You ready for this?!
Once you’re my client, I’ve got your back! I’ll be there for you whatever you need and I promise to only give you my best!
Now then, let’s get down to business so your session not only means great photos, but an awesome experience! I have put together some of my biggest tips and advice to help quell kiddo anxiety, provide wardrobe how to’s and answer all the other what if’s.
As always, if you have any questions, email me at JessicaSheridanPhoto@gmail.com or feel free to text me at 563-676-5157!
I’m Jess!
I consider myself to be a storyteller. Wether that’s using my theatre degree on the stage or my camera in a field, I tell stories. And I can’t wait to tell yours! Your kiddos just the way they are, that out and about baby bump or that new ring on your finger- I’m here for it. And I’m here for you!
When I’m not shooting I’m DIYing the ish outta our 1920’s forever home, playing with plants, snuggling with my dog or chillin on the couch with my two little boys and husband! I’m a lover of art, food and sunshine. I’m a Jeep girl, deep thinker and somewhere in another life, I’m a chef on a fab food truck somewhere.
Thanks for being here and thanks for choosing me!
Session FAQs
My approach is lifestyle in that nothing is forced. Sessions with me are far from “smile at the camera” and “say cheese”. In fact, don’t even look at the camera unless I tell you to. Seriously. Just don’t do it.
My focus is on connections + authenticity versus posed portraiture. Don’t worry, I’ll get the mantle shot with all your shinning smiles - but that’s not my focus. I do minimal posing and instead provide prompts to enhance interactions between couples + families. Don’t stress - I’ll guide you every step of the way!.
How long with my session be?
Lifestyle sessions rarely last more than an hour! Don’t be afraid if it’s only been 45 minutes and I call it! I am able to get a TON of stuff in that time and I promise, your gallery will be plentiful! If kids need breaks or we go longer that is no problem as long as we still have light. For newborns, I always allow 2-3 hours so we can make sure to feed/change baby as often as necessary!
But my Kids…
I know. Session day is the day your baby decides not to nap, the older kids are suddenly at each other’s throats and the toddler has decided that he can’t go anywhere without his kitchen-towel-cape. No. Worries. I’m great with kids and have no problem giving them the space to be who they are. I promise, things will loosen up, the smiles with crack and everyone will end up having a good time.
Weather + cancellations
PLEASE NOTE: I do NOT shoot in inclimate weather including heavy cloud cover. I try to wait to reschedule sessions until the day of because our midwest weather changes on a dime (Thanks, Iowa). If you have hair/makeup scheduled we will decide ASAP so you can reschedule things. I’m flexible so if anyone is sick or something else pops up, just give me a shout!
Props
I always have a blanket in my car but beyond that, I want your images to reflect emotion + connection - sometimes props take away from that! BUT keep in mind - I LOVE anything unique to you! Love a good red wine? Love to jam on the guitar? Bring ‘em on!
Tips for newborns
I recommend doing newborn sessions in the morning
Give baby a warm bath about an hour before the session
Crank up the heat in the house so baby is nice and cozy
Nurse/feed baby about 30 minutes before I’m set to arrive
Do what you can to get baby sleepy and relaxed
Make sure the rooms you want to use are decluttered and windows are open wide
What do I even wear??
Here’s the deal- what you wear can make or break your photos. And I know picking out outfits can be majorly daunting, but I’m here to help! I love to help you pick out something you feel amazing in! I have tons of recommendations to help you get to the perfect look!
95% of my clients ask for advice when it comes to wardrobe so PLEASE reach out! Sometimes there are just one or two pieces that can be tweaked to completely transform your look! I ask all of my clients to lay out wardrobe pieces in natural light and text me a quick snap. A little advice can go a long way and that’s what I’m here for!
the Basics
In general, you'll hear me preach variety + texture, detail + the importance of color and tones!
I'm going to get super blunt here with some very clear Do's and Don't's, so please don't be offended if the advice I offer goes against all of your instincts! You really aren’t annoying me with texts or emails of images or wardrobe thoughts! This is my job ya’ll- to make you look and feel amazing!
For starters, think coordinating, not matching. A variety of color, patterns, materials and styles photographs beautifully. All jeans and the same color top doesn’t let personality shine through! Different types of fabrics are another great way to add variety (denim, twill, chiffon, flannel, etc)
The absolute No-No's:
-NO sneakers or crocs. Instead think about Converse, Vans, Tom's + Sperry's! Unsure or don’t want to buy everyone new shoes? Let’s go barefoot! Your entire wardrobe matters! Not just your clothes! I will take photos of you top to bottom and I'd rather your family be barefoot than in white gym shoes or neon green Under Armor running shoes! While we're at it...
