Every family wishes they had more portraits of themselves. But most of the time it’s hard to get everyone on board with the idea (I would say 9/10 families don’t care for having their photo taken) plus finding a day that works out with your busy schedule can be a daunting task.
But I promise this will be fun! If you can get everyone dressed and out the door on time, leave it to me to make sure you get a collection of photos that will capture your family’s love and preserve this season of your lives! Here are a few things to know about being in front of my camera!
My Shooting Style
My shooting style during family sessions is a mixture of two styles. I like to read the family members and determine which one I should do! Sometimes it’s a photojournalistic style, meaning I like to just observe you and your family interacting naturally, like a fly on the wall! And sometimes I will bust out a few prompts or games to create some movement, make it fun and keep the kids entertained!
Expert Tips
1. Style mom first
I always suggest styling mom first then basing the rest of the family off of her outfit! Moms are normally the most particular about how they look so I recommend this tactic to easily plan your outfits.
2. Snacks (and toys) for the kiddos
Snacks are a great way to keep your kids (and possibly hangry dads) happy during your session! Bring something quick and easy you can throw in my camera bag and pull out to tame a rowdy toddler! Even small toys could be great to have on hand if I need to get a child’s attention so don’t’ be afraid to bring their favorite small toy!
3. Arrive early, let the kids get comfortable!
If you’ve got some energetic kiddos, it’s best to arrive early, let them get comfortable with the surroundings and even let them run out their energy before we start our session! That will help
4. No yelling at your kids
This is a big one for me. This will ruin your photo session faster than anything else. (And make your photographer a little uncomfortable!) I promise you, I have photographed more kids than you know. Your children are not a problem! I normally like to let kids run out some energy or be the star of the show for a minute if they want! If they’ve got some personality, LET IT SHINE! The last thing you want is a pouty child and a fake smile for the rest of the session! It’s best to let them run around and get the crazies out versus disciplining them. Rewards (like ice cream after we’re done) are a good way to help your kids behave as well!
Outfit Inspiration
MUTED COLORS | I love muted colors! They photograph beautifully AND it keeps the focus on you and not overpowering outfits! Less is always more!
ACCENT COLORS | I’m not afraid of color! If you’re wanting to add a little ‘pop’ of color, I suggest only ONE family member rockin’ that accent!
SIMPLE IS BETTER | so go easy on the number of patterns! Just like the accent color, I suggest only one pattern to keep the focus on YOU.
THE TECHNICAL ISSUES WITH PATTERN | Solids or LARGE patterns like buffalo check are best!
If you really want a pattern, go for it, I’m not afraid of patterns! BUT I highly, highly, highly suggest a pattern larger than a quarter! With small patterns, the camera can’t decide what color an area is supposed to be so it gets confused and produces “Moire” or chromatic aberration and makes your clothing look far from true to color.
I firmly believe…
I firmly believe that photos don’t belong on your phone. The last step to complete your session experience: PRINT YOUR PHOTOS! I am passionate about printing your photos and hanging them in your home. Your home should be a collection of the things you love — especially photos of the people you love!
One Final Note
The biggest reminder I can share is to let your family be themselves. See the beauty in it. Each family is beautiful and each family is different. And every individual inside it has a distinct personality and wonderful characteristics that make them who they are! Let me showcase your family’s beauty!
+ ADD comment
read comments