Family photographs are a wonderful way to capture memories and milestones, but preparing for a photography session can feel a bit overwhelming. At Kelseycharmayne Photography, I aim to make your experience as enjoyable and stress-free as possible. To help you get ready, we've put together this comprehensive guide on what to wear, choosing locations, and how I work with children to capture their natural charm.

What to Wear: Beyond Matchy-Matchy

When it comes to clothing for your family session in livonia, the goal is to create a cohesive look that reflects your family’s personality without being overly coordinated. Here are some tips to help you choose outfits:

• Coordinate, Don’t Match: Instead of dressing everyone in the same color or pattern, opt for colors that complement each other. Think of colors that work well together and create a harmonious look. For instance, choose a color palette with three or four colors and mix and match pieces within those shades.

• Comfort is Key: Select outfits that are comfortable and allow everyone to move freely. Avoid overly formal attire if it’s not your family’s style—being at ease in your clothes will help everyone feel more relaxed and natural during the session.

• Avoid Busy Patterns: While patterns can add interest to your photos, too many competing patterns can be distracting. Choose one or two family members to wear patterned outfits, and keep the rest of the family in solid colors or simple patterns.

• Add Layers and Textures: Layers and textures can add depth to your photos. Consider incorporating scarves, jackets, or cardigans. Textures like knits, denim, and cotton can make your photos feel richer and more dynamic.

Livonia Location Tips: Finding the Perfect Spot

The location of your photo session can significantly impact the overall feel of your images. Here’s how to choose the right spot:

• Consider Your Family’s Interests: Whether you prefer a natural setting like a park, a vibrant urban backdrop, or a cozy indoor space, pick a location that reflects your family’s personality and interests.

• Think About the Season: The time of year can influence your location choice. For instance, fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides lush greenery. Choosing a location that complements the season can add a special touch to your photos.

• Scouting and Permits: If you have a specific location in mind, let us know. We can help scout locations or suggest alternatives. Some popular spots may require permits, so we’ll handle the details to ensure a smooth experience.

Working with Children: Capturing Their True Selves

At Kelseycharmayne Photography, we understand that capturing children can be a unique challenge. Here’s how we make the process enjoyable and natural:

• Embrace Movement: Instead of forcing children to sit still and smile at the camera, we let them move and interact naturally. This approach results in more genuine and lively images.

• Personalized Approach: Every child is different. We take the time to get to know your child’s personality and find what makes them feel comfortable. Whether it’s a favorite toy, game, or activity, we use these elements to help them relax and enjoy the session.

• Patience and Playfulness: I use patience and a playful attitude to engage with your child, making the session fun rather than a chore. This way, I capture their true personality and the essence of your family dynamic.

Two Weeks Prior: Final Touches

To ensure you look your best for the session, here are a few last-minute tips:

• Haircuts: If anyone in your family needs a haircut, now is the time to schedule it. We recommend getting haircuts at least two weeks before the session to allow for any immediate adjustments and avoid fresh-cut hairlines in the photographs.

• Hair Color: If you’re considering a new hair color, it’s best to try it out well in advance. This gives you time to make any adjustments and ensures the color is settled before your session.

The Week Before: Pampering and Preparation

As your session approaches, take these additional steps to look and feel your best:

• Nails: If you want to get your nails done, now is the time. Freshly manicured nails can add a polished touch to your photos, but avoid last-minute appointments that might leave your nails looking unnatural.

• Sleep and Hydration: The night before your session, aim for a good night's rest. Adequate sleep helps reduce dark circles and puffiness. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your session to combat dehydration, which can cause puffiness, dark circles, dry skin and lips, and an overall ashen appearance.

• Avoid New Beauty Routines: Steer clear of trying new beauty treatments or heavier makeup on the day of your session. Stick to your usual routine to avoid any potential skin reactions or discomfort.

• Get Excited: Embrace the excitement of your upcoming photo session. A positive mindset will help you feel more relaxed and confident, which will be reflected in your photographs.

After the Session: What to Expect

Once your session is complete, we’ll begin the process of editing and curating your images. Here’s what happens next:

• Gallery Delivery: Typically, your gallery will be ready within 4 weeks. You’ll receive an email notification with a link to view your photos. From there, you can explore and select your favorites.

• Ordering Session: After you’ve had a chance to review your gallery, we offer an ordering session to assist with selecting prints and framing. Our team will guide you through the process, helping you choose the best options to display your family’s photos beautifully.

  
  

At Kelseycharmayne Photography, I'm dedicated to creating images that you’ll cherish for years to come. By following these tips and working with me, your family session will be a fun and memorable experience. I can’t wait to capture your unique family moments!