Tips for timing, choosing a location, outfits, managing kids and more!
Portrait
Session
PLANNING YOUR family
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I'm so excited to be working with you and I can’t wait for our time together during your session. It’s normal to be a little anxious about your session. You're a busy family with quite a few things on your plate.
That's actually one of the reasons why I put together this guide. It covers things to keep in mind when it comes to choosing a location, outfits, prepping kids and more.
Hopefully it helps you feel fully prepared for our time together, but should you have any other questions or if you need advice, please feel free to reach out!
- Kim
One thing I’ve learned over the years is that our experience of our children is different from what others experience. For example, if you’re at the grocery store with your three year old son and he starts yelling, you probably think he’s irritating other customers more than he is. Most likely, those other customers just see a cute (slightly loud,) three year old.
The same holds true for photo sessions. Your child is in a new element and a stranger is holding a big camera in front of their face. They’re likely not going to entirely be themselves. They may show off more than usual or your extrovert may suddenly become shy.
Rest assured, it’s all okay.
Managing
little ones
The best thing you can do for your kids is to go with the flow and stay positive. The more you relax and have fun with things, the more likely your little one (or big one,) is to get on board.
It can also be helpful to pack a few treats and bribes for younger children. Favorite toys, special snacks and the promise of ice cream afterwards work wonders.
I’m incredibly patient with kids and that we have a few tricks up our sleeve to help get even the smallest ones to cooperate.
When in doubt let them be little.
I’ve found that there isn’t a “good” or “bad” time to take your photos. I normally plan sessions based on a particular “look” our clients have in mind, spring flowers for example, or based on schedules.
Sessions typically last about an hour and a half and when when I can—I love to begin sessions about two hours before sunset. I prefer to shoot when the sun is lower in the sky to avoid harsh shadows and bright sun patches. The first two hours after sunrise is also an ideal time to shoot.
I schedule sessions during what I believe will be the best light of the day - which means that it’s super important to be on time. If you’re late to an evening session, we could run out of light before we’ve finished shooting and if your session takes place in the morning, the sun gets more harsh as it rises.
But also I know that some of my clients need a specific time. I do keep that in mind when you request a different time. Also certain locations can be shot at an earlier time. Beach sessions really shine at a specific time.
Is there a "good" time to take photos?
TIME & LIGHT
Sunset & Bedtimes
In the warmer months, sunset sessions often fall during the witching hour. They may even fall during or after bedtime.
As much as I love a consistent bedtime routine, in order to capture the best light during "golden hour", I'm like going to need to throw off your schedule a bit.
If our session takes place close to dinnertime, I recommend feeding kids (and yourselves!) before I begin shooting.
If your little one is going to be going to bed later, consider pushing their nap a bit that day, letting them sleep longer or packing pj's so that you can quickly tuck them into bed as soon as you get home.
I also happily offer sunrise sessions as well. Message me for more details.
If your session takes place in the fall, while it might be tempting to dress your little one in a pumpkin costume to eternally remember the cuteness that babies in costumes in giant piles of leaves holds, I advise keeping attire a little more neutral.
Yes, that image would crush it on the ‘gram, but if you’re hoping to print these images for your walls, will you always want to see that pumpkin costume?
The same holds true for images taken for Christmas cards. While those red and green sweaters might be worthy of the Minted hall of fame, are you really going to want to look at photos of yourselves in holiday sweaters in the summer?
If you’re looking for outfit advice, feel free to send ideas our way! I'm happy to help curate a wardrobe that not only feels coordinated, but that looks beautiful for years to come.
Seasonality
things to keep in mind:
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If you your session takes place during the winter, we could begin shooting as early as 3:30pm to catch the sunset. I recommend dressing in layers so that in between photos you can warm up. Make sure you bring a little extra makeup and tissues in case your nose begins running. Pocket warmers and thick socks hidden in cute boots can help keep everyone warm without showing up in images.
Yes Florida has winter weather, hot cocoa and cozy coats
Winter
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Even though Spring begins in March, I typically start begin shooting 6 weeks before because the weather in our area is already on the rise. If you are looking for Azaleas they bloom around the end of February. Wildflowers peak around the end of April and into May. I know where there are sunflower and zinna fields. When we schedule all of our session dates, we typically schedule both a primary date and a backup rain date because #floridaweather.
