I don’t typically address this topic with clients, but as I started thinking about it, it is so important.  What do you need to carry with you during your photoshoot? We typically wander pretty far away from our cars, so we only have what we are carrying with us.  How frustrating to be carrying around more than you need or to be missing the few things that would be useful during your session.  So here we go, let’s dive into the topic of what to bring with you to your family shoot. 

Pack everything into one small bag that can get tossed on the ground without fear of getting dirty.

A small snack and a drink for your little ones.  Something that isn’t messy or creates crumbs, like string cheese or dried fruit works well.  You may have just fed your kiddos, but they can be absolute ninjas at getting out of photographs- and their go-to tends to be, “I am hungry.  I am thirsty.” So let’s just bring something just in case that complaint comes up, so we can address it and get back to the fun! 

A treat! Your little ones are working hard and staying focused, and it is okay to reward that.  Their favorite gummies work well and keep everyone mess free.  Even better- surprise them with a gummy shape they haven’t tried! 

A favorite blanket. I always bring a blanket with me to shoots, but if you have a favorite blanket please feel free to bring that.  Or if you have a blanket you think will work particularly well with your outfits I would love to use yours! 

A stuffed animal or small toy.  Your child probably has a favorite stuffed animal that travels with you everywhere, and it is okay for that animal to join the photoshoot.  Just please make sure to let your child know their stuffed animal is going to spend some time with Caryn.  I will take good care of him while your little one takes their photographs and said stuffed animal might even end up doing something really silly like sitting on my head or trying out a new dance move right behind my camera! 

Men- Please take your wallet and cell phone out of your pocket.  I know, it feels natural and you may not think you are wearing skinny jeans or tight pants 😉 but I can see your phone in your pocket and trust me, it isn’t flattering!

Lipstick or lipgloss.  I totally get it if you love your lipstick and you haven’t found that exact brand that is suppose to stay on all day, let alone for one hour- I haven’t found it either! Throw it in your bag just in case you want to add some extra color! 

Leave everything else in the car!  Trust me you don’t want to be lugging extra bags around the park.  We are constantly moving and the extra time to pick things up and put them down takes away from the time that you get to enjoy just being with your family.  So remember simple is best, and less is more when it comes to bringing things to your photoshoot.  Your family’s smiles and interactions are all we really need to truely capture the season of life you are in.

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