-NO neon or pastel colors! These kinds of colors go directly against my shooting and editing style. It doesn't matter that it's spring- you can still stick to a color palate more conducive to the way I shoot! These colors tend to be more timeless and versatile! Also, stay away from too much green if we're shooting outside! Deep forest or olive is great but steer clear of bright Kelly green!
-NO polos. Polos may be fine for Easter gatherings, but they're off limits for my sessions! Think instead about a nice henley or an untucked button down!
-NO dressing ANYONE the same! Not twins, not the boys, no one even in the same shirt! Let's get some variety in your images!
-NO matchy-matching! In other words, don't dress everyone in denim bottoms and white shirts. Patterns are great but don't dress everyone in the same pattern! I can't stress enough that variety in your clothes will add variety and impact to your session!
-NO crazy logos or designs! Graphic tees can be killer, though! I totally get that your 3 year old is obsessed with her rainbow glitter unicorn shirt, but she can wear it after our session! Try to pick shirts without Nike swishes or North Face triangles. Patterns are great, but make sure they aren't overwhelming!
Here are some examples of what NOT to wear:
Shout out to this Old Navy ad for today’s example of What Not to Wear. Waaaaaay too matchy and way too many patterns! These families would be so much cuter with some variety!
The ABSOLUTE Yes's:
-Neutrals baby!! Dusty rose, taupe, mustard yellow, olive green, camel, charcoal blue, cream, sage, rust- these are the colors that are really going to pop with the way I shoot! Keep in mind that my shoots happen at sunset and these colors are going to be highlighted against the sunset! Now, this doesn't mean you can only dress in these colors, but it should offer a good jumping off point as you start putting outfits together!
-Texture! A leather jacket, ripped-knee skinnies, tulle skirt, flowy maxi dress, lace details, faux fur vest, chambray shirt, cuffed sleeves, even the way you style your hair can all add great texture to your images! These textures will, again, add so much visual variety to your images! I love things that we can play with like long loose hair, flow-y dresses and clothes that blow in the wind!
-Accessories, accessories, accessories! Throw a fedora or beanie on your boy or an adorable pair of knee highs on your girl! Give your fella suspenders and get you an awesome flower crown! Let's get some variety to your images! How often do you get family photos? Every couple of years? Indulge a bit and go the extra mile! Think of your wardrobe as your prop! A flat brimmed hat, loosened tie, flowers tucked into your hair, carrying your shoes instead of wearing them, a shawl, even a long skirt all add interest and give more for us to play with during your session!
-Show some skin! I love backless dresses, tattooed forearms, chubby baby thighs and shirtless little boys! Skin is so authentic to us and showing it off really adds an element of life that sets images apart!
Start with mom
-I'm talking to you mama! I know you might be a leggings, t-shirt + messy bun kinda girl (same, actually), but dress up for this! Break away from your comfort zone and just BUY the dress you love!
-Treat yourself to an adorable new look! You deserve to dress up once in a while and look like the bombshell lady you are! Oh, but stay away from heels! We'll be walking on a lot of uneven ground! Wedges are okay, if they're super comfy, but a flat is better!
-If you’re comfortable showing skin (backless, off the shoulder etc) go for it! Skin can tell a more raw and real story! Choosing a dress or top with flowy sleeves or skirt creates beautiful images as well. If you have chosen a dress that is not conducive for a strapless bra, lace bralettes or pasties are best!
-I always recommend a dress because of the movement and variety they add to photos, but if a dress just isn’t your thing, think about a romper or jumpsuit! What about super rad bell bottoms!?
Then the Kids
-Once you have your outfit decided on, you can move on to the kiddos.
-Do not buy clothes for your children or newborn to grow into - fitted clothes look best! We want to see their cute little features and not be hidden behind oversized clothes. Make sure they’re comfortable! If they have suspenders or straps be prepared that they may be loose or falling in some photos - embrace it! They’re kids - and we’re sure to play some games.
-Again, don’t dress anyone the same! All the rules above apply here! Feeling stumped? Start with cute fitted khakis for your little boy and add from there! For girls, I love starting with rompers! Only having one piece to deal with makes it so easy!
-Shop what you can from their closets and purchase a few key items to fill out their looks!
then the fellas
-Let’s chat about guys- you literally can’t go wrong with a black henley and khakis. It’s the backup for all of the guys I work with! Want to brake out of the norm a bit but not too much? What about a linen shirt that unbuttons a bit?!
