Wardrobe + Prep Guide
welcome friend
I want to first thank you for choosing me to capture timeless images of you. I am grateful for the opportunity to get to know you and work closely together to create images you will forever cherish.
From now on, if you have any questions, or want to reach out about anything, I'm simply a text away. If you are out shopping for this upcoming session, looking online or going through your closet, send me a text and I'm happy to give you my opinion or advice for alternatives.
I will keep this guide as short as possible, however wardrobe can really elevate your session so please read through the guide.
If you don't mind, I would love to follow you on IG. This helps me get to know you and your family a little before our session!
Follow me & I'll follow back!
@broganspnf
-Brogan
Colors & comfort
Wardrobe doesn't have to be overly complicated, but a few tips and guidance can go a long way.
I like to start planning with mom's outfit first! You can pull colors from that and it's key to choose something you're confident in. I typically suggest flowy styled dresses for mom. They allow for movement in photos which is important to evoke emotion, but they also allow for comfort to play, sitting and run around with your kids.
Dads compliment this look with a simple fitted jean in any neutral colour, paired with a waffle knit long sleeve, or a plain well fitted t-shirt or sweater. (guys have it so easy don't they?) Layer is also SO important!
I know it feels fitting when getting pictures to gravitate towards a collard shirt, however my advice is to skip it. You want to look casual and put together, not so much like you are walking into a business meeting.
Patterns are a big YES! They photograph beautifully, as long as they are small and neutral. Skip the big florals and bright red and blue plaid for this session.
Adding an oversized knit cardigan to any outfit in a neutral color will elevate the entire outfit and add amazing dimension in a photograph.
Kids clothing should be fitted but comfortable, clothing that is too large is not ideal.
Be sure to wipe faces before we begin as well.
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The ONLY colors I recommend are neutral Earthy tones.
TEXTURES & LAYERS
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Keep in mind the location you choose when you put your wardrobe together as well.
what to avoid
*Depending on the type of shoot*
Formal wear
​Ties, blazers, dress shoes, formal dresses, dress shirts
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BRIGHT COLORS
This will create color casts on faces and skin
*Colors that aren't technically bright but should try and be avoided are Pink, teal, red.
LOGOS
Characters (kids), Words, Logos.
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TIGHT OR MINI DRESSES
Comfort and mobility is key
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MATCHING OUTFITS
Matching t-shirts and jeans is a dated look and will not photograph well.
Coordinate your color pallet, and avoid having anyone match. Including kids!
(unless you have twins and want to showcase them as twins)
BOLD PATTERNS
Bright plaid, Big floral patterns etc.
BRIGHT WHITE
Opt for cream instead to avoid being washed out
ACTIVE WEAR
Leggings, joggers, runners etc.
BASEBALL CAPS
Hides faces and creates unflattering shadows
APPLE ​watches
the experience
& what to bring
First thing to know is that I do not expect you to know how to pose. It's my job as your photographer to give you all the direction necessary to accomplish natural looking images.
I will direct you from where to look, to hand placement.
Allow yourself to be playful and care free. While I will do some standard poses. I will be asking you to do different prompts to allow me to capture candid real smiles and moments.
If you are comfortable in your wardrobe and embrace the playful moments your session will result in authentic photographs you will feel an emotional connection to.
These sessions are all about having fun! Let's kick off our shoes and run around with the kids, splash around in the water or skip rocks.
Story telling is a great way to make each session unique to you. Let's chat more about what you like to do as a family.
Do you play guitar, or ride a skateboard? Bring it!
I'm open to ideas if the situation and or location fits.
Making the session unique to you will only make you love your images more.
Dogs are always welcome!
I do however ask, that you bring someone to take
the dog after the first 15 mins of shooting or are comfortable with the dog being tied up while we finish.
Otherwise this could make for a big distraction and less shooting time.
Please be sure to inform me of any props you plan to bring to allow me time to plan.
how to prepare your
children
I'm sure you have heard the saying,
"When life gives you lemons, make lemonade"
Keep that thought in mind if your kids decide being photographed isn't for them on the day of our session.
Embrace the chaos, and allow them to be themselves.
Sessions with me are typically fun for kids, as I love to keep it interactive ensuring authentic emotions.
I shoot a few posed shots here and there to ensure variety to your gallery. but a fun filled session of
genuine play and happiness will make your kids have a good time, in turn allowing for better images.
While I do recommend bringing snacks to avoid hangry kids,
there is no need to bribe your kids before you arrive to the session. By doing so, it sets the tone they are about to do things they won't enjoy doing, before we even get started.
Try telling your kids (depending on age)
You are going to see 'our friend Brogan and play games in the field' etc
Set the tone, the photoshoot is going to be fun, not so bad they will get treats at the end.
Make sense?
I am not above bribes, but let's save them for the end if we get desperate. ha!
If your little one has a favourite stuffy or blanket feel free to bring it along.
Just keep in mind, they may not let go of it, so be sure you are ok for it to be included in your photos.
A FEW TIPS FOR YOUNGER KIDS
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MAKE SURE THEY HAVE FULL BELLIES
IF WE ARE SHOOTING AT GOLDEN HOUR, SCHEDULE NAPS LATER AND LONGER IF POSSIBLE BRINGing THEIR FAVORITE AUNT OR GRANDPARENT can seem like a good idea but is not typically necessary unless they're in the photos. If your child is suppose to be playing and interacting with you but only wants grandma that may hinder the session.
BRING THEIR FAVORITE TOY OR BLANKET FOR COMFORT
ARRIVE EARLY AND GET THEM DRESSED AT THE LOCATION IN THE CAR TO AVOID SPILLS OR MISHAPS ON CLOTHING
Final thoughts
I hope you find this guide helpful as you plan for your session.
I want to remind you that I am just one text away if you need anything at all.
I encourage you to plan and shop for your session in advance to avoid any stress, and allow for possible shipping times and really allow yourself to enjoy the planning process.
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Below are some of my online favourite places to shop
(amazing kids options)
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(great for basics)
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(wide variety of dresses)
(great linen pants, dresses and cardigans)
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(wide variety of dresses)​
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(Great for the whole family)
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(Great for the whole family)
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Everything in this guide is up to your discretion, this is your photo session and you can absolutely wear what ever you desire!