Your date, officially secured.
Let the Anticipation Begin
I’m Dominique, the face behind D. Marie Photography, and I’m thrilled you’ve chosen me to capture this special moment! Whether it’s a fun-filled family session, the glow of your maternity journey, or a portrait session that’s all about you, my goal is to make the experience easy, enjoyable, and full of good vibes.
This guide will give you all the details, what to expect, how to prepare, and tips to make your session amazing. I’m here to help every step of the way, and I can’t wait to create beautiful, joy-filled memories with you!
WHAT TO EXPECT
Here’s what’s waiting for you
Stress Free Photography
I handle all photography logistics so you can focus on enjoying your day. Be sure to provide lists as requested.
Planning & Communication
After booking, you’ll receive this guide with styling tips, color direction, and preparation notes to help you feel confident leading up to your session. A reminder email is sent three days before with important details, and your exact meet location is sent via text the day before.
Personalized Experience
Expect a relaxed, well-paced experience. I’ll direct activity prompts and posing, refine small details, adjust hands and angles, and help you look natural and confident. You don’t have to know what to do — I guide everything while keeping the energy fun, warm, and comfortable.
Timeless Keepsakes
Within 7 days you’ll receive partial edits for selection submission.
Your full gallery will be delivered in 2 weeks, with digital gallery access for the next 180 days.
session checklist
Pay balance in full
Steam/iron all outfits
Lay out accessories and shoes
Pack an emergency kit: lint roller, lip balm, brush, hair ties, tissues
Drink water (glowing skin is real)
Get rest so your eyes look bright and refreshed
The Day Before
Light meal or snack
Hair + makeup complete before arrival
Keep kids fed + comfortable
Check weather and dress accordingly
Bring backup clothes for little ones
The Morning Of
Remove anything from pockets. I do not mind carrying phones, keys, pacifiers, etc!
Double-check hair is how you like it
Don’t rush — arrive calm and ready
Before You Leave the Car
styling
tones
Stick to neutrals + rich tones
Think creams, tans, blacks, whites, browns, olive, deep wine, muted pastels, navy.
simple
Avoid loud patterns, neon colors, characters, or logos
They distract from your face — and photos are about you.
textures
Choose quality-feeling fabrics
Satin, ribbed knits, linen, cotton, wool, velvet — materials with weight photograph beautifully.
curation
Coordinate, don’t match
Your group should look like a curated palette, not uniforms.
ladies
Best options:
Flowy dresses with movement
Elevated bodysuits with tailored pants
Midi or maxi dresses with structure
Statement sleeves
Monochromatic outfits
Things that always work:
Soft curls or a sleek bun
Neutral nails
Simple jewelry
Light shapewear to smooth lines under dresses
gentlemen
Best options:
Neutral henleys
Tailored polos
Button-downs with texture
Well-fitted jeans or chinos
Avoid:
Basketball shorts
Overly bright colors
Wrinkled anything
(steam it, please)
children
Keep it simple:
Neutrals and Pastels
Textures layers as weather permits
Comfortable pieces that allow movement
Avoid:
Logos of any kind
Brightly colored clothing
Characters of any kind
hints and tips
Trust the Process
If I adjust your chin, hand, dress, or hair, it’s because I see the final image already. Little tweaks make big magic.
Movement Creates Magic
Walk, sway, laugh, breathe — photos look most beautiful when you let yourself loosen up.
Your Kids Don’t Need to Be Perfect
I work with families all the time. Let them warm up naturally. I’ll get the real smiles.
Be Yourself
Whether you’re giggly, calm, shy, bold, or full of energy — I meet you where you are. Sessions feel best when you lean into your vibe.
Arrive 5–10 Minutes Early
Rushing creates stress, and stress shows in photos. Early arrival = magic.
Come Camera-Ready
Makeup is blended, hair is finished, clothing is clean and steamed. We’ll fine-tune, but prep sets the tone.
m
Take your pic!
