Your Welcome Pack
The Magic of Christmas
mini photoshoot
Hey!
Yay! You've booked your Christmas family photoshoot and it won't be long before you will have beautiful, natural images with a little touch of Christmas sparkle!
Carving out the time to document you and your children, exactly as you are right now is one of the best things you can do and together we will create some beautiful memories that you can hang on your walls and treasure for many years to come. Plus they make amazing presents this time of year!
As your photographer, I am here to support you in any way I can. This guide is my way of saying, “I’ve got you.” I’ve crafted it to answer your questions, calm any worries you may have.
I can’t wait to meet you!
GETTING THOSE NATURAL MOMENTS
Let me start out by saying, first of all, that your shoot is going to be amazing!
99% of the time the first few minutes of any photoshoot can feel a little awkward until you and your family can relax into it and feel confident in front of the camera. I will help you do this!
Although my images look candid, most of them are actually achieved through some light direction from me and lots of play. I promise it will be fun and by the end of the session you'll be total pros in front of the camera.
My objective isn’t just to take pretty pictures – it’s to capture this exciting stage in your lives, exactly as it is now.
ON THE DAY OF YOUR PHOTOSHOOT
Leave some time in the day to relax - try not to do anything too excitable before your photoshoot that will make everyone tired.
Give yourself lots of time to get to the location so you don’t feel frazzled and rushed on arrival. If you show up to your photoshoot having had to drive illegal speeds to get there, you will feel stressed and this will filter down to everyone in the family.
Give yourself the gift of a relaxed session, allow plenty of time for getting ready and forgetting things.
Arriving at your photoshoot
Please remember that these special Christmas sessions are a 'mini' version which means there are a number of families booked in on the same day, one after the other.
Therefore please plan to arrive 5-10 minutes before your booked time so that we can start your session on time and get all the photos of your family that you are hoping for.
Give yourself plenty of time to get to the location and get parked without feeling rushed.
Nearer the time, I will send you all the details on where to go.
Unfortunately if you are late, we are unable to push the session back as this will affect any other families after you.
HOW TO DRESS
Choosing your outfits is probably one of the most stressful but important parts of your photoshoot preparations.
Making sure that your outfits are timeless and compliment each other without being distracting, is no easy task. But I’m here to guide you on this. I’m always happy to give advice and receive photos on a WhatsApp message!
Above all the most important thing to remember is to be comfortable and be yourself! If you are uncomfortable, it is more than likely going to come through in your photos.
Styling top tips
Gravitate towards gentle colours; pastels, light colours or warm colours, or neutrals.
Clothing that is textured, sheer or flowy show up great in photos.
Start with Mum’s outfit first as this is usually the most difficult and then build everyone else around it.
Don’t mix patterns or prints.
Stick to 2-3 colours and use varying shades
Try to avoid
Clothing that is stiff, gets crumpled or needs adjusting.
Bright colours, large logos or character t shirts.

Mixing different types of pattern
For an in-depth style guide including advice of what colours go well together, make sure you take a look at my Style Guide.
KIDS WILL BE KIDS
If you walk away after reading this and only remember one thing, let it be this: have zero expectations.

Embrace what comes – every session is unique, and we have no set shot list to tick off on the day. It’s all about YOU and capturing your life exactly how it is on the day of your photoshoot.
We’re not here to mimic the shiny perfect families you see on your feed, we’re here to tell your unique story as it shows up on the day of the photoshoot – tears, joyous abandon, and all.

Throw your checklist out the window and know that magic will naturally unfold. When it does, I’ll be there to capture it.
AFTER THE PHOTOSHOOT
The best ten images from your session will be chosen and edited by me in my usual style, and your gallery will be available to view within four weeks from your own private, online gallery.
You’ll be able to download your high resolution images straight from your gallery and you will have access to an online ordering system where you can order prints, albums, and Christmas gifts which I will be on hand to help you with.
FAQ
What if my child doesn't want to have their photo taken?
Sometimes it takes children (and grown ups!) a little time of warm up to having their photo taken.
As an experienced photographer and fellow mum, I have a few tricks up my sleeve to get a little giggle from them.
Having said that, I am a true believer that once they see the rest of the family joining in and having fun, they usually do the same out of fear of missing out!
Plus, many of the most cherished photographs are those of pure love and the natural connection between a child and those that they trust, rather than the cheesy smiley posed portraits.
Will you guide us during the photoshoot?
Yes absolutely! I know it can feel awkward having your photo taken at first but I will be there every step of the way giving you direction and showing you where to stand or sit for the best light. Although there will be so many moments for me to capture the pure and genuine emotions between you all, I will be giving you prompts to evoke laughter and lots of cuddles!
How long does it take to receive the final edited photos?
I totally understand the anticipation of seeing your final photos, especially before Christmas!
I prioritise quality and attention to detail to deliver exceptional images that exceed your expectations.
You can expect to receive your final edited gallery 3-4 weeks following your photoshoot.
Do I have to order prints through you?
I highly recommend ordering prints through the professional printing lab that I work with, but it isn't required. The difference in quality is huge when it comes to ordering through a professional lab, so I always love to help with prints!
I have an online ordering store right within your gallery to purchase prints or albums which I am happy to help create for you with a selection of your favourite photos.
Thank You
Thank you so much for your booking and trusting in me as your Family Photographer. I cannot wait to capture the love within your family!
If you have any questions at all between now and your photoshoot, please let me know.
contact details
amy@amyclairebarnesphotography.co.uk
07746 345242