A guide to having the best portrait session!
Now that you've booked your family photo session with your photographer (if you are in the Lower Mainland or Fraser Valley, I'd love it to be me!), you are probably thinking about how to prepare. I've put together a short guide with some tried and true tips to help take the stress out of planning and help make it an amazing portrait experience!
#1. Start with your outfits
I always suggest planning your outfits well in advance. You don't want to feel stressed the week of your session trying to figure out what everyone is going to wear. A great first step is for Mom to plan her outfit. As a fellow mom I know that we usually think of ourselves last, but in this case it can make the process so much easier. Choose something that makes you feel amazing; you want to feel comfortable and confident. From there you can build everyone else's outfit around yours. I suggest coordinating instead of matching everything. Solid colours and neutrals are always classic and stylish. Larger stripes and plaid can look lovely on one person when another is wearing a complimentary colour. If you need help with ideas or suggestions, I can lend advice!
#2. Location
It is so important to find a location that works for your family! I usually ask my clients if they have a location in mind where they would like the session to take place. This can be an area with special meaning to your family such as a park or neighbourhood. I also have many locations that I love to shoot at and am happy to make suggestions!
#3. Timing
We will work together to find a great time of day that has beautiful lighting. Other things to consider are mealtimes, nap time and bedtime. You don't want to plan your session during a hectic time of day that will have everyone feeling anxious. On the day of your session leave plenty of time to get ready, you want everyone to feel their best!
#4. Snacks and supplies
Bringing along a bag of supplies can help everyone feel more relaxed! Let's face it, kids love snacks. Pack your kids favourite snacks (choices such as goldfish, dried fruit, crackers, etc. that aren't messy or sticky are best) or a treat to look forward to after the session definitely helps. Also some wipes, a hairbrush, or an extra change of clothes are always a good idea.
#5. Relax and have fun
You've made it to your photos! All the preparation is over and it's time to enjoy the experience! As your photographer I will give you guidance about where to stand for the best light, etc. Your job is have fun with your each other and create beautiful memories with your favourite people. Some of the best family pictures are the ones where everyone is just having fun and being in the moment. Don't worry about the perfect pose or your kids being on their best behaviour. If the kids need a moment to run around that's totally fine. We will use those moments to get some shots of mom and dad together! I will help to give you prompts to capture the most natural moments. You will play games, be silly, give lots of hugs, and create magical moments with one another!
I hope you have found this guide helpful! I would love to work with you and your family - let's book a session soon!
