5 tips for feeling great and having a great time at your portrait session.

Many people stress about having their portrait done.  As much as we like images of everything these days, we are equally worried about how we'll appear in an image of ourselves.

How can you feel the most comfortable at your session with me?  Here are my five favorite tips to put your mind at ease and look your best!

1.  Don't skip our consultation. Part of the service I offer is a consultation to help you prepare for your session.  We can chat on the phone or meet in person, but either way it's the first step to making you feel comfortable.  I'll ask you questions about you and your family and find out more about you.  What do you like to do? What do you like to do together?  We'll talk about places that are special to your family and we figure out the best location for your session.  We'll also get the conversation rolling about what you'll wear and we can talk about anything else you'd like to bring to the session.  Finally, we'll settle on the timing.  And if you have questions along the way, I'm always available by phone, email or text.  By the time we get to our session, it will feel like you are meeting an old  friend!

2.  Prep yourselves and your clothing ahead of time: wash, iron, lay it all out at least a  day ahead.  Get hair cuts a couple of days ahead.  Make sure you have all your accessories together in one place.  Gather it ALL together before the big day.

3.   The day of your appointment, feed yourselves--especially the kids!  Kids with empty tummies are usually grumpy and uncooperative subjects.  Sometimes the best time for a session isn't the best time for kids, so feel free to bring along an extra snack or drink.  (Just make sure it's not going to turn their tongues blue or red or....!)

4.   Take a little time to relax before the portrait.  Again, especially important for the kids.  Make sure little ones have their regularly scheduled nap if possible and take a little time for yourself as well.

5.  Allow yourself enough time to get ready and get to our location.  I try to schedule appointments with a little bit of wiggle room.  It's time for me to meet your kids, time to chat, time to take a few first images that allow you time to relax in front of the camera, play and be yourselves.  My goal is to make our session feel like playing.  In between, I'll pose you casually and help guide you into looking your best.  My aim is fun, not stressful!

See you soon!
Laura