Kath and Her Kids
Here We Go!!
Oh hi!!
You all know how important Kath is in your lives, and trust me, that hasn’t gone unnoticed by everyone else around you. When I set up this studio here on the farm, my very first session was with Dunc, Jinny, and the kids—I wanted it to be something truly special for our family.
And now, I get to do the same for yours. No matter how well we all know each other, there’s no doubt our families are tied together. So, here’s a quick little guide on what to expect and how to prepare for our session.
Session Flow and Setup
OK, so while this is technically a mini session, I also know how many kids and relationships we’re capturing here, so I’m not putting any strict time limits on this one.
We have a few must-have shots—Kath with all the grandkids, Kath with each group of siblings, and hopefully an individual portrait of each kid with their grandmother. I’ll likely sprinkle these throughout the session rather than doing them all at once to keep everything fun and moving.
Be prepared for a little chaos—there always is with a group of kids! But don’t worry, my camera is quick, and I’ll be catching all those lovely little moments as they happen.
If any of the younger ones aren’t keen on having their photo taken, try to resist the urge to coax out smiles. A little patience goes a long way, and letting them settle in at their own pace usually leads to the best photos (and the most fun).
Of course, the whole family is welcome. We’ve got a bar in the barn, so feel free to hang out. There’s plenty of space for the kids to hang out or run around and play, and I’ll call them into the studio when we need them.
Styling Tips
No need for matching outfits—those days are over! The real focus is on your family’s love and connection, but a little thought into styling will make your photos even better.
Start with Kath’s outfit first—let her choose something she loves, and then work the rest of the colours around that. Pick a few colours to work with and mix in neutrals to keep everything cohesive. Earthy tones work beautifully in the studio—they’re softer, less distracting, and don’t create unwanted colour casts on the skin.
Patterns can add interest, but keep them small—florals, subtle stripes, or textured fabrics work well when thoughtfully incorporated. Avoid large logos and stiff collars, as they can look awkward and take attention away from what really matters.
Wardrobes don’t need to break the bank! Postie Plus, Kmart, The Warehouse, or Farmers on sale always have great options for the kids.
Quick tip: Lay all the outfits out together on the bed or floor and see how they work as a whole. Think about how they look together just as much as the individual outfits.
If you’re unsure, just ask—I’m happy to help!
Preparing the Adults
Prepare to relax and embrace every moment of your photo session journey
Getting prepped early is the best way to remove any stress for yourself on the day of the session. Have your outfits organised well in advance, have hair and make up or a barbers shave booked. Have some beers, wine, or your drink of choice chilled and ready to go!
Most people are not super thrilled to be in front of the camera and I want to assure you that is absolutely fine. I’d almost say I specialise in photographing people who hate having their photo taken. The key to making you feel comfortable is we set up scenes, like a movie, for you to interact with your loved ones rather than giving you awkward and static poses…and of course, a drink if that helps!
This approach ensures that your gallery is filled with laughter, energy, and genuine love instead of overly posed, portrait studio-style perfection. If you’ve been drawn to any of my images on Instagram or my portfolio we’re already on the same page with this.
To make the day go smoothly, don’t leave things until the last minute. Have your outfits picked weeks in advance and try them on to make sure they all still fit. Lay them all out together again, a couple of days before your session to make sure there is no last minute changes. Try to avoid scheduling social events on that day. Instead, choose to do something that you love to do together: eat nice food and sit on the couch in your PJ’s or go to your favourite café, have a stroll in the park. If your kids are high energy, take them to the local pools or somewhere they can burn off a little of it!
Take the time to pamper yourselves, whether that’s with hair and makeup, a barbers shave, for some of us parents, simply taking a shower alone is a pure luxury! Remember to drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your session to give your skin and eyes a bright, fresh look.
And please remember, I’ve got you! This session is about connecting with your loved ones and having fun while we create wonderful memories together.
Preparing Your Children
Give your kids the freedom to let their personalities shine.
Honesty is always the best policy when getting your kids ready for their family photos. Let them know they are going to a beach, or a park or my farm studio, to have fun and play and spend time as a family. Your friend Aisling is coming to take some photos so you will always have the memories of the fun you’ve had.
