Couples Session Guide
Welcome!
In this guide you'll find examples for outfits, what to expect during our session, and tips on how to prepare. With these tips, I'm sure you'll get the best out of your photoshoot.
I'm so excited to be working with you and I can’t wait for our time together during your session! It’s normal to be a little nervous about your session. I always tell people that I still get nervous before having my photo taken, and I do this for a living!
I love couples sessions for a few reasons. They give you a good excuse to get all dressed up and spend some quality time together, provide you with lots of opportunities for hugs and kisses, and gives you memories to cherish! I love to make your session like your own date night, and want it to be fun and meaningful for you!
After your session I will cull and edit your photos. Your gallery is typical ready within 2-3 weeks of your session. You will receive a link to your private gallery, then it's time to enjoy them.
Prepare for your session
Be Excited
Forget all your worries and focus on the memorable moment you will have with your significant other. We will be romantic, a bit silly, and take time to capture the two of you. I know having photos done can be nerve-wracking but try to come excited to capture your love story.
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Plan Your Outfits
Plan your clothes in advance. Make sure that everyone is comfortable with what you will wear. If you have any questions about how to coordinate, check out some tips below. Wear something that makes you confident and comfortable!
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Inspiration
Do you have a Pinterest board or other inspo you want to share? Don’t hesitate, send it my way! If there are a few special poses or ideas that you would really like us to try to to incorporate, do let me know and we’ll try to work it in. If you have no idea that is ok too! I plan ahead for all my sessions and have plenty of ideas and prompts.
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Hair, Makeup, & Nails
Consider whether or not you want your hair, makeup, or nails done professionally or just do it yourself. If you do it yourself make sure not to try new techniques or styles the day of the session. Maybe even do a trial run before your session.
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Music
I find at most of my sessions it makes everyone a bit more comfortable if we have some music going. I bring a portable speaker and we can listen to anything you want. If you have a favorite Spotify playlist send it to me. If you don’t you can always tell me the artists/genres you like and I can play those.
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Styling Tips
You might be tempted to go out and buy a whole new outfit but you might consider wearing some of your favorite pieces that you already have. Feeling comfortable in your clothes is going to make such a huge difference to how you act in front of the camera. Wearing something that you already know you love will give you that boost of confidence that you might need! When picking outfits I recommend trying to complement each other as opposed to matching. It can be a great idea to choose “color-families,” such as pastels or jewel tones. Bring a few accessories if you'd like! Statement necklaces, cute shoes, hats, and classic watches are great ways to add detail to outfits.
Check out the tips below!
For more inspo check out my Pinterest Board here
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When choosing outfits for your family session, neutral colors, earth tones, rich colors, and pastels are great options. Rich colors such as burnt orange, mustard yellow, dark green, terracotta red. For earth tones, I love blush, ivory, sage green, khaki, ivory, dusty blue, terracotta and some warm greys. Mixing this color tones are totally fine. Color gives your photos a pop so do not be afraid to add color!
Try to avoid overly bright colors (bright red, neons, etc.)
Coordinating colors rather than matching outfits will make the images feel natural and cohesive.
Need some color pallet inspo? I created a Pinterest Board full of great color pallets.
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Breathable materials like cotton, linen, or soft knits work well and allow for ease of movement. Avoid overly busy patterns or logos that could be distracting in the final images.
Adding patterns and texture can add depth to your photos as well. It could be a lace dress, detailing on a shirt/pants, tweed, chambray, faux fur and wool. Prints are okay as long as they are not fine stripes.
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Layering adds depth and variety to your photos, making outfits more interesting and versatile. Consider light sweaters, jackets, scarves, or shawls that can be easily removed or added for different looks. This works especially well in outdoor sessions where temperatures can change.
Simple accessories can add a personal touch without overpowering the image. Avoid overly bright or flashy accessories that might take attention away from the faces in the photo.
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Spring & Summer
When planning a spring or summer family session, it’s always best to aim for lighter colors like neutrals, earthy pastels (light greens, light blues, blush) and subtle spring patterns. These colors just work well with blooming flowers and lush green landscapes. I also suggest reaching for lighter/flowy fabrics like linens that give off an effortless look.
Fall & Winter
When planning a Fall or Winter session, It’s time to get cozy and pick out earthy tones, and deeper classic fall colors like maroon, burnt red, forest green, and dark denim items. Choose pieces that have heavier textures like knits, corduroy, and layers.
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What you wear for a photoshoot on the beach might be very different than what you’d wear to a session in a downtown urban setting, for example. You want to be comfortable in whatever location you choose, especially if a lot of walking is involved. Keep in mind the colors of that location too.
Consider the shoes you will wear and if they will be ideal for the location we are at
What to Pack
Extra clothes, not necessary every session but sometimes its nice to have just incase.
Any hair or makeup products for touching up
Snacks and water are great to have on hand.
Anything special to you guys that you want included in your photos.
Timeline
Book your Session
Once you've decided on the of session you'd like, we'll pick a date, time, and location that works best for your family. A retainer secures your spot, and I'll provide all the details to help you prepare.
Photo Day
The big day is here! We'll focus on creating a relaxed, fun atmosphere where you both feel comfortable. You’re not expected to show up knowing how to pose, smile, or act a certain way. That’s my job. Your job? Just be yourself. I’ll guide you every step of the way with simple prompts and natural directions so you don’t feel stiff or awkward. I want to make sure I capture that genuine connection between you so I keep my prompts open but offer enough direction to keep you from feeling lost at any point.
Select Your Favorites
After the session, you'll receive a private online gallery with lightly edited proofing images. Take your time selecting your favorites for your final gallery. All chosen images will be fully edited and high quality. You are able to upgrade your gallery if you can’t narrow down your favorites.
If you booked The Keepsake Session you will skip this step.
Receive Your Photos
Once your selections are finalized, I'll take care of the finishing touches. You'll receive your digital images, ready to be cherished and display in your home for years to come. Print orders can be made right from your gallery through professional print labs and shipped directly to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
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I can! And guess what? You don’t have to look at the camera for the entire session if you don’t want to! That is one of the best things about lifestyle photography, you just forget I am there and focus on each other.
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If we haven’t had a chance to talk about location yet please check out my location guide HERE.
We can discuss which types of locations fit your vision and work together to pick the perfect spot.
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I keep my eye on the weather leading up to all session. If the weather looks iffy I will send you a text or email. Depending on the forecast, we may shift the time or location to work around the weather. If Mother Nature is against us, we will reschedule for a time and date that works for us both.
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Pets of all kinds are welcome at our sessions. Dogs must be leashed if we are in a public space. Please let me know ahead of time if you plan to bring a pet to our session. Some locations I use are not pet friendly.