family session preparation guide
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Thanks so much for choosing Darling Images Co to capture beautiful photos of you and your family. You are definitely in safe hands and it is my hope that together we create not only gorgeous timeless images, but awesome memories as well.
I prefer to shoot in the late afternoon for optimal lighting - the time frame of this will depend upon the season and the sun. The images that are on my website with that amazing golden glow are all taken at golden hour (the last hour or so before sunset). I know this time may not suit everyone and there may need to be some juggling (especially with young children) but I honestly believe that it will be worth it as your images really will be that much more magical.
Please take some time to read through the following information as you prepare yourself and your family.
Looking forward to meeting with you, Eve
I prefer to shoot in the late afternoon for optimal lighting - the time frame of this will depend upon the season and the sun. The images that are on my website with that amazing golden glow are all taken at golden hour (the last hour or so before sunset). I know this time may not suit everyone and there may need to be some juggling (especially with young children) but I honestly believe that it will be worth it as your images really will be that much more magical.
Please take some time to read through the following information as you prepare yourself and your family.
Looking forward to meeting with you, Eve
What to wear
Coordinating colours for everyone in the family can be challenging. I recommend sticking with mostly neutrals then bringing in subtle colors and patterns as accents if you want to add interest to the look. Each person should show their individuality without everyone completely matching. Outfits that are smart casual are always gorgeous as you will feel comfortable and put together, but not formal and uncomfortable (especially for the little ones). Sticking with a particular colour palette like the samples below give flexibility for the family without needing to spend lots of money on new outfits for everyone.
I definitely do not recommend everyone completely matching (gone are the days of everyone in a white t-shirt and blue jeans), but remember that these photos are yours and need to match the style of your home.
For large group family photos where there is bound to be a lot going on, I recommend sticking with neutrals and/or subtle colors. Ivory, beige, tan, and cream are all lovely with an accent colour like blush, sage green, mist blue, or navy. If you can let everyone know before hand to stick with neutrals but add in one of your chosen accent colours it will look amazing as a large group photo.
Coordinating colours for everyone in the family can be challenging. I recommend sticking with mostly neutrals then bringing in subtle colors and patterns as accents if you want to add interest to the look. Each person should show their individuality without everyone completely matching. Outfits that are smart casual are always gorgeous as you will feel comfortable and put together, but not formal and uncomfortable (especially for the little ones). Sticking with a particular colour palette like the samples below give flexibility for the family without needing to spend lots of money on new outfits for everyone.
I definitely do not recommend everyone completely matching (gone are the days of everyone in a white t-shirt and blue jeans), but remember that these photos are yours and need to match the style of your home.
For large group family photos where there is bound to be a lot going on, I recommend sticking with neutrals and/or subtle colors. Ivory, beige, tan, and cream are all lovely with an accent colour like blush, sage green, mist blue, or navy. If you can let everyone know before hand to stick with neutrals but add in one of your chosen accent colours it will look amazing as a large group photo.
I do also have a large selection of dresses available for Mum's to wear during your session. All of the dresses that I show on my maternity page are from my collection and I even have some that aren't yet showcased (so you could be the first to wear them). Let me know if you have a particular style or colour in mind so I can plan on which dresses to bring. Most of my dresses will fit a wide range of shapes and sizes but if you are concerned just let me know.
Bring along a jacket that can be put on in between photo's, even in summer I find that as we shoot in the early evening there is often a cool breeze.
NOTE: Accessories such as hats, scarves long necklaces, vests and jackets can all add another layer to your outfits and can really make your session pop, I will bring along a selection of these items but if you have something in mind let me know or bring along any from your own wardrobe.
Shoes
We usually do a little bit of walking and the ground is often rough. Comfortable shoes are a must, your feet are generally not seen in the images but high heels can make your posture a little uncomfortable looking. Lots of mums wear thongs or slip on's that they can pop on and off easily, boots also work well for outdoor sessions.
Spray Tans
I know from personal experience that we look and feel so much better when we have a spray tan. I highly recommend NOT having one just before your session. It will make editing very difficult and the orange tones tend to really show up. If you really want one, have a light one and make sure that there is no build up on hands or knees.
Hair and Make-up
I love natural hair and makeup so don’t feel any pressure at all to get professional hair and makeup done for your session. However, if it makes you feel the most comfortable to have hair and make up done, go for it. Hair is best loose, straightened or curled/waved depending on your style.
We usually do a little bit of walking and the ground is often rough. Comfortable shoes are a must, your feet are generally not seen in the images but high heels can make your posture a little uncomfortable looking. Lots of mums wear thongs or slip on's that they can pop on and off easily, boots also work well for outdoor sessions.
Spray Tans
I know from personal experience that we look and feel so much better when we have a spray tan. I highly recommend NOT having one just before your session. It will make editing very difficult and the orange tones tend to really show up. If you really want one, have a light one and make sure that there is no build up on hands or knees.
