You've heard it before,
"Busy season is here!" But what does this mean? For photographers, it means that we work our tails off ensuring there is enough sunlight and eyeball life so you have the best images to post during the holidays, on your Christmas cards, your social media posts, and in those special personalized gifts you hand out throughout the upcoming months.
For YOU however - it can mean countless hours of online window shopping, headaches trying to convince your significant other that this time will be fun and trying to truly believe this is the year the kids are finally ready! There are plenty reasons people choose to opt out of family photos every year, but the biggest reason is the stress that leads to those precious memories we cherish and hold onto for years to come. If you're not sure what I'm talking about, then keep scrolling through the beautiful images on my site, this post is not for you - CONGRATULATIONS! You've figured out something sooo many of US still haven't, yes myself included! HAHAHA!
But in all seriousness, there is so much preparation that goes into the "perfect" family photos you see plastered on social media, especially leading into this time of the year. While I can't say that I've nailed the perfect recipe to avoid the stress, I can tell you that these tips and tricks can definitely make it a more seamless process. Let's start by debunking some of the most common myths.
Myth: Plan the kids clothes first and mine last
Debunked: If you booked this session you're more than likely the glue that holds everything together. Therefore, you will likely be the center of the photos. You should pick something you love, feel comfortable and confident in and work around that for everyone else - colors, textures, and budget. Seems very backwards to our normal way of thinking, but truly, family photos are booked by mom and she is typically the hardest one to dress, so you want to start with her. I have plenty to discuss when it comes to outfits, textures, prints, and colors in my style guide that you will receive when you book with me! Even better moms, I have an ever growing Client Closet where you can come and play dress up to get a feel for different fabrics, colors, and styles.
In addition, I will always recommend not to dress anyone before the session. Kids can get messy, dad's tend to sweat, and dresses tend to wrinkle or snag. Dress the boys in muscle shirts & boxer briefs or an easy to pull down romper for girls. Dad's can typically get away with throwing on their button up or sweater on location. And you guessed it - Mama, you can put on your lovely gown when you arrive to avoid wrinkling, getting it dirty, or snagging it. If you have borrowed something from the client closet, I will bring with me to the location and you will dress into at the time of starting and out of at the end of our session. Make sure you're wearing something easy to slip up and slip down (or tie on/off is the easiest option).
Myth: The families that look good in photos are photogenic
Debunked: I can honestly say that anyone who is photogenic, shy, a newbie or an annual picture taker all go through the same struggles as they get ready for the day of session. I've noticed the biggest difference lies in the connection and enjoyment between the couple or family are what truly make for amazing photos.
Myth: The weather has to be perfect
Debunked: While "perfect" blue skies and sunshine make for an "easy" session - clouds add texture to your photos in the sky and the rain & wind add so much emotion to a photo!
Myth: My kids need to be on their best behavior to get good photos
Debunked: As your photographer my job isn't to ensure your kids are at their best behavior. My job is to make sure your kids are having a great time. It is through playing and running around that I capture those genuine smiles and moments of bonding between parents and siblings. This isn't a normal scenario for them so it's ok if they're shy and timid at first. Let them run and play and during our time together they'll come around and demand the camera be pointing at them ;)
Myth: Don't eat or drink before the session - they'll get messy
Debunked: While I don't recommend having an entire meal before family photos, a decent snack and some water/milk goes a long way before a session. Why?! Because kids - and adults - function better with some substance. My recommendation here is easy, instead of doing everything the day of on the way out the door, because you will forget, pack a light snack and small bottle waters the night before. I promise you won't regret it. Pick something that isn't too greasy, sugary or messy - Goldfish and water are a crowd favorite. They don't stain fingers, they don't get the kiddos too wild, but they give a sense of "I ate and I'm happy". These work great on dad too!
Myth: The car ride is for prepping the kids
Debunked: The moment you book your family photos, have small conversations with your spouse and kids on your upcoming session. What it's going to be like. What kind of photos you want to accomplish - especially when older siblings are involved or grumpy dads, they are more understanding and aware of your moods during a session. Be candid and tell them what these photos mean and why you're going down this road again.
Tips
- bond on the way
- create a play list a month prior
- bring the family in the least amount of clothes, shoes & dress on sight
- color schemes for wardrobe
- consider budget
- have zero expectations
