I'm so excited to meet you soon!
Just a few more days!
Just in case we haven't met, I thought it would be a good idea to put a face with my name. When you arrive for your mini-session, I'll make sure it's easy to find me. Just park in the gravel lot at Kiesel Park (520 Chadwick Ln, Auburn, AL 36832) and walk through the white fence to the right. I don't look *exactly* like this when I'm working (9.5/10 chance my hair will be in a claw clip), but maybe this helps, haha!
Just a few reminders...
Be on time.
Your session time slot is just 15 minutes long. I promise that is plenty long enough to create beautiful images of your family, but I know especially with kids it can be hard to get anywhere on time. Because these sessions are scheduled back-to-back, I can't let yours run over, so please be on time or early!
If you get to your session early enough, I'll have some coloring pages for the littles!
Be prepared.
Here's the true Momtographer pro-tip. If you have a kid under the age of 2-3 years old (or maybe even older!), I recommend changing their clothes AFTER you arrive. There's an open restroom that is always clean and is plenty big enough to change in. If you put a 2 year old in the car and drive for 20 minutes in a cream-colored top...they're going to have a huge stain on it. I don't know how it happens, you don't know how it happens, and I'm pretty sure even Emily Caladrelli doesn't have the answer, but it will happen.
Be ready to have fun.
Babies cry. Kids have rough days. I'm a mom, so I totally get it! I promise your little isn't the first one to hate posing for pictures. I'll try so hard to get one Christmas-card-worthy photo with everyone looking, but if it isn't happening, we'll play some games or try something else to shift the mood.
After your session, I'll have some treats for the littles, so be sure to grab those on your way out!
What to wear?
I know this is always the most challenging part of planning, so let me give you a few steps to follow.
- Start with Mom. Ladies, you know you're the most critical of yourself. You put yourself last almost every day because you're a fantastic parent and wife. But this is me giving you permission to think of yourself first. You have to wear something you love and are comfortable in. There aren't as many choices for the guys anyway, and you think your kids are beautiful in anything. Start with yourself. My personal favorite is a flowy, forgiving dress that shows movement and is easy to walk and sit in.
- Choose a solid. Solid colors and soft patterns are much better than bold patterns because they keep the focus on your faces and your connection with your loved ones. If you choose to use patters, I recommend keeping it to one person and let the others wear solids. I highly recommend a combination of neutrals (cream, blush, beige) and/or deep, rich jewel tones like navy, plum, or burnt orange. Bright, cherry red and neon colors like lime green and hot pink don't photograph as well.
- Hair and makeup. Don't be afraid to ask a friend or your stylist for help getting ready! You'll want to wear a non-smudging lipstick and a little more blush and mascara than your everyday look.
- Coordination. When dressing everyone else, choose outfits that coordinate, but don't get too matchy-matchy. Keep your clothes equally formal or casual. My personal preference is to avoid plaid and opt for solid colors instead.
- Style. I always recommend dressing up. Khakis or slacks are perfect if mom is in a dress, but if your boys are 110% a jeans only, that's okay too. We want them to be comfortable and have fun. A button down with rolled sleeves and a nice pair of jeans can look great. Don't forget to plan shoes! If you have it, choose something a little nicer than running shoes, and remember to switch your smart watch for a dress watch or bracelet.
- Ask me. If you're not sure about something you've chosen, send me a picture. Here's my number: 256-397-9698.
Here are a few photos so you can get a visual!
Tl;dr.
I promise this is going to be easy and fun. Wear something that makes you feel comfortable, keep smiling even if the kiddos aren't on their best behavior, and just enjoy the moment! Send me a text, give me a call, or shoot me an email if you have any questions. I can't wait to see you!