If you have any props you’d like to include in your session, pack them away ahead of time so they are not forgotten! Prop ideas can range from session to session, but can include: diplomas, metals, sonograms, baby shoes, personal items of value, etc.
props
If you’re unsure where to start, choose one outfit you love and coordinate the other outfits around it.
Consider comfort
Make sure clothes are just the right size for your family, nothing too big or loose, as well as nothing too tight.
Your session is a special moment you’ll cherish for years. Don’t hesitate to dress up more than usual—it’s fun, and it helps you look and feel your absolute best!
Dress up!
Book and MUA or practice your own look beforehand. Refresh your nails if needed, and don’t forget your little ladies as well!
makeup & nails
delivery explained
selections
7 Days post session you will receive a link containing all photos from your session. You will then select your favorites for final editing to add to your gallery.
additional photos
If you love more photos than number included in your package, you are welcome to select more photos at $10 per additional photo.
submission
Once you've selected all your favorites be sure to hit the SUBMIT button to send me your selections to complete your gallery.
final delivery
You will receive a link to your online gallery 7 days after submission of your selections.
Behind-the-scenes moments
During your session, I may quietly capture a few behind-the-scenes moments to document the experience as it naturally unfolds. These clips are used for social media storytelling and portfolio sharing. These moments are always secondary to your session and never interrupt your experience or final gallery.
So, keep an eye on my social media reels - you just might see yourself and your family!
FAQ
Can we send inspiration photos?
Yes! Inspiration is always welcome. Sharing your vision helps me understand the overall vibe, must-have moments, and details that matter most to you while still allowing room for authentic moments throughout your session.
what lighting is best for photos?
Natural light is always beautiful, especially around sunset, but don't worry if your timeline doesn't perfectly align with it. I'm experienced in working with all lighting situations including indoor venues, cloudy weather, and nighttime sessions.
What if it rains on my session date?
Anything from a drizzle to a downpour on session date will be rescheduled. I try to reschedule no later than 2 hours prior to session.
My location is at the beach. Can we get in the water?
Yes! If you are willing to get wet so am I! Even mud, grass, paint - whatever! If we're getting wet or dirty just give me a heads up to prepare appropriately!
Should we bring props?
Yes! If you have props you'd like to incorporate into any session, be sure they are brought to the session picture ready.
Should we bring anything else?
It's Louisiana. It's hot. Hot shows in photos. Cool water, a handheld personal fan, and blotting wipes/towels are all great things to have on hand during your session.
What happens if we run late?
Things don't always go as planned, and that's ok! However at times there may be multiple sessions scheduled on the same day. For this reason, if late your session time will be decreased to only what is remaining at the time of your arrival.
Do you help with posing?
Yes, my sessions include both posed and lifestyle photography. For posed photos, I will be sure to place you and your family appropriately for posed perfection. For lifestyle, this is more prompt and reaction based. Kids may play chase around mom and dad for an energetic photo; Or your family jester may get to tell their best (or worst) joke for a great natural laugh.
Our location requires permits. will you get those?
Location permits and fees are the responsibility of the client and must include photographer + session participants. Permits can be acquired by Client or Photographer. If acquired by photographer, overall fee will be added to session total. If acquired by Client, must show proof of purchase prior to session.
do you offer prints?
Absolutely! Your gallery features a built-in print store powered by Miller's Professional Imaging, one of the instrustry's leading professional print labs. This allows you to conveniently order high-quality prints, canvases, wall art, and gifts directly form your gallery with confidence in the final product.
At the end of the day, your wedding is about the people, the moments, and the memories you're creating - not perfection. Be present, soak it all in, and allow yourself to fully enjoy the day you've worked so hard to plan.
Contact information
985.326.9007
For fastest response please feel free to send a text at any time. Texts after 9pm will be returned the next day.
dmariephotog@gmail.com