Can you believe it is already fall? I swore after last years fall to only do family minis in the summer when it was warmer however it now appears our fall is looking a lot better than that summer of rain lol! Fall session dates have been set weather pending of course (click on the link at the bottom for all details). Before we jump into full booking mode here I just wanted to give some advice and inspiration on how to prepare for your fall family session.

As much as you may want to wear that dress and heels sometimes the evenings get too cold for that (throw back to last fall anyone?). So I have some suggestions in the event that your session evening is on that chilly side that will still help you be fashion-forward and keep your color tones camera friendly.

First, let’s talk about color palettes. During fall, warm neutrals like camel, taupe, cream, champagne, and gray are still going to look great. If you’d like to incorporate color, choose sophisticated jewel-toned versions of bright primary colors. Here are some examples: mustard over yellow, crimson or burgundy over red, camel over orange, sage or emerald over green, and powder blue or navy over blue. These jewel tones will photograph beautifully in any season. 

Add in layers for some variety especially for these mini sessions, it provides the opportunity to remove them for a different look… some with a start, some with your favourite long necklace lets mix it up in the short time we have without having to change outfits! Moms out there, pick your outfit first then build the rest around yours.

The style choices you make will definitely enhance your photos, but the most important accessory to bring with you is joyfulness –– which is the one that makes the biggest difference in your photos anyways. You don’t need to have prior experience in front of the camera. Just show up with a smile and I’ll take care of the rest 🙂 

Setting expectations before your session is the key to great photos and happy kids.

Before your session, pack a bag with water and your kids’ favorite snacks. If they’re too young to follow directions, bring any objects that you think might help me get their attention (like small toys or stuffed animals) when it’s time for them to look at the camera. It is important to remember to NOT bribe your child during photos, this usually never works and ends up in tears. 

Make sure your kids eat before the session, even a solid snack if it is close to dinner. I have had a few kids that when the session started they felt stressed and pressured they resort to saying that they are just hungry even if they just ate and start to cry. So pack some snacks just in case they need a 3 minute reset, I can always have them sit beside me while I take mom and dad’s photos during that time. 

I have a lot of experience working with kids, so if they’re “in a mood” or aren’t cooperating perfectly for some reason, rest assured that I am not judging you (or them). A good thing to do is to be mindful of the things your tone as this is a big deal for some kids to be put on the spotlight so if they get in a mood lets just both praise them for the amazing job they are doing so far and try to get those giggles out. I’ve seen it all and know how to get great photos no matter what! My goal is to make this as fun and stress-free as it possibly can be for you and your family! This season of life feels long right now, but in the grand scheme of things, it’s short. So even if things don’t go exactly as planned or as you’d hoped in terms of your kids’ behavior, one day, you’ll be so glad you took these photos.  

Ready to book and need all the details? Go here!