Your hospice session guide
I've created this guide to help you get the most out of your photography session.
But first, a little about me
I'm Tegan, I've been married for over 20 years and I have two daughters, Taryn & Caity. I've been a professional photographer for over fifteen years, shooting weddings, families and newborns. I've been volunteering for hospice as their photographer for a few of years, and it's been an honour to work with many lovely people and families over this time.
What to expect
for your photography session
You're mini session will last anywhere from 15 minutes to 30 minutes. It depends on how many people are involved and how well you are feeling on the day.
I aim to make every session unique, and tailored to each family. I focus on the connection between loved ones, as well as nice portraits that capture this moment in time. I treat these sessions pretty much like my standard mini family sessions - I try to keep them light and fun if I can, especially if I am working with children.
We'll meet at the location we've chosen - this can be your home, somewhere pretty or somewhere that is special to you. I'll give you some tips on body language and how to stand. I'll choose the spot that has the best light, then we'll start shooting. It's all pretty relaxed.
After the session
what's next?
After the session, I'll go through the images and edit the best ones. Depending on my workload this may take up to three weeks.
Your session and the edited digital images are my gift to you.
They will be delivered in an online gallery that makes it easy to download and share them. You can then print your images with your chosen lab or you can order high quality prints directly through your gallery. I share the gallery with my contact at hospice, but other than that I keep your images private and do not share them on my social media unless you give me specific permission.
What to wear
The most important thing is to be comfortable, but here are a few other tips:
Dress for the weather, and be flexible
Stay away from wearing a lot of green when having photos taken in grassy/wooded areas.
Steer clear of fluorescent colours. Fluorescent colours tend to colour cast on faces, necks and hair.
Choose versions of primary colours if you can. Yellow (mustard), red (maroon, brick), and blue (navy, royal). Black and white are fine too.
Avoid big logos as well as thin stripes
Little kids involved?
- Make sure they are well fed beforehand
- Dress them in clothes that look good - but ultimately comfort is key - do what works for you.
- Have wet wipes and tissues on hand
- If you think you'll need them, have a few bribes on hand, but don't offer them until we run into trouble. If kids know there is a treat before the session they start to get a bit impatient for them early on.
- Don't stress - I don't need them to be perfect little angels. Emotions are welcome at my sessions.