HELLO!

I'm so glad you've gotten your hands on this lil guide made. If you're reading this, we're most likely booked in to do a couples or engagement shoot together. Most of us feel a little awkward in front of a camera, but having these memories to look back on in three, five, or even fifty years' time will make all the awkward moments worth it. You can sleep easy knowing that this is my passion. I do this all the time, so l have lots of little tools in my toolkit to make sure you're feeling at ease and natural during our shoot.

emotional connection is shared attention

WHAT TO

expect

You can expect to have a wonderful time.

This session is a great excuse to clock some proper quality time together, invest in your relationship, and be present for this uniquely special time in your lives. During the photoshoot, don't worry if you don't know what to do because I will direct you! Most people instinctively turn towards the camera, but you can expect me to tell you to look at each other. I want you two to be immersed in each other and to be able to settle into the time you've set aside to celebrate your love! I promise I'II let you know when it's appropriate to look at the camera. Know that there is no 'right' way to do things! If I tell you to hug each other, just do it in the way that you regularly do.

There will be moments when you feel awkward in front of the camera, but I have so many tips and tricks up my sleeve so that feeling will dissolve faster than you can say 'cheese!' My goal is for you to feel as authentic and comfortable in front of my lens as you can and to capture memories that you'll cherish forever. We'll dance, chat, walk, and laugh, and you'll be so busy enjoying yourselves that you'll forget that you're having your photos taken. Rest easy knowing that this is what I do. I will take care of you, and all you have to do is show up and watch the magic happen.

PRACTICE MAKES

perfect

If we're booked in for an engagement before I shoot your wedding, can I just say: GOOD CALL! We'll be spending a lot (A LOT of time together on your wedding day so choosing to do this little session beforehand gives us a chance to get to know each other before the nerves of the big day. This is the perfect opportunity for you to practice getting comfortable in front of my camera, and I'll be able to practice all the goofy ways to make you smile -easing the nerves of the big day and getting some pretty killer shots to boot.

LET'S BE

friends

I love the fact that life is like a box of chocolates. Every couple that I work with brings their own special sparkle to the table, and I wouldn't have it any other way. It makes me so happy to be able to connect with the many personalities that walk through the door, and to be able to tell stories that are unique to each and every single person. I believe there's a reason that we've crossed paths, and I hope that a big part of that reason is that you found something within my work that you resonate with. If that's the case, we're off to an amazing start.

In any case, I will also be sending a questionnaire so that we can start the friendship for real. I'm interested in knowing who you are, what matters to you, what your love language is, what keeps you up at night, what kind of ice cream you choose every time. The more comfortable we are around each other, the better your photos will be, and what better place to start than with real connection? Feel free to fire some questions of your own back at me too, it's only fair you know who's telling your story.

So you want to bring your PUP?

They are part of the family, after all! If you're arriving with your a four-legged-friend in tow, here are some things to consider first:

•  I'll make sure the location that we've chosen is dog-friendly.
•  Brush up on some commands and tricks to make sure they're not pissing on anyone's leg or muddying anyone's white pants during the shoot.
•  Get the zoomies out! Make sure they've had lots of outdoor exercise beforehand so that they're calm and attentive when it's go-time.
•  Pack treats and toys, and a lint roller.
•  Give 'em a good brush beforehand!

WHAT TO BRING

Pack things that support your comfort, your energy levels, and your mood. Lots of things fall into this category, like extra clothes for if the weather changes or you get a bit muddy. Or snacks for when you're starting to feel that mid-afternoon slump. Or water to keep you feeling hydrated between smooches. Or tequila for a bit of liquid courage. Or a portable speaker for an impromptu boogie. It's all on the table, as far as I'm concerned

GETTING IN THE RIGHT

headspace

Unless you guys have had a stint in the world of reality TV that I don't know about, there's a chance you might feel a little bit apprehensive about the idea of a camera following you around for an hours. This is totally normal! But try not to fight about it. In fact, make a point of being more loving and sympathetic to one another. Set aside some time to do an activity that you love together before the shoot and get all of that good oxytocin juju flowing so that you arrive feeling calm and in love.

Make some time buffers around the day so that you aren't rushing from one thing to another. When a couple shows up to a shoot having had to run seven red lights to get there, it sets the tone for a rushed and disorganised session. Give yourself the gift of a relaxed session and allow plenty of time for showers, grooming, and forgetting things.

