How to make your Summer Sessions a fun mini Adventure - Photo Session Tips

Summer is a magical time for family photos, with golden sunsets and vibrant landscapes providing the perfect backdrop. However, the season's heat and longer days can present challenges, especially when young children are involved. Drawing from my experiences photographing families in Stuttgart, Kaiserslautern, and Ramstein, I've gathered some insights to ensure your summer photo session becomes a delightful mini-adventure for the whole family.

Embrace the Adventure Mindset

I recall a session where a family approached the shoot as an exploration. We chose a local wildflower field, and the children were excited to show me their finds. This approach transformed the session into a shared adventure, resulting in genuine smiles and candid moments. By framing the photoshoot as a fun family outing, children are more likely to be engaged and cooperative.

Timing is Everything

The allure of the "golden hour"—the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset—is undeniable. The soft, warm light during this time enhances the beauty of your photos. However, in summer, this often means later evenings. Consider adjusting your children's nap and meal times leading up to the session to ensure they're well-rested and in good spirits.

Dress Comfortably and Thoughtfully

Light, breathable fabrics in neutral or earthy shades not only photograph beautifully but also help keep everyone cool. This sweet family I photographed near Ramstein a few years ago absolutely nailed their outfits. Not only did they look cohesive, but they also managed to throw in just a splash of color for fun, keep everyone’s individuality and still have a cohesiveness that is GOALS! The light colors also reflected the sunlight, keeping them comfortable throughout the session.

Stay Hydrated and Snack-Ready

Bringing along water and easy-to-eat snacks can be a game-changer, especially during warmer days. I remember a session where a quick snack break under a shady tree revitalized the children, leading to some of the day's best shots. Healthy, non-messy snacks like apple slices or crackers are ideal.

Incorporate Familiar Activities

Integrating activities your children love can make the session more enjoyable. Whether it's reading a favorite book, playing a simple game, or exploring nature, these familiar actions can elicit genuine expressions and interactions. During a family session in a park in Stuttgart, a family brought along their children's favorite storybook, leading to intimate and heartfelt moments captured on camera.

Plan for Breaks and Be Flexible

Children's moods can be unpredictable, especially in unfamiliar settings. Allowing for short breaks during the session can help them recharge. Flexibility is key; if a particular pose or setting isn't working, it's perfectly fine to switch things up. The goal is to capture authentic moments, and sometimes the unplanned shots turn out to be the most cherished.

Choose the Right Location

Selecting a familiar or exciting location can set the tone for the session. This can be the Burg Lichtenberg for a little adventure, a wildflower field for all my fellow nature lover or your own backyard where children felt at ease, and their comfort translates into natural, joyful photographs.

Communicate and Set Expectations

Before the session, have a chat with your children about what to expect. Explain that a friendly photographer will be joining your adventure to capture fun moments. Setting these expectations can alleviate any anxiety and build excitement.

Safety and Comfort First

Always consider the weather conditions. If the day is particularly hot, ensure there's ample shade and consider rescheduling if necessary. The well-being of your family is paramount, and a comfortable environment leads to better photos.

Trust the Process

As a photographer, my aim is to capture the essence of your family. Trusting the process and allowing moments to unfold naturally often results in the most authentic images. Embrace the spontaneity, and remember that sometimes the imperfect moments are the ones you'll cherish the most.

By approaching your summer photo session with preparation and a sense of adventure, you can transform it into a memorable experience. Whether in the bustling streets of Stuttgart, or the picturesque landscapes of Ramstein, the goal is to capture the unique spirit of your family in a setting that resonates with you.

Let's go on this mini-adventure together and create lasting memories that you'll treasure for years to come.