PORTRAIT session guide
capturing real life, real legacies
Bailey
I am so excited for your portrait session! Whether we’re capturing your sweet family, or celebrating a special milestone, I’m so honored to help you create memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
I’ve created this guide to help you get the most out of your photos! By the time you’ve read through this, you'll have all your questions answered and feel more than prepared for your session. Then I’ll take care of the rest! Your only job is to be yourself, laugh a lot, and let me create photos you’ll love forever. I can’t wait to get you in front of my camera!
Ready? Let’s do this :)
what every client
needs to know
what every client needs to know
what if the weather is terrible on our session date?
I will be monitoring the weather in the days leading up to our session together. If it looks like we’re going to encounter fowl weather I’ll contact you to discuss our options. We can either relocate to indoor locations or reschedule. No big deal!
i’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! where do i start?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
WE FEEL AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. CAN YOU HELP?
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS TERRIBLE ON OUR SESSION DATE?
I’M OVERWHELMED WITH IDEAS! WHERE DO I START?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
WE FEEL AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. CAN YOU HELP?
engagement session FAQ
portrait session FAQ
i’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! where do i start?
Let’s talk about all of those ideas swirling around in your head! I’m here to help you and offer expert advice on what outfits, accessories, and locations will look best for your photos. Seriously, hit me up with alllll the questions. No question is too small!
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS TERRIBLE ON OUR SESSION DATE?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
WE FEEL AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. CAN YOU HELP?
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS TERRIBLE ON OUR SESSION DATE?
I’M OVERWHELMED WITH IDEAS! WHERE DO I START?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
WE FEEL AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. CAN YOU HELP?
Absolutely not! All of these tips are meant to help guide you through the planning process for your engagement photos. By no means are they mandatory or required :) Let’s talk about what tips you like and we’ll create the perfect session plan for you!
portrait session FAQ
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
Absolutely not! All of these tips are meant to help guide you through the planning process for your engagement photos. By no means are they mandatory or required :) Let’s talk about what tips you like and don’t like and we’ll create the perfect session plan for you!
i’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! where do i start?
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS TERRIBLE ON OUR SESSION DATE?
WE FEEL AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. CAN YOU HELP?
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS TERRIBLE ON OUR SESSION DATE?
I’M OVERWHELMED WITH IDEAS! WHERE DO I START?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
WE FEEL AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. CAN YOU HELP?
Absolutely not! All of these tips are meant to help guide you through the planning process for your engagement photos. By no means are they mandatory or required :) Let’s talk about what tips you like and we’ll create the perfect session plan for you!
portrait session FAQ
i’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! where do i start?
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS TERRIBLE ON OUR SESSION DATE?
WE FEEL AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. CAN YOU HELP?
I’m here to help you navigate your session, starting with my style guide. During our session I’ll walk you through different prompts and games that bring out your most natural laughs and emotions so you won’t have to second-guess yourself for a second. My goal is to keep things feeling energized throughout our session so it feels effortless and fun!
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS TERRIBLE ON OUR SESSION DATE?
I’M OVERWHELMED WITH IDEAS! WHERE DO I START?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
WE FEEL AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. CAN YOU HELP?
I’m here to help you navigate your session, starting with my style guide. During our session I’ll walk you through different prompts and games that bring out your most natural laughs and emotions so you won’t have to second-guess yourself for a second. My goal is to keep things feeling energized throughout our session so it feels effortless and fun!
portrait session FAQ
QUESTION 5
Paragraph
i’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! where do i start?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! Where do I start?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS TERRIBLE ON OUR SESSION DATE?
I’M OVERWHELMED WITH IDEAS! WHERE DO I START?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
QUESTION 5
portrait session FAQ
My weekends fill up fast and far in advance. Schedule your session mid-week to ensure we can capture your session in your preferred season.
Plus, popular locations are far less crowded on weekdays. And what better use of an afternoon out of the office than spending it in love with your family?
SCHEDuLING pro tip!
We’ll begin your session as close to sunset as possible, during “the golden hour,” when the light is looking its absolute best and the most flattering for you!
