Family portraits are important. They document the growth of your family. They decorate the walls of your home, the background of your phone or computer, and even your social media pages. So much work goes into getting that "perfect" shot: Scheduling the session, picking out outfits, and getting your whole crew to the chosen location. When small children are involved, we all know that this process can be anything from exciting to downright exhausting. Throw in a family pet or two and you've got yourself a potentially chaotic experience! Have no fear! Here are some tips I've learned along the way as a photographer, parent, and former preschool teacher, to get that family photo session running as smoothly as possible.
1. Timing is Everything
Planning around your child's nap and/or meal schedule can be very helpful in ensuring a smooth family portrait experience. Try to plan your photo shoot for right after a nap and snack. High protein snacks work best. Save the sugary treats for afterward! Hangry, over-tried kids (or adults) can make a family shoot rough stuff.
2. Bribes are OK!
Bribes can have such a negative reputation, but I'm here to tell you that you shouldn't feel guilty! Sometimes the promise of an ice cream or special treat after the session can be the perfective reward for young children. I will often try and plan shoots at a location with a playground as a visual incentive for active little ones. These "bribes" can actually turn into a lovely tradition for those that take yearly family pictures. As a child, I fondly remember that my grandmother used to take us out for a special lunch after church. You can capture memories and create new ones!
3. Give plenty of notice
It's important to prepare your child for the big day. Start talking about the family photo shoot about a week before your session. Make it sound fun and give them a play by play. Let them know who will be there and who they'll be taking pictures with. You may want to include that they'll be wearing a special outfit. Don't forget to let them know about any treats planned for afterward!
4. Keep them moving!
Poses that involve movement often work best for small children. Giving a kiddo something to do often helps with both shy and active personalities alike. Throwing fall leaves, picking flowers, and collecting rocks are all excellent in-motion poses that create the perfect candid shot. My favorite active pose is a family walking shot. Simply having a family walk together works wonders!
5. Be flexible
Most importantly, remember to be flexible during your shoot. That might mean allowing a favorite toy (as seen above) into a few shots. It might also mean that your child won't have the picture perfect smiling face in some of the images. That's ok! Remember, this is about remembering that precious moment in your family's life. What might seem frustrating now will one day be a hilarious memory to look back on. My daughter went through a phase where she would squint and smile. It was not her natural smile and would look pretty funny in pictures. Looking back now, I treasure the images I have with her making that funny face. It said so much about her personality and her age.
Is it time to update your family portrait?! Contact me now to schedule your shoot.
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