Location

When it comes to location, there are plenty of ‘standard’ San Diego locations which are all beautiful; but it is important you consider somewhere that speaks to your family, and your level(s) of physical fitness.

o   Some of the best woodsy places require a bit physical activity to reach. So if that’s something you’re amenable to, we can make that happen.

o   We know sweaty photos aren’t a good thing, so I would not recommend that we drag you far.

o   DISCLAIMER: For adventure sessions, (outside of your space or the studio), I ask that you bring your own water bowl, treats, and toys for your pup’s safety/comfort. If you are also bringing children, please understand that there will potentially be other loose dogs, of various breeds/temperaments.

How long is the session?

o   While you pick the number of hours, including to/from location(s), sessions that include children and pets shouldn’t spend much longer than 90minutes of actual photo time. Everyone will tend to start looking tired, after too long.

o   It is also recommended that a portion of the time be spent for snacks and rest, with children and pets.

What do we wear?

Have one or two outfits that you love.

o   You decide on the formality, versus comfort; but I would lean towards comfort, as discomfort will show in the photos.

o   Outfits should stand out from the environment. For example, we decided against green for a bride that selected a botanic garden for their engagement session.

o   Consider whether the outfits can handle ‘play’: Sitting, standing, climbing, sand/sea. Especially if you want a long, flowy dress.

o   Wear shoes that can handle your chosen location. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.

How will I get to see the photos? And how many photos do I get?

  • The proofing website will be an album that you can share with family/friends, but downloads of the photos will be limited to only your email address. 
  • The base package comes with 10 fully edited photos of your choice, with the option to purchase additional.

Preparation Tips

  • Skin/Hair
    • Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Nothing makes you glow more than being fully hydrated. Spend the next few days making sure you’re getting enough water and electrolytes
    • Along the same lines, moisturizing your skin/hair will make you shine. Plus your body will thank you.
  • Diet
    • No, not “I need to lose _ pounds” kind of diet; more like “what makes me feel healthy inside and out?”
    • Same advice you always get: fruits and veggies, avoid salty foods/carbs/dairy if those types of items make you feel bloated. But this is less for the camera, and more for you to feel good in your skin/body.
    • Alcohol makes for droopy eyes so while a couple drinks are fine, please don’t have too much the night before or morning of.
  • Makeup
    • Choose your look ahead of time, to match whatever outfit you have picked out.
    • Smoky eyes are fun, and there are tons of guides online about what colors make each different eye color ‘pop.’ But we’re not there to look at your fabulous makeup job, so nothing so crazy that it distracts from the person we’re there to see. (Unless that’s the look you want, then you do you!)
  • Joints/Stretching
    • There will be sitting around and holding poses that you might not normally hold. Even if you don’t have any particular injuries, it is always a good idea to be limber. For example, popping your hips up/back will be a large part of many photos, and this can be hard on the lower back after a while. So doing some cat/cow, child’s pose, and/or forward folds can be your best friend.
    • Please tell me if anything is hurting or uncomfortable in a certain pose, and we will move on to the next one.