Tips for Family Photos
How to master the art of family photos
10 Things That Help Family Photos
Full bellies – Depending on the time of year in Bartlett, sunset photography sessions can be right in the middle of our evening routines. I know that dilemma hits hard. My advice as a mom of 5 and a family photographer with decades of experience: dinner first…dessert after! It might be tempting to plan a meal out after your session. But empty bellies can lead to hangry kiddos – and I don’t blame them! While treats during a session can also be a helpful tool, be sure to stick to bitesize pieces that won’t get messy. Cheerios and Gold Fish: Yes! Chocolate and lollipops: save for after!
Positive affirmations – OK, this may sound a bit cheesy, but hyping the kiddos up before a session can really make a difference. Practice their smiles in a mirror or phone camera. Play Simon Says in the day leading up to your session. Make taking pictures something they – and you – look forward to. I promise to keep our sessions fun and active, so leave the worries behind and get excited to let your best selves shine!
Be my guest! This one is super hard for me as a photographer and a mom. So I totally understand the pull to try to pose or direct your kiddos. But when we are in a session, it’s time to let your hair down and let me lead. Getting repeated or even contradictory directions coming from different directions during a session can be overwhelming to kiddos. As the one who can see the whole picture, just keep smiling and let me make the silly faces and funny noises so your little ones know it’s time to focus on me. And I promise, I will tag you in if needed!
Let this day be about photos – I don’t mean to be selfish, but for best results it’s OK to make our session the main attraction that day. Have your outfits and haircuts ready in the week ahead so that on the day of the session everyone can relax and show up fresh. And while sometimes weekday sessions are unavoidable due to schedules, understand that after a day of serious self-regulation at daycare or school all day, self-regulating after in a new situation like a photo session may be a bridge to far for some kiddos.
Share your vision – with me…but more importantly with the other adults in your session. I recognize that family photos may not be the priority of everyone in your family. But I also promise to respect everyone’s time. I have formulated my sessions at Woods Manor in Bartlett over many years to flow smoothly and maximize shot diversity while balancing every person’s time and patience. I can’t tell me how many dads after sessions have told me “Wow! That was the easiest session we have ever done!” I hold that comment as a badge of honor…share it with your group ahead of time so they are ready for a truly unique experience.
If you’re in need for family photos in Bartlett or the surrounding areas throughout Shelby County, Tipton Count and beyond, don’t hesitate to reach out and let me share additional tips and tricks to make your session a fun experience that capture images you will cherish for a lifetime!