WHAT WILL BE

WILL BE

If you walk away after reading this and only remember one thing, let it be this. have zero expectations. Embrace what comes - the wind, the rain, the laughter, whatever unfolds.



Every shoot is unique, and we have no set shot list to tick off on the day. It's all about YOU and capturing your life exactly how it is on the day of your shoot. We're not here to mimic the shiny perfect couple you see on your feed, we're here to tell your unique story as it shows up on the day of the shoot-wrinkles, tears, joyous abandon, and all. Throw your checklist out the window and know that magic will naturally unfold. When it does, I'll be there to capture it.

WHAT TO WEAR

Look, I get it. Dressing yourself in the morning is tough enough when you don't have to stand in front of a camera and be your best self. Add having to dress yourself and your partner can be tricky, but rest assured that it will allll work out.

Wear something that'll keep you cool in summer, warm in winter, and that'll make you feel like the sparkly human that you are on the inside. Bring a couple outfits so that we can play with different options and combinations, and get a little sandy/wet/muddy if you're game and the moment calls for it! If you have anything in your wardrobe that is textured, sheer, or billowy, fabrics that flow show up so beautifully in photographs because they capture snapshots of movement - avoid starchy, stiff-seeming garments that get crumpled in weird spots and need adjusting.

If you feel like getting a little glammed up, there's absolutely no reason not to get your hair and makeup done. Just try to keep it as natural as possible. Fancy and intricate hairdos can sometimes look a little out of place if we're tromping around a field, and I love the motion that is captured with hair blowing in the wind.

For a couples/engagement shoots, I very much love a maxi dress on you, but I still love to make it very intimate and show skin like show your legs and wear the dress off the shoulder. Here's are a couple of things to consider.

Please chat with me. If you're going with clothes, I truly believe that outfits can make a session. I have to believe that you booked with me because you love the natural style that I offer. You, the outfits and the backdrop make it a come together and creates breath taking images. The following tips will help achieve just that. I know this part can be challenging but rest assured that im here to help every step of the way. Once the outfits are settled, the session is frosting and we will have so much fun!

Here's a "few" ideas to get creative:

• Maxi dresses
• Crop top and maxi skirt
• Dresses that have a high waistline or slit. Fabrics with lots of texture, like lace or sheer fabric
• Long flowy skirts with a crop top or bandeau bra
• Cozy, knit pieces
• Just a long knit sweater with boots or barefoot
• Bring your sunglasses if they're super cool or timeless!
• Bring flowers or plants you may have in your yard
• You'll most likely be barefoot, but if you have boots or shoes that would add style to your shoot, bring them! Especially vintage looking!
• Bring all you knit sweaters/cardigan. You never know what we can do with that!
• No need to wear a bra!
• Access to all my client closet pieces.

— Partner —

Your partner should have coordinating colors as well, but let your pieces be the star. Solid shirts that are earthy tones, cream or brown are the best choice. I typical love a black pair of jeans or beige-brown-olive cargo pants on men. He can wear a vest or cardigan to add layers.

HAIR, MAKEUP, PROPS.

If you feel like getting a little glammed up, there's absolutely no reason not to get your hair and makeup done. Just try to keep it as natural as possible. Fancy and intricate hairdos can sometimes look a little out of place at home or in nature, and I love the motion that is captured with hair blowing in the wind. If you're partial to a bit of accessorizing and the location calls for it, bring some jackets or hats or other potential props that reflect this time in your life. But remember to keep it real.

Authenticity is in the details.

CLIENT CLOSET

In my client closet, I have versatile pieces for every shape and size. Wear something that'll keep you cool in summer, warm in winter, and that'll make you feel like the stunning woman that you are. You can defenitly bring your own outfits, but please keep in mind that what I offer is a unique experience and gorgeous art for your soul and walls. You can bring a couple outfits so that we can play with different options and combinations, including the ones for your partner.

TIPS

START WITH YOU

I usually recommend for mama to choose her outfit first, and use that as inspiration for the rest of the outfits. Choose dresses that catch light, flow and flatter you. While you may think a dress isn't your "style", I promise you that they photograph beautifully. I also have a client closet with beautiful dresses at you disposal. they add so much depth to your session it's unreal!

