Avoid clothing with words on the front.

Dress them comfortably, or let them choose the outfit.

Make sure they are well fed and not over tired. Timing is SO important.

Let them "help" me set up. I'm very used to working with children and will be working from the moment I walk in the door to win them over. So please, let them touch the backdrop! We want them to be relaxed and happy.

Know that accidents happen. I can retouch the scratch he got from his big brother, and the smudge of goo will come right off of her white shirt.

Don't worry about me. I'm used to wiggly, grumpy, and over rambunctious children. My backdrops have been yanked down before, and my own daughter knocked down my lights. They bounce. I taught kindergarten for 5 years - I've already seen it all!

Be relaxed and have fun. They will if you do. If they want their picture taken with raggedy old teddy, that's fine - you don't have to order it if you don't want it.

Have them help you "look for ideas" by browsing websites or clipping magazine pictures that they like.