Fall Mini Session Prep Guide

You've just booked your session with Claudette Farthing Photography, and you're super excited (as am I). But you're probably wondering: "what's next?" This guide will help walk you through the steps you need to prepare your mini session with yours truly!


Now that you’re all booked, here are some tips to prepare for your mini session and make it as easy and fun as possible. 

WHAT IS A MINI SESSION

If you’ve never done a mini session, it’s exactly what it sounds like: a miniature version of a normal full portrait session. They are quick moving sessions scheduled back to back, at one central location. These sessions usually last from 10-15minutes in length, with a much smaller delivery of images and prints (usually 3-10). If you are late, that cuts into the time of your session. If you are 10 minutes late for your 15-minute session, your session will only be 5 minutes.


WHAT TO EXPECT


My goal is to capture you and your loved ones doing what you do best - being yourselves. And hey, if I can make you laugh and have fun while we do so, then that's an even bigger win. I know we only have 15 minutes together, but we can still use that time to get some amazing pictures you'll cherish forever. Remember, no single session is perfect, and it does not have to be! I will guide you into poses and areas with beautiful lighting. Your job is to love on your family and just have fun!


I will only ask for your little kids to look at me 1-2 times (once for the fast “traditional” shot, and once for an individual portrait"). The rest of the time I will suggest fun things (like go attack mom and dad, dance together, play, etc).


We will start on time

Since this is a mini session, I have sessions booked back to back. Please plan accordingly if you are changing outfits when you get here, traffic, etc so we can start on time and not feel as rushed. I recommend you plan to arrive about 10 minutes early so you have a little bit of a "buffer" in case you end up running late. If you are late to the session, I cannot go past your end time to make up for it, so please keep that in mind!


Prepping your littles

Before your session, pack a bag with snacks, water and any small objects (like toys or lollipops) that might help me get their attention when it’s time for them to look at the camera. If they are old enough to understand you, it’s a good idea to prepare them for what’s to come before the session starts. Explain how much the photos mean to you so they know to be on their best behavior. A lot of families discuss and pick something fun in advance as a treat after the session if they’re good listeners, like an ice cream cone, for example.


It also helps if their bellies are full and they’ve has some good rest beforehand. Once your prepare them physically and mentally, then feel free to give them (and you!) grace! They’re little, and I know that some days don’t always go as planned. I've seen it all and will make sure to get you great photos, regardless of their moods. My goal is to make this as fun and stress-free as it possibly can be for you and your family!


WHAT TO WEAR


  • Dress for the weather. Wear coordinating clothes for the session, but don’t be overly “matchy.” Avoid plaid patterns of different colors, too many busy patterns, and logos. We recommend that you start with mom’s outfit, then coordinate the rest of the family.
  • Neutrals also look beautiful, too.
  • Most importantly – dress in something you feel comfortable and confident in. It will show in the photos.
  • Make sure your clothes fit properly and don’t bunch oddly or ride up when you are crouching, sitting, etc. Make sure clothes are not too baggy or falling off shoulders or waists and that undergarments are not showing. (Unless that’s the look you’re going for.)
  • Avoid neon colors that may leave a color cast on faces and skin.
  • Shoes! Make sure they are clean, scuff-free and comfortable. Avoid flip flops and gym/running shoes
  • Dress kids in clothes they are comfortable in and you don’t mind if they get a little dirty. There is a lot of running, playing, sitting, etc. during our sessions and we want the kids to have a great time!
  • An APPLE WATCH and those pesky hair ties on your wrist is a NO!


Here is the link for WHAT TO WEAR and COLOR SCHEMES for Fall Family photos - https://www.claudettefarthingphotography.com/fall-family-photo-outfits-


WHAT TO DO IF IT RAINS

If weather is an issue, I will be in contact with you as soon as possible. In the case that we need to reschedule, I will do my best to find a new date that works best for you and your family.  I know it takes a lot of time to get ready for your photoshoot and it’s the worst to get dressed up and drive out to your session only to have it rain. Let me know what works best for the two of you - but if the weather looks like it won’t be great, I typically try to make the call at least 5 hrs before our session time.


What to do with my hands

When it comes to posing for your session, you don’t need to worry about a thing! I'll guide you through the entire process beginning with “poses” that are super easy and natural. If I tell you to do something that feels a little funny, it’s probably because I know it’s going to make you laugh - and that’s the photo I'm actually looking for. Throughout your session, I'll keep an eye on your hair, makeup and outfits to make sure things stay in place. I want you to feel as relaxed as possible and enjoy your time together! 


When to expect my images

As soon as possible after your session is complete, I'll start going through your pictures to choose the best ones. You'll get a sneak peek within the first 24-36 hours with my favorite pictures from the session. The full gallery will be delivered about 2-3 weeks after your session!


Should anyone in your family be feeling sick the day of, I require you to let me know. Your session will be canceled and we will plan another time to take your photos.


Children change quickly. Loved ones pass away. And so much of life can be missed because we didn't stop to soak it in. That's why I love family photography. You can remember those snippets in time, the people you love, and the kids you've raised for forever