Guide

MaternitySession

Clothing

A well put together wardrobe dramatically enhances the aesthetics of an image. I encourage every family to spend time to put together a set of outfits using the suggestions below. 

Colors. I highly recommend using a mix of 2-3 complementary colors (example: pink and blue) or a mix of various shades of a color (light pink to deep purple) instead of sticking to one, same solid color. Combine those with one or two neutral colors (example: greys and browns). This style adds texture and beauty to the photographs. See set of images below! While I highly prefer light colors (tertiary/pastels), please do not be limited by these. Dark, rich colors or a mix of light and deep colors work just as well as long as you follow the complementary color guide just mentioned above. Patterns (especially floral) are definitely a-okay! Stay away from outfits with big bold logos as those can be distracting. When putting together the colors, please keep in mind the location that you choose, you do not want to blend in with your surroundings. While you want colors complements the back drop you also should pick colors that make you stand out. For instance, no black outfits if you prefer to shoot in lava rocks, etc.

Dresses. Yes! Love love love long flowy dresses for pregnant moms. Long flowy dresses that blow in the wind will look best! More importantly, find something comfortable and flattering for your body type. For example, if you are a bit self-conscious about your arms, try to find a dress with sleeves. 

Boys/Dads: Shorts or pants as long as they are comfortable!

MY FAVORITE PLACES WITH MATERNITY OPTIONS:

Moms - Pink Blush Maternity, Free People, Tobi, Nordstrom, Show Me Your Mumu maternity, Hatch Collection , Sexy Mama Maternity

Kids - Gap, Zara, H&M, Joyfolie, Jamie Kay, Reverie Threads, Shop James

Dads - Nordstrom, Gap, JCrew

Shoes - please remember that you will be walking on sand, some rocks and uneven surfaces so wear footwear that is cute and perfect for walking on these surfaces. Wedges and heels are a no-no as I would hate for you to trip or sprain your ankle on uneven surfaces. I love movement and my families tend fall into a "choreographed" exploration, so expect to walk some and move around in my sessions. In the sand, everyone can kick off the sandals and slippers and go barefoot!

MY FAVORITE COLOR PALATTES

HAIR AND MAKE-UP
I highly recommend both for Mom whether you go the DIY route or with a professional. While you want to look yourself during your session, you want to look your absolute best! Bear in mind that Hawaii is windy and a bit humid. A calm day with zero wind is pretty rare here. This is why hair prep is important! Worried about the wind? Don't worry-- I LOVE wind. Wind blown hair and dresses add so much motion to a photograph. If you need help finding a make-up artist on the island please email me.

FOOD
Make sure the little ones are fed before the shoot. A hungry kid is no fun. The last 20-25 mins before sunset is the most perfect light so I want to make sure snack breaks are taken well beforehand. Except for babies who feed on demand--we absolutely take a break for this!

ARRIVE ON TIME
Our shooting timeframe is extremely limited by the setting of the sun. So when sessions run late it can affect the variety and the quantity of the images in your final gallery. Make sure to have directions to the location ready. If you have never been to the location before and are unfamiliar with the area make sure to factor in a few minutes of extra time in case you get lost. Also consider time for potty breaks prior to starting the session.

GET IN THE WATER
If you picked a beach location for your session, expect to get in the at some point during the session! Some locations can be busy and this makes shooting a little tricky. To overcome this, I try to keep my families close to the water. Even if the locations are more private, some cool spots require getting in the water a bit. Therefore, be ready to go barefoot or wear water friendly shoes! On that note-bring towels and a change of clothes should you decide to go all in! 

LET THE KIDS BE KIDS
My sessions are fun and I go about it based on your interaction with the kids, how easily they connect with me and what makes them happy in the moment. So don't worry if they don't look at me or "listen" right away. I assure you I will always take one or two photos of them looking at me. As long as they are not in any danger, or causing trouble, please let them be themselves. If they want to play in the sand, splash, run, etc. I capture those; although I try my best to make sure everyone stays dry for the first half of the shoot! I will guide them to come back to you and try to get everyone together for the most part. If you think they are about to misbehave, get in danger then please step in and take control. Otherwise, I prefer to let the kids "loose" to a certain extent. What I also ask of you is to engage with them and the rest of your family. You as their parent, know them best. Do things that you think will make them happy and present: singing their favorite songs, talking about their favorite show, tickles, hugs, etc. Love on them just the way you do at home when there are no cameras around. Those are the moments I truly want to capture! The gorgeous sunset is a bonus!

DON'T FORGET THE EXTRAS
Toys, snacks, pacis etc. Anything that you think your kid might need or help calm him/her down if necessary. I also try to (if possible) take a few photos of just mom and dad and will need the kids to be somewhat occupied and safe during this period. I encourage you to bring the smallest bag possible, as I love taking photos of you walking and "adventuring". Anything that can be left in the car should stay there. I will, in certain portions of the session, offer to carry your small bag for you as we go along. I want to capture natural movements!

SUNBURN

Please be careful with the sun, it can be pretty intense on clear, sunny days. Apply sunscreen liberally and don't forget to re-apply when necessary!

Earth tones work in many different types of locations. Allows you to stand out of the backdrop. 

Pink with creamy nuetrals.

Incorporating multiple colors cohesively and tying them in with neutrals.

Don't be afraid to go with bold, deep colors! I recommend staying with mostly warm colors (red, orange, yelow tones)