5 Tips To Prepare For Your Couples Session

I’ve got a question for you! Yes, you. Is it time to get updated photos? Have you ever put off photos because the idea of preparing for your session seems a little nerve wracking or stressful?

If you said yes to any of those questions, this post is for you!

Ok, let’s cut straight to the chase! When it comes to preparing for any photo session I’m willing to bet one of the biggest overwhelms is feeling unsure about what to expect and how to prepare. Can I get an amen?

The truth is, it doesn’t have to feel this way at all. While it’s totally normal to feel a few nerves when stepping in front of the camera, your big worries should be put to bed long before your session day!

So, today I want to share 5 tips to prepare for your next photography session so you feel totally at ease and actually get to enjoy the time you spend capturing lifelong memories.

1. My first tip is to get to know your photographer and vice versa!

This is a biggie! It’s always really helpful to get to know someone before they whip out a camera and start to snap away. I love showing up to a session where I already feel like I know you and your family, because it makes it so much easier to connect and create beautiful photos.

Here are a few really great things to tell your photographer:

a. Who in your family is an introvert? Who is an extrovert?

b. What makes you excited about taking photos? And, on the flip side, what makes you nervous?

c. Is there anything you would like your photographer to do to make you feel like your best self?

2. Second, take advantage of your session guide and all the resources your photographer sends you to help choose outfits, color palettes, and locations for your session!

There are a few moving parts when it comes to planning your upcoming photo session. The first being picking a location that is perfect for you. Many times your photographer will have recommendations based on scenery that you like, so it’s important to take a look at some photos that you love (Pinterest is your bff here!).

Another important choice to make while planning your session is the color palette you want to stick to when planning your outfit! This most definitely does not have to be hard, and you’d be surprised how easy it is to pair colors together.

For me personally, I send a custom guide to all of my couples and families that visually shows them location options based on what they are interested in, color palette ideas, and outfit inspiration with places to shop locally and online!

3. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!

The best way to feel totally at ease before the big day, is to ask any questions you have! Wondering if certain outfits will look good on camera? What about makeup and hairstyle ideas? Ask away! Sometimes it’s nice to have a second opinion and other times you may just need a little extra info to feel totally prepared! Questions are always welcome and encouraged!

4. Know that a solid photographer will help guide you through the whole process, give you prompts, and do their best to make the experience amazing from start to finish.

It’s a big relief to all my couples when they know they don’t have to worry about being perfectly posed and know everything they should do. That’s part of my job, and it’s actually one of my favorite things about taking photographs of you!

My approach is to always keep it real. I do that by keeping the environment relaxed and giving you the opportunity to just have fun with it. There’s no pressure to “say cheese” at the perfect moment, because to me the best memories are the authentic ones. I’m a big believer in encouraging you to interact with each other and to just have a dang good time.

When you go into a session knowing this, the final result is magical!

5. Lastly, bring the items below to feel totally prepared and comfortable!

Sometimes stuff just happens. Ya feel? Kids get a little fussy. Wardrobe malfunctions occur. That’s life, but there are a few things that you or the photographer may want to have on hand just in case!

Personally, I always pack a mini style kit in my camera bag that includes: A tide pen, wipes, bobby pins, tooth picks, and more. And, I try to keep a mini cooler with some waters in my car, especially during the hot months.

I also encourage my clients to bring a few items depending on the session type. Here is a list of some things to consider bringing:

a. A brush or way to pull your hair back if you need a quick hair refresh

b. A comfortable pair of shoes for walking around (if you’re planning to wear shoes that may be uncomfortable to walk in)

c. Accessories, accessories, accessories! Pack some jackets for layering, hats if you love a good hat moment, and anything else you may want to layer to change up your look on the fly.

So, after reading this post do you feel more confident and excited to step in front of the lens? I hope these tips are helpful and that when you finish your couples session you leave feeling SO GOOD!

Are you ready to start planning a your next photo session? Click here to contact me on Facebook or fill out my contact form here!