Julia Marr 1/14/25 Julia Marr 1/14/25

What to Wear to your Photo Session

Colours & Patterns - Start with a Coordinated Color Palette

Instead of matching outfits, aim for a coordinated colour palette that ties everyone together. Here’s how to do it:

Choose a Base Color: Begin with a neutral base, such as beige, navy, white, or grey, and build around it.
Add Complementary Colors: Incorporate 2-3 complementary tones that work well together. For example, soft pastels, earthy tones, or jewel tones are great options. Greens and browns with cream work, or Pastel blues and yellows with cream.
Seasonal Colors: Match your palette to the season. Think warm and earthy hues for autumn, cool tones for winter, light and airy shades for spring, and vibrant colours for summer. Summer colours I love at the moment are reds & hot pinks!
Patterns: If you are interested in adding patterns to your session, try for softer patterns like light florals or light-checked patterns. I would opt for only one person to be wearing a patterned outfit and then match the rest of the family to the colours from that pattern.

Stick to Timeless Styles

Classic clothing styles ensure your photos look elegant and will always look great in photos; this helps to avoid trendy items that might date your photos in a few years. Have you ever based your wardrobe around staple pieces… Like having that one pair of denim jeans and a white T-shirt. Well, dressing in timeless styles is similar to building that staple wardrobe. Here are a few timeless styles to consider:

Solid colours or subtle patterns like florals or checkered patterns.
Flowy dresses, tailored shirts, or well-fitted pants for a polished yet natural look.
Textures like knits, lace, or denim add depth to your images. These create more beautiful natural looks that add a little something extra to your images! I always recommend one of these!

Dress for the Location and Season

Consider the location of where your photo session will take place and dress to match. If you are having a session in a park or field, you probably won’t be in your swimmer or light summer dress like you are heading to the beach. Here are a few locations to consider when matching your outfits to the location of your photo session:

Beach: Light, airy fabrics and soft pastel or neutral tones work beautifully, or you can go the other end and if it’s going to be a summer beach session, wear bold colours like red and pink and even opt for your swimmers if you want to capture those fun summer moments with the kids.
Park or Woods: Earthy tones like greens, browns, and creams blend well with nature. Also, lace and knitted clothing work great when surrounded by greenery and nature.
Urban Setting: Think of stylish and modern outfits with a touch of boldness, such as darker shades or metallic accents.
Season: Wear cozy layers for Autumn, warm and rich tones for winter, and light, breathable fabrics for spring and summer.

Layer and Add Texture

Layers and textured fabrics can add visual interest and make your photos more unique if you have. a favourite hat or cardigan, bring it along and let’s add it to your session to create those extra special personal touches. I always love bringing a blanket to family sessions to create big, cozy family hugs; It creates more warmth and love in the photos.

Cardigans, blazers, vests, blankets or shawls
Accessories like scarves, hats or belts
Mixing fabrics like denim, knits, or linen to bring more texture and depth into your photos.

Pay Attention to Shoes

Shoes can make or break your outfits. Ensure they’re clean, neutral, and appropriate for the location. For instance:

Boots or closed-toe shoes for sessions in parks and fields. Gumboots can be my favourite for these sessions too!
Sandals or barefoot for a beach shoot. I would always opt for bare feet every time during a beach session!
Avoid sneakers or overly casual footwear unless it’s part of the theme.

Plan for Comfort and Confidence

Wearing something that you don’t feel comfortable or confident in is going to show up in your photos, it’s always best to wear clothing that you feel comfortable and confident in to help you all relax and look natural during your session.

Choose well-fitted outfits that allow movement. Flowy dresses are great for this!
Avoid itchy fabrics or pieces that require constant adjusting. I have been to many sessions where some dresses are too low cut or bra straps are hanging out and it can make you feel uncomfortable and having to adjust them constantly can get annoying, this is something to consider when choosing your outfit.
Ensure kids are comfortable in their clothing to avoid fidgeting or discomfort.

