Family sessions are a blast, and always turn out incredibly. However, I know all of you mamas stress OUT leading up to the day of your session. Trying to make sure that everyone will behave, that the session will go smoothly and that outfits will look right. Don’t worry though! Here are my Top 5 Tips for prepping the family for their session.
Keep The Kids in The Loop
Be open and tell your kids about the family photo shoot a few days or a week leading up to it. Keep the conversations casual, and make it seem like a really fun day. The more stressed and anxious you are about it, the more stressed they will be and then they will act out. Try to keep them involved in the planning so they feel they are a part of it. Give them 2-3 outfit options and then let them decide which they will wear. The youngest loves this too.
Snacks
Kids love snacks, and they can bring anyone out of a grumpy mood. A little mid-session chow has never been a bad thing, plus it makes the day feel like it is going by faster. Just be sure to bring pretty clean snacks. Cheese, grapes, goldfish and apples are all great because there are minimal crumbs.
Don’t Stress About Directing
Not everyone in the family will be looking the same direction at the same time in every shot, and that is ok. It happens. Let me do the directing. Not every shot will be 100% posed. Sometimes those end up being everyone’s favorite shots! Don’t stress!
Let Their Individuality Shine
We are definitely not trying to fake anything during these sessions. I know the perfect smiling picture is appealing, and we will get some. However, I want you and your kids’ genuine personalities to shine the brightest. As well as how you all interact with each other. Those are the shots that bring up the best memories!
Trust Your Photographer
Let the day go, and have fun with your kids. Personally, I have a lot of years under my belt. I have seen a lot of things and worked with so many different personalities. I will do everything I can to make the day go as planned, and I want you to enjoy it and have fun with your crew.
Please call or text me at 214.864.5787or use my online contact form and I’ll get back to you quickly, usually within one day. I look forward to speaking with you.
