TIPS & TRICKS FOR DREAMY PHOTOS
PLANNING YOUR SESSION
I’ve created this session planning guide to go over what makes photos special and how we can collaborate before/ during our time together.
Take the time to browse Pinterest, and make note of the background. What locations are you drawing inspiration from - How does it make you feel?
Consider how you would describe yourselves as a family or as a couple. Dreamy and romantic? Bold and modern? Rustic and organic? By thoughtfully selecting your location and adding personal touches, your photos will feel intentional & true to you.
location
SETTING THE SCENE
IT STARTS WITH THE
How location sets the tone
A beachy, sun-soaked session will feel completely different from a moody, forested scene. The colours, textures, and natural elements all influence the final look of your photos.
Again, think about what inspires you.
Birdshill Park, Henteleff Park, La Barriere Park, St. Norbert Monastery, The Forks, Exchange District, Archdiocese of St. Boniface, Manitoba Legislative Building, Fort Whyte Alive, Duff Roblin Park.
Some further options, up for the drive if you are:
Matlock - Lac Du Bonnet - Grand Beach
St. Malo - Spirit Sands - Riding Mountain
Recommendations
LOCATION
Meaningful/
Sentimental
If you’re stuck, you can never go wrong with a sentimental spot. I’ve had the honour to travel to a few cabins, lake houses, homes and even simply neighborhood parks that are sentimental for my clients.
Oftentimes we forget why we capture memories of ourselves? Personally, my intention for my work is to document your existence here on earth. So when looking back on your images - having a memorable tie to the location makes the images quite special.
Indoor/
Studio
There is always the option to shoot indoors! Winter and Spring when the weather is unpredictable, we can opt for indoor photos. Whether it be your home, a studio or an aesthetic spot - being in a controlled environment has it’s benefits.
Studio can offer a more editorial look, but also allows for a clean, designated space that keeps kids contained (unlike a park where they can roam free). If you’re wanting to do photos at home, take note of when the natural light is best and we can schedule around that!
WHY TELLING A STORY
IMAGES THAT MAKE YOU FEEL SOMETHING
is what makes photos special
When planning your session, what’s going to make the photos stand out and feel unique to you is the story they tell. How do we do this? By thoughtfully adding props and curating a scene.
Arranging a picnic, bringing your bicycles, having your dog join us, borrowing your dads friends vintage car, or simply carrying around a bouquet of flowers - all of these props can provide context and allow for true documentary style photography. You just want to make sure whatever scene we set or props you bring, still feel true to you.
As you are
DOCUMENTING YOU
As mentioned before, we can always opt to take photos at your home. I truly think this is the most authentic location there is. Even if you don’t think it’s ‘picture-perfect’ there is value in authenticity - your home in itself is a prop and sets the perfect scene to look back on. True to the stage of live you are in.
YOU ARE THE ART
PAINTING THE PICTURE
what you wear matters
Next step in our planning is your outfits! When choosing what to wear - think comfortable & confident. Layering, movement and texture are all equally important. You want the clothing to move with you, and not feel constricting.
Take into account the location you are shooting at and the season you are shooting in. The location has its own vibe, colours, textures - so let’s work with these characteristics by complimenting its theme.
Let’s talk shoes
Starting from the bottom. Think about what you would naturally wear in the setting. You wouldn’t wear heeled boots on a hike, and if we’re taking a stroll along the beach.. let’s go barefoot.
Comfort first then compliment the scene.
Be you, but elevated.
I encourage you to re-read before your session.
Comfortable clothing that fits well will allow you to move naturally and express yourself without restriction. Compliment each other, but don’t match. Have your nails painted or treat yourself to get them done. Accessories elevate any outfit. We generally have time for an outfit change, bring 2 options! Ensure you have a purse or backpack to empty your pockets of: phone, wallet, keys, etc. and bring a brush & lip gloss, we can take breaks to touch-up!
Feel free to send me photos of your outfits/ options! I’ll guide you.
Thrifting encouraged
Find your outfit at the thrift! Sometimes the most unique part about the photo is the clothing. I suggest buying second hand or borrowing from a friend before buying new.
Stay open,
And have fun
Lastly, this time is exclusively for you. This is an hour where you can totally put your phones away and enjoy each others company. Having a positive attitude going into our session is really important. I perform my best when my clients are open to my direction. But it’s okay to be nervous, just know that everyone feels that way. Even I do! I will guide you and give prompts to loosen up. My only ask is that you be present and stay open to the process. It will be a fun session if you want it to be!
