Preparing For Your Photo Session

At BK Rose Studio, we understand the pressure that comes with preparing for a photo session.
That's why we've created this guide to help minimize your stress and ensure a successful shoot.

What to Wear

First, the most important thing: This session is meant to be fun! We want your child to feel like a rockstar on picture day - the same excitement traditionally schooled kids get, made just for your homeschool family. So take a breath, keep it simple, and enjoy the moment!

Clothing Tips

  • Solid colors and simple patterns photograph best. Classic jewel-tones never go out of style.

  • Avoid busy logos, graphics, or text. They tend to distract from your child's face (which is the whole point!).

  • Layer when possible. A cardigan, jacket, or collar adds visual interest without being too busy.

  • Dress them in something they feel good in. Confidence shows in photos - comfort matters!

  • Avoid neon or very bright colors, which can cast odd color tones on skin.

  • One of the best perks of homeschooling is that there are no dress codes! So let your child wear something they truly love - whether that's a sparkly dress or a favorite hoodie. These photos are all about capturing them, so pick an outfit that feels like your kid and go with it!

  • Dress them head to toe. Depending on their age, we may see all the way down to their feet. So be prepared to have their entire outfit photographed.

Hair & Grooming

  • Brush/style hair before you arrive - we won't have too much time to fuss much in session! Bring your child’s brush or styling products in case touch ups are needed.

  • Style their hair as if you are going out for a fancy event! You want them to look their best.

  • Sometimes we see hands, so make sure children’s nails are groomed.

Day-Of Reminders

  • Sessions are about 5 minutes, so come ready to go - but also be prepared to be there about 20-30 minutes in case we are running behind on anyone or someone needs a little extra time to warm up.

  • Parents are welcome in the studio. Your calm, encouraging presence makes a huge difference!

  • Most importantly - have fun with it. The best photos happen when everyone is relaxed and smiling!

Plan Ahead

Planning your outfits in advance helps ensure nothing gets missed on session day and saves you from running around the house searching for that one last missing piece. We’ve all been there.

We recommend choosing outfits, head to toe, at least a few days before your session. Be sure to allow time to order anything additional you may need. Once everything is selected, hang each complete outfit together and place shoes and accessories in a bag looped around the hanger. Set everything aside on one side of your closet. Do this for each child being photographed.

It may sound simple, but trust us, this makes a huge difference in your stress levels on session day.

Then when the day arrives, all you have to do is grab your outfits, get ready, and head out the door. Easy.

Prepare Your Mind

Prepare your mind before you arrive. Let go of expectations. This is not about perfect hair, perfect outfits, or posing the perfect way. It is about capturing your children exactly as they are.

Also, leave any arguments in the car or at home. As best you can, release the stress of the day and lean into the creativity of the moment. When you relax and allow the experience to unfold naturally, that is when the real magic happens.

What to Expect

Our studio is our converted garage attached to our home. It is temperature regulated (we have heat and a/c). We have a bathroom inside our home that guests are welcome to use, but for mini’s it’s best to arrive ready to go (so use the bathroom before you arrive) so bathroom time doesn’t cut into your session time.

Working with Kids

Bring water and snacks for young kids. If you need to bribe, we fully support you!

We also find that how you talk about the session ahead of time makes a big difference in how cooperative kids are. Instead of presenting it as something they have to do, frame it as something fun! Let them know they are going to meet a fun photographer named Kat. You can even tell them my name is like the animal. Kids love that! It may sound small, but it truly helps set the tone and makes the whole experience smoother for everyone.

MAKE SURE THEY ARE WELL FED AND WELL RESTED

Hungry and tired kids are angry kids. ‘Nuff said.

Feeling Stuck?

If you feel stuck with your wardrobe or need additional suggestions, please feel free to reach out to us anytime.

Email: BKRoseStudio (at) gmail.com