Things to avoid wearing during your photo session

Logos & Bold Graphics
Loud Patterns
Matchy Matchy outfits (All white tops & Demin pants)
Clothes that you don’t like or don’t feel comfortable in.

My favourite places to shop for outfits!

Kids: Seed, Best & Less, Childen of the Tribe, Our Folk, Marlow & May, Zara, Cinnamon Street Kids, Willow Dreamer

Women: Spell, Ghanda, Ottway, seed, SABO, Daughters of India, Dissh, Hazel & Folk.

Mens: Ottway, Ghanda, Thrills, Industrie, Connor.

Contact Me: If you are still unsure, please feel free to send me a message or take photos of your outfit choices, and I can help!

Have a look at my Pinterest inspo board here for some ideas! https://pin.it/1kSTmpsT8

Your family photo session is about capturing the love and connection you share, and your outfits should reflect that. By planning, coordinating colours, and focusing on timeless, comfortable styles, you’ll create images that you’ll treasure for years to come. With these tips, you’ll be ready to step in front of the camera with confidence and style!

Julia Marr 7/24/24 Julia Marr 7/24/24

Getting Ready For Your In-Home Newborn Session

Prepare for your in-home newborn session, Gold Coast Newborn & Family photographer Julia Marr provides tips and information to get your ready for your newborn session and why she recommends a in-home photosession.

Gold Coast Newborn Photographer here, sharing my top tips to prepare for your newborn session at home and why I recommend in-home sessions!

Just imagine you and your precious newborn, in those tender early days where you cherish moments of feeding, sleeping, and healing on a beautiful repeat cycle. Now, envision a skilled photographer arriving at your doorstep, equipped with a selection of adorable outfits and high-quality gear to capture timeless images of your newest family member in the cozy familiarity of your own home.

Now some of you may already believe that this is amazing, others though will question things like “My house is a mess” or “I don’t have enough space” and if this is you, I am here to put those questions at ease.

How to Prepare for your Newborn Photo Session from a Gold Coast Newborn Photographer

With every newborn session that I photograph, I like to assist my client before our session to ensure we plan for a smooth experience and minimize any potential issues that may arise during the shoot. As with every session, we can never predict how children will cope or respond, but these helpful tips will provide a solid framework to guide the session along smoothly.

Preparing the EnviroNment

Newborns love a warm space, if possible ensure the room has a comfortable temperature of around 24-27°C to keep your baby cozy as they are sensitive to temperature changes. If you don’t have a heater ask your photographer if they have one they can supply.
Your house doesn’t have to be clean! If possible only a small area of your house near a window with natural light is best. If you have a few areas that you would like to have photos in this is great too for variety but not essential.

Timing is Key

It is recommended that newborn photography sessions should be held within the first two weeks of birth. This is because babies tend to be sleepier and more flexible to move around. If you are after those sleepy moments then definitely book within the first two weeks but if not anytime within the first 6 weeks is perfect.

Feeding before your Photographer Arrives

I recommend feeding bub just before or on arrival of your photo session, this will help calm your baby and allow a chance for those sleepy shots right at the start. Also if you want some breastfeeding shots this is a beautiful way to start your session.

Dressing your baby

If you want to dress your baby in clothes from your photographer’s closet or some nude shots of bub, dress your newborn in loose easy-to-remove clothes as babies don’t tend to like being dressed and undressed multiple times.

Have Patience

Newborn sessions can be unpredictable due to feeding, diaper changes, and mood changes. It’s best to stay calm, patient and flexible with timing and expectations. Newborn Sessions tend to go longer than a normal family session due to these changes, your photographer won’t be rushed and understand that these things happen.

Take breaks as needed for the baby to feed or be soothed back to sleep during your session, usually, your photographer will ask you if you would like a break and this can be beneficial to you and your newborn.

Other family members

If your newborn session involves other siblings or partners, it’s best to have them all ready for when your session starts as they tend to lose focus the quickest. I tend to photograph all the family and sibling shots first before focusing on solo newborn photos.

