As any photographer will tell you, there are certain things that you just cannot live without on a session to make the experience unique and fun for the client. I have found that these seven things I bring to my shoots make a world of difference for me so I thought I would share them with you!

1.KEYRING


I know this sounds like an oxymoron like, "no dah, Abby. You need your car keys to even get to the site." Let me explain. I store my keys on a key ring which allows me to easily keep my keys on my wrist out of the way while I photograph my clients. Also, on family shoots with young children, I find that my keys can be used as a toy to get the children's attention. They offer a great distraction when holding them over your head or right above the lens. A lanyard would work too, but I have found the keyring is my thing.

2.Blankets


Whether winter or summer, I never leave home without blankets. I normally like to bring neutral blankets like beige and gray. By bringing at least two, my clients can choose which one they like better and we can make a good judgment of which one looks best with their outfits. In winter, the blankets can add a cozy, warm element to the session. In summer, they can give a more of a picnic vibe and allows a clean area for the clients to sit on. Either or, they always bring a nice layer of texture into the photographs.

3.Stool


This is pretty essential for me because as some say, I am vertically challenged and it can be a struggle to get a better angle without it. Do not underestimate what the power a little height can bring to an image. Never leave home without it!

4.Jacket


No matter what season you are in bringing an outwear piece to a shoot should be essential, even in summer. On golden hour shoots, the sun goes down quicker than you think and so does the temperature. By bringing a lightweight jacket with me, I can continue to perform without any discomfort from the changing climate around me. Also, bringing a jacket or sweater is perfect in case your clients are cold and need something to between location changes.

5.Boots


As a photographer, sometimes getting the perfect shot requires trekking into the unknown or muddy territory. I have found that wearing boots is just a must for my nature shoots. This way I can go anywhere or do anything without fear of wrecking my cute sneakers. Also, make sure you break them in before your shoot or you will regret it after or even during your session!

6.Reflectors


My reflectors come with me on every shoot just in case. My reflectors allow me to reflect light into an otherwise dark picture or even diffuse sunlight in a harsh spot. I have also used them for something my client can sit on so they won't get dirty. I don't always have to use them, but when I need, them they are always with me.

7.Polaroid


My latest addition to my session essentials is my polaroid camera, also known as "The Magic Camera" to the kids. When clients leave a shoot, they leave with anticipation of the coming images but leave empty-handed. I wanted to change this. I know when I left my senior portrait session, I was dying to see the images. So, I wanted my clients to have a little something to get them through the upcoming waiting days. I love helping them remember the session with a fun keepsake that takes them back to the roots of film photography and helps make the wait more bearable.

So those were my seven photoshoot essentials. I have been known to bring cute hats and snacks in case someone gets hungry (call me extra). All of my extraness is so that my clients feel comfortable to be able to be themselves and to be carefree. I hope those gave you a little glimpse into how Abby's Focus operates. Let me know what your essentials are. I would love to hear them!