-I know sometimes it can be hard to get your boo thang to even agree to taking family photos so be sure that he is comfortable in what he’s wearing! Don’t have him wear something he hates just to make the photo pretty- dress him true to who he is. Just zhuzh’d up a bit!
-Got a music loving guy in your life? Throw him in a band tee! Flannels are great and so are jackets!
Take a look at some of my past clients’ looks! Variety in texture, color, patterns and details that all come together for some excellent looks!
A few more tips...
coordination vs. Matching
Coordination does not mean matching! You don't all need to be in shades of blue in order to coordinate well! Stick to a similar palatte as opposed to color and you'll be golden!
neutral tones
Have I said yet that neutral tones are important? Cause they are. Gimme earthen boho flare any day of the week, I'll be a happy photographer and you'll be a happy client!
Keep it you!
If he's not a tie kind of guy, don't make him wear one! If she despises skirts, mix it up for her! You want to look relaxed in what you're wearing, so make sure clothes fit well and are a good expression of who you are!
take care of you
Buy clothes that fit and flatter. Love your body how it is right now. Sometimes to avoid buying ‘the next size up’ we buy clothes that don’t flatter. The last thing you want is to be uncomfortable in your clothes while we shoot. ALSO be sure to have appropriate undergarments for your outfit choices!
Hair and makeup. I always tell clients that you want to look like you, but you on your best day! Get your hair and makeup done! Need some names or salon recommendations? Give me a shout!
Nails. I LOVE getting detail shots of your rings, your hands intertwined, the way your hands touch each other, and you'll probably enjoy the photos more if your nails are looking nice. I'm not saying you need a full mani/pedi to get ready for our session, but a clear coat and lotion can do wonders!
Spray tans! Coming from the fairest girl in the midwest, I totally understand wanting a beautiful golden glow! Just be sure that you try to stay somewhat near your skin tone. I don’t want you looking unnatural or orange! Also, be sure to get your tan a day or two before your session so it can settle a bit!
Make it yours
Wear what makes sense for our setting. Outdoors anything is game - super dressy to casual. Indoors you want to match the aesthetic of the location. If your home is cozy and casual - you should be too!
Playful, romantic, grungy or boho- it’s all allowed. If you're a couple and want to really show off how in love you are, maybe you dress ultra romantic! If you're a mama with a wild kiddo, maybe you dress more relaxed and fun and ready to chase! If you've got a little girl turning 5 and she loves dresses, find her an adorable tulle skirt and flower crown to match! Wether you're more preppy, chic, hipster or eclectic in your look, dress your family for your mood! In general, stay away from anything stuffy or rigid that will make you feel out of place at your session!
Remember - Your session is an investment!
Don't just invest in the photographer- invest in YOU! I mean, how often do you get these family photos done? Once every few years? IF that often? Invest in the outfits, book the hair appointment, BUY THE SHOES. Really, you won't regret it!
Beyond what you invest in me, you'll invest in prints, books and canvases and you'll gift these images to lots of Grandma's and Grandpa's. These are going to be on the walls of your home and in scrapbooks and frames for years to come! These tips will help your images look timeless yet modern and will keep them relevant for decades to come!
If you follow these Do's and Don'ts, I guarantee you'll fall head over heals for your family all over again when you see your images! How darling your littles will look and how great you'll feel about yourself! You'll look at your images with your heart bursting with pride!
Tips for newborns
-The simpler the better! For baby I recommend a plain (no graphics) fitted onesie, just a diaper, and a muslin. This way I’m able to easily get all those sweet details. Save the other outfits for showing baby off to relatives and friends!
-The Absolute NO's I listed above still apply here 100%!
-Keep things comfy and casual! This is in your home, after all!
-Remember that you’ll be just a few days postpartum so dressing accordingly will make you way more comfortable! I am all for anything from a cute dress to big comfy sweaters! I find that dresses are preferred by my clients because they’re comfy and easy!
- Again- stick to the above color pallets!
WHERE to shop
These shops are only suggestions! A lot of these retailers offer great sales which is why I chose a lot of them! If you shop early enough, you won't have to pay for expedited shipping and you'll have time to return stuff if it isn't quite what you're after!
Keep in mind that these retailers will carry seasonal designs! Just because I have Tillys listed, doesn't mean you should put your man in board shorts and a graphic tee. Use these suggestions as a jumping off point! Get creative and mix and match with different retailers! Have fun dressing the loves of your life to look their best!
