Choose the colors.
Decide on what colors you feel good in and that go well with your home decor. I will always vote for neutral and earthy tones. But definitely stick to 3-4 colors that coordinate, not necessarily match.
Choose the outfits.
Choose mom's outfit first. Because we all know what happens if mama isn't happy.
Then find outfits in your coordinating colors for everyone else. Go for classic and simple as opposed to loud and trendy. A good mix of solids, textures, and maybe one minimal print or design works well. Please don't forget to give special attention to shoes. They can make or break your photos. Stick with solid, neutral, classic styles and make sure they are clean and polished.
Make the appointments.
When you are investing in a photo session, it's important to look and feel good. Schedule hair appointments 1-2 weeks out from your session, and maybe even treat yourself to a nail & makeup appointment the day of your session.
Mentally prepare the family.
Create a positive vibe around your session. Telling everyone how important this session is to you or pressuring everyone to make sure they behave and smile when they get there is not going to get you the smiles you want. Let them know you are all going to just have some time to cuddle and laugh and relax once you get there. I would even promise everyone a treat afterward, like going to get ice cream or tacos or whatever excites your people.
Have everything ready the night before.
Iron or steam the outfits and hang them. Gather all of the shoes and accessories for each outfit. Grab neutral toys and pacifiers and snacks or bribes. Have everything by the door or in the car. You do not want to be scrambling the day of your session while you're trying to get out the door. Oh, and make sure there is gas in the car.
Check hair, skin, and nails.
Make sure hair is brushed, skin is clean and moisturized, and nails are manicured.
Feed your people.
Make sure all bellies involved have food in them before you arrive. A hangry dad or child is never a good thing. Bring extra snacks for back up.
Leave 20 minutes before you need to.
Map out your location the night before and plan to leave at least 20 minutes before you need to to allot for traffic and getting settled once you are there.
Breathe.
Once you're there, you've done all you can do and it's time to just relax and let what happens happen. Let go of perfection and stressing over smiles, and just be with your people. Love on them, breathe them in, and be in the moment.
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