Planning your annual family photo session can be stressful. So stressful that some parents choose not to do it. I’m here to show you that it does not have to be that way! Here are my top 5 tips for guaranteeing you have an enjoyable experience so you can start saving your pennies and book a session for those dreamy family photos you’ve always imagined!
Tip #1 - What do we wear?
When you find the Photographer that you want to work with, ask questions. One of your first questions should be “what should we wear?”. You know you’ve found the right person if they provide you detailed information and suggestions on where to look for clothing options. Some photographers also have a Client Wardrobe with a variety of options for every member of your family. Trust them! Mamas, if you are comfortable wearing jeans then by all means see what you can do to dress up your best Levi’s. However, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and opt for the flowy dress! At first you may feel uncomfortable and awkward but give it 10 minutes and you will see why your Photographer suggested the DRESS. Jeans or pants (at least for the ladies) are stiff and your images will feel as such. Dresses offer movement from the elements and you interacting with your kiddos. Trust your Photographer! If your Photographer has no suggestions then you might rethink who you are working with. ;)
Tip #2 - Choose the right location
Do you want to travel and have views of the mountain peaks? Or do you want wide open sun soaked tall grassy fields? The choice is yours but do ask your Photographer if they have location suggestions in mind that will align with your vision. Keep in mind that we as Photographers have a goal to create imagery that you will want to display on your walls. So, keep that in mind as well. What will look great with your home decor? There are several factors that need to be considered before deciding on a location but the most important of those is how the lighting will affect the outcome of your portraits. Often times clients will have a special location in mind for their family portraits and that is perfectly fine, just run it by your photographer or ask them if they have places they can suggest. Plan on a little bit of travel if you opt for your professional’s locations as we love the epic scenery!
Tip #3 - Timing is everything!
Check the weather a couple of days before your scheduled session. Your photographer will be checking as well. Ask your photographer what type of skies they prefer. There is nothing worse that totally overcast and cloudy days, IMO. I personally prefer sunshine and a few clouds for a dramatic sky! Weather is a big factor and so is the time of day. Always plan on a late evening session usually about an hour before sunset for the best lighting conditions. If your Photographer wants to shoot at noon then you may wan to request samples of their work that they’ve taken at that time of day. If late evening poses a problem for the babies or kiddos then throw in a late afternoon nap so you can make the schedule happen.
Tip #4 - We are here to play!
While most of us Photographers will definitely grab a few posed smiling looking at the camera photos, for the most part we love the candids! Be ready to play with your kiddos and really interact with them. Another of our goals is to capture the love and emotion of you and your family. Ignore the camera and adventure with your kiddos and your spouse. Relax and enjoy the moment.
Tip #5 - Have Fun!
As parents we always want our children to be on their best behavior. We want them to listen, behave, sit still, and impress the strangers. I’m here to tell you that all rules are out when it comes to your family photo session! We are here to have fun! Relax and let the kids run wild! Your Photographer will have games to play and prompts to reel the kiddos back in. Please don’t stress. If you relax then your babies will relax and have some fun. Let the kids be, don’t scold them for not behaving to your standards. Your photos will reflect the love you have as a family if you just have fun!
Call me when you’re ready to schedule your family photo adventure!
