Getting Ready for your Portrait Session

A. The biggest no no is fine lined fabrics like herringbone. They can cause a moire pattern and become a distraction from the photo.
Another consideration is where we will be doing the photos. If there is a dominant color at the location everyone should avoid clothing that is too similar, or that would clash. Remember too what colors would look good hanging on the wall in your home.
If you are uncertain, and we have the time, I'm game to meet you at the location to see what colors will work best.

A. It isn't just real estate where location is important. I'm up for almost any location, and I have the equipment to light an arena if needed, but there might be restrictions we can't work around.
We can do this in your home if you like, nearby, or someplace significant to your family. If travel to the beach, to a park, or to the Bahamas, will be involved I may need to build the associated costs into the session fee.
Central Park is always an option, but the Conservatory Garden requires reserving a date and paying a non-refundable fee (https://assets.centralparknyc.org/pdfs/forms-and-applications/Wedding_Permit_Application.pdf). Other parks can work too, but if crowds can be a factor we need to keep that in mind.
If it is a new location to me I will visit it before the session and scout out spots for photos.

A. To keep everyone happy and engaged you may need to prepare your kids for what to expect. Bring snacks that won't make any big messes.
I'm happy to make silly photos, but I suspect you'll be hoping for nice smiles and no crossed eyes!
If anyone is attached to a toy or stuffed animal I'm happy to include them if you are.
Family pets are good to include, but it would be great if someone can join us to mind them when they have lost interest in being photographed.
The shoot could take 2-4 hours (a lifetime away from a video game, I know), but I will work hard to keep it moving quickly.
We should talk before the big day about images you really want to capture. Seen an image you love? Do share and I'll see if we can make it happen.

A. Heading into cold and flu season do your best to stay healthy. A big ask if your have walking disease vectors in the house, so if someone has a fever, upset stomach, or other malady it is probably best to not try to power through it. I would rather find a new day to try again than have a zombie at the photo session.