Preparing and planning for your documentary style photo session
I want to share some advice on how to prepare for your documentary session with me. This is based on my own experiences and observations of what results in a session client's love. My style is candid and documentary, focusing on genuine moments and connections. This advice reflects both my approach and who I am. I hope it helps!
FOCUS ON CONNECTION, NOT PERFECTION
The most important part of preparing for a documentary-style session is to focus on connection and kindness with yourself and your loved ones. Go into the session with everyone's "emotional buckets" full. Genuine attention and love are some of the best ways to fill these buckets, especially for kids and partners.
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement or nerves of "doing" and "perfecting," sometimes at the expense of quality time. If you ever wonder, "What more can I do to prepare?", remember: connection is key.
MAKE IT a good day!
Photos are more than just pictures - they’re memories. The feelings you have before and during your session will come through in the images. If you create joyful, connected moments leading up to your session, those emotions will be easily accessible when you look back at the photos, both now and years from now.
BRING COMFORTS THAT MAKE YOU FEEL GOOD
Think of your session like a comforting exercise where you’re encouraged to wear your coziest clothes or bring a favorite blanket. Maybe have a warm cup of tea or something else that makes you feel good. It can feel a little strange to have a camera pointed at you, so give yourself extra love and compassion. Acknowledge that you’re stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new.
Don't OVER PREPARE
Some of my favorite photos are from times when I wasn’t prepared or didn't expect to be on camera. This isn’t a coincidence. I believe it's because it allowed me to be present with my family and make real memories during the session. So, my advice: don’t stress too much about preparations. Instead, aim for a calm, self-accepting, and connected state of mind.
DRESS FOR THE ACTIVITY, then THE SESSION
Over the years, I’ve found that the professional photos I cherish most are those where I dressed for the activity, not for being photographed. For example, after my second child was born, I had both posed and lifestyle photos taken. In the posed session, I was in a shirt and pants that I felt uncomfortable in. In the lifestyle session, I wore my usual nursing tank and leggings. I feel more nostalgic and comfortable looking at the lifestyle photos because they represent what life was really like then.
The takeaway? Dress in a way that feels authentic to you and suits the activity. You’ll likely feel more relaxed, and that comfort will show in the photos.
Set The Tone For Your Family
You are the confident, wise adult your family looks up to. Your energy will set the tone for the session, especially for your kids. If you want cozy, snuggly photos, relax on the floor and wait for your kids to join you. If you want playful, giggly photos, jump in with them and match their energy. Think about where you feel happiest and most relaxed, whether it’s outside on a porch swing or inside by the fire, and go there - we’ll follow your lead. And, sometimes kids take some time to arrive on their own. But usually, if we model the behavior we want to see, they will join without being asked. It's funny how it works.
YOU ARE ENOUGH
You don’t have to be constantly busy during the session. The moments we cherish most are often the simple, everyday ways we show care for our children. And let’s face it—they’ll need us no matter what we’re doing. You are enough. Your presence is enough. Your attention is enough. It’s perfectly fine not to always be doing something during the session. It’s okay to take a moment to just be—even if that means getting a little bored. Like we tell our kids, that’s often when the magic happens.
ASK FOR WHAT YOU WANT
It's as simple as that. Sometimes I might miss subtle details or moments that are important to you. We’re usually in the same space, and I always want to know if there’s something specific you want captured. Just say, "Cass, can you capture this?" and I’ll be on it. Your input is valuable, and your unique perspective is beautiful. I don’t know everything - I want to hear your ideas, desires, and needs. Always.
THINK SLOW... NOW, SLOWER
Excitement and nerves can make any moment feel intense. I invite you to slow down. Take deep breaths. Tap into the energy in the room. There's plenty of time, and some of the best moments happen in stillness or between actions. Let’s sink into those moments together.
Thanks for reading! Do you have thoughts, questions, things you wish I'd covered? Write me a note! I'd love to hear from you.