Having an in-home newborn session offers a uniquely intimate and personalized experience for capturing the early moments of your baby's life. Unlike traditional studio sessions, which can feel formal and structured, an in-home session allows you and your baby to be in a familiar and comfortable environment. This comfort is crucial for newborns, who thrive in familiar surroundings where they can remain calm and relaxed.

In-home sessions also provide the opportunity to incorporate meaningful elements of your home into the photographs, such as nursery decorations, family heirlooms, or favorite blankets. These personal touches not only add sentimental value but also create a narrative that reflects your family's unique story.

Furthermore, the flexibility of an in-home session allows for natural interactions and candid moments to be captured effortlessly. Whether it's the quiet moments of bonding in the nursery, playful interactions with siblings or pets, or the everyday routines of feeding and cuddling, these authentic moments are beautifully preserved in the comfort of your own home.

Overall, an in-home newborn session offers a warm and relaxed atmosphere where your baby can be themselves, resulting in photographs that are not only stunning but also deeply meaningful as they capture the essence of your family's early days together.

Using these tips for your upcoming newborn session can create a relaxed and enjoyable session that produces timeless and cherished photographs for your family.

These photos were taken from a recent Newborn Session on the Gold Coast, Australia.

Julia Marr 7/1/24 Julia Marr 7/1/24

Preparing your Family for a Winter Sunset Session

A Gold Coast Photographer’s Guide to Winter Photo Sessions!

A Gold Coast Photographers Guide to Winter Photo sessions!

A winter sunset photo session is a magical experience, capturing the serene beauty of the season and the intimate moments shared among loved ones. As the golden hour approaches, the sky transforms into a canvas of warm hues—soft pinks, deep oranges, and fiery reds—casting a gentle glow over the ocean landscape. The crisp air is filled with a peaceful stillness, punctuated only by the laughter and chatter of family members bundled up in cozy layers. The sun's rays filter through bare branches, creating intricate patterns of light and shadow on the ground. Against this breathtaking backdrop, the warmth of familial bonds shines through, from playful interactions to tender embraces wrapped in vibrant, textured blankets. Each click of the camera immortalises these fleeting moments, blending the natural splendor of the winter scenery with the heartfelt connections that make each shot uniquely memorable. The resulting images are not just photographs but treasured memories, evoking the quiet joy and shared love of a winter's evening spent together.

Preparing your family for a winter sunset photo session can be a delightful experience, capturing the beauty of the season and the special moments shared. Here are some tips to ensure the session goes smoothly and results in stunning photos:

PLANNING AND PREPARATION

Location Selection: Choose a location that has meaning to your family or somewhere that you love to go. E.g If you love the beach, let’s choose the perfect beach spot to capture the beauty of winter sunsets.

Timing: Arrive at the location at least 10 minutes before the start of your session time. This allows time to settle in, and enjoy your surroundings without feeling rushed to start your session straight away.

CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES

Dress Warmly:

Layering: Ensure everyone is dressed in layers, including undergarments, sweaters, and outerwear. This allows for warmth while still being able to adjust if temperatures change.

Accessories: Beanies, gloves, scarves, and earmuffs are essential for keeping warm. These items can also add a stylish touch to the photos.

Coordinate Outfits:

Colour Palette: Choose a cohesive colour palette that complements the winter landscape. Neutral tones or shades like deep reds, blues, and greens work well. Avoid overly bright colours that may clash with the natural setting.

Textures: Incorporate different textures such as knits, wool, and faux fur to add visual interest and depth to your photos.

Comfortable Footwear:

Practicality: Ensure everyone wears warm, comfortable boots suitable for walking on the cold ground. Consider waterproof options to keep feet dry.

Clothing Stores for Winter outfits:

Babies:

https://purebaby.com.au/collections/baby-knitwear

https://www.bestandless.com.au/pages/baby-essentials

Kids & Teens:

https://www.countryroad.com/

https://www.target.com.au/

Adults:

https://www.theiconic.com.au/

https://cottonon.com/AU/

PROPS AND EQUIPMENT

Bring Blankets:

Dual Purpose: Cozy blankets can keep everyone warm and also serve as props for sitting on the ground or wrapping up together for intimate shots. Ask your Photographer if they supply blankets because more often than not they will have some for your session.
Aesthetic Appeal: Choose blankets in colours and patterns that complement your outfits and the overall colour scheme of the session.

