Preparing for an heirloom session doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. These portraits are meant to be peaceful, timeless, and free of stress for both you and your child. With just a bit of thoughtful preparation, we’ll create something truly lasting.

Here are a few important tips to help your session go smoothly and beautifully.

1. Rested and Fed is Best

The most important thing you can do to prepare is to make sure your child arrives well-rested and fed. A tired or hungry child is more likely to feel unsettled, and these portraits rely on capturing calm, expressive moments.

Try to schedule your session time around naps or quiet parts of the day. A full belly and a rested heart go a long way in helping your child feel at ease in front of the camera.

If your little one tends to need a bit of extra time to warm up to new spaces or people, feel free to arrive a few minutes early so they can explore and settle in gently.

2. Skip the Bribes and Snacks

While it can be tempting to bring along treats or bribes “just in case,” we kindly ask that you avoid offering snacks or rewards during the session. Not only can crumbs and smudges be a distraction, but treats can also shift your child’s focus away from the calm, natural expressions we’re hoping to capture.

Instead, trust the simplicity of the session. With a gentle pace and minimal distractions, most children settle in beautifully.

We’ll take our time, follow their rhythm, and keep things quiet and comfortable so they can feel safe and seen.

3. Outfits: Pressed and Ready

If you’re bringing clothing from home, please arrive with it steamed or pressed, and plan to change your child into it once you arrive at the studio. This helps prevent wrinkles from car seats or movement and ensures their portrait is as polished and timeless as it should be.

Of course, if you’re using pieces from our studio’s heirloom wardrobe, everything will be freshly prepared and waiting for you. You’re welcome to choose from our collection of classic garments and accessories that pair beautifully with our light-filled backdrop.

4. Hair: Keep It Soft and Simple

Hair should be styled in a way that feels natural and soft, not wet, heavily sprayed, or gelled. We want your child to look like themselves, just a slightly more refined version.

For girls, we recommend gently sweeping long bangs to the side so we can see their full face. If needed, we have a selection of white and ecru bows in various sizes to help frame their features in a subtle, classic way.

If your child has a particular hair texture or curl pattern, feel free to style it in a way that feels authentic to them while keeping things neat and clean around the face.

A Final Thought

At the heart of every heirloom portrait is your child, just as they are in this moment. Preparing well simply gives them the comfort and freedom to let that shine through.

These sessions are not about perfection. They’re about presence. With a little rest, a clean outfit, and gentle styling, we’ll be ready to create something that will live on your walls and in your family’s story for generations.

If you have questions or need help choosing wardrobe pieces, hairstyles, or timing, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you feel fully supported every step of the way.