🍂 Fall Mini Session Guide

We're so excited to capture your family's precious memories this fall!! To help you prepare and get the most out of your session, here’s a here’s everything you need to know before your session.

1. 👕 👗What to Wear: Embrace the Colours of Fall!

Choosing outfits can be fun! the goal is a look that feels like you while also working with the beautiful autumn colours. No need to match perfectly, just coordinate.

A. Choose Your Palette: Think about colours found in nature during autumn – rich, warm, and earthy tones work beautifully.

• Warm Neutrals: Cream, ivory, beige, tan, camel, light grey, charcoal.

• Deep Jewel Tones: Mustard yellow, rust orange, burgundy, deep red, forest green, olive green, navy blue, dusty blue, plum.

• Earthy Tones: Browns, terracotta, muted greens.

B. Mix & Match, Don't Be Too "Matchy-Matchy": Instead of everyone wearing the exact same colour, aim for outfits that coordinate well together.

• Pick a Base Colour: Start with one or two main colours (e.g., navy and cream) and then build around them with complementary shades (e.g., adding a touch of mustard or burgundy).

• Vary Textures: This is key for some visual interest! Think chunky knits, corduroy, denim, flannel, wool, velvet, tweed, or even faux fur vests.

• Layer Up!: Layering is perfect for this time of year. It adds depth and allows for outfit adjustments. Sweaters, cardigans, vests, jackets, scarves, and even hats can elevate your look.

C. Avoid (or use sparingly):

• Neon Colours: These can be distracting and can create unnatural colour casts on skin tones.

• Large Logos/Graphics: They take away from the timeless feel of the photos.

• Tiny, Busy Patterns: Very small and intricate patterns can sometimes create an optical illusion (moire effect) on camera which is not idea. Larger, simpler patterns like plaid, stripes, or subtle florals often work better.

• Bright White: While cream or ivory is lovely, stark white can sometimes blow out in bright sunlight.

D. Comfort is Key: Choose outfits that allow for movement and play, especially for kids! Uncomfortable clothes can lead to fidgeting and forced smiles.

E. Footwear: We will be walking around on the grass/leaves and some unpaved trails so what you chose to wear is key. We suggest closed-toe shoes like boots (ankle, knee-high), loafers, or clean sneakers/dress shoes are best. Avoid bright athletic shoes or flip-flops.

2. Preparing for Your Session Day

• Arrive a few minutes early!: Mini sessions are tightly scheduled, and we want to ensure you get your full session time, so it’s always a good idea to plan to show up 5-10 minutes before the scheduled time.

• Snacks & Drinks: “You're not you when you're hungry" so, bring easy to eat, non-messy snacks and water, especially for little ones. Bribery (in the form of treats!) can be a parent's best friend!

• Wipe Noses & Faces: Just before your session begins, a quick wipe can make a big difference!

• Embrace Imperfection: Let the kids be kids! Don't stress if they're not "perfectly" posed or smiling every second. Those candid, joyful moments are often the most cherished.

• Have Fun! Relax, interact with your family, laugh, cuddle, and play. The more you enjoy the moment, the more genuine and beautiful your photos will be.

3. For the Kids

• Nap Time & Snacks: A well-rested and well-fed child is a happy child!

• Favorite Toy (Hidden): Sometimes a familiar comfort item can help if a child is feeling shy, but try to keep it out of sight for most photos.

• Talk About It: Let them know they're going on an adventure to take some fun pictures! Frame it as a positive and exciting experience.

4. What to Expect During Your Mini Session

• Quick & Efficient: Mini sessions are 15-20 minutes long and are designed to capture a variety of beautiful shots in a short timeframe. This means that kids won’t get bored and the family is not overtired.

• Posing & Candid Moments: I'll provide some gentle direction and ideas, but also encourage natural interactions and candid moments.

• Relax & Trust: Our goal is to make this a joyful and stress-free experience for your family. Just enjoy being together!

5. 📋"What to Bring" Checklist:

• Extra layers (for warmth or quick changes)

• Hairbrush/comb

• Lip balm/gloss

• Baby wipes/tissues

• A favorite small toy or book (as a last resort distraction, or for a specific prop shot if desired)

• A blanket (can be used as a prop, for sitting on, or for warmth between shots)

6. Restrooms:

• There are NO public restrooms nearby at the location, so we suggest the family use the facilities before arriving.

  
  ✨ That’s it! Our goal is for your session to feel fun and stress-free.

  We can’t wait to capture these moments for your family!