Fresh Flowers & Sunny Days
Spring
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In spite of the heat, I'm a big fans of summer sessions! Because of the later sunset, sessions sometimes begin as late as 6pm. If you’re taking your photos during the summer, I recommend bringing extra makeup and a few towels to make sure you stay fresh throughout your session. Also note that this is the most likely time for your session to have rain. We could either wait out the rain or use your back up date.
"If it could only be like this always"
Summer
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Florida does actually have some fall leaves. They just tend to fall in December and January. We do have some very pretty blooms that start in October too. My fall months tend to book up early with Christmas Sessions. (So you have your images for your christmas cards.) If you have your heart set on a fall session, we recommend scheduling early!
"and autumn a mosaic of them all."
Autumn
A few things to keep in mind during each season:
Locations
My favorite places to shoot
The best session locations are often meaningful to our individual families; however, I'm also happy to make recommendations. From local resorts to the best sunset beaches to bloom filled gardens and college campuses, the options for session locations are endless!
Disney's Grand Floridian
Four Seasons Resort Disney $
Gaylord Palms Resort $
Disney's Rivera Resort
Ringling Museum of Art $
Bok Tower Gardens $
CLASSIC & ELEGANT
Rollins College
Kraft Azalea Gardens
John's Lake Conservation
Lake Louisa State Park $
Cypress Grove Estate House
Baldwin Park
Grahams U pick Farm
RUSTIC
Downtown Orlando
Lake Nona
Downtown Celebration FL
UT campus and DT Tampa
Murals in St. Pete
Downtown Winderemere
Downtown Clermont
URBAN
Upham Beach $
Sand Key Park $
Fort De Soto State Park $
Anna Maria Island $
Clearwater Beach $
Coquina beach $
west Coast BEACH
East Coast Beach
Kelly Rock Springs $
Underwater Sessions
Sailing / Boating
Kennedy Space Center $
ADVENTURE
The above locations are all beautiful but I also love exploring meaningful locations with our families! Your family's favorite park, home, etc.
$ Denotes an entrance or parking fee
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When picking outfits I recommend keeping in mind the word “complement” rather than “match.” For example, if Dad is wearing a blue and pink pastel plaid shirt, the Mom may want to choose a long, soft blue dress. It can also be a great idea to choose “color-families,” such as pastels or jewel tones.
A good rule of thumb: pick 3 or so colors and spread them throughout the family. Don't be afraid to mix a few subtle patterns or textures (such as linen).
And always keep the location in mind. If we're shooting in a green field, light green dresses might blend in too much with the surroundings.
Choosing Outfits
for everyone
Heels lengthen legs but if your heels aren’t comfortable for walking or we'll be in grass, bring an extra pair of shoes to slip into in between shots.
I love the way larger patterns and textures (like linen) photograph - just be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy.
Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin. I love bright, neon dresses, but we don’t love the neon reflection they add to your complexion.
Wardrobe Tips
for the ladies
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Statement jewelry is a great way to add color or pattern to a simple dress.
Lace and tulle look amazing in photographs.
And dresses with sleeves are a great way to help slim arms.
Depending on your location, you might want to consider a fit and flare or a flowy dress.
They look great in walking and photos with movement.
Choose an outfit you feel comfortable in, but don’t be afraid to dress up!
Accessories
for the ladies
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Rent the Runway
ASOS
Morning Lavender
J. Crew
Anthropologie
Free People
Jessakae
Petal & Pup
Pink Blush (Maternity)
H&M
Vici Dolls
Virginia Dare Dress Co.
Baltic Born Clothing
Madewell
Kate + Grace Boutique
Favorite Shops
Able
Zara
Mango
Nothing Fits But
Sezane
Hill House Home
Reformation
Rachel Pally
Nuuly
Christy Dawn
Rylee & Cru
Clad & Cloth
Ivy City
Shopbop
Everlane
for the ladies
shop my PRIME favorites
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I think it’s so important that you look and feel your best for your photos. Investing in professional hair and makeup can go a long way towards creating photos you love for years.
Professionally done hair & makeup last longer than typical hair & makeup. They also tend to hold up better in humidity and wind.
