It’s fall and that means pumkin spiced everything (yay!) and it’s time for family photo sessions. But, lets face it, not everyone is excited for these and it can be stressful to think about. There are outfits to pick out, photographers to book, locations to think about, picking up items to bribe your kids with. Ok, that one could just be me, but I’m not above a bribe. But seriously, when you start to think about it, family photo sessions are a lot. But they are also something you don’t want to miss out on! To help you stress less, I’m going to share my tips and tricks on how to have a great family photo session. And if not great, at least one where you get the photos you came for.
The first thing I tell my clients is to pick outfits they feel comfortable and good in. Especially the mama’s out there. Because I’ve learned if mama isn’t comfortable or happy with the way she looks, the session is much more stressful. So, pick out your own outfit first and then go to the rest of the family. We all know it’s hardest to dress ourselves and I personally blame kids clothing. Everything is cuter when it’s tiny! Choose something in your favorite color or choose your favorite top (it doesn’t have to be new) or choose a dress that makes you feel good. When you’re comfortable with how you look, you’ll feel great and that energy will certainly rub off on the rest of the family.
Next, you know your kids better than anyone. So schedule a time that works for them! You don’t want to come in with toddlers during their regular nap time or with a baby who is usually going through their night time routine. With kids, you want them at their best. They need to be well rested and well fed, then you have more of a chance for them to be cooperative! And like I mentioned before, bribes can and do work when you’re desperate. I always have little snacks on hand and remind children often that after they’re done with the photos, they can have a few treats. It keeps everyone in a good mood and motivated to get through those sessions with smiles.
Some of my favorite family photographs are those where they parents are interacting with their children and each other. Tickling is always a favorite because I can capture a true smile, a moment that happens daily in your family’s life. This can also help break the ice and allow an entire family to get comfortable in front of the camera. Kids usually don’t like to just sit and smile. Some adults don’t like it either. So if you get your kids chatting about that time you all caught little brother hanging from the dining room chandelier (this might be a true story), you’ll all have a few good giggles and it’ll make for some great photographs.
Location, location, location! Grab a session at a location you know your family will enjoy, especially the kids. I find that when kids are outside, they are usually a little more at ease. There’s things to look at, things to distract them, places to get some of that extra energy out! It’s not always feasible depending on what type of session you’re looking for, but if you’re stressed about how your kids will react to a family photo session, try it outside first. Actually, I just opened slots for our annual cotton field sessions for this fall, they’re perfect for a family session and the scenery is beautiful. Here’s the link to check out all the information and book a session- Cotton Field Sessions
And finally, manage your expectations. You’re with your kids everyday, you know them! To expect them to sit and smile and follow every direction perfectly is having unrealistic expectations. Trust your photographer because even the sessions you leave stressed and flustered, you’ll end up with photos of the people you love! Book the session, I promise, after getting the photographs, you won’t regret it! Want to book a family session for this Fall? Call the studio at 803-634-0596 or click the link to contact us- Book A Session
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