How to prepare for a family session

I know that thinking about getting family pictures done can be super anxiety-inducing. You think you will have to get everyone new clothes (you don’t), that all the kids will misbehave (they won’t) and that your partner will sigh and roll his eyes and make you crazy (they might).  Well,  I am here to let you know that a family session does NOT have to be stressful. I promise. There are some simple things that you can do to prepare and make the most out of the time with your photographer…and get you pictures to treasure and celebrate what you have created.

First things, first. Deciding if you want to have an indoor or an outdoor session. Personally, I always urge my clients to pick indoor, in the comfort of their own home. Not only is it easy, because no traveling and simple to stop for snack or potty breaks, but mainly because it is so MEANINGFUL. Your family being photographed in your own home immediately adds value to the session. Now you have images of your baby in their nursery, your dog on your bed, the kids’ artwork in the frame and your little one’s favorite blankie on hand for a timeless portrait of them. You have access to a quick change of wardrobe, hairbrushes and lipsticks, and the options of shoes or no shoes. Your home is always the best place to have the session. It’s where you live, it’s where you love, and it’s your STORY. 

Next, wardrobe. Whatever shall you wear? It’s fairly simple and I believe you have what you need in your closet. Look around your home. What colors do you decorate with? Is your home bright and airy or bold and colorful? Do you decorate with neutrals or are there patterns everywhere? Use that as a jumping off point and start pulling items from the closet that will blend in beautifully with your décor when you put these photographs on your walls. Pull clothes with lots of texture, simple patterns. Use a simple array of colors in your palette, all from the same family…pick all cool tones or all warm tones. Mix in neutrals with them (neutrals are creams, tans, denim, grays). Use a few pops of color in smaller items of clothing if you are going for more of a soft, subdued look. You can use socks, accessories to pull in personality and fun. Your photographer should always discuss wardrobe with you before the session and if they are like me, it’s their favorite part of the prep!!

Now onto the big day. Things might go a little astray. The baby might not nap, someone might spill on their outfit, or your partner might decide to give all the kids some huge soda drinks right before the session (this actually happened to me, can you even believe!?). DO NOT WORRY. It will all be ok. You need to stay positive and happy. Really take in the time with your family, no matter how chaotic it is turning. Keep smiling through it all. Play with your kids, sing special songs, give lots of snuggles. Get extra close. And know that if you hired the right photographer, they are making some serious magic for what you have created.