If you are in the Orlando area, I LOVE & highly recommend Stacie Otto - https://www.stacieotto.com/ She comes to you for your hair and make up needs. She also has a ton of associates that do amazing!!!
But you can certainly do your own make up. Just make sure you blend blend blend.
If you’re planning to do any spray tans or waxing, schedule those for a few days before the session to give your skin time to recover.
Hair & Makeup
for the ladies
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You can’t go wrong with crisp button up. Or consider layering a blazer or sweater with jeans with this look.
Bowties are always a good idea.
Be careful not to choose a pattern that is too small - it may accidentally make your photo look a little too busy.
Softer, pastel colors tend to photograph better than bright colors - especially since bright colors could reflect on your skin.
Cozy sweaters layered over button ups are a great way to stay warm and stylish during the cooler months.
Wardrobe
for the gents
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Wardrobe
for the gents
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Rent the Runway
ASOS
Suit Supply
J. Crew
Zara
Leather & Cotton
Jack Threads
Frank & Oak
Nordstrom
Cuts
H&M
Urban Outfitters
Madewell
Lululemon
Everlane
Banana Republic
Mango
Reiss
Alex Mill
Untuckit
Amazon - GoodThreads
Bonobos
Abercrombie
Rag & Bone
shop my PRIME favorites
Kate Quinn
Zara Kids
Quincy Mae
Rylee & Cru
Noralee
Target - Cat & Jack, Art Class, Q by Quincy Mae
H&M Kids
Crew Cuts by J Crew
Roolee
Alice & Ames
Favorite Shops
Smallable
Fin and Vance
Little & Co.
Briar Baby
Jaime Kay
Childhoods Clothing
Spearmint Love
Gap
Old Navy
Boden
Hanna Andersson
for the kids
shop my PRIME favorites
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It’s typical for me to schedule two session dates. A primary date and a back up rain date. Having two dates helps me make sure that your photos happen in a timely manner. (Especially if you are on vacation.) Coordinating schedules can be tough and I've found that the best way to make sure our families get the look they have in mind for their photos is to schedule two dates. (If you need a specific time on the back up date please make sure you let me know, as I schedule multiple sessions and can help squeeze in back up rain dates).
I'll check in the a few days before of your session to confirm the time & location we’re meeting and I typically check the weather the day before since Florida weather changes hourly. I know it takes a lot of time to get ready for session and it’s the worst to get dressed up and drive out to your session only to have it rain. Let me know what works best for your family, (If you would rather try and get your session in or if you would rather not chance it.) but if the weather looks like it won’t be great, we typically try to make the call at least 12 hours in advance.
Inclement Weather
what to do if it rains
When it comes to posing for your session, you don’t need to worry about a thing! I'll guide you through the entire process beginning with “poses” that are super easy and natural. If I tell you to do something that feels a little funny, it’s probably because we know it’s going to make everyone laugh - and that’s the photo I'm actually looking for.
Throughout your session, I'll keep an eye on your hair, makeup and outfits to make sure things stay in place. If it is really windy we do like to go with it for the most part. We want you to feel as relaxed as possible and enjoy your time together!
"What do I do with
my hands"?
"What do I do
with my hands"?
POSING
FEEL FREE TO LAUGH AND KEEP MOVING
Lift your arm off your body
When sitted, sit on the edge of the chair
Let me know if you have a "side"
DON'T TUCK YOUR CHIN, PULL CHIN AND EARS FORWARD
I know that some family members just happen to be furry and I love when families choose to incorporate pets into their session. Keep in mind that bringing a pet along often means that we’ll need to choose a pet friendly location.
We recommend planning for your pet to be at the first part of your session and having a friend take them home. I won’t use the pet in every single photo so it’s also nice to have someone available to hold him or her in between shots.
If you’re going to bring a pet, I recommend exercising your pet before the session and bringing your pets favorite toy or treats! Depending on your pet’s fur type, it might also be a good idea to groom them before the shoot.
Managing
furry ones
Lake Louisa State Park $
Bok Tower Gardens $
Wekiva Springs $
Pet Friendly Locations
Yes, you are welcome to print the images on your own. If you do this, I recommend making sure that the printer does not color correct the images (many automatically do this.) I also recommend looking for a high quality printer. While 10 cent prints sound great in theory, the cheaper printing quality often won’t do your images justice. Paper quality, color correction and a handful of other factors play a big role in the way your prints turn out. This is one of the reasons why we LOVE offering prints to our clients.
