Thinking About Booking a Photo Session in Central Alberta? A Photographer’s Guide to a Stress-Free Experience

Photo sessions can be a fun and memorable experience, but they can also come with their fair share of questions. Whether you've never had professional photos taken or you've had multiple sessions, there's always a lot to consider. Follow this guide for a smooth and stress-free photo session experience.

What Do We Wear?

When it comes to your outfit choices, aim for authenticity. You want to look good, but you also want to feel good about what you're wearing. If you're feeling uncomfortable about what you're wearing or self-conscious about how you look, it can come across in your photos. Go for colour coordination over matching. Pick two or three complementary colours for everyone to choose from that give you a cohesive look while maintaining individual styles and personalities. It's a good idea to steer clear of shirts with logos or distracting images that may be distracting and take the focus away from everyone's faces. What about the weather?

If there is one thing we know for sure about the weather in Central Alberta, it's that it is constantly changing and unreliable. It's a good idea to be prepared for changing weather by dressing in layers and bringing along seasonal accessories like winter gear, blankets, and umbrellas. Should the weather turn for the worst and it's just not ideal for a photoshoot, I am happy to rebook. I know we can't always depend on Mother Nature for fair-weather photo sessions and I have no issues with rescheduling. I don't have a dedicated studio space, but I have several spaces I can rent as a back up at an extra cost.

What if my child won't cooperate?

I totally get it! I have three of my own kids who are so over having their photos taken and I understand that not every child is excited to have their photos taken. I have lots of experience working with kids. I am patient, I have a few tricks up my sleeves, and if all else fails, I capture all the candid moments I can.

What Should I Bring?

Besides the weather essentials and layers for uncertain weather, bring along water and snacks if you have kids (or food motivated spouses), back-up shoes if we're walking long distances, and anything special you'd like to incorporate into the photo shoot!

Can I bring my pets?

Absolutely you can! Pets are important family members, and I am happy to incorporate animals into your photoshoots.

What if I feel awkward in front of the camera?

I promise to guide you along the way. I like to capture a mixture of both posed and candid images. I'll pose you, give you prompts to help encourage natural smiles and laughter, and snap away at those in-between moments when someone cracks a joke, a romantic glance is exchanged, or a little one plants an unexpected kiss on Mom's cheek.

Do You Retouch The Photos?

Yes, I go through all the images taken and edit the best ones. I have a true tone editing style and like to keep my editing minimal, natural and timeless. How and When Will I Receive My Photos?

Typically photos are delivered within two weeks of the photo session. During busier seasons or for events like weddings, galleries will take a little longer.

I deliver my photos in an online gallery. You can view, share and download your images directly from the gallery. If you'd prefer, I can also add your images to a USB drive.

Have Any More Questions?

I hope this helps ease your worries and answers all your questions! If not, please feel free to ask away. I am happy to chat and aim to give my clients the best possible photo session experience from start to finish.

Alison ❤️