Preparation is everything.  Arriving with all your ducks in a row, can make the move from shutter to print a far smoother process and the results and undeniably better.

Lets Start with the basics

What to wear?

The first message is to avoid patterns, logos and big designs.  You don’t want the focus of your photos switched from you or your family to Uncle Bob’s bright pink shirt with yellow spots and green stripes.  Even a subtler pattern can create a bleed or fuzzy effect on camera – so steer clear!

Logos and big character clothing can easily distract again, but they also date your photographs.  The 5 year old with an Elsa shirt may love it now, but then a month later it’s all about Belle.

Picking a simple range of colours for you family can ensure a well balanced pic; whether thats pastels, earth tones, monochrome or anything – that palette can set make all the difference.  Darker bottoms and black shoes can go a long way to bring the focus to your faces. 

The last thing, is wherever possible make sure you’re comfortable.  If you’re fidgeting because your high heels are hurting, or your top button is just too tight – it’s going to show in the pics and make them a little less special.

A little more about specific shoots

Maternity Shoots

34 weeks is a good time to book your photoshoot – as the belly is nice and round.   We have some maternity gowns and props available for you to use, but feel free to bring anything you’d like to use.

Many people like to bring an ultrasound photo or baby shoes/socks to pose for photos with – so make sure you remember those.  If you know the gender, some mothers like a pink or blue handprint on the belly too.

For best results, aim for a natural look – minimal make up and simple hair.  If you have any concerns about roots, spots or dark circles – give Roz a call to discuss how your photos can be edited after instead of piling on concealers.

Newborn Shoots

Without doubt, the most precious resource in a newborn shoot is patience.  Everything runs on a schedule of someone less than 14 days old, so wont necessarily be a fast or smooth operation.

Getting baby ready is a minor process.  Trimmed nails and clean skin is about the sum of it. 

Family Studio & Lifestyle Shoots

This may sound counterproductive – but try not to practise smiles with young ones too much.  They can get to the point where they’re forcing a grimace in trying to give the perfect smile.  We try hard to have fun on shoots, so let those smiles come naturally

If you’re doing an outdoor shoot, make sure you know where you want the photoshoot to take place.  Be conscious of backgrounds and if weather might be an issue.  Naturally dress for the season, being uncomfortable (whether too hot or cold) will effect your photos.

Cake Smash

This is a messy shoot – do not try to prevent that, it’s entirely impossible!  But the messy is part of the fun and generates many giggles which make for wonderful photographs.  Bring a couple of outfits (and baby wipes!) to your shoot, along with any props or birthday balloons/signs you’d like to use.  There’s no real rules to which cake you can get – naturally one the child will want to get into, but aside from that you’re safe.  Many children find it easier to get into the frosting style decorations as opposed to hard fondant or royal icing.

Hopefully this all helps!  Always get in touch if you have any questions – but the final message has to be this: be yourself! Your natural self makes for a far nicer photo.