A:
Can I print the images on my own?
q:
While I don’t guarantee an exact number of images, I will make sure we capture your family thoroughly. Depending on your package most families should expect to receive at least 75 edited images following their session. If your images include a set number of images you get to choose your files from your gallery of edited images.
A:
How many images will I receive?
q:
I guarantee that your images will remain in an online gallery for at least 6 months. While your galleries may stay up longer than that, we cannot guarantee it. Once your galleries have been delivered, I highly recommend downloading all high resolution images to several devices. Consider investing in a portable, waterproof external hard drive.
A:
How long will I have access to the images?
q:
While turnaround times can vary by season, I aim to deliver all images within two and a half weeks of your session. (But sometimes I am quicker, especially when both kiddos are in school)
A:
When will I receive my images?
q:
You are absolutely welcome to share images on social media. To ensure that my work is properly represented, I ask that you refrain from any edits. We also appreciate image credits and tags as they help us to continue to grow as a business.
IG @heyportrayable
A:
Can I share the images on social media?
q:
By default, the creators of images always own the rights to the images. However I'll give you a release to use, print and share your images. The only thing you won’t be able to do is sell your image as a stock photo. I won’t do this either without your written permission.
A:
Do I own the rights to the images?
q:
Depending on your package I typically plan about 60-90 minutes for sessions. While we likely don’t need to be shooting this entire time, this does give us the flexibility for location changes, rowdy kids and time to warm up. But if you need a quicker session because you know your family might not last that long feel free to just let me know.
A:
How long should we plan for the session to take?
q:
I do light retouching on all of our images. This means that if there are any glaring objects that should be removed (such as a bump from the tumble your toddler took that morning,) I’ll remove it. Larger edits (such as removing tan lines,) require more time and would require us to add additional editing hours to your collection.
A:
Will you retouch our images?
q:
As soon as possible after your session is complete, I’ll back up your images and begin the editing process. Unless I have a holiday closure or family emergency, you can expect to receive your edited, digital images between 2-3 weeks after your session.
Your Images
When to Expect
I'm a big believers that images aren’t meant to solely exist in a digital space. One day, most likely, Instagram will be gone, your phone will be replaced and images that you can physically hold in your hand will be the best way to remember those precious moments I captured.
Think about this fact: twenty years ago, if I had delivered you digital images, they would have been on a floppy disk. With the fast updates to technology, you would have no way to access those images today. Even the online galleries I deliver will eventually fade away.
But prints? Those last. I bet your family still has images from your grandparents (maybe even great grandparents.) And that was likely from a time period when cameras were expensive and prints were harder to come by.
Bring Your Images to Life with
prints
Perfect for those who value legacy. These heirloom albums are a great way to house a large number of images in a beautiful way. Leave them on display as coffee table books or protect them with a legacy box.
Albums
My framed and matted prints are the perfect way to fill your walls with memories. With a variety of frames to choose from, I'll help you select the perfect image pairings for your space. Plus the prints can be changed out easily
Prints & Wall Art
Details for ordering will be delivered with your gallery
Easy to hang and easy to change out. Canvases are one of my favorite ways to decorate a space. They also work great on little easels placed around the home.
Canvases
Newborn
You’ve likely realized this by now, but babies can be a bit messy. It’s always a good idea for all members of the family to plan an extra outfit just in case.
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This is a season when you might not quite feel like yourself. A fresh outfit you feel good in goes a long way. I've found longer, a-line dresses that are nursing friendly are often the most flattering. Brands like Petal and Pup and Morning Lavender tend to have quite a few of these at affordable prices. Session days are also a good day to take others up on that offer to help. You are one hard working mama and if you have time to nap, shower and get ready in peace, you’re going to love these images a lot more.
Dear Mama,
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While your entire house doesn’t need to look like it’s ready for Pinterest, I do recommend cleaning up the nursery and any places you think I might shoot. This might include your bed, the couch or a spot in your home with beautiful natural light. (Feel free to text me images of your spaces if you want, not necessary at all.) But truly, that's all you need to prep. I know you're in the throes of newborn life and I won't judge the pile or dishes in the sink or baby paraphernalia that has suddenly taken over the house.