Because I structure our session specifically around your kids having fun, it is “almost” guaranteed that they are will thoroughly enjoy the whole experience. Here are some ways you can set us up for success leading up to the session:
Sleep - tired kids are often grumpy kids. Having them well rested will mean that by the time we start our session they are ready to play and explore and connect with you, all without any meltdowns. Especially for those summer sunset photo sessions, it might mean taking the scenic route and driving around so they can get that rest in or planning your day around having some rest time.
Mood - keeping your schedule free on the day of your session means that no one feels stressed or frazzled by the time you arrive at your location. Instead, plan something to do that you really enjoy together as a family so you feel connected and happy in each others company, all ready for the snuggly cuddles and warm smiles and lovely moments of connection with each other.
Food - how you manage meals depends on the time of day our session is. Whether it’s a healthy meal at home before you leave or grabbing drive through on the way to your location, having everyone fed, an hour or so before your session will make everyone much happier. Keep any creeping “hanger” at bay with some dry snacks that can be produced if needs be. I always have treats in my camera bag but I will discuss this with you at the session and let you choose if you want to use a lollipop as a bribe for the end of the session.
Wear - plan to arrive at your session 10 or so minutes early and dress the kids at our location or in the studio. This will make sure clothes are clean and fresh, all ready for the photos. For a sunset session, it’s a good idea to have PJ’s to change into for the car ride home. Towels, clean clothes and talcum powder are great for those kids that always end up in the water.
It is tempting to try and get our kids to smile and behave or sit still during the session, but this approach usually ends up in frustration for everyone. Letting them show their full personality, whatever form that may be on the day, is the best way to get a gallery of images that will truly reflect what this time in your life is like. I don’t overly pose any of our scenes, instead setting it up in a way that I can direct the adults on what to do and let the kids just enjoy the environment and being with their family.
Safety is always my top priority, and we will work together as a team on the day. For studio sessions, I do my best to ensure the area is safe, but please be mindful that there will be lighting equipment around. Your cooperation in keeping an eye on your children is greatly appreciated!
Your Plan to Prepare
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Start shopping, check out my style guide and make use of my client closet. Having your outfits organised now takes away all that stress in the days before your session. Message me your options and let me help with this step!
Book hair and make up if you’re choosing to do it, spray tans or facials or any other pampering you’d like to do.
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Try on everyone’s outfits, make sure it all fits nicely and works well together. Send me some pics!
Start thinking of where you would like to hang your images or what print products you would love in your home. -
Start drinking water. Hydrated skin looks a lot better. You should absolutely use some moisturizer but being well hydrated not only makes your skin look better but your eyes will look brighter too.
Mens / boys haircuts should be done now to give them time to settle before the day.
Set aside any items or props you might like to incorporate,
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Check your facial hair, if you have it, now’s the time to tidy up. If you are usually clean shaven try to do this a few hours before the shoot to avoid any irritation. Or if you need a tidy and trim the day before is best.
Get some sleep! I know, I know, easier said than done, at the very least try creating a relaxing environment where no one needs to stress.
Think About Print
Displaying your images and having your memories, right there on your wall or printed in an album is the best way to gain true value from your session. Every gallery will have an array of images, that all tie together to tell a story, hugs and tickles, close up smiles and moments of connection. I also love including beautiful landscape images when I can, with your family right in there, and these look amazing when they’re displayed in large format.
Once your gallery is delivered you will have access to my professional print store right there. There is a marked difference between professional print products and over the counter printing. With my printers, I have built relationships, I have tested their products, and calibrated my systems to their printers, all making sure that the colours and tones are printed to perfection. The papers and inks used are museum quality, that are guaranteed for a lifetime, they won’t fade and dull over time.
I have access to some fun products like glass display boxes for your loose prints and leather pouches that entice you to peek in. As well as beautifully printed and framed pieces, I am happy to create bespoke albums full of your families images.
You will also receive a print release form to allow you to print your own images. I have had a few nightmares myself with over the counter printers, issues with colour replication and tonal quality, for this reason I do not guarantee any printing not overseen by myself.