There are a few things to keep in mind while getting ready for your photo shoot:
LOCATION
The location will set the mood for your whole photography session. Keep in mind while choosing your location what you want your end result to be, what exactly do you want to use these photos for, where are these photos going to be displayed, and what feels natural to you and your style? Do you want an empty field with nature being your backdrop, or do you want an urban feel with old barns and colorful backdrops?
WARDROBE
Yes this is second on my list of tips but I think it is equally as important as the location you choose. When you are choosing your wardrobe I want you to think of what you (and anyone else in the photo) feels comfortable wearing. I want you to be able to move and have fun during your session and that is hard to do when you are uncomfortable or limited by your wardrobe.
When thinking of what each person will wear remember that coordinate does not mean match. Gone are the days when everyone wears the same shirt and jeans for their family pictures. You will be happier with the end result if you stay away from being to matchy and stick with coordinating colors instead.
When thinking of color scheme try to choose 2-3 colors to use throughout your wardrobe. I like to start out with neutrals or solid colors and try to add variety and "pop" with accessories. Stay away from large patterns or logos. I want YOU to be the focus of the photo ;)
I don't want you to feel like you have to go spend a ton of money on a whole new wardrobe for each member of your family. Use what you have and make it work. Layering is always a good idea and can give your session some variety.
Click HERE for some more great tips on choosing your wardrobe for family pictures!
TIME OF DAY
Yes the best lighting situations for photos are the hours that surround the sun rising and the sun setting but that doesn't always mean that is the best option for you and your family. When you have young children it is more important to have happy, fed, and well rested kiddos then it is to have "perfect lighting". I would still stay away from mid-day sessions but early evenings and later mornings work if that is when your kids are the most cooperative.
LOCATION
The location will set the mood for your whole photography session. Keep in mind while choosing your location what you want your end result to be, what exactly do you want to use these photos for, where are these photos going to be displayed, and what feels natural to you and your style? Do you want an empty field with nature being your backdrop, or do you want an urban feel with old barns and colorful backdrops?
WARDROBE
Yes this is second on my list of tips but I think it is equally as important as the location you choose. When you are choosing your wardrobe I want you to think of what you (and anyone else in the photo) feels comfortable wearing. I want you to be able to move and have fun during your session and that is hard to do when you are uncomfortable or limited by your wardrobe.
When thinking of what each person will wear remember that coordinate does not mean match. Gone are the days when everyone wears the same shirt and jeans for their family pictures. You will be happier with the end result if you stay away from being to matchy and stick with coordinating colors instead.
When thinking of color scheme try to choose 2-3 colors to use throughout your wardrobe. I like to start out with neutrals or solid colors and try to add variety and "pop" with accessories. Stay away from large patterns or logos. I want YOU to be the focus of the photo ;)
I don't want you to feel like you have to go spend a ton of money on a whole new wardrobe for each member of your family. Use what you have and make it work. Layering is always a good idea and can give your session some variety.
Click HERE for some more great tips on choosing your wardrobe for family pictures!
TIME OF DAY
Yes the best lighting situations for photos are the hours that surround the sun rising and the sun setting but that doesn't always mean that is the best option for you and your family. When you have young children it is more important to have happy, fed, and well rested kiddos then it is to have "perfect lighting". I would still stay away from mid-day sessions but early evenings and later mornings work if that is when your kids are the most cooperative.
SOME OTHER THINGS TO THINK ABOUT
Kids will be kids. Don't expect them to be perfect little angels throughout the whole session. I try to keep things fun for the kids and it is best if you try to do the same. Kids can sense when you are stressed and they play off of that.
Try not to force your kids to smile or get upset with them if they are not cooperating. Ok I know what you are thinking but trust me, kids will do so much better if they are not being scolded while they are having their photo taken.
Bribery works wonders :) Talk to your kids before your session and tell them if they are good and cooperate they will get a special treat and most of the time they will be pretty cooperative (my kids will do anything for a treat).
Props are a fun way to bring your photos personality. Think of something that your family loves to do together, a favorite picnic blanket or a family keepsake and bring those things with you. I will bring my props also and together we can create something wonderful.
Props are a fun way to bring your photos personality. Think of something that your family loves to do together, a favorite picnic blanket or a family keepsake and bring those things with you. I will bring my props also and together we can create something wonderful.
Remember more than anything else to have fun. Times goes by so quickly and kids grow up way too fast. If you are all having a good time and being yourselves you will be in love with the outcome!
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