I’ve booked an ‘in-home’ session, what should I expect on the day?

The session will last around 1.5 hours. When I arrive I’ll take a quick look around the house to work out where the best light is. If you have an older child I might ask them for a tour as it helps me get to know them, and more importantly for them to get to know me. The more comfortable they are around me the more fun they will have! My shoots are lifestyle sessions, meaning there is limited posing and smiling for the camera. I will guide you into a certain room or spot with great light, but I want your connections and interactions to be real. I might get you guys to all hang out on the couch but then have you do your own thing - read stories together, cuddle, have fun. Don’t worry, it’s just like any other day at home with your family.

Can we head outside?

What should we wear?

The most important thing is to wear something you love and feel confident and comfortable in. It’s nice to have everyone in colours that work well together but you don’t have to be matchy matchy. Neutrals, soft or earthy colours photograph really well, as do different textures like cotton, wool, linen, denim, lace. Winter can be a great time to rug up in different layers. In warmer weather, soft fabrics and long, flowy skirts and dresses look great as they show movement and light. It’s often easiest to choose mum’s outfit first and go from there.

For the little ones, soft and solid colours are classic and flattering.Don’t be afraid of a bit of colour but I DO recommend avoiding big logos, character t-shirts and text as they can be very distracting in photos. You want the focus on their cheeky smile or your family connection, not the words on their t-shirt.

Don’t worry too much, you want to look like yourself in photos. As long as you are comfortable in what you are wearing you will look fabulous. If you feel like you need help with this let me know and I can offer some suggestions or colour ideas. For some colour and texture inspiration I have a Pinterest board here.

What if my house is a mess? Do I need to clean up before the photo shoot?

Please don’t stress too much about this, your house doesn’t need to be perfect. Clear the clutter so it’s not too distracting and if you can make the bed we are off to a good start. It’s great if your house still looks lived in, not catalogue perfect. Signs of your every day life are a good thing! I won’t be working in every room in the house so you can always move the laundry baskets full of clothes into one space and close the door (I get it, I have kids too!). I usually shoot in the main living area, the master bedroom and kids room, the places you spend the most time in together. I need natural light so we may have to move around to where it is best.

If you are a music and dancing kind of family, have some music playing. It helps put everyone in a good mood. If you need your coffee or the kids need snacks, that is totally fine too!