9 Tips for a Successful Family Photo Session
Every family is different so of course every photography session is different too, but there are some things you can do to ensure you get the most out of your next professional family photos.
Do you look back at all your family photo sessions of the past and love the results but also recall a session or two that were slightly more stressful? Maybe you were scrambling to pull together outfits for everyone at the last minute. Or maybe you recall a session where one of your kids refused to smile, refused to look at the camera, and got mud on their pants… whatever the point of stress, here are nine tips to help make sure your next family photography session is fun and results in your most treasured family photos yet:
- Plan ahead: When possible, plan your family photo session well in advance. This includes choosing a date, location, and time that works for everyone in your family. Booking your session ahead of time ensures you have plenty of time to reserve your ideal date and time, purchase/coordinate everyone’s wardrobes (see item 3 for more information on wardrobes), and discuss location options with your photographer.
- Choose the Right Time: Pick a time of day when your family usually feels their best and if possible, align that with the optimal lighting. Early morning or late afternoon usually offers the best lighting for outdoor photo sessions. It’s also important to consider your family’s schedule and energy levels when deciding on a time.
- Plan Your Outfits: Coordinate your family’s outfits beforehand to ensure they complement each other and the setting. Avoid loud prints and opt for solid colors, and try to stick to a similar color palette to create a cohesive look. (I’ve provided more wardrobe tips and inspiration boards here)
- Consider Props: Props can add a fun and personalized touch to your photos. Consider bringing items that reflect your family’s personality and interests, such as your young child’s favorite stuffed animal, a picnic blanket, or even a soccer ball.
- Heads up: when bringing your own props, make sure you discuss it with your photographer ahead of time so there are no surprises and you’re both on the same page for the session. If your family loves to kick a ball around together for example, then your photographer may suggest parking near and beginning the session in an open grassy area instead of on a wooded trail.
- Communicate with your photographer: It’s important to communicate your expectations and preferences with your photographer. Share any specific poses or shots you want, as well as any concerns or challenges you anticipate during the photo shoot. Want a panned-out shot of your family with an enormous landscape in the background? Give your photographer a heads-up ahead of time as this will likely impact the photography session’s location. Are your teenage kids new step-siblings who’re not going to be comfortable when asked to pose with their arms around each-other? Tell your photographer ahead of time so everyone can have a comfortable, enjoyable session and you’ll get the happiest, most natural photos of your family.
- Keep it relaxed: The best family photos are often the ones where everyone is relaxed and having fun. Don’t worry about the mud stain on your two year old’s knee and it’s okay if no one’s looking at the photographer with a smile every minute. Keep the mood light and playful during the shoot, and don’t be afraid to let your personalities shine through!
- Be Prepared: Bring snacks and water for your family, especially if you have young children. It’s also helpful to have a few touch-up items on hand, such as a hairbrush and makeup. Depending on the time of year and location of your photo session, keeping warm jackets in the car for a quick 10 minute mid-session warmup can help everyone feel their best to get the most out of your session. On that note, being willing to reschedule if the weather is too cold or rainy may be the best option sometimes.
- Get the kids involved: It’s important to involve your kids from the beginning, right down to the planning process to make sure they feel comfortable in the outfit you select for them and so they don’t feel surprised when the day of your session arrives. Let them help choose poses or props, and be sure to take breaks as needed to keep them energized and focused. Some of the best family pictures come from kids bringing their favorite little red firetruck or toy camera.
- Relax, Have Fun and Be Yourself: The best family photos happen when everyone is relaxed and having fun. Laugh, play, interact with each other as you normally would, and take breaks when needed. Don’t be afraid to let your personalities shine through! Your kids may not always cooperate or stay still, and that’s okay. Trust your photographer to work with your family to capture the natural and unique moments of your family.
With these tips, your next family photo session will be a low-stress, fun family time that just so happens to result in treasured professional photography for you to enjoy throughout your home.
