Time & Location
The time and location of your session are key to achieving the overall look and feel you want for your photos. The "golden hour"—the hour just after sunrise or before sunset—is often considered the best time for outdoor photography. During this time, the sun is low in the sky, creating soft, warm, and flattering light that enhances skin tones and adds a magical glow to your images. The golden hour also reduces harsh shadows and bright highlights, making it easier to capture beautiful, evenly lit photos. Choosing the right location during this time further sets the tone, whether you're aiming for a dreamy, natural backdrop or something more dramatic and adventurous. Together, the time and place create the foundation for stunning, timeless photos you'll love!
Outfits
The outfits and props you choose play a big role in the overall look and feel of your photos, helping to bring your vision to life. I recommend wearing neutral or earth-toned colors, as they complement natural surroundings and create a timeless, cohesive look. These tones allow the focus to stay on you and your emotions, rather than distracting from the moment with bright or bold patterns. Props can also add personality and meaning to your session but should feel intentional and understated to match the style of photography I create. Thoughtful choices in outfits and props ensure your photos feel authentic, harmonious, and beautifully reflective of your story.
Mood/Prep
The mood and preparation leading up to your photography session can have a big impact on the final result. Arriving relaxed, comfortable, and in a good mindset allows for authentic emotions and genuine connections to shine through in your photos. Taking time to prepare—whether it’s planning your outfits, gathering props, or choosing meaningful locations—helps everything come together seamlessly. I encourage you to take the day of your session slowly, ensuring you're not rushed or stressed, so you can fully enjoy the experience. When you're feeling at ease and present, it sets the tone for a session that captures the beauty of who you are and the moments that matter most.
Outfit no-no List
- Bright white - Instead go with Ivory, cream, or off white
- Bright white can cause reflection and it washes out really easily
- Stay away from words- name brands and emblems (for shoes and hats as well) - words can be distracting and look out of place.
- Busy patterns - less is more
- No neon colors (Sarah is a rustic shooter) ( I am a natural shooter) - there is a time and a place in urban locations for example
- Dress for weather and location - most locations will be rustic in nature and Michigan can be really unpredictable
For the Ladies...
I always recommend a gown. They aren’t a requirement. you may never wear it again. But its really going to make an impression. Especially if we have an amazing location with some breeze
When deciding how many busy patterns to use for your photos follow this general rule of thumb.
1-5 People: Chose one person to be in a pattern
5 or more people: 2 patterns can be worn ,but be sure that the patterns are cohesive with the color scheme of the overall family
