So, today I have a few more tips and tricks to prepping for your photo sessions. Some of these might seem obvious, but if it helps one person then it’s worth mentioning! If you’re new to this “What to Expect” series, check out the first post here.

HOW TO NOT FREAK OUT BEFORE YOUR ENGAGEMENT SESSION:
1. Preparation. To avoid any undue stress, try to plan your outfits ahead of time; I suggest at least two weeks before the session. You don’t want to be running from store to store a few days before trying to make something work. Check it off of the list early and be done with it so that you can concentrate on having fun with your fiancé on the day of the shoot.
2. Keep calm. If anything unexpected happens the day of the session, let go of it. Trust me on this one. Whatever is on your mind from that day: leave it in the car, forget about it, and have fun. This is because emotions always do a really good job of showing up on camera. Just think about happy things, like your first date, or your first kiss, or the way you felt when he asked you to marry him. Your entire face will be overcome with true happiness, and that’s what we all want.

HOW TO AVOID BEING AWKWARD IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA:
1. We all put up walls in public to protect ourselves from being embarrassed, especially with people we’ve just met. But I WANT to see the REAL you, so we can skip the “I’m normal” facade. You don’t have to be scared or nervous with me. Be yourself. Be happy. Be in love.
2. You know how PDA grosses people out? Well, not me. So squeeze each other tight, and go ahead…kiss her!
3. Always assume you are doing the right thing until I tell you to do differently.

HOW TO DO HAIR AND MAKEUP RIGHT:
1. Don’t try a new smoky eye-shadow or attempt a new hairstyle on the day of your session/wedding. You know what kind of hair and makeup looks good on you, so stick with that. Better yet, you are investing a lot of time and money into your photography, so splurge a little and have your hair and makeup professionally done. Ask me for my preferred vendors list for suggestions!
2. Airbrush Makeup. It looks absolutely flawless on camera if it is done correctly.
3. Don’t use too much hairspray. Natural is the way to go.
4. Have the portraits outdoors. I always recommend using the outdoors because the natural light is what looks prettiest on your skin, making it creamy, warm, and luscious without weird shading or fluorescent hues that might accentuate any flaws.

WHAT TO BRING TO SESSIONS IN THE SOUTHERN SUMMERTIME:
1.  Air-conditioning breaks and/or mini fans.
2. Cold bottled water.
3. A hand towel for wiping your fiance’s forehead.
4. Bug spray is usually necessary in outdoor areas.
BONUS: If you can, try to avoid scheduling your session during July and August because it is just TOO hot. In a matter of minutes, your hair will become limp (or frizz), he will get sweaty, and you’ll just be uncomfortable. Who wants to cuddle or be close to someone when you’re unbearably hot?

TIPS FOR SESSIONS (AND WEDDINGS) IN THE WINTER:
1. Get photos taken outdoors regardless of the weather and how cold it is… you won’t regret it!
2. Dress accordingly, and I don’t mean just throwing on a pashmina. For sessions, layer clothing & bring a blanket to cuddle in. For weddings, bring a cute coat or fur stole to put on in between photos. You can also gift your bridesmaids with something warm to wear.
3. The sun sets really early, so keep that in mind when scheduling. Also, sessions are only scheduled during the week, so you may have to take a halfday off work.

And since posts are always better with photos, here’s a few more examples to go by. Next up, we’ll look over bridal sessions, family formals, timelines, and more. Stay tuned!