CLIENT EXPERIENCE GUIDE

-Verona Park (Cherry Blossoms)-

WHAT TO EXPECT

LOCATION

The session will take place at my home studio, which is located at:

56 Gettysburg Way in Lincoln Park, NJ.

When you get there, park in the parking spot labeled "56."


PROPS

By now we should have already decided on the theme and backdrop. I will have some props such as birthday hats/crowns and numbers that will be used during the session. You will be able to choose some of the props you want to use in the session. You are more than welcome to bring your own props if you have something specific in mind that you want.

DURING THE SESSION


You may bring another adult with you to help get those smiling shots! Depending on what age we are capturing, we may need one person to keep the little one on set and someone else behind the camera to grab the little one's attention. Please don't bring any more than just one other adult as it can be distracting for the baby if there are too many familiar faces. If you don’t have anyone to bring - don’t worry it’s not necessary we will be able to do everything that needs to be done.

STYLING TIPS

GENERAL

Keep in mind that solid colors tend to photograph best. Please avoid busy patterns and logos as these can be distracting. Sometimes logos will not be visible depending on the angle of the photo so it's really best to avoid text. Whatever you choose, make sure it is fitted! Oversized clothing looks sloppy. Make sure you try the outfit on and have your little one sit and stand since that is how they will be photographed during the session. Make sure the top sits flat and isn't riding up otherwise we will be spending a lot of time during the session adjusting clothes rather than capturing those cute expressions!


BOYS

Suspenders and jeans with a nice shirt are a popular outfit choice for boys. A one piece romper or overalls work well too! Don't shy away from bowties or hats that compliment the outfit!


GIRLS

A romper, tulle dress or fluffy tutu are great outfits for your little girl's session! Headbands and hair bows are encouraged!


WHERE TO SHOP

I have a small wardrobe closet that you are welcome to borrow something from. Most of these clothes are size 12 months. Please ask to see what's available to match your set/theme. If I don't have something, Etsy has some super cute first birthday onesies, rompers, dresses and other outfits that fit the above descriptions. I also really like Reverie Threads (for girls) or Carter’s Little Planet line (for boys). Of course, in a pinch you can always find something on Amazon. I can also get you in contact with a local dressmaker who make adorable outfits!

PREPARE

GENERAL

Please make sure baby’s skin is moisturized well on the days leading up to the session. Dry skin flakes can be common, especially around the nose. However, do NOT moisturize right before the session as it may make the skin shiny and will be nearly impossible to edit out. Please bring wipes, as we will do a sweep of the nose to remove anything we don’t want in the photos!


Make sure fingernails and toenails are clean and trimmed. They will be visible in the photos.


TIMING

Scheduling the session right after a nap gives us the best chance of working with a happy kiddo. Try to keep a regular schedule as much as possible the day of the session.


THINGS TO BRING

  • a change of clothes (if you want to do two outfits)
  • your enthusiasm! We will do everything we can to get those cute smiles.
  • for kids age 2 and up, we sometimes need little treats to motivate them to participate. Gummies or mini marshmallows work well. Please avoid chocolate or any other candy that may be messy or leave color on clothes, skin or props.
cake smash

AFTER THE SESSION


You can expect your soft proofs (lightly edited images) to be sent to you in an online gallery via email about 1 week after your session! From there, you will create a favorites list. It's ok if you can't limit your choices to just the number you originally purchased; there will be on option to purchase additional images if you desire. Once your list is made, you will send me a quick email to let me know. I will then makes the final edits on the photos you have chosen and send a link for you to download them. This could take up to 2 weeks from the time you finalize your favorites list. I try my best to turn around photos faster as quickly as possible.


Your digital images are high-resolution images that will print beautifully. If you would like to order thank you cards for after the birthday party, prints, an album, a party board or other photo gifts, I can help you do that too! I work with an amazing lab that creates beautiful professional products!

PRODUCTS


I will have sample products such as mini albums and party boards. You will be able to place your order for these the day of the session or shortly after. The albums make great gifts for grandparents, aunts/uncles, etc. My clients love displaying a board with all the photos at the child’s birthday party. I custom make these based on the theme and color scheme.

FINAL NOTE


I can’t wait for our session! Although I can't guarantee smiling photos, following these recommendations will give us the best chance of getting photos you love! Hopefully you found this information helpful. If you have any questions or concerns leading up to your session, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me. My goal is to serve you the best that I can! This is going to be a fun session, so don’t stress. Relax and enjoy making these memories with your little one. Until then, follow along with me on social media.


IG: melissaa.photography

FB: Melissa Anglesea Photography


See you soon!