GET READY GUIDE

how to prepare for your session — without overthinking a thing

by shai banks studio


🌿 welcome

 

hi sweet friend


i’m so grateful you’re here. photography is more than a camera and a pose. it’s sacred storytelling. it’s breath and light and love. whether you’re showing up with sleepy eyes, wild toddlers, or a heart full of emotion, you don’t need to be anything other than you.


this guide is here to help you feel ready — not perfect, just peaceful.

🍃 what to expect

you can expect a slow, easy session full of laughter, movement, quiet moments, and real connection. i’ll guide you gently, never force anything, and hold space for however the moment unfolds.

  •  sessions typically last 45–75 minutes

  •  we’ll follow the light, not a strict pose list

  •  if the wind blows or kids cry — that’s okay. we embrace the real.


 

🏡 how to prep your home (for in-home sessions)

your home doesn’t have to look like a magazine. it just needs to look like you.

  •  open up the windows — i’ll chase the natural light

  •  tidy just the areas we’ll use (master bed, nursery, living room)

  •  clear clutter but not the life — leave the baby socks and coffee cups if they tell your story

  •  candles, soft music, and cozy textures are always a yes

  •  focus on peace, not perfection


God meets us in the ordinary — and that’s where beauty lives.

👗 what to wear

  •  go for soft, neutral colors that reflect the light — creams, browns, sage, rust, soft blues

  •  textures like linen, knits, and flowy cotton photograph beautifully

  •  barefoot is always welcome 🌾

  •  for mamas: dresses that move, nothing stiff or tight

  •  for dads/partners: avoid logos, choose earth tones or simple layers

  •  for babies & kids: simple onesies, bloomers, knits — no neon, no words


not sure? i’ll send you a style inspo board when we book!


🎈 if little ones are joining

kiddos don’t need to behave or perform — they just need to be.

  •  let them know a friend is coming to play

  •  bring a snack or lovey for comfort

  •  we’ll take breaks if needed and follow their lead

  •  laughter, wiggles, and even meltdowns are welcome

  •  no threats, no pressure — just love and grace


real moments make the best memories.


✨ a little self-care reminder

you’re beautiful just as you are — but if a little self-care helps you feel more confident, here are some ideas:

  •  drink lots of water + get good rest the night before

  •  keep makeup soft and natural (lashes are a lovely touch)

  •  avoid bright or chipped nail polish

  •  wear something that makes you feel like you


this is about showing up as you — not a version of you that’s overly polished or perfect.


☁️ weather + grace


cloudy skies? windy morning? a little chaos? it’s all okay.

if weather gets wild (like big rain or storms), we’ll reschedule with ease. life happens. we hold it all with grace.

 

✝️ blessings & truth


before your session, here’s what i want you to know:


you are worthy of being seen.

you don’t have to earn this moment.

you’re already enough — right here, right now.

this season matters. even the messy, in-between parts.


i’ll be praying over your session — that you feel peace, confidence, and God’s presence all around you.


“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.” — Proverbs 31:25

📸 after your session


within 2–4 weeks, you’ll receive a private online gallery full of images that feel like your heart: honest, soft, and full of light.


you’ll be able to download your favorites, order prints, and relive the goodness.


want help turning your photos into something tangible? just ask — i’d love to help you create keepsakes you can hold.

🧺 albums, prints & more

your gallery comes with access to my print shop, where you can create heirloom-quality albums, framed prints, and story boxes.


i can also help you build a custom keepsake collection if you want something special. no pressure — just an offering if your heart’s leaning that way.

 

 

 

 

 

✉️ have questions?

contact me anytime at shaixbanks@gmail.com — i’m here for you.

thank you for trusting me. this isn’t just a job to me — it’s holy ground. i’m honored to step into your story and give you something to hold onto forever.


now, take a breath.

let go of the shoulds.

show up as you are.

i’ll take care of the rest.

💌 next steps:

  •  send your session date + vision

  •  ask any questions you have

  •  get excited — we’re going to make something beautiful



Shai Banks Studio

for stories told in soft light & honest love

lets connect