I’ll help you determine the best time to begin your session, taking into consideration your session length and the time of sunset on your date.
golden hour = the best hour
typical session start times per season:
winter:
start between 3-4 PM
Spring:
start between 5-6 PM
SUMMER:
start between 6-7 PM
FALL:
start between 3-5 PM
setting the scene
For example, maybe you, or someone you know, can secure permission to a location that would otherwise be off-limits, like a beautiful private estate, sports stadium or uniquely Kansas City landmark. Maybe it’s a family farm, upscale hotel or even an airplane hangar. The sky is literally the limit! Spend a few minutes thinking about it and checking around. You’ll be surprised with what you come up with.
This is the time to think outside the box! I encourage you to brainstorm unique locations that you might have special access to that most people don’t.
If you get stuck or need inspiration, check out the lifestyle section of my blog and keep browsing through this guide.
I know some great go-to locations that we can always explore, too. Just let me know what types of backdrops you’d like, and we'll go from there!
inspiration awaits
When selecting your session location(s), think about what types of backdrops - or vibes - that stand out to you. Parks and gardens are gorgeous natural backdrops.
When brainstorming, think about locations or landmarks that are meaningful to you!
choosing your locations
location, location, location
For example, maybe you, or someone you know, can secure permission to a location that would otherwise be off-limits, like a beautiful private estate, sports stadium or uniquely Kansas City landmark. Maybe it’s a family farm, upscale hotel or even an airplane hangar. The sky is literally the limit! Spend a few minutes thinking about it and checking around. You’ll be surprised with what you come up with.
This is the time to think outside the box! I encourage you to brainstorm unique locations that you might have special access to that most people don’t.
location, location, location
styling your session
The colors and outfits you choose will (quite literally!) set the tone for your photos.
I recommend sticking with lighter tones and more muted shades. By avoiding ultra-bright, bold colors, your images will focus more on you two and less on the outfits you're wearing.
choosing colors
most recommended colors:
pastel shades:
blues & pinks are most flattering for skin tones!
NEUTRALS:
whites, grays, blacks & khakis set the perfect foundation
colors to avoid!
Photographically speaking, not all colors are created equally.
Avoid deep gem tones, neons, purples, and hot pinks as they tend to be very distracting.
Do you want your images to look extra polished and editorial? Dig into the details!
Give your styling a little extra love for your session! A statement necklace, cute scarf, or perfect earrings can go a long way!
it's all in the accessories
when in doubt, dress it up
There is no such thing as “too dressed up” when it comes to your session, so don’t be afraid to have a little fun! Remember, these images are celebrating this milestone moment in your lives, and we want them to stand the test of time!
If you don’t want to add a new permanent piece to your collection, consider Rent the Runway so you don’t have to spend a lot to feel like a million bucks. Or splurge on that outfit you’ve been dying to add to your wardrobe!
Skip the spray tan! Although it might seem counter-intuitive, I recommend that you do not get a spray tan before your session, even a few days prior, because it tends to photograph orange even when it’s applied subtly and by a professional. Your actual skin tone will photograph the most beautifully, promise :)
pro tip!
Whether it’s lash extensions or blown-out hair, professional hair and makeup will give you an extra boost of confidence in front of the camera, and it always photographs like a dream.
If you need a recommendation for hair and makeup, I’ve worked with the best in the business and am happy to offer recommendations.
bring in the pros:
hair & Makeup
Every woman (me included!) has an area of her body that she’s self-conscious about.
Three-quarter length sleeves create an awesome slimming effect on all arms. Jackets double as cute accessories and "problem fixers" too. Skinny straps or strapless dresses have the opposite effect on arms on camera.
Closed-toed heels elongate women’s legs, making them look fabulous.
flattering your features
Long, flowy dresses and skirts look amazing on camera because they bring extra movement to your images. Cute, shorter-length dresses photograph beautifully as well.
Dresses and skirts also flatter your figure like none other! I recommend avoiding pants (definitely shorts!) and saying yes to a dress or two!