Finally, believe it or not, I have found some SUPER cute stuff on Amazon! Just be sure to read reviews and know where your product is coming from. Otherwise, you may end up ordering a dress that will take 4-6 weeks to ship from overseas and is actually sized according to European measurements so it won't fit you at all (not that I'm speaking from experience...)
For the kiddos
Target // Zara // H&M // Bohemian Mama, Ladida // Joyfolie // Shop James Vincent // Lacey Lane // Smallable // Etsy // Heritage the Label // Luca the Label // Mabo Kids // Gap // Alice + Ames // Little Baberham // Rylee and Cru // Magnolia Jaymes // Jak and Pepper
For the men + boys:
Banana Republic // Gap // H&M // Tillys // Target // Zara // American Eagle // Lucky Brand // Pac Sun // Nordstrom Rack // J Crew // Gap // ASOS // Urban Outfitters
For the Lady:
Free People // Anthropologie // H&M // Vici // Target // Zara // American Eagle // Joyfolie // ASOS // Roolee // Three Bird Nest // MIVA // Forever 21 // Urban Outfitters // Baltic Born
to do before your session
ONE MONTH PRIOR:
As soon as you book, the fun begins! It’s time to start hunting for the perfect wardrobe to compliment your family. The last thing you want is to find an amazing dress online that won’t arrive in time! So start planning ahead to be sure things arrive in time! When they arrive, hang them up to let the wrinkles start to loosen!
If you know you want to have your hair and makeup done, book that now!
TWO WEEKS PRIOR:
Check wardrobe based on predicted weather + prepare accordingly. Do you need to add in a chunky knit cardi or knee highs to address potential chilly weather? Are you missing any little details like suspenders or bonnets? Have all your pieces arrived in time? If you are starting to feel like you’re in a bind, reach out! We will work through it together! Also, be sure you also have the appropriate undergarments chosen at this time!
ONE WEEK PRIOR:
Hair! I recommend these a week or two out from your session so hair doesn’t look too fresh + so hair color has a chance to settle in!
TWO - THREE DAYS PRIOR:
If you’re wanting a spray tan this is the time to do it! Let it set in and give it time to look natural! A healthy glow is great but avoid getting a spray that gives you an unnatural skin tone!
Make sure those nails are looking good, too!
Steam your clothes! Hanging your clothes as soon as you get them will help them loosen wrinkles, but you will also want to steam them so they’re completely wrinkle-free.
SHOES! Make sure all shoes are clean and ready to go!
This is also a good time to make sure you know where you’re headed for your session! Make sure you allot enough time the day-of to get where you’re going on time!
one day prior:
I will be in touch at this point if the weather looks questionable for the following day. As a reminder, we won’t be shooting in weather that is too overcast, cold or if there is a strong likelihood for inclimate weather.
ONE - THREE HOURS PRIOR:
Hair and makeup and finishing touches!
Make sure kiddos have slept, are fed and are as happy as reasonably possible! From one mom to another: this is an a-okay time to let screens take over while you get yourself looking and feeling fabulous!
If your clothes wrinkle easily, hang them in the car and plan to change at our shoot location!
Please be on time!! Double check your location and plan accordingly for travel time! I am very particular about the time of day I shoot so loosing even 10 minutes of sunlight can impact our session!
ONE HOUR BEFORE:
Have a drink, relax and get ready to have a great time!
Really, DO NOT STRESS. I’ve got your back. I can’t say this enough. If a kiddo is having a rough day, we’ll work through it together! Remember, I’m great with kids + teens and will give them the space to be who they are while gently coaxing out a few smiles!
Ya’ll are gonna rock this!!
After Your SEssion
4-6 weeks after your session, you'll receive an email to view your online gallery. I typically know the day of your session how much editing I have ahead of yours so feel free to ask!
With your session you are given a gallery of 60+ images available for immediate download, and a print release so you are able to print your photos anyway you see fit.
PRINT YOUR PHOTOS!! I cannot stress this enough! Don’t just let them get lost on a hard drive somewhere! Print, display and gift them as much as possible!
Wondering where to print? I love Artifact Uprising and it is my go-to for all my personal printing! You can also order prints, canvases, books and more through me directly!
I hope these pointers help you! And please, you're really not bothering me AT ALL if you text asking about wardrobe options! Want my number again? Here it is 563-676-5157! You should have my email by now but if you don't, it's JessicaSheridanPhoto@gmail.com! I really want your whole session to be dynamite so please stay in contact with questions! Providing you this service is what I’m here for!
Can’t wait to spend some time with you and yours!
XO,
Jess
