Your Shoot

When you make your booking with Fiona McCoy Photography, Fiona will provide you with a phone consultation regarding the finer details of your shoot. Your consultation is fully personalised to suit your needs, requests, subject matter and location.

Beautiful portraits that will be treasured for generations to come are Fiona's specialty which does takes planning. Fiona's goal is to combine her creative vision and photographic craftsmanship with your thoughts and input to create a visual piece of art that captures your family's essence at this present time in your lives - capturing your family's precious moments... forever!

A few tips...

1. It is important in a family portrait that all people - adults, children and babies - are properly coordinated with the colours and style of clothing that will suit the type of image you want to display in your home. You will be looking at these portraits hanging on your walls for years to come - so it is important that clothing has been carefully considered.
2. Stay simple! V-necks and collarless outfits are best. Coordinating the colour of your tops may be done by matching exactly (all white tops or all black tops work brilliantly and look modern yet timeless) or keeping within the same colour tone, either all light, all dark tones, all denim etc. The bottoms should also be the same, all light or dark jeans, all black or blue etc. Don't wear sleeveless tops as they make your arms look larger. Long sleeve solid tops work the best. Most importantly of all, you need to feel comfortable!
3. Avoid writing or brand label text on tops. They are distracting and quickly date. Also avoid horizontal stripes and bold patterns which are very distracting and make you appear larger than what you are. Some portraits are full length, so be sure your shoes and socks match your outfit. Many family portraits in jeans and matching tops work great in bare feet. Arrange for that quick pedicure before hand!
4. For women, soft natural make up is best but apply it a little darker than you would normally. Even in outdoor portraits your face may tend to look washed out if your make up is too light. And under studio lighting, a little more mascara and a nice soft colour on your lips is very flattering.
5. When photographing with babies or children it is important to schedule the shoot for the time of day that is best for the child/ren. Children should be well rested and fully fed. Have a favourite toy your child likes to play with. Children photograph best while they are at play as this brings out their natural smile and expression.
6. Babies should have a few different outfit changes (for different looks) and perhaps a favourite soft toy, blanket or security object. Beanies look cute and always photograph well. Please also have an extra bottle for feeding or top up with a bib (to protect clothing) and dummy (if your baby has one) to use in case baby becomes unsettled or hungry.
7. It is always better to by over prepared than under prepared and a happy, well rested baby is much easier to photograph than a tired, upset hungry baby!
8. Pregnant bellies are accentuated by wearing white shirts or flowing tops that can be opened through the middle or unbuttoned around the belly. Maternity denim jeans or black pants compliment most any top and photograph well. Perhaps wear your favourite satin night gown or underwear or Fiona can drape some of her own soft fabrics around your body to beautifully frame your baby bump. Many pregnancy portraits focus on mum or dad's hands placed on the belly, so ensure finger nails are neat and clean. It is a perfect excuse for the mother-to-be to indulge in that last minute manicure and nail colour.

Fiona spends approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours photographing your family in a range of portrait combinations including indoor, studio and/or outdoor, family and individual shots while allowing for outfit changes, feeds and small naps (for the babies of course!) Your photo shoot should be fun, enjoyable and stress-free and Fiona will help facilitate this memorable experience for you.