Dresses and skirts tend to look most stunning on camera because they really flatter your figure. I recommend avoiding pants and shorts for your session, and saying yes to a dress or two!
Long, flowy dresses and skirts look amazing on camera because they bring extra movement to your images. Cute, shorter dresses photograph beautifully as well.
say yes to the dress
styling tips for her
Suit pants, dress pants or colored pants work best. Brown leather dress shoes complement almost every look, from a full suit to a blazer and colored pants. Ties, bowties, pocket squares, fun socks, belts, tie clips, suspenders, vests and watches are sharp complements to any guy’s outfit.
Long pants and closed-toed shoes are the most sophisticated and masculine looks for men. They draw attention away from your legs and feet and place it where you want it: on the love you two share.
Long pants and closed-toed shoes are the most sophisticated and masculine looks for men. They draw attention away from your legs and feet and place it where you want it: on the love you two share.
Suit pants, dress pants or colored pants work best. Brown leather dress shoes complement almost every look. Ties, bowties, pocket squares, fun socks, belts, tie clips, suspenders, vests and watches are sharp complements to any guy’s outfit.
it's all in the details
Next time you walk by a store like J. Crew, you’ll notice the male mannequins and models are always wearing several layers at once. Layers on men look great on camera, so even when it’s hot outside, trust me when I say that it’s worth an hour or two of discomfort for photos that will last you both a lifetime.
Blazers and jackets up the level of any look. If the weather permits, even consider adding a v-neck sweater with a pop of color from a long-sleeved collared shirt and tie underneath.
layered looks
pro tip:
Solid shades of gray or navy are a strong complement to most women’s outfits, whereas pinstripes or plaid patterns tend to distract the eye.
From James Bond to Don Draper, men look most striking in a well-tailored suit. If you don’t have one, now’s the perfect time to invest in something you’ll wear for the rest of your life!
From James Bond to Don Draper, men look most striking & polished in a well-tailored suit.
If you don’t have one, now’s the perfect time to invest in something you’ll wear for the rest of your life!
nothing beats a suit
styling tips for him
prepping the little ones
If you have multiple children, don’t feel like you need to put them all in the same type of outfit. For example, one of your daughters could wear a dress and flats, while the other wears a skirt and boots. One of your sons could wear a bowtie, while the other one wears suspenders. Mixing up the wardrobe pieces will bring a great visual interest to the photos.
mixing up the pieces
As you’re coordinating your outfit with your family, keep in mind that your outfits will look the most cohesive on camera when the color palette and wardrobe pieces coordinate, but don’t actually “match.” In fact, I recommend that you avoid thinking about “matching,” and instead think about what “fits” together. This will create more visual interest, and allow each personality to shine through.
coordinating your crew
prepping your family
Before your session, pack a bag with snacks, water and any small objects (like toys or lollipops) that might help me get their attention when it’s time for them to look at the camera. If they are old enough to understand you, it’s a good idea to prepare them for what’s to come before the session starts. Explain how much the photos mean to you so they know to be on their best behavior. A lot of families discuss and pick something fun in advance as a treat after the session if they’re good listeners, like ice cream.
Once you prepare them physically and mentally, then feel free to give them (and you!) grace! They’re little, and I know that some days don’t always go as planned.
I’ve seen it all and will make sure to get you great photos, regardless of their moods. My goal is to make this as fun and stress-free as it possibly can be for you and your family!
give yourself some grace
after your session
Don’t forget to plan a fun rewarding activity after your session. I mean, you’re already going to be all dressed up! Why not take advantage of it?
Online gallery with all of your final, edited, high-resolution images
2 weeks after
Sneak peek of some of my favorite moments we captured together :)
1 day after
Start prepping your kiddos, finalize your outfits & accessories, and get your beauty rest!
1 day prior
Final email from Bailey compiling all of our plans (locations, schedule, weather report, etc.)
