Just in time for photography season in Chicago! Every time I’m out and about on the weekends, I see more photographers than I can shake a stick at. But with good reason, fall is gorgeous in Chicago! The weather is still nice, the fall colors are peeking out, and everyone wants a great photo for their holiday card. (Speaking of which, have you signed up yet for your mini with me? I still have a few spots left!)
With that in mind, let’s talk about how your family should prepare for a mini session.
Arrive early
Mini sessions are short, obviously. That means you should get there early, at least 15-20 minutes, to make sure you have time to not get lost, park (legally), wrangle your children out of the car, and find our meeting spot.
Plan ahead
Definitely plan your outfits, shoes, accessories, hair styles, etc. ahead of time. Iron and lay clothes out the night before if your shoot is in the morning. Try to get little ones’ naps in early, if needed, to plan a cheerful time of day before your session (haha I’m hilarious, just do your best here). Bring non-messy snacks and something to entertain your kids if you get there early. If your little ones are slow to warm up, bring a favorite toy or lovey to help make things go more smoothly. As a last resort, plan a bribe to get through the shoot. I like genuine, happy smiles, but if you can promise a vague “treat” at the end of the session to get through some tears, we all do what we have to do. 
What Should we wear?
Don’t all wear white with jeans, please. Fall colors are wonderful, and it can work very well to pick three to four colors for the family, with one being an “accent” color. For example, shades of brown, cream, navy blue, and yellow for an accent. Or neutral beige, browns, rust red, and a brighter orange as a pop of color. Some photographers discourage patterns, but I’m always a sucker for stripes, and I think they can work well. Just don’t have everyone in stripes; let the pattern be the “accent” here, and have another person wear something more neutral to achieve balance. Clothing with texture, such as cable-knit sweaters, softly-textured cardigans, and draped clothing photograph beautifully. Have fun with accessories, such as scarves, winter-type hats (that don’t cover your face), fun rain or fall boots, etc. Please no visible logos or clothing with words. You want your photograph to be timeless.
These are just general guidelines, though. If your family is colorful and fun and you want to come in with all different colors and crazy accessories, you do you! I’m always happy to shoot a family with a strong personality.
For you visual people, check out my pinterest board to get an idea of what works well.
I feel awkward posing
Do you feel uncomfortable having your picture taken? You’re not alone! Don’t worry, I will help you and your family get into a casual and comfortable pose that is not straight out of a cheesy studio. I like casual shots that feel natural, where you just happen to be completely beautiful and in a lovely setting. I can direct as needed, but also feel free to just be in the moment with your family, and let me capture that for you.
Did I forget your question? Please contact me and I will be happy to answer you!