What Your Photographer Secretly Wishes You Knew Before Picture Day

Helpful tips, gentle truths, and a little humor — from someone who’s been behind the lens for over 15 years

Hey there, friend!

Let’s talk about a few things that’ll make picture day so much smoother.

After photographing hundreds of families, couples, and seniors over the last 15+ years, I’ve learned that a truly great portrait session isn’t just about fancy cameras or golden-hour light — it’s about showing up prepared, relaxed, and ready to have fun (yes, FUN!).

So, in the spirit of honesty, here’s what your friendly photographer (that’s me) really wants you to know before your portrait session. These aren’t rules — just helpful tips that can make the difference between "that was stressful" and "wow, that was actually kind of amazing."

1. Outfits Matter More Than You Think — But Not in the Way You Think

Yes, coordinating is great. No, you don’t need to match. Yes, neutrals, soft earth tones, or muted jewel tones photograph beautifully. And no, your four-year-old does not need to wear a bow tie unless he’s into that kind of thing (in which case, adorable — please proceed).

Pro tip : Lay out all your outfits side by side before the session. If one screams louder than the rest, it might be too bold. If you’re unsure, send me a photo — I love helping with this stuff!

2. No One Feels Natural in Front of the Camera at First — and That’s Totally Normal

You’re not awkward. You’re human. The first 10 minutes of most sessions feel a little stiff — and then we loosen up, laugh a little, and the magic starts to unfold. Trust the process. You don’t need to know what to do with your hands (I’ll guide you). You just need to show up, be yourself, and maybe trust me when I ask you to spin in a circle or walk like you love each other in slow motion.

3. Kids Will Be Kids — And That’s Okay

I’ve had toddlers throw pinecones at me, run in the opposite direction, or straight-up scream through their entire session. And guess what? We still got beautiful photos.

Don’t stress if your little one isn’t “cooperating.” Some of my favorite portraits happen in the wild moments — a comforting snuggle, a spontaneous laugh, or the way your kid clings to your leg like it’s a life raft. These are the real moments you’ll want to remember.

Pro tip : Bring snacks. And bribes. And backup bribes. I promise, you won’t regret it.

4. The Weather Might Not Be Perfect — But the Memories Will Be

Living in Southern California, we’re lucky to have mostly sunshine. But even on cloudy days, the light can be beautiful and soft. Wind? We'll use it for movement. A little chill? I'll keep things moving to stay warm.

I’ve worked in wind, drizzle, and blazing heat — and the best sessions weren’t defined by the weather, but by how much the people laughed, connected, and trusted me to create something beautiful no matter what.

5. Posed is Pretty, But Candid is Powerful

Yes, we’ll get the “everyone-looking-at-the-camera-smiling” shot (don’t worry, Grandma needs it for the fridge). But the in-between moments? Those are my jam. The forehead kisses. The tickle fights. The way your partner looks at you when you’re not looking. That’s where the emotion lives. And I’m always watching for it.

6. Your Mindset Sets the Mood

If you come into your session worried about every hair being in place, every smile being perfect, or your kid behaving like a Gap ad... you’ll leave disappointed.

But if you come ready to laugh, play, move, and make memories, your session will feel like a beautiful, slightly chaotic, joy-filled adventure — and that energy will shine through in your photos.

7. Let Go of “Perfect” — Let’s Capture What’s Real

You don’t need to lose ten pounds, get a tan, or wait until life slows down to book your portrait session. Trust me : You’ll never regret having photos of the season you’re in right now.

Perfect is overrated. What matters is that you’re in the frame. That you’re loving your people. That we get to freeze this moment before it becomes a memory.

So, What Now?

If you’re getting ready for your portrait session with me (or thinking about booking one), just know this : I’m here to guide you, encourage you, become your biggest cheerleader, and maybe even remind you to breathe a little deeper.

Let’s chase light, make memories, and laugh through the chaos — together.

🤍 With love and a full camera roll,

Kristi
Your slightly sarcastic, totally obsessed, lifelong memory-maker