Limit the number of people coming to your shoot and consider who you are bringing.

- Assertive yet well meaning relatives who want to “come along” can sometimes take over a shoot easily overwhelming a child making them feel the pressure to perform. Children photograph best when they can pay attention to one person or when they are unaware of the camera and can just play.
- Feel welcomed to bring anyone that would be a help to you, especially in getting out and in the door or on location with your children. I have a comfy sofa area where they can sit and enjoy the shoot.

Clothing

- Think about clothing at least a week in advance to make sure everyone has time to find what they need to add to the mood of the shoot.
- Simple solids are best for a classic and artistic look. It is best to avoid patterns, character shirts/ties and trendy styles – unless you are a senior looking for that cool time warp look.
- For black and white film, think in terms of light and dark tones and that everyone is matched top to bottom for a cohesive image. i.e. dark tops – light bottoms, or light tops – dark bottoms or light - light or dark – dark.. Avoid mid tones which can blend in with skin tones.
- Shoes for children are fine if they are clean (check the soles) and simple. Babies and pre-schoolers in bare feet are more appealing.

Relax

- Try to be in an “unhurried” frame of mind and limit the amount of activity the day of the shoot to help you and your child arrive fresh and ready.
- Be sure that everyone being photographed is rested before the shoot. If your child ends up with an unexpected nap that runs into the shoot time, don’t worry about waking them just to get here. I am always open to shooting later that day if possible or rescheduling if needed.

Food and comfort items

- Be sure that you eat and your child is fed before the shoot. A hungry parent and/or child can make attentions wander and getting the shots we want more difficult.
- It’s o.k. to bring nibbles (raisins, fish crackers, etc.) for sudden crankiness. Bottle/breast feeding breaks are welcomed in the middle of the shoot if needed.
- If your child needs a comfort item, you are welcomed to bring one or two, as long as you don’t mind having them in the photo if they refuse to give them up. I also have a selection of toys, “lovies” and books, etc. at the studio.