What to expect
I have a lot of fun getting to know and photographing people. My main goal is to transfer that attitude to my client - so you and your kids walk away loving your experience.
Studio sessions are designed to be simple, relaxed, and efficient. Because the space is more intimate, I guide you more closely with posing and prompts to ensure we make the most of our time together. These sessions move quickly and are ideal for families who want beautiful, timeless images without a long session.
Lighting Options
Natural Light Studio Sessions
My home studio offers beautiful natural light, especially in the afternoon. Because the room faces west, the most flattering natural light happens about three hours before sunset, creating soft, glowing images.
Artificial Light Studio Sessions
If you prefer a more polished, evenly lit look, I also offer studio sessions using professional artificial light. These sessions are best scheduled late morning or early afternoon and provide consistent lighting regardless of weather or time of year.
If you’re unsure which lighting style is right for you, I’m always happy to help you decide based on the look you love most.
Styling & Clothing Guidance
For studio sessions, less is more when it comes to color. I recommend keeping your palette soft and neutral to allow the focus to stay on your connection.
Please avoid bright neon colors, bold patterns, heavy logos, or very dark color schemes. Soft textures, simple layers, and coordinated tones photograph beautifully in studio light.
What Photographs Best
Soft neutrals and muted tones
Creams, ivory, beige, camel
Soft browns, warm grays
Muted greens and blues
Simple textures and light layering
Things to Avoid:
You and your family are the main focus in the images, so avoid these following things that can be distracting and unflattering in images.
I offer styling assistance and access to my client closet if you’d like help pulling everything together. You're more than welcome to use pieces from my client wardrobe for moms, babies, and children if that feels helpful.
Your Try-On Appointment will be sent out 4 weeks (or sooner) before your session date.
If you can't make it to your try on appt. I can set Newborn size clothes aside. as well as any other outfits ready for you and for the rest of the family!
Hair & Makeup
While always a treat, getting your hair and makeup done professionally for your photo shoot is not required. A natural and fresh look is always best for your photos. If you are doing your own makeup, I would advise to avoid using anything flashy (bronzer, glitter, etc.). In photographs, a good matte finish will look the best. Don't forget the lipstick, and add a little more blush to your cheeks.
If you do decide to treat yourself for your session, let me know and I can send you referrals of a few of my favorite professional make-up artist here in El Paso!
It's totally okay if you don't typically apply makeup. To avoid shine, it would still be a good idea to gently dust some translucent powder over your face before the session.
Please don't forget about your nails. If you wear open- toed footwear, this is an excellent justification to treat yourself to a pedicure! Nothing ruins a photo shoot more than chipped nails. If you are unable to have madi/pedi please, make sure to remove any old nail polish you might have on before our session.
Space & Session Flow
My studio is a cozy space inside my home, which allows for an intimate and relaxed environment. Because of the size, sessions are designed to move efficiently and are more guided and posed compared to outdoor sessions.
Don’t worry about kids being “perfect” I’ll guide everyone through the process and keep things moving so it never feels overwhelming.
Gallery Day
Your session includes 20 high-resolution digital images with the option to purchase more from your gallery via à la carte.
Looking for heirloom-quality prints or albums?
I offer matted albums and Heirloom albums as beautiful keepsakes for you and your family. Click below receive a separate Fine Art Product Guide after your session with all the options available.
other tips:
- Before the session, talk to your kids about it. It's better not to catch them off guard. If they know what's coming, they can prepare themselves (even toddlers require some forwarding!). You can show them my photo and tell them that a silly buddy will be taking their pictures, but don't worry, they won't have to sit and smile for an hour!
- Make sure everything is ready the night before so you aren't scrambling in the morning, you don't want to be stressed out before your session!
- If needed, bring small, non-messy snacks for little ones
See you soon!
Keep an eye out for an email from me with access to my client wardrobe as well as information on booking your Try-On Appointment!
xx Gabriela