By following these comprehensive tips, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable winter sunset photo session that captures the warmth and beauty of your family against the stunning backdrop of a winter sunset.

My Top Location Picks for A Sunset Session on the Gold Coast

The Gold Coast, known for its stunning beaches and lush hinterlands, offers some spectacular spots for a winter sunset photo session. Here are some top picks that blend natural beauty with the unique charm of the region:

1. PIZZEY PARK

Location: Pizza Park, Burleigh Heads

Features: This spot offers breathtaking tall pine trees with the golden sun setting between them. This spot makes you feel like you are in the woodlands of another country and not actually on the Gold Coast. The perfect place for a winter feel.
Highlights: Capture the sunset through the pine trees or over the lake, use the park's pathways for dynamic shots with natural framing from the trees.

2. CURRUMBIN BEACH

Location: Currumbin

Features: Known for its iconic Elephant Rock, Currumbin Beach offers a mix of sandy shores and rocky formations. The light reflecting off the water and rocks creates a stunning visual effect.
Highlights: The beach is perfect for both candid family moments and posed shots with the dramatic rock formations as a backdrop.

3. TALLEBUDGERA CREEK

Location: Between Palm Beach and Burleigh Heads

Features: Tallebudgera Creek provides a serene setting with its calm, crystal-clear waters. The creek is bordered by lush greenery and offers a peaceful ambiance.
Highlights: Ideal for capturing reflections on the water during sunset, and the surrounding parklands offer diverse scenery for varied shots.

4. SNAPPER ROCKS

Location: Coolangatta

Features: Snapper Rocks is famous for its stunning rock pools and panoramic ocean views. The rugged coastline and crashing waves add drama to sunset photos.
Highlights: Perfect for adventurous families, the rock pools and waves provide dynamic backgrounds. Capture the sunset with surfers riding the last waves of the day.

5. THE SPIT

Location: Main Beach

Features: The Spit offers a long, sandy beach with views of the skyline and the open sea. It’s less crowded, providing a peaceful atmosphere for photo sessions.
Highlights: Use the jetty for unique perspectives and the beach dunes for softer, intimate shots as the sun dips below the horizon.

6. TAMBORINE MOUNTAIN

Location: Hinterland

Features: For a change from the coastal scenes, Tamborine Mountain in the hinterland offers lush landscapes, charming gardens, and sweeping views.
Highlights: Capture the sun setting over the mountains and valleys. The scenic lookouts and rainforest walks provide diverse settings for beautiful, natural shots.

8. GREENMOUNT BEACH

Location: Coolangatta

Features: Nestled at the end of Coolangatta Beach, Greenmount offers calm waters and picturesque scenery. The headland provides elevated views of the sunset.
Highlights: Great for capturing panoramic views of the coast and intimate family moments on the beach with the setting sun in the background.

Gold Coast Family Photographer - Winter Photo Sessions on the Gold Coast

A winter sunset photo session offers a unique opportunity to capture the magical interplay of light, landscape, and familial love against a breathtaking seasonal backdrop. The crisp winter air, the soft glow of the setting sun, and the serene beauty of winter skies combine to create an unforgettable atmosphere for your photos. By thoughtfully planning, dressing warmly, and engaging in natural, joyful interactions, you can create a collection of images that not only showcase the picturesque winter environment but also the warmth and connection of your family. These photos will serve as cherished memories, encapsulating the fleeting beauty of winter sunsets and the timeless bonds that tie your family together.

So don’t let the cold stop you from creating beautiful moments with your families this winter, If you would like to book in a session you can contact below.

Gold Coast Family Session — Gold Coast Family Photographer - Winter Sessions

What to Wear to your Photo Session