As a soon to be first time mom, I know for our first family session I would want to bring everything under the sun for my little one just in case!

Realistically, there are must-haves and maybe-nots for things you should prep before your session. Here is my top most popular suggestions!

Must Haves:

1. Jacket or Sweater

   Always bring a jacket or sweater for your littles just in case it gets a little chilly. Especially for spring and fall session! The shade can be much colder especially if we have some wind. Make sure it is something you won’t mind being in photos!

2. Bobby Pins, Hair Ties, Anything To Tame Hair

   Don’t leave home without some way to tame your hair! If it is a windy day, we want to make sure to see all of your smiling faces. It is also one less distraction when trying to get everyone to look at the camera.

3. Water & Snacks

   Always come prepared for a snack break! Nothing is worse than having a hungry belly while trying get giggles for the camera! This can also be a good way to get some cooperation from the littles with their favorite snack at the ready after one more photo. Make sure this snack isn’t super messy and won’t dye mouths blue.

   Ideas for snacks: goldfish, apple slices, pouches (as long as they aren’t too messy), string cheese, grapes, crackers.

4. Favorite Toy

   You don’t need a box full of toys, one or two of their favorites will do the trick! Keep in mind bringing a toy you won’t mind appear in some of the photo. Most kids will want to hold their toy sometime during the session. I sometimes like to hold the toy to get their attention and play with them a little to warm them up to the camera and get some giggles. It can also be special to have their favorite toy in the images because its all a part of your story.

5. Appropriate Shoes

   Usually this section goes more with outfit planning, but it is so important to make sure the shoes that you look great in, match the location of your session. If you decide to have your session in a grassy park, stiletto heels may make you sink and make the session challenging. For your littles, their shoes should be comfortable. If they aren’t liking a specific pair of shoes we can always take them off and go barefoot (weather depending).

Bring If You Like:

1. Blanket

   Blankets can come in handy in several ways. We can use it for you to sit on during your session or for your snack break! I always keep a blanket in my car just in case, but it isn’t necessarily one I would use in photos.

2. Change Of Clothes For Your Littles

   Just in case snack break gets a little messy or your littles take a tumble, its never a bad idea to have a change of clothes just in case! You can also bring a quick change for your little ones just to mix things up and get some variation in your session.

3. Lip Gloss or Lip Stick

   Don’t forget your own touch ups! Sometimes a little pop of color on your lips is all you need to refresh. If you don’t normally wear bold color lipstick, I suggest sticking with something you have tried and like. I don’t suggest experimenting with a new look for your upcoming session.

4. Diapers

   Most families bring this and just leave it in the car long with wipes and cream, etc. Don’t tote around more than you have to! Usually our locations aren’t too far away from the cars so we can always take a walk back if need be.

Don’t Bring:

1. Empty Stomach

   Please don’t come on an empty stomach! I haven’t met anyone who is happy and hungry at the same time. We want your session to be enjoyable for everyone. Happy tummy = Fun Session!

2. Transition Glasses

   These photos are taken outside. Even on an overcast day, the lens will still darken unfortunately. If you wear glassese all the time consider wearing a different pair, use contacts, or go without them.

3. A Toy You Don’t Want In Images

   If your little one’s favorite toy is a bit rough around the edges and you really don’t want it in the photos, don’t bring it. Kids love to hold toys in some point of the session and it will be seen.

4. Bad Attitude

   Maybe one of the most importrant things to leave at home. I know many people don’t love photos taken of themselves. Try not to think of it in that way. This is a time where you are all dressed up at a beautiful location with the ones you love the most. Have fun, run around, enjoy yourselves and I will capture the magic!