Family of three walking hand-in-hand on a sandy beach at sunset with Table Mountain in the background.

Everything You Need to Know Before Your Session

 

Outdoor Session Prep Guide

 

I can't wait to meet you and photograph your family!

Outdoor sessions are relaxed, fun and full of genuine moments. We'll explore, chat, laugh and let your family simply be together while I gently guide you along the way.

There is no pressure to look at the camera the whole time or have perfectly behaved children. Some of the most beautiful photographs happen in the in-between moments—a cuddle, a giggle, little hands reaching for yours or the wind blowing through your hair. Simply come ready to enjoy time together.

A woman in a white flowing dress and sun hat walks barefoot along a sandy beach at golden hour.

What to Wear



Choosing the right outfits will make a huge difference to the finished gallery.

Stick to Soft, Neutral Colours

Cream, white, beige, oatmeal, soft browns, muted greens and dusty blues photograph beautifully against Cape Town's natural landscapes.

These timeless tones keep the attention on your family rather than your clothing.


Avoid

Bright neon colours

Large logos

Busy patterns

Clothing with text or graphics

Matching everyone exactly

Instead, choose outfits that complement one another with similar tones and textures.


Mum

Flowing dresses or skirts move beautifully in the breeze and photograph wonderfully at sunset. Linen, cotton and knit fabrics add softness and texture.

Choose something that makes you feel comfortable and confident. If you're worried about posing, don't be—I will guide you every step of the way.


Dad

Neutral chinos or jeans paired with a plain linen shirt, knit jersey or simple T-shirt work perfectly.



Children

Comfort is key.

Choose clothing they can move, play and cuddle in. Bare feet often work beautifully on the beach or in grassy fields.

If siblings are joining, coordinate colours rather than matching outfits.

What to Bring

Water

A light jacket if the weather is cool

Comfortable shoes for walking between locations

Small, non-messy snacks for little ones

A favourite comfort toy if needed

Please avoid brightly coloured snack packets or toys, as they sometimes sneak into photographs!

A coordinated family outfit flatlay featuring dusty blue, gray, and white clothing including dresses, pants, tops, and a baby romper.
A family photo outfit mood board featuring floral maxi dress, neutral separates, and coordinating children's clothing in soft tones.
Neutral family outfit collection featuring floral dress, gray henley, bubble romper, mint pants, white dress, khakis, and pink girls dress.
Sage green floral maxi dress, linen shirt, khaki pants, white cardigan, cream tiered dress, and beige romper family photo outfit set.
Family photo outfit inspiration featuring white dress, blue pants, gingham shirts, gray sweater, and coordinating kids outfits in blue and g

Here is some inspiration for softer colours and tones. Always avoid matching and rather aim for colour that complement and work well together.

Family of four holding hands walking on a sandy beach at sunset with rocky cliffs in the background.
Family of three holding hands on a beach, parents and toddler girl in green dress facing the ocean.

Timing


Most outdoor sessions take place during the hour before sunset when the light is soft, warm and incredibly flattering.

Please arrive a few minutes early so we can begin on time and make the most of the beautiful evening light.


What if the Weather Changes?


Cape Town likes to keep us guessing!

If the weather isn't suitable due to heavy rain or strong winds, we'll simply reschedule your session at no extra cost.

Sometimes a little breeze or light cloud creates the most beautiful photographs, so don't worry if conditions aren't perfectly sunny.



A mother joyfully embraces her toddler outdoors, sharing a tender moment surrounded by lush greenery.

Relax and Enjoy



Children don't need to sit still.

Toddlers don't need to smile on command.

Partners don't need to know how to pose.

That's my job.

I'll gently guide you while also giving your family space to interact naturally. The result is a gallery full of genuine connection, beautiful light and joyful memories.


A Few Final Tips


Make sure everyone has had a snack beforehand.

Bring your sense of adventure.

Trust the process.

Focus on enjoying your family.

Your children won't remember being asked to smile.

They'll remember chasing waves, cuddling in your arms and laughing together while the sun set over Cape Town.

Those are the memories we're here to preserve.

I can't wait to capture them for you.

BOLD COLOURS

If you prefer bold colours aim for more natural colours and avoid anything too bright. The aim is to keep the focus on you and your family.

Photo session color scheme mood board featuring tan, blue, and green family outfits with coordinating earth tone swatches.
Navy, green, and neutral family photo session color scheme guide featuring coordinated outfits for adults and children.
Autumn earthy photoshoot outfit inspiration featuring burgundy, olive, mustard, and forest green clothing with brown boots.
Cosy winter photoshoot outfit inspiration featuring neutral tones, plaid shirts, green floral dress, and warm accessories.
A smiling blonde mother holds her happy baby girl in a white dress, sharing a tender nose-to-nose moment.

 

Say hello. Let's work together.

 

Let me know if you have any questions at all. I am always here to help.

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