Before your session, apart from exchanging emails, we also have the opportunity for a pre session phone call where we confirm location, timing and outfits. I can also answer any questions that have been on your mind that may not be answered here. And don't be shy. Here are some common phrases I get all the time AND I've got solutions to them all:

• I am worried about my kids being able to sit still and participate in the photos
• My husband/partner isn't keen on photos
• Sunset is the worst timing for my family

I've been in your shoes and have felt all of these feels too. I am here to tell you that there is a workaround for them all. We will chat through all of this and more.

All of the above generally happens in the 3-4 weeks prior to your session so if you are booking well in advance you may not hear from me until then. I always send a text the day before or the day of your session just to make sure all is well on your end.

What to wear

This can feel overwhelming especially when you are not only organising an outfit for your self but it's likely that you are doing so for the rest of your family. Let's dive in a little further but I want you to remember that the bottom line is go with something tried and tested.

The number one thing to remember is that being comfortable is key. You should look and feel like yourself. So don't feel as though you need to make a new purchase. Go with something tried and tested.

Texture is great in photo sessions too! Think chunky knits, cords and waffle fabric in winter and tulle or broidery anglaise in summer. Which brings me to my next point of matching your outfit to the season and to some extent the location. Especially with kids. Warm kids are happy kids. Unless you have a spirited 2 or 3 year old who refuses a jumper like mine does! I feel you and sometimes it ain't worth the battle. And in that case we will keep them warm with games. However, in winter and the cooler months please feel free to throw some jumpers in a bag for me to carry and for you guys to pop on when the air becomes cool as the sun dips low.

Colours. Aim for neutrals, earthy tones as these colours compliment the outdoor environment almost anywhere you go and look damn fine as printed, framed photographs. And to clarify, by neutrals I don't mean all beige, I mean sage green instead of emerald green and rust orange instead of bright orange. For families it is best to keep your colour scheme limited in colours. Choose one person to wear a feature colour and/or pattern and everyone else's outfits to revolve around that. In a nutshell, complement each other, don't match each other!

For maternity sessions you are welcome to show as much or as little skin as you like. We chat about this in the lead up to your session to ensure that you are at ease!

For newborn sessions I have a variety of blankets and props on hand that you are welcome to use however I find that most families choose their own items to include in the photos purely on sentimental value.

Some other things to consider:

• If we are shooting at the beach or in your home then please feel free to come with bare feet as I feel that this look best compliments these two environments.
• Natural makeup or makeup that you usually wear is the way to go. Don't feel as though you need to go out of your way to book professional hair and makeup.

Location

Location isn't everything but it certainly can add to your family story. I have loads of beautiful locations I am happy to recommend on the Sunshine Coast and in Brisbane. Here are some ideas that might help to point you in the right direction.