5 days prior
Secure session location with Bailey, start thinking about color palettes and outfits
4 weeks prior
session timeline
pre-session prep
-- Secure your date, time and location(s) with Bailey
session checklist
-- Review this style guide for tips
-- Schedule your hair/makeup
appointments
-- Select your outfits
-- Pack a bag with:
- flats or flip-flops for walking between
photo spots
- snacks & favorite toys for the kids
- makeup for touch-ups
- water bottle (for warmer sessions)
- coat or cover-up (for colder sessions)
-- See you soon!!
bailey
-- Pick a fun post-session activity
what if the weather is terrible on our session date?
I will be monitoring the weather in the days leading up to our session together. If it looks like we’re going to encounter fowl weather I’ll contact you to discuss our options. We can either relocate to indoor locations or reschedule. No big deal!
i’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! where do i start?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
WE FEEL AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. CAN YOU HELP?
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS TERRIBLE ON OUR SESSION DATE?
I’M OVERWHELMED WITH IDEAS! WHERE DO I START?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
WE FEEL AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. CAN YOU HELP?
engagement session FAQ
i’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! where do i start?
Let’s talk about all of those ideas swirling around in your head! I’m here to help you and offer expert advice on what outfits, accessories, and locations will look best for your photos. Seriously, hit me up with alllll the questions. No question is too small!
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS TERRIBLE ON OUR SESSION DATE?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
WE FEEL AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. CAN YOU HELP?
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS TERRIBLE ON OUR SESSION DATE?
I’M OVERWHELMED WITH IDEAS! WHERE DO I START?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
WE FEEL AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. CAN YOU HELP?
Absolutely not! All of these tips are meant to help guide you through the planning process for your engagement photos. By no means are they mandatory or required :) Let’s talk about what tips you like and we’ll create the perfect session plan for you!
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
Absolutely not! All of these tips are meant to help guide you through the planning process for your engagement photos. By no means are they mandatory or required :) Let’s talk about what tips you like and don’t like and we’ll create the perfect session plan for you!
i’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! where do i start?
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS TERRIBLE ON OUR SESSION DATE?
WE FEEL AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. CAN YOU HELP?
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS TERRIBLE ON OUR SESSION DATE?
I’M OVERWHELMED WITH IDEAS! WHERE DO I START?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
WE FEEL AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. CAN YOU HELP?
Absolutely not! All of these tips are meant to help guide you through the planning process for your engagement photos. By no means are they mandatory or required :) Let’s talk about what tips you like and we’ll create the perfect session plan for you!
i’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! where do i start?
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS TERRIBLE ON OUR SESSION DATE?
WE FEEL AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. CAN YOU HELP?
I’m here to help you navigate your session, starting with my style guide. During our session I’ll walk you through different prompts and games that bring out your most natural laughs and emotions so you won’t have to second-guess yourself for a second. My goal is to keep things feeling energized throughout our session so it feels effortless and fun!
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS TERRIBLE ON OUR SESSION DATE?
I’M OVERWHELMED WITH IDEAS! WHERE DO I START?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
WE FEEL AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA. CAN YOU HELP?
I’m here to help you navigate your session, starting with my style guide. During our session I’ll walk you through different prompts and games that bring out your most natural laughs and emotions so you won’t have to second-guess yourself for a second. My goal is to keep things feeling energized throughout our session so it feels effortless and fun!
QUESTION 5
Paragraph
i’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! where do i start?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! Where do I start?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS TERRIBLE ON OUR SESSION DATE?
I’M OVERWHELMED WITH IDEAS! WHERE DO I START?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my engagement photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
QUESTION 5
portrait session FAQ
My weekends fill up fast and far in advance. Schedule your session mid-week to ensure we can capture your session in your preferred season.
Plus, popular locations are far less crowded on weekdays. And what better use of an afternoon out of the office than spending it in love with your family?
SCHEDuLING pro tip!
We’ll begin your session as close to sunset as possible, during “the golden hour,” when the light is looking its absolute best and the most flattering for you!
I’ll help you determine the best time to begin your session, taking into consideration your session length and the time of sunset on your date.
golden hour = the best hour
typical session start times per season:
winter:
start between 3-4 PM
Spring:
start between 5-6 PM
SUMMER:
start between 6-7 PM
FALL:
start between 3-5 PM
setting the scene
Anamarie & David's session was at a vacation treehouse outside of Kansas City!
