Client Guide

What to

Expect

In this guide I will help go over what you’ll need to know to make the most out of your session, as well as some information about the process.

I want to make sure the end result is a set of beautiful images that are an honest reflection of your family. This guide will help you prepare for your upcoming session. You will find details on choosing a location, styling tips, and what to expect during and after your session.

My goal for my sessions is to take a lifestyle photography approach. This means I am focusing on capturing the true spirit and emotion of your family. You can expect some lightly posed

After your session, I will be working hard behind the scenes to create your final gallery. The final gallery usually take about 4-6 weeks.

What to wear

The question I’m asked most often before a session is “What should we wear for our photos?” The most important thing when you’re choosing your outfits is that you all feel comfortable. Neutrals are the most common look and always work.

Your clothing should reflect your family style!

Ladies

i suggest neutral or earthy tones. Textures always work well and you cannot go wrong with linen. Longer flowy dresses, jeans and a baggy jumper.

I would avoid, big prints and huge florals.

Gents

avoid the business look. This includes white collared shirts.

I would suggest loose linen shirts or a plain tee. Chinos, shorts or linen pants. I want you to also be comfortable, so if a shirt is going to restrict you from throwing your little one up in the air, of your pants are going to be soaking from the ocean, don’t wear them. Earthy tones are always great. Black or grey tees are timeless.

Kids

Don’t make them wear something they hate. if you have a toddler, I would suggest a nappy cover or overalls, so the nappy cannot be seen. Tees and shorts for the boys and plain dresses or tutus for the girls.

Overwhelmed with what colours to choose?

Start by picking a palette of 3-4 colors. Let this be your starting place. When putting together your palette, think in terms of tones: earth tones, neutrals, pastels, etc. Think about tones that you like, as well as colors that look great on you. You know what looks best with your hair and skin tones.

Coordinate and don't match

Colours

Layering

Be Comfortable

Summer /Spring Colours

Fit your outfit to your locations

Autumn/Winter Colours

Choose colors that complement each other but are not overly matchy-matchy. For example, avoid wearing the same color top as your spouse or putting your kids in the same matching dresses. By selecting a color scheme and using hues that complement each other, you can achieve a more natural look across the board.

Try to avoid bright and bold colours. I also encourage not to add large logos on clothing.

Layers are a great way to introduce some depth and variety to your outfits, as we can shoot the base outfit both with and without the added layer. In the cold months (autumnl + winter), adding layers to your outfits always looks stunning in portraits! A sweater with a flannel underneath paired with a vest + statement necklace or scarf adds so much dimension to your images and makes for super fun posing options! Even in the warmer months (spring + summer) you can add these layers + dimension by wearing a tank top with a cute sheer cardigan or by throwing a denim vest over a dress! Layers also offer variety in posing and movement. Using Pinterest boards for inspiration is your best-friend.

Always keep your session location in mind when choosing your outfit. Are you going to be on the beach where there are plenty of neutral tones or under a tree surrounded by bright fall foliage? Select a colour palette for your outfits that will complement the setting. Pick out items of clothing in colors that will complement your background and not compete with it.

Accessories

Adding some fun accessories for a few shots can work. I love the look of hats. Some people also like to do some retro sunnies or even bring a few props. Think of what your family love e.g. surfing, skateboards, roller blades and even swimmers for the hot days and the end of the session, who doesn’t want to get in the water.

If there are pieces in your closet that make you feel self-conscious or uncomfortable, don’t include them in your family session! Additionally, we will most likely be sitting on the ground, laying down, walking and doing other things that could be difficult if your clothing is uncomfortable!

Plan your outfits in advance

I always recommend you try on your outfit before the day. The more time you allow yourself to plan your outfits, the less stressed you’ll be. Plus, it never hurts to have options especially when you’re dressing your kids.

Hair And Makeup

Light makeup with work for the session as I love you to look as natural as can be. if you are a mumma that does her nails, make sure they are painted.

Client Wardrobe

I have worked hard to hand select what I think will work best for your session and also make you feel good

Most of the dresses are bump friendly, but will also look flattering on anyone.

If you cannot find something in my wardrobe that you like, I also have a discount code for Mama Rentals. Use “Serenajones” at the checkout.

I cannot wait to see you what you select!

Session information

The session day

It’s the day of your session! Pack up all of your outfits, shoes and accessories and meet at the designated meeting point. Make sure to eat (hungry subjects aren’t happy subjects).

I will guide you through everything and show you poses and more. You don’t have to be nervous! It is my time to make sure you are having the best experience possible and capture you and your family. This is where we have so much fun, laugh and get the best photos possible.

Location

Choose a location that fits in with who you are as a family. Your location should speak to your personalities. i generally like to stick to locations that where we can get a good sunrise or sunset, not to far to walk to and easy parking.

When you are thinking of a location, do not choose the beach if your kids don’t like sand or a filed if they don’t like the grass,