5 Steps to Planning Your Family’s Portrait ession

One of my favorite emails to send to clients after they book their session is welcoming them to the Fresh Light family! This is when we start planning your session- everything from wardrobe to what to do with your photos after the session. My team’s goal is to make the entire process from start to finish not only stress-free but an experience that allows your family to create memories you’ll remember for a lifetime!

Location + Timing

First, we will determine if our studio in The Heights or an outdoor location is best for your session. Newborn sessions are always in the studio. Maternity, family, and milestone sessions can be in the studio or outdoors. We will work together while planning your session to determine which location is best for your family! 

We do our best to work around nap schedules and will consider that when choosing your location. Note that all newborn sessions take place in the morning. If this conflicts with a nap for your toddler, don’t stress- we are confident in our ability to still have a successful newborn session! 

Wardrobe and Styling

From my own personal experience, I know shopping for family portraits can be stressful. I do not want that for you. That’s why I have built a client wardrobe with literally hundreds upon hundreds (I am not exaggerating!) of options for moms, dads, and children in our studio wardrobe. 

Prior to your session, we will schedule a styling appointment. This gives you an opportunity to visit the studio in advance of your session, try on dresses from our wardrobe collections, and piece together outfits for the rest of your family. 

Throughout your appointment, we will talk about the colors in your home and any future sessions you may have scheduled. There’s more that goes into it than just picking a pretty dress and cute outfits for the kids…although, that is part of the fun! 

Wardrobe and styling is an integral part of our luxury client experience, but it’s also the beginning of how we care for our clients! 

Hair and Makeup

The next step in taking care of our clients is pampering Mom with hair and makeup. Our talented artists will make sure that you go into your session feeling relaxed and beautiful. 

As Moms, we often put our family before ourselves and often dismiss opportunities to take care of ourselves. I know because I can relate, and I’ve heard it from many other Moms too. That’s why I have prioritized and created an experience where hair and makeup are included. Decision made- enjoy it, Mom, you deserve it! 

Planning Ahead – Albums and Artwork

So much of what we do is about preserving your family memories and doing that in a way that tells your family’s story over the course of a year, and for many families, several years. Before your session even takes place, we will talk about what you want to do with your portraits. Whether that’s creating an album or installing artwork on your walls, it helps us photograph your family with more intention. 

It’s Time For Your Session!

By this point, it’s my hope that you have endured little stress and are actually looking forward to your session and creating memories with your family. 

You look great and I promise I’ve seen every baby and toddler (and Dad!) meltdown there is. Relax, be in the moment and let’s create some beautiful memories together!