Family Photo Session Preparation Tips!
Hey there, lovely families! As a photographer, my greatest joy comes from creating images that truly reflect your family's unique personality and connection. I don't want stiff poses and forced smiles; I want to capture the real, authentic you – the laughter, the love, and even the occasional meltdowns (because, let's be honest, those happen!).
So, how do we make that happen? Well, a little preparation goes a long way. Think of this blog post as your friendly guide to a stress-free and fun-filled photo session that will result in images you'll cherish for a lifetime.
Setting the Stage for a Successful Session
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, let's talk about mindset. The most important thing to remember is to relax and trust the process. Seriously! Kids are incredibly perceptive, and if you're stressed or anxious, they'll pick up on it immediately. So, take a deep breath, let go of perfection, and embrace the beautiful chaos of family life.
Okay, now for the practical stuff! Here's a checklist of tips to help you prepare for your family photo session:
1. Make it a Special Day
Treat it like an adventure: Instead of just another chore on the to-do list, build up excitement! Talk about the fun things you'll do during the session a couple days ahead of time, like exploring a beautiful wildflower field or having a picnic. The more positive anticipation you create, the more cooperative your little ones will be.
Clear the calendar: Try to avoid scheduling anything too demanding before or after the session. This will help everyone feel relaxed and present. A rushed or over-scheduled day can lead to crankiness, and we want to avoid that!
2. Location, Location, Location!
Choose a place that sparks joy: Think about locations that resonate with your family's interests and personalities. Do you love hiking in the woods? Maybe a forest setting would be perfect. Castle enthusiast? I know just the spot for you! Homebody? Let’s meet at your place and have everyone at ease in the comfort of their own home :)
Consider your kids' needs: Opt for locations with plenty of space for kids to run, play, and explore. Parks, open fields, and even your own backyard can be fantastic options. The key is to choose a place where they can be themselves.
Think about the light: As a photographer, light is my best friend. We'll discuss ideal timing and locations to get that dreamy, flattering light we all love. Early morning or late afternoon sessions usually provide the most beautiful light.
3. Wardrobe Wonders
Coordinate, don't match: Forget the days of perfectly matching outfits! Instead, aim for a cohesive color palette with complementary tones and textures. Think soft neutrals, earthy hues, or muted earth tones.
Comfort is key: Choose clothes that you and your kids feel comfortable moving around in. Avoid anything too tight, itchy, or restrictive. Remember, we want everyone to be relaxed and happy!
Showcase your personalities: Let your outfits reflect your individual styles. If your daughter loves twirling in a dress, let her wear a twirly dress! If your son is obsessed with dinosaurs, there can be cool stylish options out here (think subtle dino patterned shirt).
Consider the location: Think about how your outfits will look against the backdrop of your chosen location. If we're shooting in a field of wildflowers, for example, avoid wearing anything too busy or distracting.
Don't forget the shoes! Shoes can make or break an outfit. Choose comfortable, stylish shoes that complement your overall look. And please, consider socks as well!
For the brave ones: SKIN is your secret weapon for the ultimate carefree, emotive and absolutely heartfelt, intimate vibe!
4. Happy Tummies, Happy Kids
Snack attack preparedness: Pack a bag of healthy, non-messy snacks and drinks to keep everyone energized and happy throughout the session. Think crackers, fruit, veggie sticks, and water.
Avoid sugary treats: As tempting as it may be to bribe your kids with candy, sugary treats can lead to meltdowns and energy crashes. Stick to wholesome, nutritious snacks instead.
Timing is everything: Make sure everyone has a good meal before the session. Hungry kids are grumpy kids, and we want to avoid any hangry situations! FYI, this goes for dads as well :)
5. Nap Time is Sacred - this on is IMPORTANT!
Prioritize rest: A well-rested child is a happy child. Make sure your little ones get a good nap before the session, especially if it's scheduled for later in the day.
Consider session timing: If your child has a strict nap schedule, try to schedule the session around their nap time to avoid any crankiness.
6. Embrace the Imperfect
Let go of expectations: This is perhaps the most important tip of all - or just as important as the mentioned above nap time. Kids are unpredictable, and things rarely go according to plan. Embrace the chaos, laugh at the unexpected moments, and trust that I'll capture the magic, even if it's not what you envisioned.
Don't stress about "perfect" behavior: I'm not looking for perfectly posed, perfectly behaved children. I want to capture their genuine emotions, their silly personalities, and their unique connections with their family.
Trust your photographer (that's me!): I'm experienced in working with kids of all ages and personalities. I have tricks up my sleeve to help them relax, engage, and have fun.
7. Bring Toys or Comfort Items
Favorite toys: A beloved stuffed animal, a favorite book, or a special toy can help your child feel more comfortable and secure during the session. I also always have a few fun items in my bag that could be fun for them!
Blankets: Especially for younger children, a familiar blanket can provide comfort and a sense of security.
Bubbles: Bubbles are always a hit! They're a great way to engage kids and create fun, playful moments.
8. Plan a Post-Session Reward
Something to look forward to: Promise your kids a fun activity after the session, like going to the park, getting ice cream, or watching a movie. This will give them something to look forward to and make them more cooperative during the session. But be aware that it can also lead to the dreaded “are we done now and can we get ice-cream now” after 2 minutes into the session. You know your kid best, therefore if bribing works - I won’t judge :)
9. Communication is Key
Talk to your kids beforehand: Explain what will happen during the session in a way that they can understand. Let them know that it's going to be a fun and playful experience.
Share your vision with me: The more I know about your family and your preferences, the better I can capture your unique story. Don't hesitate to share your ideas, concerns, and any special requests you may have.
10. Trust Your Instincts
You know your children best: If something doesn't feel right, don't be afraid to speak up. I'm here to collaborate with you and create a session that is comfortable and enjoyable for everyone.
Let's Create Memories That Last a Lifetime
Ultimately, the goal of your family photo session is to capture genuine moments of connection and love. By following these tips and embracing the beautiful chaos of family life, we can create images that you'll cherish for years to come. If you’re in the Ramstein, Kaiserslautern or Stuttgart area, I can't wait to work with you and create some magic together!
If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out. I'm here to help you every step of the way. Let's create memories that will last a lifetime!
