As a family photographer and mom, I know that having beautiful images of your family is important. I know, as all moms do, that family photo sessions can be stressful. There are so many details to figure out: outfits, locations, making your kiddos smile and keeping hubby happy. As a professional photographer it is my job to make the whole process from beginning to end a stress-free experience.
1. Pick Out Your Clothes Early and Carefully
Some shoots have themes or specific lighting schemes in mind, and clothing can make a huge difference in elevating the images’ overall look. You should work with your photographer beforehand to get suggestions on what to wear for your session. Once you know what you should wear, make sure to assemble your wardrobe a few days before your session. Get items laundered, ironed, and anything else needed so that you’re not rushing at the last minute. You will want to be sure that your outfit choices are comfortable and attractive. Chose neutral colors with soft, flowing fabrics…. think creams, very soft pastels, oatmeal, light browns, tans, grays, and slate blues. Want to showcase the fun and spunky side of your family? Choose coordinating colors (but not matchy, matchy) with bold accent colors, such as hues of gray with yellow or bright red accents. Adding fun accessories like scarves, headbands, hats, etc. can add a modern twist and sassy flair to your images.
2. Mom’s Hair & Makeup
Moms, it’s ok to pamper yourself and get your hair and makeup professionally done. This will help prepare you for the photo session. When moms are feeling pretty and confident, it reflects on the rest of the family as well. I do recommend that if you do decide to get your hair and makeup professionally done for your shoot, it’s worth doing a test run of both. Make sure both come out how you want; this way, you’re not worried about how your hair or face will look on the day of your photoshoot. And if you’re doing it yourself, make sure to practice beforehand.
3. Timing Matters
Moms are often rushing around before a photo shoot, making sure that their family is dressed and ready. Leave plenty of time for showers, baths, dressing, and grooming. When a family shows up to a family photo session rushed and disorganized, it sets the tone for a rushed and disorganized session. Give yourself extra time so that you are ready before it’s time to head out that door.
Yes, you only have a limited amount of time for your session. This time should be discussed with your photographer prior to your session. In addition, there are certain times of the day that are far better for capturing lighting, atmosphere, etc. Have trust in your photographer when they give you session times.
Show up on time! You’re paying good money to have the best possible experience. Make the most of it from beginning to end.
4. Be Well Rested and Well Fed
It’s not a good idea to show up to a photo shoot on an empty stomach. I meet many families who come to a photo session with dinner scheduled at the end. If this is your plan, be sure to give everyone a healthy snack before the photo shoot. BUT……watch those snacks that can be sticky and stain mouths and teeth. Parents, you will want to be mindful of your child’s nap time and bedtime and possibly try days ahead of time to work around a different schedule. The best lighting is the two hours before sunset and after sunrise.
5. Prepare Your Children
It really helps your photo session to run smoothly if you prepare your children ahead of time. Let them know that they are going to have a photo session and that they will get some time to play. Sometimes we need to let kids be kids. I like to keep my sessions laid back and playful by getting the kids involved and combining activities into the photoshoot to make it more fun. Your family will have a great time snuggling with one another while I’m there to put you in great spots, make sure you’re close, and take your photos.
6. Cheese is for Crackers
So many times, I have found parents who stand behind me and yell “say cheese” to their kids. Yelling or demanding young children to look at the camera will only stress out your child (and your photographer) resulting in an unnatural and often unflattering photograph. Let your photographer naturally interact and talk with your children. You can always help the photographer capture the true essence of your child’s personality by talking with and coaxing out those smiles naturally.
7. Trust the Process
Kids feed off energy. If they aren’t cooperating, don’t worry! We will play and switch things up in order to get those happy smiles. Don’t stress, a lot of times it can feel like there are no good shots being taken but there are! I promise. My camera is fast and I take A LOT of images. Some are even combined to make sure everyone is looking their best.
8. Focus on each other, not the camera
Your photo session experience is about you and the relationship you have as a family, so forget about the camera, relax, and view it as a time to enjoy each other.
If you feel awkward or shy, practice some poses beforehand. Don’t worry, at the shoot I am there to help and guide you! Doing some research and practicing in the mirror ahead of time can help you to feel comfortable. Remember…..this is supposed to be fun! A professional photographer should offer their expert advice and make sure you look your best.
9. Be You
There is nothing more important about your photo session than being yourself. Your photos are meant to capture you and not someone else’s idea of who you are. Let your personality shine through. Try and relax at the session. Let go! Have fun! It does not need to be perfect in order to be perfect. The best photos will happen when simply being you!
10. NOT everyone has to be looking and smiling at the camera at the same time
The best photographs are often the ones where everyone is engaged or interacting with each other. Understand that not every picture needs to have everyone looking at the camera and smiling at the same time. If you are engaged as a family and loving on each other, your eyes will be on your family members and your smile with be natural. These are the photographs that you will cherish most because they depict your family connection and your love.
I give all my clients these tips when they book a session. Everyone deserves to enjoy having their photos taken and LOVE the results. If you are near the Cumming, GA area and interested in a family photo shoot I’d love to hear from you.
