First time?
Whether it's your first shoot or you're a seasoned pro, we know that getting in front of a camera can be intimidating. It's all good! Our goal is to always make our clients feel comfortable and confident.
We've created this guide to help you prepare for your upcoming shoot with us.
You're gonna crush it!
What to Expect During Your Session
Depending on which package you've booked or the purpose of your shoot, most sessions are usually an hour or two.
Typically, we meet at a pre-determined location and spend a few minutes saying hello and getting to know each other! We'll provide a quick outline of our session plan, get a sense of your comfort level and how much direction to provide, and give you any safety tips before diving in!
We usually warm up with some simple prompts before moving into more structured and guided poses or movements. All the while, we'll be looking for candid moments in between. We guide with our gut, which means we adapt to you and your comfort level, while encouraging and supporting you throughout your session.
We blend authentic, documentary-style images with editorial, intentional poses that feel elevated. We work with you to find a flow and adapt as we all interact together.
Location
Choosing the perfect backdrop
We’re lucky enough to be located in one of the most beautiful scenic areas in the country, and we aim to pay tribute to our surroundings with every shoot. Whether you have somewhere specific in mind, or if you'd like some guidance, we want to land the perfect location for you. We love to capture wild people in wild places.
Weather & Timing
Expect the best, plan for the worst
We prioritize your comfort and safety. Since the PNW weather can be unpredictable, it's important we keep an eye on forecasts, tide height and sunrise / sunset times while planning for a shoot.
Fortunately, our area is beautiful regardless of the weather—and we do our best to coordinate with you to find the best conditions. That said, please come prepared. Whether it's cold & wet or hot & humid, please plan for inclement PNW weather and adventurous outdoor conditions.
If you’re feeling cold or uncomfortable, it will show in your photos (red hands, windswept hair, tense posture), so please come prepared. Layers, weather-appropriate outfits, and a little flexibility go a long way in helping you stay present and looking your best.
Safety
Our Top Priority
Our first priority is your comfort and safety. We often shoot outdoors in state parks, public beaches, forests, trails, and mountains where we can encounter wildlife, waves, logs, rocks, cliffs, poison oak, mosquitoes, and more—so it's important to stay alert and follow any rules or signage. While we love capturing action like climbing on logs or splashing in the water, we will never ask you to go off-trail, beyond boundary markers, or into situations that make you feel uncomfortable.
Styling & Outfits
The canvas of your cinematic story
For casual shoots like portraits, couples, engagements or proposals—focus on texture, layers, simplicity and pieces that feel authentically you. We always love the classics—jeans and a white tshirt. A simple, flowing dress. A chunky sweater. Broken in boots with a cowboy hat.
Rain or shine, the PNW brings the mood. And whatever you wear, we’ll keep it comfortable, cinematic, and effortlessly you.
What Photographs Well
• Chunky sweaters, cozy knits, meaningful pieces
• Coats, wool layers, scarves, beanies
• Flowing dresses, skirts, wide-leg pants
• Leather boots or worn-in shoes
• Attention to details like nails, grooming, and simple jewelry
Colors & Tones
• Subtle coordination between outfits creates cohesion
• Neutrals with depth and contrast
• Earth tones, soft blues, rusts, creamy whites
• Color always encouraged
Extras We Love
• Outfit changes encouraged
• One casual look, one elevated or romantic
• White or bridal-leaning dresses always welcome
• Cool umbrellas & ponchos
Activities & Props
Getting into your element
We love building a shoot around an activity that is special & unique to you. Not only does this give you something to occupy yourself with if you're feeling a bit nervous, but it celebrates your unique personality and interests.
Activites and props might include things like 4-wheeling, fishing, having a picnic, visiting a record store, surfing, bike riding, horses, baking, driving an old car, beach bonfire, canoeing, gardening, playing guitar, etc.
Posing & Prompts
Creating Authentic Moments
We like to think of ourselves as directors of your very own movie! We guide as much or as little as you need. It’s less about perfect poses and more about creating space for moments that feel true, cinematic, and entirely yours.
• Treat it like time together, not a performance
• Pay attention to each other, not the camera (unless we say so!)
• Keep movements slow and natural
• Let reactions happen instead of forcing smiles
• If something feels awkward, just laugh about it!
• Trust the process
Posture
Posture makes a big difference. Stand tall but relaxed, shoulders back and down, with a slight bend to joints to avoid stiffness. Lean into each other and shift naturally. Think loose and connected, not rigid.
Triangles
The “rule of triangles” helps create natural, flattering shapes. Slightly bend arms, legs, and angles between your bodies to form soft triangles instead of straight lines. This adds movement and connection, making your photos feel more dynamic and less stiff.
Smooches
Kissing is naturally part of your story, but it can easily become a crutch. Instead of defaulting to it, focus on the in-between moments, the build up, the laughter, the closeness. When you do go in for a kiss, keep a soft smile as you approach to avoid the “fish face” look, and don’t rush it. The best photos usually happen just before or right after.
Cinematic Movement
Connection Through Movement
We guide you with natural prompts and intentional direction to bring out real emotion.
For example, we might have you walk the shoreline together, pause to take in the view, or share a quick spin or embrace. Simple movement and interaction create natural moments that feel real on camera.
We photograph both the big moments and what happens around them — the reactions, the quiet looks, the energy between you. The more you interact naturally, the more your images reflect how it actually felt.
Bigger Energy = Better Photos
While we focus on capturing genuine moments, those moments tend to happen when you let go a little and lean into the experience. Think big laughs, goofing off, climbing on logs, skipping rocks, dancing, splashing in the water, or just being playful together. Fun, candid photos come from actually having fun.
Relax, Stay Present & Have Fun!
Ultimately, we want you to enjoy your shoot with us, as if you're on an adventure with friends! You'll likely have your partner, friends and/or family with you, and you'll be in a beautiful location. Soak it all in! Be present and enjoy the moment! And most importantly, have fun! We strive to make all of our clients comfortable, laugh, and enjoy themselves, and we're going to do the same for you.
Mindset & Confidence Tips
Be fully present in your whole self! You look beautiful just as you are, and our job is to make you look your best! The camera sees light and connection, not flaws. Your job is to show up with trust & abandon, and be fully present. Our job is to create magic!
We hope this guide has helped you feel inspired and excited for your shoot! Every detail from the location to the outfits comes together to create something truly special.
Don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or last minute ideas. We can't wait to bring your vision to life!