What NOT to Do Before Your Photoshoot (and What to Do Instead)

So you’ve booked your photoshoot — yay! 🎉 You’re excited, maybe a little nervous, and now your brain is spiraling into all the things you think you should do to get ready. But here’s the truth: some “prep” habits can actually work against you.

Let’s break down the top things NOT to do before your shoot (and the smarter swaps you’ll thank me for later).

❌ Don’t: Get a Drastic Haircut or Color the Day Before

✅ Do: Book trims or color at least a week in advance.
Fresh cuts are great… but not when you’re still figuring out how to style your new bangs or regretting that “why not?” impulse. Give yourself a little time to get comfy with your new look.

❌ Don’t: Wear Neon

✅ Do: Choose timeless colors and tones.
Neon can look fun in person but it photographs… aggressively. Think natural, neutral, or classic palettes that flatter your skin tone and won’t look dated when you pull these photos out years from now. And this is coming from someone who wears neon often. I LOVE neon.

❌ Don’t: Bribe the Kids With Sugar
Before the Shoot

✅ Do: Save treats for after as a reward.
We love happy, giggly kids. We don’t love sugar-fueled chaos and chocolate stains on brand-new outfits. Bring snacks that are easy and clean (fruit snacks, goldfish, crackers) and promise the ice cream run after we’re done.

❌ Don’t: Stress About Perfect Poses

✅ Do: Show up ready to relax and have fun.
Pinterest poses are cute, but some of the best shots happen when you’re just being you. Laughing, cuddling, twirling your kid around, those candid moments are magic. Let me handle the posing. You handle the fun.

❌ Don’t: Forget the Little Things

✅ Do: Pack a mini emergency kit.
Lint roller, bobby pins, wipes, backup outfits for the kids. Little things can save the day and save editing time later.

Photoshoots don’t have to be stressful. Stress translates to the photos and to your kids. They sense it and react. Being stress-free and relaxed makes the memories and the best candid photos. And of course with a little smart prep, you’ll walk in feeling confident and ready to shine. My job is to handle the camera, your job is to enjoy the moment. Together, we’ll create images you’ll love for years to come.