Portrait Session Guide | IPPRO Media
Lifestyle, Family & Portrait Photography in Los Angeles
Welcome to Your Session Experience
I'm glad you’re here!
Whether it’s a family session, headshot, maternity shoot, cake smash, birthday celebration, graduation, or couple’s session, this guide walks you through how to prepare and what to expect.
Please review everything before your session and revisit it a day or two before your shoot.
The better prepared you are, the more relaxed you’ll feel and the more natural and memorable your photos will be.
Your Session Game Plan
Choosing Your Location
Let’s find the perfect backdrop to match your session’s vibe:
• Urban + Modern: Alleyways, colorful murals, downtown architecture
• Nature + Adventure: Parks, beaches, fields, trails
• At-Home: Ideal for cake smashes, maternity, or lifestyle family sessions
• Classic & Clean: Minimalist studio-style setups in natural light
Tip: If you’re not sure where to shoot, I’ll suggest a location that matches your outfit colors, energy, and session goals.
What to Bring
Here’s a short checklist to help the session go smoothly:
• Water & snacks (especially for kids)
• Hairbrush, hairspray or gel
• Touch-up makeup
• Tic tacs or mints (no gum!)
• Towel or wipes (for little ones)
• Comfy backup shoes
• Props for birthdays or cake smash
• Favorite playlist (I can bring the speaker!)
For children’s sessions, keep snacks mess-free (avoid chocolate or sticky treats).
What to Expect During the Session
I’ll guide you with relaxed prompts, not stiff poses. Whether we’re doing headshots or a fun cake smash, I want your session to feel natural and easy.
• Movement is key. Expect walking, spinning, hugging, laughing. Whatever feels like you.
• Families with kids: Let the chaos happen. I work with your kids, not against them.
• Couples: Be playful, be cozy, be yourselves.
• Headshots: I’ll direct you clearly so you look your best while feeling at ease.
What to Wear
Headshots / Personal Branding
Go clean and simple, solid colors or soft patterns work best. Avoid logos or busy prints.
Couples / Family / Maternity / Birthday
• Stick with neutrals and coordinating colors (avoid matching outfits).
• Choose pieces you feel good moving in.
• Avoid new, untested clothes. Wear what makes you feel confident.
• Dress for the environment, heels on a rocky trail won’t feel fun.
• For cake smash or birthdays, coordinate with your set’s backdrop and colors.
If you want feedback, feel free to send outfit options my way.
I'd be happy to help!
How to Prepare
• Avoid salty or greasy food the day before your session
• Make sure outfits are ready ahead of time. Avoid last-minute stress
• Don’t schedule haircuts right before your shoot. 2 weeks ahead is ideal
• Let kids know what to expect; prepping them can help reduce resistance
• Aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early so we don’t lose light
Timing & Light
We plan sessions around the best light, golden hour is ideal for outdoor shoots.
If we’re indoors or at home, I’ll assess your lighting needs and guide timing from there.
Please be ready at the start time, as light is limited and timing affects the final results.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t just a photo session, it’s a chance to celebrate, connect, and create something meaningful.
Whether it’s for your brand, your family, or yourself, I want you to walk away with images that feel authentically you.
Question?
Please check the Portrait Session FAQ.