Helpful Stuff

Here's some suggestions to help the session go smoothly:

Coordinate but try to stay away from matchy matchy
For group photos, use an article of clothing, such as a dress as shown in the photo to the left, as an inspiration point to plan the rest of your clothing color scheme.
Avoid clothing with logos or graphics, as well as trendy clothes that might date the photo.
Patterns and textures can add interest, but don't go overboard. If one outfit has a pattern, the other outfits should be complimentary and subtle.
Make sure the clothes are comfortable. Kids will be happier if they can move freely in their clothes.
For a more detailed guide that includes a ton of photos check out: http://paintthemoon.net/blog/2013/03/wear-clothing-tips-children-family-photo-sessions-paint-moon-photoshop-actions/
I would be happy to offer suggestions before the photo shoot.

Relax and have fun. Some of the best photos are taken during spontaneous moments.
Kids do best if they can have some flexibility and aren't expected to be on their best behavior. Feel free to bring a favorite toy, bubbles, or whatever works.
Try to make sure your child's physical needs are met - plenty of sleep, snacks beforehand, or anything else that might help them not feel stressed.
Feel free to bring props.
Please arrive a little early so we don't run out of daylight before we're finished. I'll work with you on what time to schedule the session, depending on your needs.

It's helpful if you have an idea of what photos you'd like to me to take. Do you want a group shot? Individual shots of your kids? Head shots? Full body shots? My style is to get in close to the subject and focus on the eyes, but I will also take a variety of poses. If you have something specific in mind, I'd love to incorporate that.
If you have a location where you'd like to go for the session, I'm open to your ideas. I have several places I can suggest, depending on the look you're going for.
Please feel free to ask me any questions you have.

Cathie Frost