Preparing your home
backup Outfits
Feed and change your little one’s diaper right before I arrive. This helps ensure that they are ready to go as soon as we arrive. However due to the tiny size of their tummies, it’s also likely that they’ll need another feed (and maybe a diaper change) during the shoot.
Please don’t worry about pausing the session to feed your little one. This is normal! I plan extra time for newborn sessions.
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Preparing your Baby
If I’ll be photographing the newest members of your family, the following tips below will help ensure everyone is happy throughout the session.
Here's a link to my FULL Newborn Portrait Guide
Newborns
a note about
“We didn’t realize we were making memories, we just knew we were having fun.”
Seniors
I know, easier said than done but don't worry. Everyone needs time to warm up to the camera, to see how I pose and guide you throughout the session. Let me know if you have a favorite "Side" or things to avoid while I shoot. Movement is our friend here. So I will ask you to do some prompts and fun moments throughout your whole session.
Don't feel stressed
03
You don't need to have a ton of outfits, but feel free to bring outfits that show off your personality, your hobbies, etc. For your session day feel free to have a garment bag to hold all your outfits.
Also feel free to share your pinterest or any inspiration portraits too with me.
Preparing your outfits
Senior portraits are very fun to capture. Because I am capturing this amazing time in someone's life. It is the springboard moment to the next level. So with your senior session please think about what makes you, YOU! Add in your likes, hobbies, favorite things. Because that helped you become the person you are.
Fun props: Sport balls, books, cap and gowns, multiple outfits, your family pet, your car, favorite sunglasses, etc.
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01
Preparing your session
If I’ll be photographing this wonderful milestone in your child's life, First I am honored. The following tips below will help for a custom session.
Seniors
a note about
If you have booked an extended family session (more than one household, grandparents, etc), I have a few tips to help make photographing this larger group a bit easier on everyone.
Extended Family Sessions
Tips for larger groups
Please send ME all family groupings ahead of time so that while I'm shooting, we understand who should be photographed together.
While you don’t need to draw Me a family tree (although bonus points if you do!) something like this would work well:
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Grandma - Jean
Grandfather - Max
Sam (son of Jean + Max) and Tina.
Their Kids: Jason (10), Julianne (5) and Jack (2)
Elizabeth (son of Jean + Max) and Paul
Their Kids: Austin (9) and Claire (6)
When it comes to choosing outfits for larger families, I recommend coordinating with one another ahead of time. Photographs typically come out best when families choose a color palette or a few colors over wearing the exact same thing (think: the white polo and khaki photo uniform of the 90’s.)
Outfits that feel a bit special (your “Sunday best”) but that you still feel comfortable in generally result in the best images.
If you need any advice in this area, just let us know!
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When it comes to choosing a location for larger groupings, there are a few extra elements to keep in mind. Locations should be easy to access, limit walking and be safe for young children.
While I can get away with shooting small families in a downtown setting, for larger families, we’ll need a bit of space to spread out. Family homes with larger yards (and open shade), parks and outdoor settings typically work best for extended families.
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Following the session, I'll deliver a gallery with the edited images. Please let me know ahead of time who should have access to this gallery. If you send me a list of the email addresses, I can set those up at the time of delivery to give all necessary parties access.
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Entire family
Grandparents + Their children
Grandparents + Their children + spouses
Child A + Child B
Grandparents + Child A + Child A’s Family
Grandparents + Child B + Child B’s Family
Child A + Child A’s Family
Child A + Spouse
Child A’s Kids
Child A + kids
Child A spouse + kids
Individual photos of all members of Child A’s Family
Child B + Child A’s Family
Child B + Spouse
Child B’s Kids
Child B + kids
Child B spouse + kids
Individual photos of all members of Child B’s Family
Example Extended Family Shot List
Please note that this list is just a starting point and that we're happy to take any requested family portraits as long as time allows!
I know that this guide is long and hopefully it covers everything you need to know to prep for your portrait session. However if there is something I missed, or you need a recommendation feel free to email me.
info@portrayablePhotography.com