This is the time to think outside the box! I encourage you to brainstorm unique locations that you might have special access to that most people don’t. For example, maybe you, or someone you know, can access a beautiful private estate, sports stadium or uniquely Kansas City landmark.
Spend a few minutes thinking about it and checking around. You’ll be surprised with what you come up with.
For example, maybe you, or someone you know, can secure permission to a location that would otherwise be off-limits, like a beautiful private estate, sports stadium or uniquely Kansas City landmark. Maybe it’s a family farm, upscale hotel or even an airplane hangar. The sky is literally the limit! Spend a few minutes thinking about it and checking around. You’ll be surprised with what you come up with.
This is the time to think outside the box! I encourage you to brainstorm unique locations that you might have special access to that most people don’t.
Think outside the box
If you get stuck or need inspiration, check out the lifestyle section of my blog and keep browsing through this guide.
I know some great go-to locations that we can always explore, too. Just let me know what types of backdrops you’d like, and we'll go from there!
inspiration awaits
When selecting your session location(s), think about what types of backdrops - or vibes - that stand out to you. Parks and gardens are gorgeous natural backdrops.
When brainstorming, think about locations or landmarks that are meaningful to you!
choosing your locations
location, location, location
location, location, location
styling your session
The colors and outfits you choose will (quite literally!) set the tone for your photos.
I recommend sticking with lighter tones and more muted shades. By avoiding ultra-bright, bold colors, your images will focus more on you two and less on the outfits you're wearing.
choosing colors
most recommended colors:
pastel shades:
blues & pinks are most flattering for skin tones!
NEUTRALS:
whites, grays, blacks & khakis set the perfect foundation
colors to avoid!
Photographically speaking, not all colors are created equally.
Avoid deep gem tones, neons, purples, and hot pinks as they tend to be very distracting.
Do you want your images to look extra polished and editorial? Dig into the details!
Give your styling a little extra love for your session! A statement necklace, cute scarf, or perfect earrings can go a long way!
it's all in the accessories
when in doubt, dress it up
There is no such thing as “too dressed up” when it comes to your session, so don’t be afraid to have a little fun! Remember, these images are celebrating this milestone moment in your lives, and we want them to stand the test of time!
If you don’t want to add a new permanent piece to your collection, consider Rent the Runway so you don’t have to spend a lot to feel like a million bucks. Or splurge on that outfit you’ve been dying to add to your wardrobe!
Skip the spray tan! Although it might seem counter-intuitive, I recommend that you do not get a spray tan before your session, even a few days prior, because it tends to photograph orange even when it’s applied subtly and by a professional. Your actual skin tone will photograph the most beautifully, promise :)
pro tip!
Whether it’s lash extensions or blown-out hair, professional hair and makeup will give you an extra boost of confidence in front of the camera, and it always photographs like a dream.
If you need a recommendation for hair and makeup, I’ve worked with the best in the business and am happy to offer recommendations.
bring in the pros:
hair & Makeup
Every woman (me included!) has an area of her body that she’s self-conscious about.
Three-quarter length sleeves create an awesome slimming effect on all arms. Jackets double as cute accessories and "problem fixers" too. Skinny straps or strapless dresses have the opposite effect on arms on camera.
Closed-toed heels elongate women’s legs, making them look fabulous.
flattering your features
Long, flowy dresses and skirts look amazing on camera because they bring extra movement to your images. Cute, shorter-length dresses photograph beautifully as well.
Dresses and skirts also flatter your figure like none other! I recommend avoiding pants (definitely shorts!) and saying yes to a dress or two!
Dresses and skirts tend to look most stunning on camera because they really flatter your figure. I recommend avoiding pants and shorts for your session, and saying yes to a dress or two!
Long, flowy dresses and skirts look amazing on camera because they bring extra movement to your images. Cute, shorter dresses photograph beautifully as well.
say yes to the dress
styling tips for her
Suit pants, dress pants or colored pants work best. Brown leather dress shoes complement almost every look, from a full suit to a blazer and colored pants. Ties, bowties, pocket squares, fun socks, belts, tie clips, suspenders, vests and watches are sharp complements to any guy’s outfit.
