Session Style Guide
This is all for you! Whether that may be engagement, family portraits, holiday photos, there is so much more about telling your story. These photos are timeless because they will capture the beauty in all that you are. Your only job is to be you, overflow the joy in your heart, and simply have fun.
Natural light is always my strength. I love the way the morning light reflects on ones face and I love the sunset softening the way our eyes see. This is what we call the dreamiest, "golden hour." That is always my go to if you want the most out of your session. Always plan to arrive a few minutes before your session so we're all ready to start in time. If you bring two outfits, wear the least favorite one first and save the second for that true golden light.
Depending on your style, if you love flowers bring a bouquet of them with you or dried if prefer that look. I think both are beautiful. (dried flowers you can keep forever) Bring anything extra with you that helps show who you are. If you have a cute basket, you can carry that, or some champagne/wine if we're celebrating anything special, a blanket, hats... ALL the hats! It's always fun to have those objects to spice it up a little!
Ladies this is for you
Dresses, Linen + YOU
Do you like flowy dresses or are you a linen pant girly? Either one, you will look beautiful! Dresses always flatter a ladies body but linen pants are the vibe if you want comfort/casual. If you want best of both worlds you can always do a quick outfit change!
Adding accessories
If you're looking for accessories try and go for a statement earring. It always makes your outfit pop and adds extra dimension to your photos. Try and stick with either all gold jewelry or all white gold. But allow for each piece to shine on it's own, don't compete. A chunky headband, hair scarf, or wide brim hat are always fun touches too!
Men... yes you get a guide too
If you don't have a nice shirt here is your sign to get one
Getting engaged or even just casual photos you need a nice shirt, one that has buttons and a collar. A solid shade is easiest like grey, navy, white, tan. Stripes and patterns tend to be distracting to the eye.
Details
Long pants and close toed shoes are the most masculine look for you men. This draws away attention and brings the focus more towards your face. Unless we're on the beach, then it's a no shoes rule. If you want to add color, pants are the best option to do so.
How to prep yourself
A day before the shoot, take a few moments and breathe. Get your nails done, maybe a little spa time to relax. If you want to go all out and get your makeup done, I can send you a guide for some artists who would love to help a girl out!
Next, think about being present on the shoot. Think about laughing and just purely having fun, this is a moment to make memories with the ones you love. Be aware of your favorite features and how you want them to stand out. Point out the parts you like about yourself and make that known to me. Most important, you are beautiful in your own way and created in His image. Have that confidence to carry with you through anything!
How to prep your man
Let's admit, as much as we want our man to love photos, not all are super gung ho about it. What the goal is, is to explain what's important about this session. Explain to him what the purpose is and how you want to express your love or document the life you've made together with your family. Show your three top photos and why you chose me. This always helps them understand the whole concept. What's most common is having an experience that makes every experience going forward not exciting. Trust me, that will all change after we have our session!
Session Checklist
- Set date + time with Ashlee
- Pick location
- Review Style Guide
- Schedule hair, makeup and nails appointment
- Choose outfits
- Pick a date night spot for after session
- Pack a bag for extras : sandals, touch up makeup
- Don't forget water
- Gum too
- Jacket or sweater encase it gets chilly
After session
Of course I thought about after too! Don't forget to plan a dinner date and get mommom or a sitter if you have kiddos. Make the night as special as you are. P.S.... Cape May & Ocean City have some super cute places!
Love Note
I want to say thank you for choosing me to capture your special moments. I know that this is probably a relief to have some help. This is something I want you to look back on and be truly heart filled with these photos. At the end of the day nothing can take away the memories made together. I can't wait to meet you and I encourage you to just have fun with all of this.