Hair and Make-up
I love natural hair and makeup so don’t feel any pressure at all to get professional hair and makeup done for your session. However, if it makes you feel the most comfortable to have hair and make up done, go for it. Hair is best loose, straightened or curled/waved depending on your style.
Locations
I have a wide variety of locations in the Macarthur region that I regularly use, or we can do a Wollongong beach session if you like. There is natural bushland, parkland, farm style or beach options all within close proximity to my studio. Let me know your preference or I can recommend my favourite spots. I am always up for discovering new locations as well, so if you have a secret or favourite location in Macarthur (within 25 mins from Mount Annan) let me know. Further locations can be discussed as well but may incur a travel fee. Bring along some insect repellent (I usually have some in my bag) as long grass and beach sessions often include little biting critters.
I have a wide variety of locations in the Macarthur region that I regularly use, or we can do a Wollongong beach session if you like. There is natural bushland, parkland, farm style or beach options all within close proximity to my studio. Let me know your preference or I can recommend my favourite spots. I am always up for discovering new locations as well, so if you have a secret or favourite location in Macarthur (within 25 mins from Mount Annan) let me know. Further locations can be discussed as well but may incur a travel fee. Bring along some insect repellent (I usually have some in my bag) as long grass and beach sessions often include little biting critters.
Children
Please make sure your children go to the bathroom before leaving home, and bring along a bottle of water for them. They often get thirsty when playing and posing. As with any age, I take my time and do my best to allow your kids to feel comfortable around me and know we are going to have a ball! Sometimes it will take your child a little while to warm up to having photo’s but we always get there in the end and once they start having fun they forget all about the photo’s and we capture genuine smiles. I will capture some photos of your children separately during a family session as well, as beautiful memories for you and to help make them feel special.
Bribery can work wonders for little ones that just aren't in the mood. Keep in mind that lollies make messes and have dye in them that stains mouths and clothes. Usually this backfires and all they want to do is eat instead of pay attention to me. I suggest keeping the goodies in your bag or car until after we’ve finished. A small healthy snack is always great to have on hand though. Something that can be quickly eaten if they get those hunger pangs, cut up carrots or apples, dry crackers, sultanas are all great options.
Please make sure your children go to the bathroom before leaving home, and bring along a bottle of water for them. They often get thirsty when playing and posing. As with any age, I take my time and do my best to allow your kids to feel comfortable around me and know we are going to have a ball! Sometimes it will take your child a little while to warm up to having photo’s but we always get there in the end and once they start having fun they forget all about the photo’s and we capture genuine smiles. I will capture some photos of your children separately during a family session as well, as beautiful memories for you and to help make them feel special.
Bribery can work wonders for little ones that just aren't in the mood. Keep in mind that lollies make messes and have dye in them that stains mouths and clothes. Usually this backfires and all they want to do is eat instead of pay attention to me. I suggest keeping the goodies in your bag or car until after we’ve finished. A small healthy snack is always great to have on hand though. Something that can be quickly eaten if they get those hunger pangs, cut up carrots or apples, dry crackers, sultanas are all great options.
Weather
A quick but important note: if the weather turns out warmer/cooler than you anticipated when putting together outfits, please adjust what everyone is wearing. Doing a session when it’s sweltering and kids are over dressed is never fun. Likewise, if a cold front comes through unexpectedly, please put cardigans/jumpers on your children.
In case of rain or extreme wind, I will be watching the radar all day. If it doesn’t rain, but is overcast, we will still go ahead but if it is raining or very windy then we will reschedule.
A quick but important note: if the weather turns out warmer/cooler than you anticipated when putting together outfits, please adjust what everyone is wearing. Doing a session when it’s sweltering and kids are over dressed is never fun. Likewise, if a cold front comes through unexpectedly, please put cardigans/jumpers on your children.
In case of rain or extreme wind, I will be watching the radar all day. If it doesn’t rain, but is overcast, we will still go ahead but if it is raining or very windy then we will reschedule.
Illness
Just as important as the weather is that everyone being photographed be feeling 100%. During this time of covid, I ask that any sign of illness at all please ensure that you let me know and we will book in a reschedule date, even if you wake up on the day unwell please do let me know. I need to keep your family and my family safe.
Just as important as the weather is that everyone being photographed be feeling 100%. During this time of covid, I ask that any sign of illness at all please ensure that you let me know and we will book in a reschedule date, even if you wake up on the day unwell please do let me know. I need to keep your family and my family safe.
Final note
Remember to bring along;
water and healthy non coloured snacks for you and the kids
jacket to throw on in between shoots
relax, you are in good hands and I will guide you through everything. . . Eve
Remember to bring along;
water and healthy non coloured snacks for you and the kids
jacket to throw on in between shoots
relax, you are in good hands and I will guide you through everything. . . Eve
