If you’ve made it this far in the series, you already know I’m big on keeping things real.

So lets talk about prep.

Because most people dont skip photos because they dont want them.

They skip them because theyre thinking:

I dont know what to wear.

What if my kid wont behave?

What if I look awkward?

And the truth is you dont need to show up perfect.

You just need a simple plan.

The goal: show up feeling ready not stressed

This is your reminder that you dont have to do the most.

A few small choices make a big difference.

Heres how to prep without spiraling.

1) Pick outfits that feel like you (and fit well)

The best outfit is the one youre not tugging at every 30 seconds.

A few Real Talk tips:

• Try everything on ahead of time (yes even shoes)
• Make sure you can sit move and breathe comfortably
• Avoid super busy patterns and tiny stripes (they can look weird on camera)
• Choose colors you love on yourself (not just whats trendy)

If youre stuck message me a couple outfit options and Ill help you pick.

2) Dont forget the little details

These are the things that sneak up on people:

• Nails (clean and simple is always safe)
• Haircuts (give it a few days dont do it the night before)
• Chapstick or lip balm (especially in winter)
• Lint roller (trust me)
• Water and a small snack

3) Bring a small just in case bag

You dont need a whole suitcase but this helps:

• Hairbrush/comb
• Bobby pins/hair ties
• Makeup touch-up items (if you wear makeup)
• Tissues/wipes
• Safety pins

4) Plan your timing like a real person

If youre rushing everyone feels it.

Try to:

• Leave earlier than you think you need to
• Eat beforehand (hangry photos are not the vibe)
• Build in time for a quick reset if someone gets overwhelmed

Seniors: how to prep for senior photos

Senior sessions should feel like you not like youre playing dress-up as someone else.

A few things that help:

• Bring 24 outfits if you want variety (casual dressy something that shows your personality)
• Think about what represents you: sports gear instruments a letter jacket a car a hobby
• If youre doing cap and gown later tell me so we can plan for it

Real talk: the best senior photos happen when you stop trying to look perfect and start letting your personality show.

Sports: how to prep for sports photos

Sports sessions can be simple or extra depending on what you want.

Heres what to bring:

• Clean uniform (and any extras like socks belt pads etc.)
• Equipment (ball bat glove helmet bow whatever fits your sport)
• Clean shoes (or a second pair if yours are muddy)
• Hair ties for long hair

And if you want a mix we can do:

• Uniform shots
• Casual outfit shots
• A few serious and a few smiling (because you’ll want both)

Babies: how to prep for baby photos

Baby sessions are honestly the easiest and the most unpredictable and that’s okay.

Heres what helps:

• Bring a favorite toy or comfort item
• Pack wipes a backup outfit and a snack/bottle if needed
• Dont stress about a perfect mood we work with what baby gives us

And heres the big one:

If baby needs breaks we take breaks.

No pressure. No judgment.

What not to do the day before

This is my gentle warning section:

• Dont try a brand-new skincare routine the night before
• Dont wait until the last minute to pick outfits
• Dont schedule your session on a day youre already maxed out if you can help it

If youre nervous tell me

Id rather you say Im awkward or my kid is wild or Im stressed than try to pretend youre fine.

That helps me guide you better.

And I promise you’re not the first person to feel that way.

Message me and well plan it

If you’re thinking about senior photos sports photos or baby pictures you don’t have to have every detail figured out.

Just message me and well plan it. No pressure just a real conversation to figure out what fits you best.

Next in the series

If you want Part 7 can be the I’m awkward in photos post where I break down how I pose and coach you so it doesn’t feel weird.