Christmas Tree Farm Minis Client Experience Guide

November 2nd and 10th, 2024

How to get the most out of your session!

You're already doing it by checking out this guide! I put together this guide to help you know what to expect at your session so you can prepare your family. I suggest starting a note or list on your phone for your session that you can add to it when you think of something and so that you have a checklist when finishing your final preparation. I’ve also provided a sample checklist at the end of the guide to help get you started! And finally, you help me prepare for your session by filling out the Session Planning Questionnaire through the link you received in my email or the link at the bottom of this page.

Here is everything this guide will cover!

• What to expect before, during, and after your mini session.
• Location Info - including parking and where to meet me!
• What To Wear Guide
• How to prepare for your session.
• Links to helpful blog post topics
• Sample Checklist

Your Session - What To Expect

Christmas Tree Farm Minis Location Guide

What To Wear Guide

General Styling Tips!

• Wear something you feel comfortable and confident in because you will LOOK comfortable and confident in your photos.
• Iron out any wrinkles and consider changing at the location.
• A general rule that tends to look best on everyone is to dress up rather than dress down, unless you specifically want a more casual vibe.
• Coordinate outfits and colors but don't be matchy-matchy. Think similar tones and complementary colors.
• Avoid busy patterns or too many different patterns as these can be distracting. However, there are always exceptions. I go into more details on how to mix and match patterns and textures while still coordinating below.
• Layers and accessories create visual interest in photographs. Consider adding a jacket, sweater, or scarf, and don't forget jewelry!
• The location of your photos also plays a big part in the overall look and feel. This is a Christmas/Winter session so dress accordingly! This doesn't mean you have to wear a heavy sweater if it's too warm out, but something like a summery sundress will look out of place. Bright colors like red and blue stand out amongst the trees and create that iconic Christmas look. Jewel tones create an elegant vibe and fit in well with the greens on the trees. Earthy and neutral colors compliment the natural setting and lend to a classic look. What you wear also contributes to the overall look and feel of the photos. If you prefer brighter photos, wear lighter colors. Or if you like a more moody vibe, wear darker shades.
• Consider your shoes! In general, I think shoes should "disappear" in photos. This can mean going barefoot or planning footwear that doesn't distract from the overall outfit or location. Try to choose something easy to walk in so that you can be comfortable without worrying about uneven ground or twisting an ankle. Or simply wait to change into your shoes until you reach the location. Flats and booties in nude and natural shades are a universally good choice. The same is true for kids! A really cute outfit paired with worn-out or brightly colored trainers can break the cohesiveness and be distracting in photos. Little details like these make big differences in elevating the look of your photos.

How To Mix & Match Colors, Patterns, and Textures!

Having a variety of colors, patterns, and textures can help to make your photos more visually interesting but can very easily become distracting if overdone. Here are a few general guidelines to follow to help you do it right and look your best without looking too matchy-matchy!

1. Start with the outfit that has the most noticeable pattern or combination of colors and build from there. This is usually Mom's or Baby's outfit.
2. Pick out colors from the pattern and use those colors for solid pieces in other family members' outfits. A good rule of thumb is to stick with 2 main colors and 1 or 2 accent colors. Create variety by using different shades of the same color. If you're feeling extra adventurous, you can mix in smaller patterns that also match the same color palette you've chosen.
3. Use neutrals to fill in the rest of the pieces in everyone's outfits. Think khakis or denim and neutral colors like creams and tans.
4. Whether you're using a more monotone color palette or a more colorful one, look for ways to add different textures as this will help to keep everyone coordinating without looking too matchy. Waffle weave, corduroy, chunky knit, denim, lace, chiffon, sequins, fringe, ruffles, buttons, pleats, fur, etc all photograph beautifully and add so much to a photo! I wouldn't do all of them at once but mixing in a few here and there in your color palette can really elevate your family's outfits.
5. Lastly, lay out everything together to make sure you like how it looks and that nothing clashes. Feel free to text me a photo if you want an extra opinion!

How to Prepare For Your Session

To bribe or not to bribe

I’m definitely not above a good bribe but you know your family best. Some children do great with the promise of something fun after the session, like going to get ice cream, and others need more immediate gratification. What works best for your family? I recommend using a combination of both and I have some suggestions. If possible, keep the surprise a secret and if you bring candy or treats to the session, don’t let the kids know you did. I like to see how everyone does first and only bring out the treats if absolutely necessary. I have some tricks I like to use with children who aren’t super interested in having their photo taken and I would prefer to start with those before offering a bribe. Once the bribes come out, the kids sometimes just spend the rest of the session asking when it will be over or require a treat after every photo. In the end, it is up to you and you know your kids best. I also plan your session to be full of fun so that the kids enjoy themselves and enjoy being there without feeling like they have to "perform" for the camera.

Sample Checklist

• Look up directions to your location several days before and around the time of your session so you know exactly when you need to leave. 
• Set out your chosen outfits together to make sure you like the way they look together and that they are clean and ready for your session. 
• Have everyone try on their outfits to make sure everything fits and don't forget socks and shoes! 
• Plan and schedule any hair or nail appointments in order to be fresh for your session. 
• Pack your session bag with the essentials for your family. 
• Put your session bag in the car or by the door the night before.

Lastly, have fun!

Don’t be afraid to pick up your children and toss them into the air during your session! Give your spouse a kiss and tell them how much you love them and appreciate them being there. Tickle the kids or chase them around! Explore the location and collect rocks or leaves or whatever you find. My favorite photographs are often the ones where everyone is otherwise engaged or interacting with each other. Not every picture has to be looking and smiling - though we will get a few. The hugging and laughing photographs may very well be the ones you cherish most because they truly capture your family just the way you are. 

I can't wait for our session!

If you have any questions or need anything before your session, please reach out! My phone number is (801)645-7312 and my email is ChristianMichellePhotography@gmail.com. If you haven't filled out your session planning questionnaire yet, you can use the link below to access it!

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