Let’s be honest, Family portrait sessions can be difficult—not just for the family, but occasionally for the photographer as well. You can help your photography clients get the most out of their photography experience by educating them and providing them with the following advice PRIOR to your session.
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Request that your client select their clothing carefully
Make sure your outfit choices are both comfortable and fashionable and have your clothes picked out well in advance. How would your ideal simpsons family picture look? if they are graceful and soft? Think creams, very soft pastels, oatmeals, light browns, tans, greys, and slate blues when choosing neutral colours and soft, flowing fabrics.
Want to highlight your family’s playful and spunky side? Select coordinating hues with strong accent colours, such as shades of grey with yellow or vibrant red accents, without going overboard with matching hues. Your photos can gain a contemporary edge and sassy flair by adding fun accessories like scarves, headbands, hats, etc.
Make sure your photo session does not conflict with your child’s nap or bedtime. The two hours before and after sunrise are ideal for lighting. Talk to your photographer if this is a bad time for your children.
Encourage your clients to get enough sleep and a healthy diet
A good photographer will be able to shoot at any time of day by utilising areas of open shade that will give your skin a beautiful colour and sparkle in your eyes. Attend a photo shoot on an empty stomach. Many families come to a photo session with dinner planned at the end. If this is your intention, make sure to provide everyone with a healthy snack prior to the photo shoot.
Moms are frequently rushing around before a photo shoot, ensuring that everyone in the family is dressed and ready. I always advise mothers to have their hair and makeup done professionally. This will prepare mom for her pictures, and when mom is feeling pretty and confident, the rest of the family will notice. Make time for showers, baths, dressing, and grooming.
When a family arrives hurried and disorganised for a family photo session, it sets the tone for a hurried and disorganised session. Allow yourself extra time so that you are prepared before heading out the door.
Ask the fathers to participate with joy
Dads, please take part cheerfully. I know that many fathers dread the family photo session, but please understand how important it is to capture your family. These images will be left as a legacy when your children are grown and have families of their own. Family photos are cherished for a lifetime and are extremely valuable. You’ll be glad you gave this time to your family when you see your happy wife and amazing photographs.
Leave the “cheese” at home, please, parents. Crackers go with cheese. I frequently come across parents who shout, “Say cheese to the lady kids!” while standing behind the photographer. Young children will only feel stressed out if you yell at them to smile or look at the camera.
Which will also stress out the photographer and lead to strained, unnatural, and frequently unflattering photos. Remain distant and let the photographer naturally engage and converse with your kids. This will produce beautiful, genuine smiles. Talk to your child and get those smiles to come out easily and naturally to help the photographer capture the true essence of your child’s personality.
Have a good time with your family
Never hesitate to pick up your kids and throw them up in the air. On the cheek, give your wife a tender kiss. Inform your husband of your love and gratitude for all he does for your family. A fun time. Joke. Laugh. Giggle. Embrace. Kiss, cuddle, and play.
By doing these things, the photographer will be able to capture your family’s emotions and true beauty. When the family gathers again, Aunt Marge should reserve the stiff “cheese” faces. So that she can use her camera to capture your love, and show your photographer who you really are.
Bring a family activity that you enjoy doing together
My most effective family sessions have included a shared activity that the family enjoys. This gives you something to do with your hands and feet, entertains the kids, and makes you truly smile.
Do you enjoy sharing books together? Bring books with you. Is ice cream your favourite dessert? Bring some ice cream bars or drumsticks with you to your session, or even better, arrange for an ice cream truck to show up. Love playing cards or board games? During your family portrait session, consider playing a game of Uno or Monopoly.