What should we wear for our portrait session?
I always say, begin with the end in mind. Think about what you are going to do with your pictures. Where are they going to hang? Match your colors to the room(s). Matchy-matchy outfits, are NOT in style right now, but coordinating outfits are! Choose 3-6 colors and base your outfits around just those colors. Also think of the style you want to portray, classic, formal, shabby, casual, etc.
What time should I schedule my session for?
Whenever your family is the happiest! Scheduling your session just before nap time, or when kids are hungry is NOT going to produce wonderful portraits. Make sure kids are well-rested and well-fed before hand! The session will go much more smoothly.
Also, lighting is best in the evening 1 hour before sunset. The second best time is up to one hour after sunrise in the morning. I don't currently have a lighting system, I use natural light, so if you want to do it at my house schedule during any bright time of the day.
What should I bring?
If young children are involved, bring a favorite toy or blanket. With newborns, bring a few special gifts received (blankets, hats, bows, special outfits, etc.), extra outfits, and some diapers just in case! With girls, bring hair stuff just in case. Remember that portraits are an expression of personality, so if your 3 year old insists on wearing that new dress-up costume, we can do some pictures with the costume first, then your desired outfit. Anything to make the kids happy!
Where do I find envelopes for the 4x6 portrait cards?
Envelopes can be found in the office supply section of most stores. They are called "Invitation Envelopes". On that note, when you get your cards printed off, make sure you choose matte or lustre finish. That way, when your cards get handled, they won't show fingerprints on them.
What other sizes of cards can I get?
Besides the regular 4x6, I can make 5x7 and 6x7.5 (which are only printed at Costco, but do include envelopes).