UNDERGARMENT

Please be careful of the colors of under garment you decide to wear if you plan to wear it under a dress. I usually recommend, beige or white. Also some dresses require for you to wear silicones on your breasts. (no straps) it looks so much better and there's only so much I can do with photoshop. I also have clients that used big beige plasters. It work really well and it barely shows depending on what dress you wear.

NATURAL STYLE

Go for loose, flowy, textured natural fabrics that will move with you. Be sure to add visual interest with texture and beautiful natural colors like earthy tone and neutrals. Don't put to much thought in the shoes, 99% chances are that I will ask you to walk barefoot :) Please avoir red or any bright colors. Also avoid wearing all dark Colors because you will all blend in together. 

PATERNS

Avoid plaid shirt (chemise carottés), large prints, bright colors, geometric patterns and any large graphics or logos. Also any big watch (apple watch) or items that will distract from your beautiful connections.

DON'T MATCH

The goal is to get the colors, patern and textures right. Avoid being too matchy, matchy - Ideally your outfits will compliment each other and not blend into one another. 

SHOW SKIN

Don't be affraid to wear something that will show off your beautiful neck line, back and you legs! If your husband is up for taking his shirt off, he can! I find it adds so much emotion when you see skin to skin with your loved ones...it's so emotive and just magical. Don't forget to show off your tattoos! You payed a lot of money for those!

ACCESORIES

Don't be afraid to accessorize! If you'd love to bring "stylish hats" or if your son or husband would love to wear a beanie, bring it!! Please keep in mind no logos. **Please no base ball caps. Bring any important family airloom like a ring your grandmother gave you or maybe your daughter has a locket with her brothers photographs inside. Anything that will add value to your beautiful story.

your Partner's not all in yet?

Copy and paste the following message and text it to him.

Hey you! I know it sucks to have you pictures taken and that you'd rather be doing something else. I totally get it! I have one like that at home too! I mostly focus on your connection and the little moments you have between one another. Please know that I will guide you and if you look uncomfortable, we will do something else. Im all about capturing your natural unfolding moments, they're not fake moments! Just hang out with your beautiful girl and if you can do that...You'll be golden! I usually say all of this at the beginning of every session and I instantly see the relief in the men's eyes. They're like "hell yea! I don't need to look at the camera!!?" No you do not! This session means the world to your woman and it's important that she feels your support. Just make her happy! If you feel like you need to drink a beer before coming...go right ahead...hell bring one at the session if you want! I will not judge!! No stress! — Your Photographer

PROCESS

BEFORE YOUR SESSION

A few days before your session, I'll get in touch with you to confirm the meeting point + time. We will then drive to the location we'll shoot at. I'll be in a ruby red gmc terrain. Also, my shooting locations are usually 15-20 minutes away from Grand Falls.

Light differs from a cloudy to a sunny day. Both are very beautiful, but different. If it's cloudy, we will meet 20-30 minutes earlier. The forecast changes quickly sometimes and I want to make sure we have enough time to shoot because it gets dark earlier. If we do, I will let you know on the morning of the shoot.

The remaining balance can be payed in CASH at session.

DURING YOUR SESSION

WHAT TO BRING

For the session, I'd recommend to bring a small bag with water and dry snacks. Kleenex just in case one of you have a runny nose.

PLEASE NO "CHEESE"!

My style is very natural and it's about capturing your natural unfolding moments. Pretend im not there and please don't look at the camera. I will ask you guys when the time is right.

SOAK IT ALL IN

At the beginning of every session, I explain how the session goes so you know what to expect. We'll walk, relax, and truly disconnect from your busy life. You get to soak it all in and just hang out with one another. This is your time!

AFTER THE SESSION

The waiting time is usually 4 weeks after our session. I know it's painful to wait, but trust me it'll be worth it :) If you decided to add a video to you shoot it may be a little longer. Please keep in mind that I will not be sending sneak peaks this year. It truly takes me away from concentrating on your session and it also helps me deliver your gallery in a reasonable time frame. I hope you understand! xx

THANK YOU

Bottom line? I want this photoshoot to give you an opportunity to slow down and appreciate your own brilliance.

If you've gotten to the end of this guide and you've got a few questions swirling around in your head that I haven't answered, please message me or pick up the phone and give me a call. My number is 1-506-426-4264. Just let me know you're calling because I don't ever answer my phone. I want you to feel at ease and prepared going into this session.

Your photos are going to be amazing. I can't wait!