5 Tips For Stress Free Family Photo Sessions
Family photos are a great way to capture precious moments and milestones, and to be honest, the idea of wrangling everyone into coordinated outfits and picture-perfect smiles can feel overwhelming. Fear not! With a little planning and preparation, you can transform your photo session from a stressful ordeal into a fun and memorable experience. Here are five tips to help you prepare for a flawless family photoshoot:
1. Plan Your Outfits (and Do it Early!)
Coordinate, Don't Match: Forget identical outfits! Aim for a cohesive color palette that complements your family's style and the chosen location. Warm tones work great for a fall session, or chose light and airy colors for a beach photoshoot.
Comfort is Key: Make sure everyone feels comfortable in their clothes. Uncomfortable children fidgeting with an itchy collar or adults that feel over dressed will show in the photos. Opt for soft fabrics and avoid anything too tight or restrictive.
Consider the Location: The setting will influence your outfit choices. Flowy dresses work beautifully in natural settings, while more structured attire might suit an urban backdrop.
Lay it All Out: A few days before the session, lay out everyone's outfits together. This helps visualize the overall look and allows for any last-minute adjustments. Don’t forget to try the outfits on, just to make sure everything fits too.
2. Schedule for Success (and Nap Times!)
Timing is Everything: Consider the best time of day for your family. Golden hour (the hour before sunset) offers beautiful, soft lighting, and is an obvious reason photographers prefer to shoot at that time.
Nap Time Matters: For families with young kiddos, schedule a nap around the session time.. A well-rested child is a happy one, and happy children make for better photos.
Allow Extra Time: Factor in travel time, potential delays, and time for touch-ups. Rushing will only add to the stress. Arrive early if possible to check out the location if it is new to you.
3. Communicate with Your Photographer
Share Your Vision: Don't be afraid to communicate your ideas and preferences to your photographer. Share inspiration photos or specific poses you'd like to try, but try not to replicate them. Use mood boards to spark your imagination and that of the photographer. Chances are they will build upon those ideas, and come up with something even better.
Discuss Expectations: Clarify the photographer's style, the number of photos you'll receive, and the editing process.
Ask for Advice: Photographers have seen it all! Ask for their advice on locations, outfits, and how to prepare your family for the session.
4. Prepare the Kids (and the Adults!)
Talk it Up: Build excitement for the photoshoot! Frame it as a fun family activity.
Bring Snacks and Drinks: Especially for young children, snacks and drinks can be lifesavers. Pack healthy options that won't stain clothing.
Pack Distractions: Small toys or games can keep kids entertained during breaks or while waiting for their turn.
Relax and Be Yourself: The most genuine smiles come from relaxed and happy people. Encourage everyone to be themselves and enjoy the moment.
5. Embrace Imperfection
Don't Strive for Perfection: Kids will be kids, and things might not go exactly as planned. Embrace the candid moments, the interplay between you and the individuals in your family can produce the most memorable and heartfelt images, even if they may be a little imperfect.
Focus on the Fun: Remember, the goal is to capture your family's love and connection. Relax, have fun, and enjoy the experience.
Trust Your Photographer: They are professionals and will work their magic to capture beautiful images, even if things don't feel perfect in the moment.
By following these simple guidelines, you'll be well on your way to an enjoyable family photo session, and the resulting images will show it. Remember, the most important thing is to capture the love and connection between your family members. So, relax, be in the moment, and create memories that will last a lifetime!