Preparing for your session

THANK YOU!

Thank you for choosing Bossy Sister Studios for your Fall or Christmas session this year! I know there are plenty of photographers out there, and it means so much that you chose me. These sessions are some of my favorite days of the year. I can’t wait to capture your family just as you are right now!

If you haven’t already, please fill out the quick questionnaire before your session. It helps me get to know you better and plan a gallery that feels like you.

Your session will be relaxed, playful, and full of connection, more like hanging out with your favorite people than posing for stiff photos. I’ll guide you through everything, from where to stand to what to do with your hands, so don’t worry about “not being photogenic.”

My goal is to capture the real stuff: the laughter, the hugs, the little in-between moments that make your family yours. We’ll still grab that classic “everyone-looking-at-the-camera” shot, but the magic lives in the genuine smiles and unscripted moments.

What to Wear

Outfits make a big difference in how your photos look and feel, but don’t overthink it. Keep it simple, coordinated, and true to your family’s style.

What to Wear:

  • Coordinate, don’t match.

  • Mix neutrals with a few rich pops of color (burgundy, mustard, burnt orange, hunter green, navy).

  • Add texture — think knits, corduroy, wool, layers, and scarves.

  • Keep patterns minimal; small or busy prints can distort on camera.

  • Choose pieces you feel good in. Comfort shows!

  • Dresses photograph beautifully and add movement.

  • Pick a color palette that feels natural and seasonal.

What Not to Wear:

  • Neon colors.

  • All black or all white.

  • Logos, characters, or words.

  • Distracting small prints.

  • Anything uncomfortable or “not you.”

Need help deciding? Text or email me pictures of your outfits. I’m happy to help you pull it all together.

Before You Arrive

A few quick tips to make your session day smooth and stress-free:

  • Lay out and steam everyone’s outfits the night before.

  • Feed everyone beforehand. Full bellies make happy faces!

  • Bring a small, mess-free treat (like gummies or mini marshmallows) as a reward for kids. A little bribe never hurts.

  • Pack a brush, wipes, and a backup outfit for little ones, just in case.

  • Leave early. It always takes longer to get everyone out the door than you think!

  • Tell the kids we’re going to play and have fun, not “take pictures.” It sets the tone for natural smiles and relaxed photos.

  • Bringing your dog? I love including furry family members! Just let me know ahead of time, bring a few treats and waste bags, and have an extra set of hands to help when they’re not in the photos.

What to Expect the Day of Your Session

These sessions are short, sweet, and back-to-back, so timing is everything. Please plan to arrive 15-20 minutes early. That gives you time to park, stretch, fix a bow or collar, and walk over without rushing.

Early arrival is especially helpful if you’ve got little ones who need to get the wiggles out, or a baby who napped in the car and needs a minute to wake up happy.

If you’re late, your session time will be shorter. I can’t offer reschedules or make-up sessions for late arrivals, so please plan ahead!

My sessions are easygoing and fun. We’ll play games, be silly, and chase those real smiles. Don’t stress about perfection. Your kids don’t need to be “on their best behavior.” Just come ready to enjoy each other.

What to Expect After Your Session

Within two weeks, you’ll receive your proofing gallery to select your favorite images for download (number varies based on your session selection at booking),
Want more? Additional images are $10 each, or you can upgrade to the full gallery for $125+tax.

Your gallery will stay open for two weeks after delivery. After that, it’s archived and there’s a retrieval fee to reopen it. Please don’t wait too long to choose and download your images.

Once your images are in your hands, back them up right away (cloud storage is best). After 12 months, all files are removed from my hard drive, except a few favorites I may keep for my portfolio or marketing.

Printing Your Photos

You’ll receive a print release for personal use, and you can also order professional-quality prints directly through your gallery.

If you prefer to print on your own, I recommend:

  • Mpix – Prints, albums, enlargements, ornaments, and photo gifts

  • Artifact Uprising – Cards, layflat albums, calendars, and more

  • Framebridge – Framed prints and gallery walls

Skip the one-hour labs (sorry, Walgreens and Walmart), they can distort color and contrast.

See You Soon!

I can’t wait to see you soon! These sessions are some of my favorites every year. My goal is to capture your family just as you are right now: joyful, connected, and completely yourselves.

Take a deep breath, trust the process, and show up ready to laugh and love on your people. I’ll take care of the rest, and together, we’ll create something magical!

If you have any last-minute questions, text me at 256-627-1579.

Best Dressed Families

Need a little inspiration? Take a look at some of my past families who absolutely nailed their session outfits. From cozy knits and layers to soft neutrals and rich seasonal tones, these are the colors, textures, and combinations that photograph beautifully.