You might feel clueless and that's okay - this is for you! This blog post is meant to better prepare you to book the session of your dreams and plan it out to run smoothly.
1. Choose The Type of Portraits You Want
Some types of portraits might include...
Family Session (3+ Members)
Dog Portraits (yes, I do those and they're awesome!)
Senior Portraits (high school seniors)
Graduation Portraits (college grads)
Professional Headshots
Modeling Portfolio (these can vary)
Engagement Portraits
Maternity Portraits
Newborn Portraits
Boudoir Portraits
Creative Freedom (collaborate with the photographer to put together a really creative shoot)
Generally, you should already know what you're going for in terms of the type of shoot you want, but make sure to let your photographer know, as it can drive them in the right direction for location, poses, and even editing.
2. Full Session vs. Mini-Sessions
You might be wondering why this decision is so important - there's a huge difference between the two!
Generally, a photographer considers a Full Session as a 45 min - 1 Hr. Photoshoot while a Mini-Session can be anywhere from 15 min - 30 min.
Full Sessions can yield a lot more images if the shoot goes well. With an hour to shoot, photographers often offer 2 or more locations and even multiple wardrobe changes. With these variables added, the photographer can take up to 3x as many photographs than in a mini-sessions, which is why it's important to choose one. Do you just want some simple photos of you and the kids or do you want to go all out with a gallery that will last longer? These shoots are more costly due to the increased amount of shooting and editing time, but I think it's worth it to go all in.
Mini-Sessions are definitely mini. These shoots are usually only going to yield between 5-15 final images (sometimes more!) and are more suited for those who don't want to spend too much to get some annual photos or might just want some good ones to hang on the wall. Don't have much free time in your schedule? Perfect. These sessions are meant to be for the more flexible folk and photographers sometimes even schedule multiple mini-sessions in one day, at one location, to make it more efficient for everyone involved.
3. Meeting or Consultation With The Photographer
Not all photographers require this, but it's usually preferred! Whether it's via call, coffee date, video conference or maybe just emailing back and forth, photographers love when they're on the same page as their client. We are visual storytellers and our passion is creating a gallery of images that brings the client to tears of joy so it's really critical to go over different ideas to make sure everything is aligned.
Things You Might Discuss:
Poses or Group Arrangements: Have a big family or some young kiddos? It's great to prep your photographer on these things because you can have a game plan for when to photograph who, where to position someone or if you want to do individual family units. Are you insecure about some parts of your silhouette or side of your face? It's totally normal - we are here to make you shine and feel the best that you possibly can.
Wardrobe: Photographers are great at knowing what colors and tones often look best under certain lighting, in certain locations, etc. so don't be afraid to ask! If you have ideas that you want to bring to life- maybe your disco dress you found thrifting that you really want to a reason to rock- frickin' awesome. Let's put together a plan of when and where to make sure we make the most out of that dress. What about if you have a big group and don't want to clash colors? Usually, neutral tones are the way to go. But if that's not your style? Let's brainstorm and incorporate what is your style.
Location: Often, the photographer will have a couple of locations for the client to choose from or one location that they know really well. BUT, that doesn't mean that there aren't more to explore and find to fit who you are + the style of your shoot. If you know of a certain location you'd love to do a session in or maybe you drove by a really cool brick building - share that with your photographer!! We love finding new spots and genuinely collaborating with our clients when it comes to this stuff. There really isn't much more fulfilling to us.
4. Scheduling the Session Date + Back-Ups
Last, but most importantly, putting it on the calendar!! I know this seems obvious, but I think there are a few things to consider when booking.
When You're Booking The Date:
Choose a day of the week that you won't be rushing to get ready or to the shoot. Make sure you have plenty of time to get everyone dressed, hair ready and don't feel so stressed or overwhelmed. This can have a huge impact on how your shoot goes- plus you never want to be late!
It's best to shoot in the early (super early) morning or as the sun is setting (golden hour) if you're able to do a full session. If you're not able to do a shoot at those times, try to pick a day that it's not going to be 90+ degrees outside or full-on sun. Cloudy days are perfect for even lighting but even a shaded spot would be fine for this!
Let the photographer know if you would feel more comfortable setting up a 'back-up' date. There's probably a small charge for this, but it's worth it! If something comes up and you're not able to attend the original shoot, your photographer could reserve another date for you later on to use a back-up date if you need it. Life happens. It's okay!
That's it - you're all set! If you have any questions or suggestions for points to add, please reach out! I've been a photographer for over 8 years now and it's still a learning curve and always will be! I love learning new things about how other photographers run their businesses and even from the client side too!
Have a great week,
Sydnee Jo
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