How to Prepare for a Family Photo Session

Ok, so you found a photographer and set a date for your family photo session. Sooooo what's next? Whether it's your first time taking professional photos or you're looking to improve from past experiences, here are some essential tips on how to prepare for a successful family photo session.

How to Choose your Outfits for a Family Photo Session

Picking the right outfit is crucial for a cohesive look in your family photos. Opt for coordinating colors rather than matching outfits. I love using neutral colors for the base to build an outfit and then add colors throughout. Make sure everyone's outfits are comfortable and suitable for the location and weather conditions. To add some personality and dimension to everyone’s outfits, mix different textures together. Patterns can be done in moderation but I recommend not including it in every family member’s outfit. Think of patterns as an occasional accent, not the main feature. Examples of different textures you can try are knits, chiffon, leather, jean, cotton, wool, and linen. Just think about the feel of the fabric. Is it smooth? Is it ribbed or heathered? Mixing textures help an image go from flat to dynamic in a subtle way.

How to Prepare the Kids for a Family Photo Session

Talk to your children about the photo session in advance. While most kids are comfortable with the camera on a phone, my camera is different and can be weird or make kids a little nervous. Explaining to them beforehand can help assure the kids that I am there to take pictures and help them have a good time. Explain what will happen and why it's important. You can even show them photos of the location or involve them in picking their outfits to get them excited about the event. Make sure they are well-rested, fed, and have had enough water before the session to keep their energy levels up.

What to Bring to your Family Session

While you don't have to bring a lot to a family photo session, there are a few things I highly recommend.

1. If you have young kids, bring snacks or high reward treats. These are great to pull out as a last resort to help motive your kids. You can read my other blog post for more info on helping small children here.
2. I love bringing water to stay hydrated. The session may not be long, but talking, playing, and moving around can and will make you thirsty.
3. I think it's a great idea to bring a small bag to place your phones, keys, hair ties, etc. away in in a safe location.

Conclusion

Preparing for a family photo session doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right planning, it can be a fun and memorable experience that results in beautiful photographs you’ll treasure forever. Remember, the goal is to capture the essence of your family's bond and create lasting memories, so embrace the moment and enjoy the experience!