Photography Client Guide


Got questions? You're in the right place! I've put together this handy FAQ section to help you navigate through your photography session with ease, ensuring a stress-free experience from start to finish. Whether you’re preparing for a family shoot, a newborn session, or capturing another milestone, you’ll find all the answers here to make your photo day as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Dive in and get all the tips and details you need to feel prepared and excited for your special day with Emily Caroline Photography in Dallas!

What Should I Wear?


When planning outfits for your session, comfort is key. Choose clothing that you and your family feel good in and can move around easily—this helps everyone relax and feel natural in front of the camera. Avoid bold patterns like bright stripes, polka dots, or geometric prints, as well as overly bright colors—including black and white. These can distract from the overall feel of your photos. Instead, aim for more muted shades like creams, browns, soft pastels, and earthy tones, which create a timeless and cohesive look.



Incorporating textures is a great way to add visual interest and depth to your photos. Think about knits, cozy sweaters, corduroy, linen, or even lace details. These elements photograph beautifully and help create a warm, natural vibe. Coordinating your family’s outfits with complementary colors and styles ensures everyone looks cohesive without being overly “matchy-matchy.”

Family sits on white blanket during golden hour outdoor photo session.

Where should our session be?


I love capturing the natural beauty of the North Dallas area through outdoor photography. This setting provides a stunning backdrop that complements the genuine moments and emotions of my clients. Outdoor sessions allow me to utilize the natural light, greenery, and scenic landscapes, making each photo truly unique and vibrant. I have a handful of beautiful locations that I can suggest, unless you have a specific park or outdoor setting in mind. I'm always open to exploring new spots that hold special meaning to you. Together, we can choose the perfect location for you and your family.

A small child in blue overalls stands on a white blanket holding a large white balloon outdoors.

What time of day are you available?


One of the key times I prefer to shoot is during the "golden hour," which occurs shortly after sunrise and just before sunset. This period is renowned for its soft, warm light that casts a beautiful glow and creates stunning, natural highlights and shadows. The gentle light during this time enhances skin tones, reduces harsh shadows, and gives the photos a magical, almost ethereal quality. By scheduling sessions during the golden hour, I can ensure that the photos will have a timeless and captivating look. To establish a good time for our shoot, simply look up the local time for sunrise or sunset and add about an hour after sunrise or subtract about an hour and a half before sunset.

A couple poses in a field at sunset with evergreen trees in the background.

What if my kids don't participate?


My goal is to make your kids feel comfortable and have fun, capturing genuine moments. Never feel the need to apologize if your child isn’t sitting still or focusing—some of the best photos come from kids being themselves, exploring, and playing!

A baby sits on a white blanket outdoors during golden hour wearing a patterned sweater.

What should I expect at my newborn session?


Make sure your baby is well-fed and comfortable before the session. I suggest turning off the AC and fans, and even considering turning on your home's heat to create a nice, warm space for your baby.


Choose simple, comfy clothing for yourself and your baby. Soft fabrics are best, and avoid anything with bright patterns or logos that might distract from the focus on your baby.


Newborn sessions can take time, with frequent breaks for feeding, changing, and soothing. Plan on taking things slow and being patient—this is all part of capturing those beautiful, natural moments. Please let me know if you’d like me to capture the feeding moments, whether by breast or bottle.


If we’re shooting in your home, we’ll likely be using a room with a nice, big window. To ensure the focus stays on your baby, try to eliminate any distractions in that room or nursery, such as charging cords or clutter from nightstands.

Close up of a newborn's tiny hand against striped fabric.
Small child stands on white blanket holding large white balloon in golden sunset field.


More Tips for

Families with Kids

Baby in yellow romper being held while laughing outdoors.

Comfortable Clothing


Make sure your kids are dressed in clothes that they feel good in and allow for easy movement. Ditch the itchy sweater! When they feel good in what they’re wearing, it shows in their smiles and energy!

Baby sitting by pink and white balloons with cake on gold stand.

Rest & Snacks


I know all too well that a well rested kid is a happy kid. Make sure to plan our shoot keeping their nap times in mind so your kiddo isn't over-tired. A little snack break can work wonders for keeping those smiles coming, so pack a favorite treat and a water just in case.

Two children point at something while standing by a peaceful pond surrounded by trees.

Familiarization


Get your little ones excited by talking up the photo session in advance. Let them know how much fun they’re going to have, and maybe even show them a few pictures from previous sessions. The more familiar and excited they are, the more natural they’ll feel in front of the camera.

Family sits on leather couch beneath wreath while child dances in white dress.

Props & Toys


Bringing along a favorite toy or prop can be a game-changer! Not only does it help them relax, but it also adds a personal touch to the photos. Whether it’s a beloved stuffed animal or a favorite book, these items can turn the session into a fun playtime.

Baby in yellow romper lying on white blanket outdoors during golden hour.

Patience


Kids are unpredictable, and that’s totally okay! We’ll take our time, allowing for breaks when needed. Sometimes, the best moments happen when we let them explore, play, or just be themselves, so we’ll roll with whatever mood they’re in.

Mother and child share joyful moment while sitting on wooden stool against light blue wall.

Encouragement


High fives, big smiles, and lots of praise can work wonders! A little encouragement goes a long way in helping your child feel confident and happy in front of the camera. Plus, it keeps the session fun and light-hearted.


Family enjoying playful moment together in blooming wildflower field.

Positivity and Playfulness


Keep the vibe upbeat and playful! Whether it’s making silly faces, telling jokes, or having a little dance-off, the goal is to capture genuine joy and laughter. The more fun they’re having, the more their true personalities will shine through in the photos.

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