WHAT TO EXPECT:
- QUESTIONAIRE -
I’ll send you over a questionnaire to fill out. This helps give me a better idea of what kind of session you’re wanting, and how you’re wanting your photos to look. It also helps me get to know you and your partner a little better!
- LOCATION + OUTFIT PLANNING -
I’ll use the info you give me to work with you on creating the best portrait session. We can communicate as often as needed to make sure you have a set location and outfits. These two things play a huge role in how your photos will turn out.
- GETTING YOU COMFORTABLE IN FRONT OF THE LENS -
Trust me, almost everyone tells me they are awkward in front of a camera. That’s where I come in to help out! I can play some music to help everyone loosen up, have more fun, and set the mood! We’ll chat a little bit before we jump into taking photos, and I’ll start the shoot out with some prompts that allow me to be further away from you, That way you can have a few minutes to get used to being in front of the camera.
- PROMPTS + POSING -
How I pose you during your session is based on our conversations about what you want to get out of your photos. I will direct the shoot so that you don’t have to worry about what you need to be doing, I’ll be telling you what to do the whole time. I like to shoot with a mix of set poses and prompts. Poses are when I stage you in a more set position, while prompts are when I tell you something to do.
- SNEAK PEEKS -
I’ll send over a handful of sneak peeks within 48 hours to give you a glimpse at the magic we captured together. These allow you to immediately share with friends and family and hold you over until you get your full gallery!
- GALLERY DELIVERY -
Once I’ve finished editing your photos, I’ll deliver them to you through a link in an email. You can view your photos, and download them - they’re all yours! You’re welcome to print them anywhere you’d like. However, there is a print shop connected to your gallery, and I also offer custom heirloom albums that can be enjoyed for generations.
START BY CHOOSING A LOCATION
IN-HOME
Perfect for intimate, cozy photos that capture more of your every day lifestyle. In-home sessions are best for those who value comfort and a lifestyle vibe. These images will highlight your unique decor and all of the personal touches in your space. We can utilize any and all areas of your home and property!
OUTDOOR
Outdoor sessions are a favorite for many couples, often taking place on family properties, in parks, or on public lands. Outdoor locations offer stunning natural backdrops with plenty of beautiful light, making them an ideal choice. We can choose an outdoor location that holds special meaning to you, or choose a location purely for its aesthetic.
PERSONAL
A unique or personal location could be the place where you first met, got engaged, or shared a memorable moment. It might be your favorite brewery, bookstore, or a family property that holds special meaning. These locations can offer a mix of indoor and outdoor settings, adding variety and a deeply personal touch to your photos.
STUDIO
Whether it's the middle of winter, or you love a minimalist vibe, renting a photo studio for your couples portraits is a great solution. Many studios offer flexible rental options for an hourly fee, allowing you to tailor the experience to your needs.
DECIDING WHAT TO WEAR
Coordinating outfits with your surroundings can help tell a more cohesive story, allowing your connection to shine without distractions, ensuring the images feel timeless and authentic. I hope this helps you pick your outfits with intention.
Wear what feels comfortable and reflects your individual style—there’s no need to dress up more than usual or buy new outfits. Choose clothes you love, whether it’s a favorite tee, go-to sweater, or well-worn jeans. These photos are about capturing who you are now, so embrace your current style and let your personalities shine naturally. Years from now, you’ll appreciate seeing your authentic selves in this special moment of your relationship. No need to follow trends or buy anything new unless you want to!
01. PERSONALITY ABOVE ALL ELSE
There are no limits to the amount of outfits you can wear during a session! Most couples typically end up wearing 1-3 outfits. Bringing a handful of options allows us to mix and match during your session or change as we move to different locations. Having options ensures that we can pick an outfit that best compliments the environment we are shooting in. You can also text me options that you have and I’m happy to give my advice!
Keep in mind that often times this means you’ll be changing in your car or a public restroom. If this is not something you’re comfortable with, choose one base outfit and bring extra layers or accessories for us to get some diversity in your gallery!
02. BRING OPTIONS
This one may seem obvious, but make sure you’re choosing outfits and footwear that make sense with the temperature and location. Heels don’t really make sense if we’re going to be walking in sand and dresses aren’t usually the best option for late fall/winter. You don’t want to be sweaty in your photos if you dress too warm in the summer and you wanna be comfortable if we’re shooting at a time of year that it could be cold.
03. IT NEEDS TO MAKE SENSE FOR THE LOCATION
When choosing outfits, consider adding pieces with movement to bring an extra layer of life to your photos. Flowy fabrics, long dresses, or layered elements can catch the wind and create beautiful, dynamic images that feel natural and alive. Movement in clothing allows for more playful and candid moments, adding an artistic feel to your photos. Layers can be easily adjusted throughout the session, giving you different style options without the need for a full outfit change.
04. CONSIDER ADDING MOVEMENT
Earthy neutrals are a timeless and versatile choice for portrait sessions, offering a natural look that complements any setting. Colors like soft browns, muted greens, creams, and beiges blend beautifully with outdoor landscapes and create a warm, organic feel in photos. These tones also ensure that the focus remains on you and your connection rather than on bold or distracting colors. If you’re aiming for a classic, effortless look, earthy neutrals are always a safe bet.
05. EARTHY NEUTRALS ARE ALWAYS A SAFE BET
Incorporating subtle patterns into your outfits can add depth and interest to your photos, but it's important to strike the right balance. I typically recommend selecting just one patterned piece to avoid clashing and keep the focus on your connection. For example, plaid flannels are a classic and easy option that can blend seamlessly into many settings. However, bold or oversized patterns can become distracting and overpower the overall image. The goal is to enhance your portraits with thoughtful details, not to draw attention away from the moment we’re capturing.
06. DON’T GO OVERBOARD WITH PATTERNS
07. BRING ACCESSORIES OR CHOOSE AN ACTIVITY
Think about if you’d like to bring along some accessories or an activity to do. A wide-brimmed hat, cozy blanket, ingredients for s’mores, swimsuits for a hot tub or lake, champagne - these are all things that can add texture and/or personality without distracting from the focus on your connection. If you’re both coffee lovers, bring along your favorite mugs, or if you love the outdoors, a picnic blanket or a bouquet of fresh flowers can add a warm, thoughtful touch. The key is to keep it simple and meaningful, but don’t feel like you have to bring anything but yourselves!
08. HAIR + MAKEUP
Many couples feel confident going with their everyday look, which captures an authentic version of who they are. However, if you’re excited about enhancing your look or trying something new, professional hair and/or makeup can add a polished feel and bring a bit of glam to your images. Ultimately, it’s all about what makes you feel comfortable and what you’re wanting out of your photos!
These are simply recommendations, not rules. If you have your heart set on something outside of these guidelines, go for it! Outfit choices are an artistic decision, and there’s no wrong way to express yourself. So, have fun with it and let your photos reflect who you truly are!
