What to Bring for Your Photography Session: A Guide for Parents, Seniors, and Newborns
Preparing for your photography session is essential to capturing beautiful, stress-free memories. Whether you're a parent with young children, a senior celebrating a milestone, or welcoming a newborn into the world, knowing what to bring can make the day go smoothly and ensure that the photos are everything you’ve dreamed of. Here’s a breakdown to help you prepare for each type of session.
For Parents and Families:
Family sessions can be chaotic, especially when little ones are involved, but the right preparation can turn it into a fun and memorable experience. Here’s what you should bring:
1. Clothing Essentials:
Layers for the family: Depending on the weather, bring extra layers like jackets or light blankets. If it’s warm, ensure breathable fabrics to keep everyone comfortable.
Backup outfit for the kids (optional): Accidents happen. Having an extra outfit for the little ones can save the day and avoid last-minute stress.
Coordinated outfits: Choose clothes that complement each other without being too "matchy-matchy." Think about colors and textures that blend well together. Bring accessories like scarves or hats to add variety.
2. Snacks and Drinks:
Healthy snacks: Bring easy, mess-free snacks like crackers or fruit slices to keep energy up, especially for toddlers.
Water bottles: Hydration is key, especially for longer sessions or outdoor locations. Keep a few water bottles handy.
3. Comfort Items for Kids:
Favorite toy or stuffed animal: This can help shy kids feel more at ease and can even be a part of the photos!
Comfort blanket: If your child has a favorite blanket, bring it along to calm them during downtime or transitions between shots.
4. Personal Touches:
Props for personality: Think about meaningful items that represent your family’s story. This could be a book you love to read together, a musical instrument, or something that connects to a hobby you share as a family.
5. Grooming Kit:
Tissues or baby wipes: For any small spills, smudges, or unexpected messes, wipes can save the day.
Tide Instant Stain Remover Marker: There had been countless times that I had spilled tomato sauce on my favorite white shirt. However, with the Tide marker, it can save the day!
Brush and hair accessories: Keeping everyone’s hair in place ensures that the little details shine through in your photos.
For Seniors:
Senior portraits are all about showcasing your personality and celebrating your achievements. Here’s what to bring to make your session unique and stress-free:
1. Wardrobe Options:
Multiple outfits: Bring at least two to three outfit changes that represent different aspects of your personality—one casual, one formal, and one that shows off your personal style or interests.
Accessories and shoes: Don’t forget accessories like hats, classic watches, or jewelry to add that extra touch. Bring a few shoe options to match each outfit.
Cap and gown: If you’re a graduating senior, include your cap and gown for those milestone photos!
2. Personal Props:
Hobbies and passions: Bring along items that represent what you love—like a musical instrument, sports gear, or artwork. These photos tell a story of who you are at this stage in life.
School memorabilia: This could include your letterman jacket or any school achievements that are important to you.
3. Grooming Essentials:
Hairbrush and makeup touch-ups: Bring a small bag for quick touch-ups to keep your hair and makeup looking fresh throughout the shoot.
Lip balm and powder: These small items can make a big difference, especially if it’s hot outside or you want to prevent shine in photos.
For Newborn Sessions:
Newborn photography sessions are all about capturing the tenderness of this precious time. To make sure your baby is comfortable and the session goes smoothly, here’s what you should bring:
1. Essentials for Baby:
Diapers and wipes: It’s a good idea to have plenty of diapers and wipes on hand, as newborn sessions can sometimes last a couple of hours.
Extra clothing: Bring several outfits for the baby, including simple onesies and something more dressed up if desired. Simple, neutral colors often photograph best with newborns.
Blankets and swaddles: Soft, cozy blankets in neutral tones are great for wrapping the baby. Bring a few options to switch up the look of the photos.
2. Feeding Supplies:
Bottles or breastfeeding supplies: If your baby will need feeding during the session, make sure to have everything you need on hand.
Burp cloths: These are essential to keep the baby clean after feedings, especially when transitioning to a new outfit or setup.
3. Comfort Items:
Pacifier: Even if your baby doesn’t use one regularly, it might help soothe them during the session.
Favorite toy or soft item: Familiar items from home can help calm your baby if they start to get fussy.
4. Personal Items for Mom and Dad:
Comfortable clothing for yourself: Wear something comfortable yet presentable for when you’re holding or cuddling your newborn in photos.
Props and heirlooms: If you have any special items like a family heirloom or a sentimental object, these can make your newborn photos even more meaningful.
Bonus Tips for All Sessions:
Positive energy: As simple as it sounds, bring your best mood! Children, especially, can pick up on the energy around them, so staying relaxed and having fun will help everyone enjoy the session.
Backup Plan: If you’re worried about the weather or unexpected delays, have a backup plan, especially for outdoor sessions.
Communicate with your photographer (ME!): Don’t hesitate to reach out before the session to discuss any questions or concerns. A good photographer will help guide you through everything you need.
Final Thoughts:
Photography sessions are meant to be fun, meaningful experiences that capture the best of who you are. By being prepared with the right clothing, props, and essentials, you can ensure that the day is enjoyable and that the photos reflect your true self. Whether you’re coming as a family, senior, or with a newborn, these tips will help you focus on the joy of the moment while your photographer handles the magic behind the lens.
Enjoy your session, and don’t forget to smile!