Your Family Session Planner
CAPTURING THE LOVE THAT FILLS YOUR EVERYDAY
location
vibe / inspiration
what to wear
weather
BEFORE WE BEGIN
A little note from me
Parenthood is a collection of seasons, each one different from the last and gone before you know it. Your family session is designed to hold onto this one - to capture where you are right now, at this age, at this stage, in all of your family's beautiful realness.
My biggest hope is that you arrive feeling relaxed and ready to just be with your people. Forget about the camera, enjoy the time with your little ones, and let everything unfold naturally. The rest is my job!
I can't wait to hear your vision for capturing your family.
Sarah x
Where shall we create your magic?
Outdoors
Lighting and location make such a massive difference to the look and feel of your images. I have a location guide available for you to check out. These spots are tried and tested, my favourite hand picked spots. Outdoor sessions are scheduled during golden hour (the hour just before, during and after the sunsets), the colours are just so beautiful and the lighting is THE most flattering. Start times will vary depending on the seasons for example in winter the sunsets much earlier than summer.
Home Property
If you have a beautiful home or a farm/property with epic views - we can do more of a lifestyle session and incorporate some activities your family loves to do. Feeding the cows, picking flowers from the garden and adventuring to the best view right on sunset.
FAQ
Do you travel for photoshoots?
Yes absolutely, anything within 40 mins each way there is no travel charge. Anything beyond this a travel fee will be added to your invoice. If you are wanting a session at your home property that would require extra travel please let me know your address upon booking so I can quote you correctly.
What if sunset is too late for my kids during summer?
I totally understand this one! If you can make it work with an extra nap, snacks etc It will be so worth it. However for some I understand their temperament or your anxiety might not cope so I do have a couple of locations that work for an earlier start time they just are in open shade, please let me know if this is something you need as soon as you can so we can make a plan that you feel comfortable with.
Can we choose a location that's not on your guide?
Most of the time the answer is yes, I recommend that you visit the location and send me a video to check that it's suitable. I do ask that you note down the time the sunsets at the spot so that we can time our shoot to start 1 hour prior to the sunsetting.
I'm worried about the weather what if there is no sunset?
So valid! I hear you, it feels like a lot of money and time invested into your photos. The protocol is I will email you on the day of the shoot around 12pm if the weather is looking like rain, too windy, extremely cold etc we will postpone to the next mutual date that works. If it's overcast (really cloudy) I will suggest to bring the session start time forward 1-2 hours because it gets darker much quicker. Overcast weather can be really beautiful to shoot in too, lighting is much softer and flattering. But if your heart is set on a sunset where possible give you the option to postpone should I have the flexibility to do so.
location guide
Marlborough is such a special part of the world with the most beautiful landscapes. With sweeping golden hills, stunning coastlines, lush vineyards and wide open skies, the beauty here is endless. Whatever your vision, there is a perfect spot waiting for your family.
Lets weave in the little things that make your family yours
Every family has something that makes them wonderfully themselves - the things you do together, the interests you share, the moments that make you laugh. A favourite sport, a special toy, a furry member who goes everywhere with you. Whatever brings your family together, let's weave it in. Those are always the details that make a gallery feel truly special. Feel free to browse Pinterest for inspiration and share anything you love in your questionnaire.
What to wear?
+ What's the vibe we are going for?
+ Embrace the season you're having your session and dress appropriately for the weather.
+ Think about what is going to make you feel confident and comfortable!
Just to be clear I don't want to be the fun police with telling you what to wear because I want this session to feel like you. I can however guide you into what works best for flattering skin tones because what you wear does have a big impact on how the images look.
The most flattering look's for your photos I recommend sticking to neutral and earthy tones — think off-whites, creams, pastels, browns and greens. Mix textures and fabrics for depth and interest.
Please avoid bright colours, solid black, and anything with large logos or graphics. One look per person, and make sure everything works together as a group. If you'd love any styling advice, please just ask!
CLIENT WARDROBE
My client wardrobe is available for your session! I have a gorgeous range of neutral-toned dresses for mum that fit a range of sizes beautifully. You are more than welcome to come in for a try on at the studio and an item from the wardrobe for your session.
Hair & Make up
This is something that is really personal, don't overthink it. If it's going to be breezy and you never wear your hair out it's probably going to annoy the heck out of you so a soft undo might be a good option. However most women will have it down and rock soft curls.
If you need to outsource this you can ask me If I have capacity to do your hair (I am an ex hairdresser) at the studio
Or try Samantha @ameliamaevehair
Make up soft and natural, you do not need to fake tan your body from head to toe. Men don't wear make up and they still photograph well!
If this is something you would like to outsource try @stephaniebelt_makeup www.stephaniebeltmakeup.com.
weather expectations
Marlborough weather has a mind of its own, so it's always good to be prepared! Maybe lowering your expectations because not every session has perfect conditions and it's just something out of our control. With a relaxed attitude and a go with the flow vibes we will make the most of the evening. Please check the forecast before your session and pack a spare layer for the kids just in case. I would also suggest a spare outfit in the car for everyone just incase someone get's dirty or wet during the session something clean and warm to throw on afterwards is a good idea.
my workflow
I typically start by photographing different combinations — each parent with each child, then everyone together, and beautiful portraits of your little ones. From there I move into play-based prompts to keep things light, fun and moving. I want this session to be about you genuinely enjoying time with your little ones — connecting, playing, giving kisses and cuddles, and allowing things to unfold naturally. Embracing the chaos is always part of it!
I look forward to meeting your family and capturing something you'll look back on for years to come.
A gorgeous selection of pieces lovingly chosen so you can feel comfortable, confident, and completely yourself during your session.
client wardrobe
What happens next?
1 month prior to your session you will receive a family questionnaire this is when you can fill in all the details and we can have a chat to lock everything in! I am always available on email should you need to get in touch sooner.
A final note from me
Thank you for trusting me to capture this season of your family's story. Please don't worry about perfect smiles, matching outfits, or whether the kids will cooperate—we embrace the chaos, the cuddles, the laughter, and everything in between.
My goal is to create a relaxed, enjoyable experience and capture the genuine connection that makes your family uniquely yours.
I can't wait to see you all soon.
Sarah x