Long pants and closed-toed shoes are the most sophisticated and masculine looks for men. They draw attention away from your legs and feet and place it where you want it: on the love you two share.
Long pants and closed-toed shoes are the most sophisticated and masculine looks for men. They draw attention away from your legs and feet and place it where you want it: on the love you two share.
Suit pants, dress pants or colored pants work best. Brown leather dress shoes complement almost every look. Ties, bowties, pocket squares, fun socks, belts, tie clips, suspenders, vests and watches are sharp complements to any guy’s outfit.
it's all in the details
Next time you walk by a store like J. Crew, you’ll notice the male mannequins and models are always wearing several layers at once. Layers on men look great on camera, so even when it’s hot outside, trust me when I say that it’s worth an hour or two of discomfort for photos that will last you both a lifetime.
Blazers and jackets up the level of any look. If the weather permits, even consider adding a v-neck sweater with a pop of color from a long-sleeved collared shirt and tie underneath.
layered looks
pro tip:
Solid shades of gray or navy are a strong complement to most women’s outfits, whereas pinstripes or plaid patterns tend to distract the eye.
From James Bond to Don Draper, men look most striking in a well-tailored suit. If you don’t have one, now’s the perfect time to invest in something you’ll wear for the rest of your life!
From James Bond to Don Draper, men look most striking & polished in a well-tailored suit.
If you don’t have one, now’s the perfect time to invest in something you’ll wear for the rest of your life!
nothing beats a suit
styling tips for him
prepping the little ones
If you have multiple children, don’t feel like you need to put them all in the same type of outfit. For example, one of your daughters could wear a dress and flats, while the other wears a skirt and boots. One of your sons could wear a bowtie, while the other one wears suspenders. Mixing up the wardrobe pieces will bring a great visual interest to the photos.
mixing up the pieces
As you’re coordinating your outfit with your family, keep in mind that your outfits will look the most cohesive on camera when the color palette and wardrobe pieces coordinate, but don’t actually “match.” In fact, I recommend that you avoid thinking about “matching,” and instead think about what “fits” together. This will create more visual interest, and allow each personality to shine through.
coordinating your crew
prepping your family
Before your session, pack a bag with snacks, water and any small objects (like toys or lollipops) that might help me get their attention when it’s time for them to look at the camera. If they are old enough to understand you, it’s a good idea to prepare them for what’s to come before the session starts. Explain how much the photos mean to you so they know to be on their best behavior. A lot of families discuss and pick something fun in advance as a treat after the session if they’re good listeners, like ice cream.
Once you prepare them physically and mentally, then feel free to give them (and you!) grace! They’re little, and I know that some days don’t always go as planned.
I’ve seen it all and will make sure to get you great photos, regardless of their moods. My goal is to make this as fun and stress-free as it possibly can be for you and your family!
give yourself some grace
after your session
Don’t forget to plan a fun rewarding activity after your session. I mean, you’re already going to be all dressed up! Why not take advantage of it?
Online gallery with all of your final, edited, high-resolution images
2 weeks after
Sneak peek of some of my favorite moments we captured together :)
1 day after
Start prepping your kiddos, finalize your outfits & accessories, and get your beauty rest!
1 day prior
Final email from Bailey compiling all of our plans (locations, schedule, weather report, etc.)
5 days prior
Secure session location with Bailey, start thinking about color palettes and outfits
4 weeks prior
session timeline
pre-session prep
-- Secure your date, time and location(s) with Bailey
session checklist
-- Review this style guide for tips
-- Schedule your hair/makeup
appointments
-- Select your outfits
-- Pack a bag with:
- flats or flip-flops for walking between
photo spots
- snacks & favorite toys for the kids
- makeup for touch-ups
- water bottle (for warmer sessions)
- coat or cover-up (for colder sessions)
-- See you soon!!
bailey
-- Pick a fun post-session activity
