Tips for a successful session

Important requests from Amy and Caitie

• Please be sure to keep your phone nearby on the day of the session in case there are any last minute changes. We find that sometimes we may need to move the session time just a little up or down depending on the cloud conditions of the day. 
• The weather changes quickly so we may need to contact you if we see high winds or rain forecasted. We will attempt to contact you before everyone begins getting ready to avoid having to go through that more than once. While we do keep an eye on several weather apps the most reliable information can be found with the radar a few hours before the session. You may revisit our Weather Policy article for more information.  ​
• Now is a good time to be writing your shot list or checking out Pinterest for inspiration. We will begin with the shots important to you and then move on to what we can fit in so I suggest putting the list in order of importance.
  
• We find props can be a useful distraction for little ones who are a little camera shy. For ideas, you can check out our available props and a few our clients have brought HERE.
  
  

SHOULD WE BRING ANYTHING WITH US?

We are often asked what to do to prepare for the portrait session. While no two sessions will be the same, there are a few things that would be helpful to have on hand.

• While we do shoot towards the end of the day, it can get hot! A handheld fan or cooling cloth can be greatly appreciated when the sweat starts dripping. A water bottle is great not just for drinking but to clean off any items fallen into the sand, such as a pacifier. 
• A folding chair is nice for anyone having trouble standing for long periods of time.
• You can bring a towel or blanket to lay purses, keys, shoes and sunglasses on in an attempt to remain sand free. 
• Speaking of sand, a simple Ziploc bag can keep your car keys and phone protected from sand getting into places it doesn't belong. The most brilliant idea I ever heard was to use a clean diaper to wrap up your valuables in then leave it wadded up on the towel. No one is going to steal a dirty diaper!
• If you have any special items you would like included in the pictures be sure to bring those as well. Framed picture of loved ones, toddlers favorite toy/blanket, etc. 
• You may want to bring a change of clothes or towel to keep in the car for after the session. 
• Baby powder and washcloth to get the sand off without having to wet your feet (and keep car seat dry!)
• Brush, bobby pins, hair ties and hair spray in case of high wind and humidity. We have more tips on how to manage your hair in Florida in the article Beach Hair.

 
CHILDREN TIPS
You can find more in-depth information in this article from the blog.
You can bring baby powder and a cloth or make up brush to wipe any sand that gets on their face. 
I will have Smarties on hand but if there is a snack they like better you can bring that. 
Try not to bring a large toy you wouldn't want in the session. 
A rattle or noise maker can get their attention so they look towards the camera. 

WOMEN TIPS
​You might want a back up hair choice in case it is windy. We have an article on windy day hair you can read HERE.
Add hairspray to everyone, even the men. 
You will want a face spray such as THIS to keep your makeup in place. I do smooth the skin texture and tone as well as remove any sweat drops in editing however it helps keep it natural when I do not have to do as much.
You don't want to add dark eyeliner under the eye, it can create a racoon look and distract from your actual eye. 
If using a make up and hair artist keep in mind if the weather does not cooperate then you may not get your deposit back. 

I have a Pinterest board with tips on posing, make up, hair, what to wear and more, check it out!

I will bring any prop you request, such as this sandcastle, clothing tape, bobby pins, bug spray, band aids, Smarties, and your list of requested shots.