feel as happy as possible. Shoots should be fun!

Babies

We love a happy baby. Warm, well fed and smiley

• Your baby’s safety is my number one priority ALWAYS. I will not be posing the baby or using any blocks to prop them up. I will not be placing them on any props. All photos will be natural and candid – so I won’t be asking you to place the baby or hold the baby in a way you aren’t comfortable with!

• Any sessions with babies are led by the baby – they are boss! Gentle direction will be given but focus will be capturing the love between you and your child.

• I recommend feeding the baby just before the shoot. We’d rather have a sleepy baby than a grumpy one.

• For newborn babies we might start with the baby wrapped (swaddled) to have them soothed. Solid colour wraps work best.

• A yoga ball is a great thing to sit on while holding the baby to calm it.

• Clear areas near windows of any clutter. Have some warm solid coloured blankets that we can place the baby on.

• Noise machines can be great too for soothing.

Clothing

Colour: we want to avoid neon’s and too many dark colours. Avoid black unless its trousers. Warm colour palettes (browns, mustards, creams, taupe) or pastel palette (beige, muted pinks, light blues, muted purples) work well and are universally flattering. Think lots of neutrals. You could also do pops of colour to add interest.

Pattern: avoid stripes, small plaid, and animal prints.

Logos: avoid logos on all clothes.

Shoes: stay away from gym shoes or shoes with neon colours. Brown shoes tend to work best! If we are in your home or garden, I’ll likely say go barefoot anyway.

Hair

Loose and natural is always better than pulled back / slick hair. Think clean and natural hair. Don’t experiment with any new fashionable styles. We want your pictures to look great in 30 years – not be stuck in a fashion time warp.

Pets

Toys and treats!! It's all about getting your pet engaged and letting their personality come out.

Dogs should be energetic so don't plan a photoshoot just after a huge park run.

Cats should have access to their favourite chase toys (my cat goes nuts for ribbon).

We want to shoot in a familiar location for your pet where we can control the environment so at home or in your garden is best. We can totally do beach photos too!