Ongoing Tides Planning Guide
What to wear
Collaborate vs. Match
Choose tones that feel natural and calming: cream, taupe, sage, rust, soft blue, sand, clay, denim. These colors blend beautifully with coastal light and forest tones.
A few easy guidelines:
• Avoid bold patterns or heavy logos — they can pull focus.
• Lean into texture: linen, cotton, knits, denim, wool.
• Think movement — flowy fabrics always photograph well.
• Instead of matching, choose pieces that live in the same palette.
• Comfortable shoes (or barefoot!) keep everything relaxed.
If you’d like feedback, you’re always welcome to send outfit photos — I’m happy to help guide the color story.
How to prep
A little preparation goes a long way, but nothing needs to be perfect.
• Choose outfits a few days early so you’re not rushing.
• Pack a small bag with essentials: water, snacks, wipes, a cozy sweater, hair ties.
• If we’re shooting on the coast, expect a breeze — layers are your friend.
• Arrive a few minutes early so no one feels hurried or flustered.
• If you have meaningful places or ideas, feel free to share them beforehand.
Couples, bring champagne, wine or your favorite beverage!
Mostly: let the day feel simple. The less pressure you put on it, the more natural it will be.
What to expect
Sessions are slow, calm, and lightly posed. We’ll walk, talk, explore, and let moments unfold naturally.
I’ll step in with light guidance when needed, but the heartbeat of the session is connection — not perfection.
Expect:
• Soft direction, not stiff posing
• Breaks as needed
• Time to settle in
• Movement, laughter, quiet moments
• Weather doing its own thing (which always adds magic)
Every session is different because every family is different — the goal is to create space that honors who you are.
Keeping things relaxed for kiddos
Kids don’t need to “behave” — they just need to be themselves.
Here’s what helps:
• Let them warm up at their own pace.
• Avoid giving too many instructions — it can overwhelm them.
• Celebrate their curiosity; wandering makes beautiful photos.
• Bring one familiar comfort item (a blanket, hat, or favorite sweater).
• Snacks and breaks are absolutely okay.
• Stay calm, even if they aren’t — your energy guides the whole session.
I photograph kids exactly as they are: wiggly, shy, playful, thoughtful, silly, or serious. All of it is welcome.
Before we begin
Before anything else, I want you to know this:
photo sessions are meant to feel easy. Truly.
There’s no pressure to perform, no need to be perfect, and nothing you can do “wrong.”
Your only job is to show up as you are — I’ll take care of the rest.
If questions pop up or you want to share ideas, inspiration, or even a Pinterest board full of the vibe you’re dreaming of, please reach out anytime. Text, email, call — whatever works best for you.
I’m here for all of it, and I can’t wait for the chapter we’re about to create together.
