Semper Paratus- Always Prepared
Why Prepare?
Getting your picture taken can be stressful if you aren’t used to smiling on demand, and being aware of what your body is doing. Multiply these difficulties by ten when you have kids. With these challenges, the last thing you want to worry about is all the small details that come up on the day.
Have no fear, though, I’ve put together a simple kit that you can carry with you that will have you covered on the supply front and get you 80% of the way to perfectly prepared.
The Basic Session Survival Kit
This kit has been assembled from my time working commercially and the collective experience of several great production coordinators (those are the folks whose job is to make sure everyone is happy and everything goes smoothly). This will cover all the basics and should fit into a small bag.
- Bobby Pins- they have a million uses
- Safety Pins- ditto here
- Duct or Gaffers Tape– make a fob or wrap a little around a pen
- A Pen- see above
- Travel Size Advil- or whatever painkiller you prefer
- Baby Wipes or Wet Ones- just a couple in an Altoids tin or small baggie
- Emergency Sewing Kit – These are a real lifesaver and this one comes with scissors.
- Binder Clips- a couple big ones for instantly tailored clothes
- A Small Towel- wash cloth sized
- Basic Makeup Essentials- any makeup you usually use for touch ups
- Concealer or Matte Powder- Lights used for photography tend to increase shine
- Lipstick- if you wear it
- Travel Hairspray- a good idea even if you don’t use it regularly
- Lipbalm- nothing too shiny
- Pocket Mirror- as big as you can fit
- Small First Aid Kit – you never know
- Emergency Medical/Contact Info- again you never know
- Bug Spray- Bug Soother is the best
- Travel Size Sunscreen- don’t want to burn
- Snacks- I like Larabars
- Water- 8oz per person per half hour
- Fast Flats – unless you wear comfortable shoes
- Your Session Plan- discuss it with your photographer and bring it with you
Optional items if you are bringing kids:
- Special Treats- bribery works wonders
- Stuffed Animal/ Favorite Toy- keeps kids comfortable, makes great props
- Blanket- again comfort is key
- Session Plans/ Checklist- give a little control and gain a happy kid
This kit will keep you prepared for anything that your session could throw at you. When you pair this with your session plan, you are best prepared to have an awesome and fun photo session.