Family Prep Guide
Outfits + Styling (We will for sure cover all of this during your consult)
A few things to keep in mind:
- Wear clothes and shoes you are comfortable in. I do a few "posed" shots but for most of the photoshoot I will be prompting you all to do something fun or silly so we can get candid shots too - so being comfortable is key.
- Solid colors and very minimal prints always tend to look best when photographed.
- If you are self-conscious about a part of yourself, don't wear an article of clothing that that is too tight. Instead, wear something that will bring more attention elsewhere. (For example: if I was self-conscious about my arms, I'll wear something with sleeves or even something with flowy looser sleeves and something more tailored for the rest of the shirt.)
- Consider the weather! Make sure you’re prepared with cute coats if it’s rainy or snowy!
- Start with a neutral base and build from there. Neutral tones are typically more flattering and cohesive than bright colors. Pick two or three neutrals to start with and then add little accents of color if you want!
- Do not match. Avoid wearing the same outfit - you know the classic jeans and white t-shirt look that we all wore to family photos growing up? -- I highly discourage this. Also avoid putting your kids in the same shirt, it’s tempting because it’s cute but it doesn’t make each child stand out. Instead, try to coordinate. Mix and match the base neutrals that you picked out.
When dressing kids for sessions, keep these things in mind:
- Avoid character themed clothing. Their favorite show might be Paw Patrol or Ninja Turtles but stay away from logos, images, or graphics. Even though it might be their favorite shirt, it will be a serious distraction in the image.
- Make sure they have matching socks!
- Being able to move around in their clothing is a must!
If you’re still stuck, head to Pinterest for inspiration and you can send me pictures of your outfit(s) if you want my opinion!
When in doubt, ask! I am always happy to help!
A Few More Pointers To Help You Feel Prepared
for the kids
For children, please make sure they are well fed, hydrated, and rested before the session. Bring non-messy snacks. I recommend avoiding gummies, chocolate, or crumbly items. Instead, opt for dry cereal, apples, carrots (in case it gets stuck in teeth), or even a promise of a bigger treat afterward. I am absolutely not above a little bribery at a photoshoot.
This is completely up to you, but I have found that when kids know ahead of time that they’re coming to a session and have time to prepare, things run much smoother. When they are surprised (or woken up from a nap for it), it can be harder for them to warm up.
You can show them my photo and tell them a silly friend is coming to take their pictures. Let them know we’re going to have fun and that it will feel quick and easy.
This is always the most important part. If kids sense frustration or stress before a shoot, they often match that energy. During our session, we will follow their lead.
If they want to sit and snuggle, we’ll lean into that and capture beautiful candid moments. If they want to walk, we’ll hold hands and walk. I always encourage parents to trust their instincts, because you know your children best. When everyone feels relaxed and supported, that’s when the magic happens.
Beauty, Preparation, Session Workflow Notes
- Don’t get your hair cut/colored right before the shoot, the best time to do it is about a week to two weeks before.
- Nails and toes - keep neat and clean or painted.
- We recommend using lotion on your arms, hands, neck, and legs.
- Stay hydrated and eat nutritious meals throughout your day so you feel your best.
- Try on your outfit a couple days before the shoot, you want to make sure that you still feel great in it. If you don’t feel great, change it up!
- Pack the car before you start getting ready (About 3 hours before or the night before).
- Take time to relax the day of the session as much as possible. The calmer, happier, and more prepared everyone is, the better!
- Start getting everyone ready way earlier than you are used to.
- The timeline is only a guideline.
- Trust me and my artistic eye.
- Promise me you'll have open communication on how you are feeling throughout the session, k?!
- Go with the flow and make the absolute most of the weather and nature (with a few extreme exceptions, of course) :)
Try your best to come to the session calm, happy and prepared!
(this is going to be so fun!!)
Some things you may want to bring
- Water bottles (especially for those summer sessions, it gets hot!)
- A brush, hairspray, and/or gel.
- On that same note, bring a little makeup bag for touch ups. Make sure to include some type of towel in case anyone gets too sweaty.
- Please don’t bring gum! But definitely bring mints or something.
- Umbrellas, because weather.
- Comfortable shoes!
Remember, this is a day to represent the amazing and crazy stage of life you're in. It's ok if anyone in the group is scared or nervous, we are going to make sure you feel comfortable and have so much fun! I'm here to capture you and your family in its uniqueness and entirety so don't worry about being perfect, I just want you to be yourself!
Have any questions or concerns? I would love to chat to ensure you feel good about EVERYTHING and that the shoot runs smoothly.
Contact
Arielle Ashworth
This is just some helpful tips for my clients who like to get a head start on planning! We’ll talk through everything together at your consult, so don’t feel pressure to sort out all the details right now.
Cell: 208 - 718 - 1662
Email: arielleashworthphoto@gmail.com
