My philosophy
Your session should be something you look forward to not dread. That is why I only have one condition for my session - no stress allowed. My sessions are a combination of semi-posed and candid shots. Kids are allowed to be kids.
Session Info
With the exception of newborn sessions, all sessions take place outdoors. Sessions typically begin a couple hours before sundown and last approximately 60 minutes. Some are shorter and some are longer. I prefer to use a location of your choosing. A location that has meaning to you is going to make your photos more meaningful. However, if you do not have a location, I have several that I use both urban and countryside.
What to wear
I get asked this a lot. First and foremost, choose something that you feel good in! If you feel good in what you are wearing it is going to show in your photographs! I love to use tall grass, fields and alleys in shoots. Keep that in mind. You may be sitting in the grass or on the sidewalk (sometimes even in the street), so if at all possible wear something you are comfortable sitting in and you are OK with wearing while sitting in the middle of a field. Bright or dark colors photograph much better than whites and pastels. Try to stay away from small, busy patterns. To match or not to match? That is up to you, but I suggest choosing one person's outfit and then coordinating everyone else around that. Not too matchy-matchy. Let your personality shine! Be yourself! Not sure what to wear? Bring a couple choices. Most sessions allow for at least one clothing change. Sometimes more (especially with teen/tween sessions.