How to Prepare for a Photo Session: Tips for Families and Couples

Creating lasting memories with loved ones is a treasure, and nothing captures these moments better than a professional photo session. Whether you're a family with bubbly children or a couple in love, getting ready for your photo shoot can make all the difference. From what you wear to where you strike a pose, every detail contributes to the perfection of those captured instances.

In this post, we here are Michele Lynn Photography will guide you through essential steps to ensure you are ready to shine in front of the camera. Preparing in advance can transform your photo session from good to great!

Plan Outfits and Coordinate Colors

Choosing what to wear is more than just picking your favorite outfit. It's about complementing the shoot's theme and the location's aura with a unified color palette.

Coordinate colors and styles for a cohesive look

To achieve harmony in your photos, select 2-3 main colors to thread through everyone's outfits. This doesn't mean you have all wear the same shirt if you don’t wan to. Instead, imagine a pallet with colors that speak to one another. If your color choices are blue, teal and pink, it could look like this; Mom wears a blue shirt and pink pants, Dad wears teal shirt and blue pants, and their daughter wears a pink dress.

Avoid too many overly busy patterns that may clash and detract from your faces, the true focal point of the image.

Remember that location matters when selecting colors. Aim to contrast your environment—if you're posing in a lush green park, muted earth tones or pastels can make you stand out, but green with make you disappear in the background. For urban backdrops, bolder hues can add that pop against concrete grays.

Picking the perfect location

Your session's backdrop sets the stage for your story. What narrative do you want to convey? Are you leaning towards urban chic or rustic charm? Need help deciding? we know many great locations around town.

If you have a sentimental spot in mind, let your photographer know. It could be where you had your first date or a park where you regularly play as a family. Alternatively, we here at Michele Lynn Photography have a list of some go-to locations in the area to suggest that match your aesthetic vision.

Decide on the Time of the Shoot

The 'golden hour'—that magical window of soft, diffused sunlight—can lend an ethereal glow to your pictures. Golden hour is right after sunrise and just before sunset. But how many of us want to get up and be ready for photos by sunrise?

The hour before sunset is a favorite time for its convenience and almost guaranteed stunning hues.

Prepare Props and Accessories

Props can add a personal touch and tell more of your story, but they should enhance rather than eclipse you. Select no more than 2-3 items that have significance to you—a family heirloom, a favorite toy, or a couple's shared interest. They can help to convey personality and inject life into the photos. Remember, less is often more, so don't overdo it.

Communicate with the Photographer

Do you have specifics in mind? Tell us your vision, share inspirational images, and discuss your must-have shots. Likewise, if you have apprehensions—maybe one of the kids is camera-shy or you're concerned about your double chin—address it beforehand. Preparedness is the key to success.