BEFORE YOUR SESSION

Preparing for your photoshoot is an exciting and important part of ensuring a polished, beautiful final result. There are several key steps to get ready for your session, all designed to make your experience the best possible.

Book your session

Navigate to the Services page, select your package, add it to your cart, & complete your purchase. (If you are booking an event, please contact me for date confirmation prior to booking.)

Secure your date

Once you’ve booked your session, I’ll be in touch within 24-48 hours to confirm available dates and find the perfect time for you or your family. Sessions (with the exception of events and professional images) are booked around sunrise and sunset for optimal (and extremely flattering) light.

SET PREParation APPOINTMENTS

Next, it’s time to plan for appointments that help you look and feel your best. For women, this typically includes scheduling a manicure/pedicure, professional hair and makeup services, and a spray tan if desired for yourself and/or your family. For men, this typically includes a hair cut as well as other hygiene efforts. These details can boost confidence and make a big difference in creating a polished look.

TAKE YOUR “GETTING TO KNOW YOU” QUIZ

Once your appointment is scheduled, we'll work together to bring your session vision to life. This starts with completing my "Getting to Know You" Quiz which gives me the information I need to craft your session in a way that reflects your goals and unique personality.

CONNECT WITH CADY ABOUT YOUR SESSION QUIZ RESULTS

I will reach out to you within 1 week of quiz completion with your personalized location and prop recommendations. Your role is to provide your approval or feedback. I will then finalize your session outline based on your preferences and provide wardrobe recommendations for each location, if applicable.

plan your wardrobe

Your wardrobe plays a major role in creating a cohesive, polished look. Here are some suggestions to guide you as your prepare your outfit(s).

Proper fit is essential for both men and women. Clothing that is well-tailored ensures a sleek, polished look that photographs beautifully. Ill-fitting clothes can distract from the overall image, so be sure your selections fit you well and feel comfortable.

When choosing specific pieces, avoid wearing black on the upper half of your body (with the exception of tuxedos or well-fitted black dresses), as they can appear too harsh and detract from your face. Also, steer clear of heavy patterns or sequins, as these can be distracting in photos. Instead, opt for colors that complement your skin tone and highlight your unique coloring. Not sure what colors work best for you? Take a free online quiz or consider getting your color analysis done to learn what flatters you most. P.S. When in doubt, shades of white and pale blue are universally flattering and timeless. When choosing outfits for a family photo session, select 3 coordinating colors including 1 neutral (cream, white, beige, or tan). Aim for a cohesive look by incorporating different shades and textures within these colors to create visual interest while still appearing unified.

Need help? Feel free to ask me for store recommendations to update your wardrobe, or send me photos of what’s currently in your closet, and I’ll offer pointers. You may already have exactly what you need, or we can fill any gaps with a few additional pieces to complete the look. Whether you’re aiming for classic, casual, or trendy, I’m here to make sure you look and feel amazing in every shot.

ATTEND APPOINTMENTS

Easy peasy.

pREPARE CLOTHING FOR SESSION DAY

To ensure you look your best for your photography session, here are a few tips for preparing your outfits:

  1. Try on your outfits in advance: At least a week before your session, try on all the pieces you've selected and check yourself out in a full-length mirror. Make sure you feel confident and love how everything fits.

  2. Professional cleaning: If any of your clothes need freshening up or repairs, take them to the dry cleaner for professional care.

  3. Iron/steam your clothes: For clothes that are not professionally cleaned, be sure to steam or iron your clothes the day before your session and hang them up in a spot where they won’t get wrinkled.

  4. Lint rolling: For darker clothing items (like black or navy), give them a good once-over with a lint roller to ensure they’re looking sharp and lint-free.

  5. Transport carefully: Use a garment bag to transport your freshly prepared outfits to the session to keep them neat and wrinkle-free.

ARRIVE EARLY TO YOUR SESSION

Let’s make the most of every minute we have together! Since I work with natural light, every moment is valuable. To ensure we start right on time, please plan to arrive 15 minutes early. This gives you time to park, gather any items you’ll need, and settle in before the session begins. On the day of your session, I’ll send you a location pin to guide you to the exact parking area. I’ll either meet you there or provide another pin to the spot where we’ll kick things off.

Have fun and enjoy the moment!

You made it—now it’s time to relax and have fun! This session is all about celebrating you. I’ll be your biggest encourager throughout, and I’ll guide you every step of the way—showing you exactly where to stand, what to do, and how to pose. All you need to do is enjoy the moment, and we’ll create something amazing together!

SELECT YOUR FAVORITE GALLERY IMAGES

For each gallery (excluding event and engagement sessions), you’ll receive a larger selection of unedited images to review. From there, you will select the amount of images included in your package purchase that best meet your expectations, ensuring you're fully satisfied with every shot. I’ll then professionally edit your chosen images and deliver them back to you (your package includes the carefully selected, edited final images, not the unedited gallery).

Download your digital files and print YOUR FAVORITEs

Once you receive your final gallery of edited images, you'll be able to download your digital files. These images are meant to be more than just digital—they're made to be printed, displayed, and enjoyed. Celebrate and cherish them, not just behind a screen! Feel free to share them with family and friends, too. While print products are not included in the session cost, you can purchase high-quality prints through my conveniently linked online store or another vendor. Please note, however, that Cady Elizabeth Photography cannot guarantee the quality of prints ordered through outside vendors.

Have questions?

Visit the FAQ section at the bottom of the Services page or fill out the form below. I’ll be in touch!