If there is one thing you should read in this guide, it’s this. A good photo really can be spoilt by the wrong clothes. But don’t worry if you aren’t familiar with the latest trends, or if you hate shopping, I have created a handy guide giving you simple rules to follow about what to avoid and what looks good on camera.

I realise that some people love sorting the outfits, but also it’s not everyone’s thing!

Even if - like me - you hate shopping and consider yourself a scruffy mum, I promise you it is worth the effort even if you just get a few new items for the kids. Just follow my “what to wear” rules and you will be most of the way there!

If you love choosing outfits and sticking to a colour pallette, you should also check out my pinterest boards (below) for a few ideas and some further inspiration.

Struggling to choose between a few outfits?

Just send me some photos from your phone, or links from the shop website if you’re buying something new - I’m always happy to offer my opinion on what will look best on camera.

PLAN AHEAD

Photo shoots can be stressful for parents. You have invested time and money in the shoot, so you are naturally keen for it all to go well. You may have arrive feeling anxious about how your children will behave, or worried they will do the crazy smile you hate. 

But here's the most important thing to remember - children pick up on your anxiety because in new situations they look to you for clues on what to expect. By planning ahead you can both avoid stress for yourself, and foster the ideal mood in your child, so I can give you fantastic results in the photography!  

BUILD EXCITEMENT

Don’t let your adult viewpoint, colour their expectations of what is to come.

In the days leading up to the shoot, don't tell your child they “need to behave” or they will “get a treat after the shoot”. They aren't stupid - they will expect the photo shoot is going to be a chore or ordeal.

Instead you tell them you've arranged a fun activity, a treat! - they will naturally look forward to it with a positive frame of mind. 

Every child loves being centre of attention in the comfort of the family group - I haven’t met a single child who didn’t have fun on their photo shoot with me.

It’s only adults who complain they don't like having their photo taken - but even you will enjoy it, I promise!

ALLOW ENOUGH TIME

The most common cause of parents arriving stressed is that they are running late, or something went wrong that they hadn’t allowed time for.

After all your talk of this fun event you allow yourself to become stressed and snappy, you may have undone all your good work!

So on the day of the shoot itself, keep the atmosphere relaxed and positive. Allow plenty of time for getting ready, finding the location and anything unexpected. As much as is possible with kids - try to ensure they aren’t tired, hungry or thirsty.

Bring spare clothes, snacks and drinks - you probably won’t need them, but be better to have them just in case!

POSITIVE VIBES ONLY!

Don't worry if your children are “acting up” during the shoot. Resist the temptation to snap at your children or tell them to behave, with most children this makes the situation worse.

It’s essential to keep the mood positive and most of the time distraction is the best approach. I might try out a few things to work out what works best for your child, that might include a short break or walk.

I’ve photographed THOUSANDS of children over the years, so I’ve seen it all and have a number of strategies to engage them in the process and get natural smiles and giggles.

ON THE DAY

The time & weather

Timings

Please don't be late!

My Minis are scheduled back-to-back so I have to finish on schedule to keep it fair for every client.

If you are running late

Please text me as I will probably be shooting and often don’t have good phone coverage in the areas I am shooting.

In cases where there isn’t another family straight after you, or you have had a disastrous journey or set of events beyond your control, of course I will do my best to accomodate you.

My mobile number is 07900886959

Weather

This may surprise you, but more often and not, the weather isn't a problem for outdoor shoots!

We don’t need sunshine - in fact it can make things more tricky. The only weather we don’t like it constant rain, because both cameras and small children tend to get miserable in the rain.

If the forecast look bad I will reschedule your shoot, free of charge.

Be aware however, that as weather forecasts are only accurate on the day itself, I may have to make this decision just a few hours before your shoot. So please make sure I have your correct details for that last minute call!

If rain surprises us on the shoot, you can also reschedule, free of charge.

If we find ourselves in a sudden downpour that wasn’t forecast during your shoot, I’ll leave it up to you to make a decision if you want to wait a short while for it to pass or reschedule to another day. Sometimes it’s easier to continue when it’s just a light shower, but sometimes it’s impossible to continue due to torrential rain and cold, grumpy children!

In summary - if you don't hear from me - the shoot is on!

If there is anything else you need to know, feel free to email me at ellie@dandelionphotography.co.uk - happy to help!