Elizabeth's Heirloom PRep Guide
I am so looking forward to your heirloom shoot! I hope this guide helps you as you prepare and shop for your session. Heirloom portraits are meant to feel timeless, effortless, and beautifully classic—images that will live far beyond today and be cherished for generations. Every detail, from wardrobe to styling, plays a role in creating that refined, enduring look. This guide is designed to take the guesswork out of the process and help you feel confident in your choices, so you can arrive relaxed and fully present.
WHAT TO WEAR
Smocked, bubbled and classic pieces are perfect for timeless heirlooms. Dresses with embroidery, smocking, or lace details are beautiful on girls. Collared short sets and Peter Pan collars are great timeless options for boys.
When selecting outfits, I suggest choosing outfits with lighter, softer tones. Whites, creams, ivory, soft pinks, pale blues, and sage greens photograph beautifully. If you plan to print your images in color, choose wardrobe colors that will go well with the decor of your home.
Shoes, knee high or ruffle socks are optional. Most little ones are barefoot during their session.
WHERE TO SHOP
Here are a few companies that carry some really sweet heirloom pieces -
- Southern Sisters
- Little English
- Feltman Brothers
- Elizabeth Layne Heirloom
- Pixie Lily
- Cecil and Lou
- Remember Nguyen
- Hiccups Children's Boutique
- I also recommend facebook marketplace, consignment stores, or borrowing from a friend!
HAIR
To reduce fly aways - I recommend the "T is for Tame " hair taming wand off amazon!
I recommend clip-in bows for little girls. Feel free to bring a couple of options. Long Satin Bows for girls ages 2 and up can be found on Etsy, Lou and Company and at local boutiques.
A few Ways to PRep Ahead
1. ARRIVE WELL RESTED
Schedule your session around nap time! A well-rested little one almost always makes for the sweetest portraits. PLEASE let me know if your session time conflicts with nap time and we can adjust the time as needed.
2. SNACKS!
A full tummy goes a long way. I recommend a meal or snack before arriving.
3. SMiles
Feel free to bring any favorite toys or objects you know help with smiles! Also, if your child has a favorite small lovey or comfort object, feel free to bring it along for reassurance between portraits.
4. MINDSET
For toddlers and older children, it can help to mention ahead of time that they’ll be coming to take special pictures. Keep it light and exciting — almost like an adventure. The most beautiful expressions come when children feel no pressure to “perform.” There is no need to coach smiles or practice expressions beforehand — I’ll guide them naturally during our time together.
Other
- No need to worry about that scratch on your toddler’s face on the morning of our photography session. I provide thorough, but natural edits to my images, taking care of the little things like scratches, acne and fly aways.
- I recommend changing your child into their outfit on location to spare the outfit from any wrinkles or mishaps in the car or on the walk over.
- You can expect our session together to be about 15 minutes long. I know little ones have a short attention span, so I work quickly! I have found this window of time to be the sweet spot with little ones. However, if your little one needs a little extra time, that is okay! If you have any toys or items that you know get their attention well, feel free to bring them along.
- If your child is feeling shy, that is completely okay. Many little ones need a few minutes to warm up, and I always allow space for that. These sessions are designed with children in mind, and I work gently and efficiently to capture natural, beautiful expressions. And if your little one needs a little extra time beyond our 15-minute window, that is never a problem.
- If your child is outgoing and squirmy, don't worry. I work with active children on the move and have never not been able to capture the shots.
A note from Elizabeth ~
Most importantly, do not stress! You have enough on your plate as a mom and I am here to guide you and help you through the entire process. I am always happy to help with outfit and accessory decisions and would love to review options if you’d like to send me photos before your session to help you decide and narrow down options. And truly — simple is always elegant. Please don’t stress about perfection. Children bring their own personality to these portraits — that is part of what makes them so special. Some of the sweetest images happen in the in-between moments.
If your little one is having an off day, keeping things light and playful is the best way to turn that around. I've scheduled these sessions in the morning time when most children are at their best, so we've set the stage for their success, however; we all have our days. If we're patient, they will usually warm up and things will turn around. I work with little ones every day and I promise that your children won't do anything to surprise me. Also, I have a lot of tricks up my sleeve.
See you soon!
