So, you’ve booked a photo session with me, now what? You’ve likely never done this before. I have, and I really want you to get some awesome photos from our shoot! Here is some advice on how to prepare for our photos:
Where should we have our photo shoot?
We need to pick a place where you create memories with your family. It could be your home, the neighborhood park or playground, your parent’s house, wherever you want. It’s most important to choose a place where everyone is comfortable, in familiar surroundings, and a place that has some significance to your family. If you want to do these outside, have a backup location in mind in case of inclement weather.
What are we supposed to do?
It would be ideal if there was an activity planned. It could be as simple as taking a walk, going to the playground, or you could plan a more elaborate activity. One time, I showed up for a family photo session, and discovered that the mother planned a treasure hunt for her oldest of two boys who was just learning to read and basic math. It started just after I got there, and it worked out great! Very quickly, the boys, lost in the treasure hunt, forgot I was there, the mom was beaming with pride in her son’s accomplishments, and I got some wonderful shots!
I’ve photographed pool parties, birthdays, family reunions, and parents playing with their kids. The best thing to do is just do what you normally do with your family. The point of these photos is to capture your personality and the times you share with your family. A relaxed, fun family doing something familiar leads to awesome photos!
What should we wear?
I would start with what your child/children want to wear, then base your outfit on that (though I have no idea what would go best with a bunny suit!). Make sure patterns and colors do not clash. If your little one(s) don’t have a preference, make sure it’s not something that’s distracting (whenever I put my 11 month old in overalls, he can’t resist putting the metal closures in his mouth!).
Try to avoid wearing all the same colors. For example, if you all wear blue shirts, you’ll kind of blend together.
Have your partner take a look. Is your shirt too sheer? Did you not see the stain that your little one got on you this morning? Do your socks match?
Are you wearing something significant? Did the onesie that your little one is wearing come from a great friend? Do they have a significant toy that you want to be sure to get a shot of? Did your partner give you a special watch or necklace or something for an anniversary or other special occasion? Let me know about it so I can be sure to feature it!
Above all else, wear comfortable clothes. If we’re planning on shooting at a family picnic, don’t wear dress pants. If we are going to shoot at your house and your little one likes to wrestle, don’t wear big earrings.
When should we do this?
The ideal time for photographing outdoors is either very early morning or later in the afternoon because of the light. To avoid the harsh shadows of noon, I recommend that you schedule pictures for within two to three hours of sunrise or sunset. The light at these specific times also fills in the shadows under eyes and adds highlights and dimension, and provides for much more natural shots (no squinting, no sunglasses, and fewer distractions).
But, it’s most important to have children who are well-rested so be sure to let me know what their ideal time is. I’d rather shoot at noon with a happy, rested child than at 6pm when they are cranky and want to get ready for bed.
I’m open to your ideas! Tell me what you hope to accomplish, let me know where you would LOVE to have your photo session, and ask any questions you’d like! The more we collaborate on these images, the better they will be!
