Welcome

A NOTE ABOUT THIS GUIDE

I'm so excited to be working with you and I can't wait for our time together during the DC series! These portraits are going to be STUNNING. Thank you for trusting me to create them!

First, please know that it's NORMAL to be a little nervous about being photographed! Especially when you add young kids into the mix. I still get nervous before having photos taken - and I do this for a living!

This guide will hopefully help ease any nerves and ensure we make the most of our time together. Let's get started! 


- Amanda

Mini sessions will take place at Constitution Gardens in Washington, DC, pictured to the right. I love this location because it offers a stunning view of the Washington Monument, as well as beautiful green space and weeping willows! So much variety, all within a few steps.

You'll receive a map with my exact location in the weeks leading up to the event. There's usually street parking along Constitution Avenue, and from there it's a 1-2 minute walk to our portrait location.

I can't stress enough how important it is to arrive on time for mini sessions. We'll be photographing up to eight families on one day, and out of fairness to all, we cannot allow the schedule to be delayed. I highly recommend arriving at least 10 minutes early to leave plenty of time for any unexpected delays, and to reduce stress!

"Where should we meet you?"

THE DETAILS

Maybe you've noticed that nearly everyone on my website, social media, and even in this guide is wearing clothes that feature light, neutral colors and little-to-no patterns or contrast. This is intentional! When you wear light, neutral clothing, the sunlight bounces back onto your face in a way that makes your skin LITERALLY glow. Light colors hides flaws, are universally flattering in portraits, and help distractions fade away so that the focus is all on connections. 

In the same way, clothing with large patterns distracts the eye and pulls focus away from you - which we don't want. When in doubt about a pattern, do a "squint test" - just look at it, squint your eyes, and if the clothing item looks like a solid color or close to it, it's good to go! If it still looks busy and patterns can be easily distinguished, it's better to go with a more delicate print. 

Suggested color palette:

Selecting Outfits

CLICK HERE TO VIEW FULL
MOOD BOARDS & OUTFIT IDEAS

Ladies

A simple, floor-length dress is THE universal go-to! The long length is flattering and gives maximum options for posing. Wearing dresses is NOT an absolute must, but it really does help create the aesthetic you often see in my work! Color matters more than the style or level of formality. If you'd prefer pants, I highly recommend 

For little girls, you can go very simple! Just a solid colored, plain dress can be perfect. Make sure to plan for neutral shoes, too! 

Gents

Simplicity is best! I recommend a button-up dress shirt, avoiding tees and polos if possible.

For bottoms I highly recommend keeping them light. This can make a HUGE difference in the photo aesthetic. Khakis, tan pants or light grey will work. If you'd like to go the denim route, make them very light. I discourage dark pants (black, navy, dark brown, etc.) because of the contrast it creates with other light colors. Your eye will go right to the dark jeans every time! 

In my professional opinion, there are a few things that should be avoided for portrait sessions because they just don't photograph well. Stay away from the items on this list, and you'll be golden! 

SNEAKERS
GRAPHIC TEES
THE COLOR BLACK
ALL BOLD & VIVID COLORS
CLOTHING WITH WORDS ON IT
CROCS
DARK DENIM OR NAVY PANTS
LARGE PATTERNS
IDENTICAL OUTFITS

Things to Avoid

My best advice: have a hands-off approach! Consider the pressure OFF during these sessions, and embrace your children just as they are. There's no expectation or pressure for forced smiles. Instead, we're going to lean into the chaos, because this season will be over before we know it. 

You are welcome and encouraged to bring one support person if you think you might need an extra hand! Ideally, this should be someone the kids are very familiar with and will respond positively to. I'm happy to even snap a quick photo of you and your support person if there's time at the end of the shoot, if you'd like! 

Prepping the Kids

Inclement Weather

what to do if it rains

Please refer to your welcome email for the rain date! Fingers crossed we won't need to use it, but it's always a good idea to be prepared. 

If we do need to reschedule due to weather, I will make that call 24 hours prior to the event if at all possible. I want you to have the best possible conditions for your session, and no one wants to take photos in the rain!

It might be surprising, but there are other conditions that may also cause us to postpone. For example, gale-force winds will ruin a session pretty quickly! However, please note that we will not postpone due to cold. Be sure to dress the entire family appropriately for the weather!

Pets & Props Policy

Due to the limited time and in order to keep the focus on connection between you and your loved ones, please note that pets are NOT allowed during these sessions. 

You are welcome to bring small, meaningful props to incorporate into the session, such as an ultrasound photo, chic hats, or flower crowns. I will provide a simple white blanket for seated poses!

If your greatest fear is feeling awkward or not loving how you look in photos...you're not alone! Most of us feel this way at heart.

Luckily not only will these sessions be extremely relaxed, but I will fully guide you  into poses that feel effortless, using fun prompts so you can have moments of genuine laughter and fun together. Often you won't even realize how amazing a moment is until you see it afterwards!

I'm here to see the beauty in what seems like ordinary moments.
It is one of the best and most fulfilling parts of my work.

"What do I do with
 my hands"?

"What do I do
 with my hands"?

POSING

You'll receive your gallery ten days after the session. From there, you'll be able to view and download all of the final edited images. You can also order professional prints and artwork directly from your gallery. 

What Happens Next?

I know that this guide is long and hopefully it covers everything you need to know to prep for your session! However if there is something I missed, or you need a recommendation feel free to email 
hello@amandawosephotography.com.

THANK YOU!