Outdoor Family Session

PREP GUIDE

Come as you are. Bring snacks. Let’s make something real.


These sessions aren’t about perfectly posed moments or everyone smiling at the same time. They’re about connection, movement, joy, tenderness, and the kind of chaos that makes your family yours.


This guide will walk you through what to expect, how to prep, and what to bring. Nothing complicated. Just thoughtful tips to help us create beautiful, honest images of your people in this season of life.

When + Where

We’ll meet at a location we’ve selected together, whether it’s a favorite beach, field, trail, or tucked-away park. I’ll help guide you based on light, privacy, and vibe.

Sessions take place around golden hour (just after sunrise or just before sunset) when the light is soft, flattering, and a little bit magical.

If you’re bringing young kids, don’t stress about “bedtime.” A later nap, a good snack, and some flexibility can go a long way. This is the exception worth making.


What to Wear

Let’s keep it simple, textural, and true to you.


Go for:

Soft neutrals and earth tones (oatmeal, denim, warm rust, sage, soft blues)

Layers and movement: sweaters, gauze dresses, rolled-up sleeves

Textures: knits, linen, chambray, denim, cotton


Avoid:

Logos, bold stripes, super bright colors, or neon

Matchy-matchy outfits. Aim for harmony, not uniforms

Stiff or uncomfortable clothing (if you can't move in it, don't wear it)


Barefoot is always an option, especially on the beach or at home. Let the kids be a little undone. It photographs beautifully.


What to Bring

A few light things can make the experience smoother—especially with little ones:



  • Water bottles and a snack (for you and the kids)
  • Wipes or tissues
  • A blanket or wrap if we’ll be sitting
  • A change of clothes for toddlers or babies, just in case
  • A favorite lovey or toy (only if it’s photogenic or we can hide it between shots)
  • If we’re doing outfit changes or transitions, we’ll plan that in advance. No surprises needed.


Prepping Kids + Grown-Ups

Let the pressure go.

You don’t need to coach anyone into smiling. You don’t need to warn your kids to be on their “best behavior.” You don’t need to bribe your partner into cooperating (though if you do, I won’t judge).

Just let everyone know this is going to be fun, relaxed, and totally low-pressure. My best images happen in the “in between” moments, not the ones you try to control.


What to Expect

I’ll guide you with gentle direction and interactive prompts, but never stiff posing. You’ll move, play, walk, snuggle, breathe. You’ll be with the people you love in a place that feels like you.

I’ll do the rest.


Final Thought

There’s no such thing as perfect.

There’s just you, together, right now...and that’s more than enough.


Trust me. The photos you’ll love most aren’t the ones where everyone’s looking at the camera. They’re the ones where you’re looking at each other.