Get the Most Out of Your Photos


You've probably been planning for awhile now. In the back of your mind you've had this vague idea of what your portrait session might look like and now that it's been booked (if not, what are you waiting for?! Get in touch by following this link to my contact page: https://www.victoriachristinephotography.com/contact/), what should you do to prepare?

Keep reading and I'll guide you through some simple strategies to make the most of your session time and set you up for success in capturing gorgeous portraits.


The Quick list:

  • Coordinate your outfits
  • Remember hair, make-up + accessories
  • Include a time buffer
  • Come fed and rested
  • Prioritize having fun over perfection


Clothing Coordination


Plan ahead for your outfits! This is one of the biggest make-or-break issues that I see regularly as a photographer. What might have been an incredible shot ends up disappointingly dull (or worse) because the outfits weren't thought through.

Lay them out side by side, and don't hesitate to send a snap to your photographer if you'd like some tips. This is par for the course with most of my clients, and I'm happy to give suggestions. It's actually fun for me! Some other tips:


  • Consider the location you'll be photographed in when planning your outfits. Certain styles might look out of place in certain locations.


  • As a general rule, avoid clashing colors and using too many busy patterns. The focus of the portrait should be on the subject or subjects and their special relationship. Unless it's product or fashion photography, that means YOU! This includes things like graphic tees or logos as they frequently prove to be more distracting than anything. Often the images or words are partly blocked or not in the frame anyway, so what might have been adorable in person can end up looking meh in a portrait.


  • Dress appropriately for the weather. If your littles are miserably cold, they won't be smiling much. Plan for the season, and at the least dress in layers that can be removed just before the photos, or bring a coordinated blanket to snuggle in.


  • Don't forget to plan footwear!


If the idea of coordinating clothing and accessories is overwhelming to you, not to worry. I'm on hand to help as needed and I have also put together seasonally appropriate inspiration boards, so please be sure to contact me and request access as needed! But ultimately, it's your time. Wear what represents and empowers you!

Look at those beautiful colors!

Hair, Make-up & Jewelry


Some clients prefer to go with a natural and windblown look and rock it. If you're someone who prefers not to wear makeup or style their hair as your norm, disregard this! Minimalistic sessions are among my favorites.

But if you tend to put in the effort for special occasions and feel your absolute best all done up, this is important, because I want you feeling confident and beautiful when you arrive! If you're "dressed to the nines" (as my husband says) and haven't done other styling, it may actually stand out in your photos.

My recommendation is to be intentional with the overall look you want to achieve, and look at examples of different styles for inspiration. Your session is an investment that you'll be hanging on your wall and sending to all of your friends and acquaintances. It's worth taking the time to ensure you love the way you looked for your session and remember the confidence you felt! I've never seen someone regret it.

As an important note: Don't forget to trim your nails, and carefully select jewelry to go with your desired look. Remove hairbands from wrists, phones and keys from pockets, and clean your glasses (if wearing) etc. before your session (I try to catch these but occasionally I miss them!). All of these things matter, especially for close-up photos.

This mama's hair and make-up were on point!

Give Yourself a Time Buffer


We all know what it's like when you're in a hurry and running late (or at least, I know I do). Your heart's racing, you feel panicked. If you're anything like me, you're probably a bit cranky and not in the best of moods. Now think about that in the context of a photoshoot. You can't believe that after all your work preparing for this session, your teen lost his shoes. Your husband forgot to iron his shirt till the last minute. You arrive in a flurry of muttered threats and annoyed glances, and now you've missed out on part of your session. Oh, and it's time to... smile? Hug? Look adoringly into your husband's eyes? Mmmm yeahhh. It's not all lost, but it's not going to go as seamlessly as it might've because the best smiles and most intimate photos are *genuinely felt.*

So plan a buffer. Tell your family you need to be there 20 minutes earlier than we've scheduled if you want. Whatever you've got to do. What's the worst that can happen? You arrive a little early and are able to get in the right head space and check your reflection one last time? Sounds like a win-win to me.

If you are running late, first off let me know if you can. It's water under the bridge. Second, remember that the best photos are genuine ones, and you want to be genuinely and positively connected to any others that will be in the photos. Resist arguing and do your best to still enjoy the session!

Plan a time buffer so you're relaxed and on time for your session.

Come Fed & Rested


This one is pretty self-explanatory but I know how it can be when you're trying to get ready by a certain time, and especially if you're adjusting to a major life change, like a new baby. So let this be the reminder you need:

EAT. This includes baby! We can of course take breaks as needed, but it's always best if everyone is happy to begin with. It's not a bad idea to bring along a few snacks for older kids (and dads), too.

If you have littles who usually nap, schedule your session around naptime if you can. If you are hoping for sleepy newborn photos, do the opposite and plan your session for naptime!

Littles are so much happier when fed and rested.

Enjoy Your Session


This one may be last but I think it is probably most important. Regardless of everything else, have FUN. This is especially for the parents out there. If you are a grouch, your kids will be also, and they're not as good at faking it. Try to avoid grumping around about things beforehand, and if your kids do act up (that should say "when." Because they're kids, not angels!), resist the urge to dish out threats or become harsh and impatient. I've seen it happen one too many times (and been guilty of it myself) and it rarely ends well. Let little things go, redirect attention, or we can try something more engaging or take a break to regroup. Very rarely does forcing an issue achieve the desired result! I'm pretty laidback, and my own littles are crazy. So don't forget to have fun, snuggle their sweet and sassy faces, and believe me when I say I will *not* be judging you for your kids' behavior!

Remember that the sweetest photos are often unplanned and unposed, like this photo:


Candid photos are often among my favorites!