— Outfits

-Bring at least 3 outfits that make you feel confident and represent your personality. I recommend at least one dressy outfit and one more casual outfit that you would be comfortable sitting on the ground in (jeans etc).

-avoid busy patterns and anything with logos (unless it is a school/college related shirt)

-avoid patterns with small stripes or checks, they don’t photograph well

-Bring any undergarments you might need for each of your outfits

-Choose colors that will complement the location you have chosen

-If you have a letterman’s jacket or team jacket, feel free to bring it for a few photos (accessories and jackets don’t count against your number of outfits)

-Bring any shoes you need for each outfit. If you are planning on wearing heels, make sure you have a comfy pair of shoes to wear when walking between locations as needed.

-Depending on your session location I will almost always have a pop up changing tent with me for you to use.

-Accessories. 

-Classic simple jewelry is usually best 

-feel free to bring sunglasses, hats, school tassel if you have it, flowers, signs, anything that will personalize your session

-Hair and Makeup. 

-You want your makeup to be natural and look like you normally look. This is not the time to experiment with dramatic new makeup looks 😉.

-avoid super shimmery makeup and heavy highlighters as they can come off as shiny and uneven in photographs. Bring powder and gloss or lipstick with you for any touch ups.

-if you have your makeup done by a professional make sure they know it’s for a photoshoot and they will know to use matte products

-do not stress about blemishes. I will retouch them in editing.

-you know your hair best so style it in a way that feels natural and comfortable. If you’re trying anything new with your hair, make sure you practice it in advance so you know you’ll be happy with it. 

-nails. Your hands will likely be in some of your closeups so please make sure your nails are presentable.

-REMOVE ANY HAIR TIES FROM WRISTS AT LEAST 30 MINUTES BEFORE YOUR SESSION. Yes I’m shouting lol but please follow this guideline to avoid red marks on wrists.

Bring water and a snack and if your session is in the winter you might want a jacket or blanket to wrap up in when walking between shooting locations. We won’t do a ton a walking, and you’ll never get me to hike anywhere lol, but I do like to move around a bit for variety. 

Get plenty of rest and hydration before your session. A late night out the night before WILL show up in your eyes in your photos! 

Moms and teens, don’t stress. Try not to give each other a hard time while trying to get out the door for your photoshoot. (I have a teenager, I know getting out the door on time can be tense 😉). No one panic! If you’re running a few minutes late, just text me. And just breathe! We’re going to have fun!

~Carolyn

(720) 849-9780