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 :)
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.
YOUR Portrait session
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.
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 with your family?
SCHEDuLING pro tip!
between 6-7 PM
FALL:
between 6-7 PM
Spring:
between 8-9 PM
SUMMER:
around 5 PM
winter:
typical sunset times by season:
We’ll begin your session as close as possible to “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 portrait session, taking into consideration the time of sunset on your date.
golden hour:
worth the wait
When selecting your portrait session location(s), think about what types of backdrops - or styles - that stand out to you. Oftentimes newborn sessions are captued in the home, in your new baby's natural element.
For outdoor sessions, parks and gardens are gorgeous natural backdrops. Certain parts of the midtown and downtown areas can also photograph beautifully! When brainstorming, think about locations or landmarks that are meaningful to you! If you get stuck or need inspiration, 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!
choosing locations
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 :)
SKIP. THE. SPRAY. TAN!!
SKIP. THE. SPRAY. TAN!!
pro tip!
neons and overly busy patterns. (they tend to be very distracting and can alter the color of your skin in images!)
avoid! avoid! avoid!
most recommended colors:
ROMANTIC PASTELS:
blues & pinks are most flattering for skin tones!
NEUTRALS:
whites, grays, blacks & khakis set the perfect foundation
BOLD GEM TONES:
ruby reds, navy blue, emerald green (paired with neutrals!)
The colors and outfits you choose will (quite literally!) set the tone for your portraits. If choosing your outfits is stressing you out, my hope is that this guide will empower you to narrow down the style and feel you desire for your session. From there, your outfit selection will come more naturally!
choosing colors
WHEN IN DOUBT, DRESS IT UP
There is no such thing as “too dressed up” when it comes to your portrait 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 these images 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!
styling basics
coordinating your crew
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.
Fur babies not only complete your family, but they can also make the best additions to your session. Here are some tips to make the most of our time together:
- Let me know they’re coming! If you’d like to include your pup(s) in your session, let me know! Some portrait locations may not be pet-friendly, and I’ll be able to suggest some places that will be.
- Accessorize them. If you’re as meticulous about styling as me, consider choosing a collar or leash (or bow!) for your pet that complements your outfits.
- Bring a helper! Having a friend/family member help watch your pup is a must! It lets you two focus more on each other, and less on whether your pup is smiling for the camera. They can also help get your pup’s attention during photos and keep them entertained/hydrated when they’re not in a photo.
- Pack snacks. Make sure to bring all the things your pup will need to stay happy and entertained during their adventure. Water, treats, a toy or two (for getting their attention) can be a big help in keeping your pup happy and hydrated during our session.
- Let them exit early. I recommend including your pup in just one of our locations, or for about an hour of time. That way they won’t get too hot or fatigued and you two can have more time to focus on each other during your session. session. can have more time to focus on each other during your session.
including the fur babies
Portrait time for young kiddos can be challenging, but it can also be a lot of fun! You can help set a fun tone by prepping your little ones ahead of time.
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 these photos will be so everyone begins the session feeling as stress-free as possible.
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!
after the session
prepping your family
give yourself some grace
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?
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!
We feel awkward in front of the camera and hate taking pictures. Can you help?
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas! Where do I start?
help! we feel so awkward in front of the camera!
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
SESSION FAQ
We feel awkward in front of the camera and hate taking pictures. Can you help?
My dear, I photograph people for a living and even I feel awkward in front of the camera. Every! Single! Time! That’s why I’m here to help you through your session, starting with this style guide. During our session I’ll walk you through different poses, prompts and games that bring out your most natural laughs and love 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!
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 photos?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas! Where do I start?
help! we feel so awkward in front of the camera!
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
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!
SESSION FAQ
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my photos?
Absolutely not! All of these tips are meant to help guide you through the planning process for your 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!
We feel awkward in front of the camera and hate taking pictures. Can you help?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! Where do I start?
What if the weather is terrible on our session date?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas! Where do I start?
help! we feel so awkward in front of the camera!
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
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!
SESSION FAQ
We feel awkward in front of the camera and hate taking pictures. Can you help?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas for locations and outfits! Where do I start?
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 it’s going to be rainy or too cold I’ll contact you to discuss our options. We can either relocate to indoor locations or reschedule. No big deal!
Do I have to spend an arm and a leg to look good in my photos?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas! Where do I start?
help! we feel so awkward in front of the camera!
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
I will be monitoring the weather in the days leading up to our session together. If it looks like it’s going to be rainy or too cold I’ll contact you to discuss our options. We can either relocate to indoor locations or reschedule. No big deal!
SESSION FAQ
QUESTION 5
Paragraph
We feel awkward in front of the camera and hate taking pictures. Can you help?
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?
I’m overwhelmed with ideas! Where do I start?
help! we feel so awkward in front of the camera!
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
SESSION FAQ
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
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 with your family?
SCHEDuLING pro tip!
We’ll begin your session as close as possible to “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 portrait session, taking into consideration the time of sunset on your date.
golden hour: Worth the wait
typical sunset times by season:
winter:
around 5 pm
Spring:
between 6-7 pm
SUMMER:
between 8-9 pm
FALL:
between 6-7 pm
When selecting your portrait session location(s), think about what types of backdrops - or styles - that stand out to you. Parks and gardens are gorgeous natural backdrops. Certain parts of the midtown and downtown areas can also photograph beautifully! When brainstorming, think about locations or landmarks that are meaningful to you!
If you get stuck or need inspiration, 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!
choosing your locations
The colors and outfits you choose will (quite literally!) set the tone for your engagement photos. If choosing your outfits is stressing you out, my hope is that this guide will empower you to narrow down the style and feel you desire for your session. From there, your outfit selection will come more naturally!
choosing colors
most recommended colors:
ROMANTIC PASTELS:
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 ultra vibrant colors, neons, purples, and hot pinks as they tend to be very distracting.
BOLD GEM TONES:
ruby reds, navy blue, emerald green (paired with neutrals!)
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 these images 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!
Fur babies not only complete your family, but they can also make the best additions to your session. Here are some tips to make the most of our time together:
- Let me know they’re coming! If you’d like to include your pup(s) in your session, let me know! Some portrait locations may not be pet-friendly, and I’ll be able to suggest some places that will be.
- Accessorize them. If you’re as meticulous about styling as me, consider choosing a collar or leash (or bow!) for your pet that complements your outfits.
- Bring a helper! Having a friend/family member help watch your pup is a must! It lets you two focus more on each other, and less on whether your pup is smiling for the camera. They can also help get your pup’s attention during photos and keep them entertained/hydrated when they’re not in a photo.
- Pack snacks. Make sure to bring all the things your pup will need to stay happy and entertained during their adventure. Water, treats, a toy or two (for getting their attention) can be a big help in keeping your pup happy and hydrated during our session.
- Let them exit early. I recommend including your pup in just one of our locations, or for about an hour of time. That way they won’t get too hot or fatigued and you two can have more time to focus on each other during your session. session. can have more time to focus on each other during your session.
including the fur babies
Portrait time for young kiddos can be challenging, but it can also be a lot of fun! You can help set a fun tone by prepping your little ones ahead of time.
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 these photos will be so everyone begins the session feeling as stress-free as possible.
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!
after the session
give yourself some grace
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?
prepping your family
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
-- 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
