How I work
Every family is different, so every shoot is different! But, generally, in the first few minutes (while the kids' attention spans are still somewhat fresh!), I will take some more 'posed' photos. After this, I will focus more on candid, natural photos and let the kids have fun and determine the direction of the shoot.
I keep the mood of the shoot light and playful - I will either be directing or running around after the kids and shooting - mostly a bit of both!
What to wear?
Do's
Neutrals like Khakis, Greys, Soft Whites
Softer colours like Mustard, Olive, Rust, etc
Soft/ fine patterns are fine
Try to have the whole family wear colours that compliment each other!
Dont's
Logos / slogans
Very bright colours
Stripes
Chunky patterns
DRESS RENTALS:
Lend Me The Dress
Juno Boutique
Dress My Bump
HAIR FLOWERS AND FLOWER CROWNS:
Keepsake Bouquets
https://keepsakebouquets.co.nz/flower-crowns/
Table Flower
https://tableflower.co.nz/dried-flower-crowns
Blossom
https://www.blossomweddingflowers.co.nz/hair-flowers
Tips for Adventure & Home Shoots
Toddlers / Adventure Shoots
- It is highly recommended to bring along a friend or grandparent who can help keep an eye, distract and coordinate (especially if you have more than one child)! This way you will be far more relaxed during the shoot.
- The camera picks up every detail - remember to wipe small noses and mouths before the shoot!
- Bring along some treats to be used as bribery leverage - this usually works a charm and we need every tool in our arsenal to keep a toddler's attention!
- A favourite toy, blanket, or book - to keep little minds and hands occupied and happy.
- In terms of 'props' - a picnic basket, sweet treats like cupcakes and fruit, toys like crayons, clay, magnifying glasses, plastic spades..! Perhaps bring along a favourite costume of theirs. Try to zone into what your toddler loves and what will help their personality shine!
- An outfit change in case of a disaster!
- Toddlers will be toddlers! The best tip is to relax and remember that I'm shooting to capture them as they are, and that the best shots are often impromptu.
Newborns / Home Shoots
- Tidy the house - we might end up shooting anywhere! Generally though, I look for rooms with big windows and lots of natural light.
- The camera picks up every detail - it's a good idea to wipe any milk mustaches before the session starts.
- Make sure the temperature in your house (or at least one room!) is at a warm and comfortable level for your babe - especially if you'd like some sweet nude portraits.
- Please feel free to breastfeed during the session - I can take some tender photographs of the moment, or alternatively leave the room if you'd like some privacy.
- If you'd prefer to have your baby sleeping for the photo session, try to keep her awake before the shoot (30 mins is great, aim for an hour), and do a big feed right before I arrive. This way Babe will be in her deepest and happiest sleep. A good way to keep them awake is a nice long sponge bath.
- A nude or light coloured diaper cover/ bloomer works wonders for photos!
- Consider laying out some lovely 'props' for me like a hat, baby blankets etc - I'll grab and use these as I shoot.
- If you're unsure of what to dress Babe in, you can have more than one outfit on standby. If we have time we could do an outfit change too.
- Feed your babe right before the photo session so that they will be full and happy.
