When it comes to families, there simply is not a ‘one size fits all.’ So, a family photo session can be challenging for not only the family but sometimes the photographer as well.
By helping your client and giving important tips before the session, you can get the most out of the family photography experience. And as a photographer, your goal and responsibility are to show the bond, the uniqueness of each family, and freeze it in time.
Family portraiture can be daunting when kids/children are involved. These essential tips will boost your confidence to even tackle the toughest of group portraits.
Ask your client to choose their clothing accordingly and carefully
Have your clothes chosen way in advance and make sure they look attractive and are comfortable. Do you want your photos to be soft and elegant? Choose neutral colours with soft, flowing fabrics, like soft pastels, creams, light browns, grays, tans, and slate blues. Do you want to show the fun and spunky side of your family? Choose coordinating colours with bold accent colours like hues of gray with bright red or yellow accents. Adding fun accessories like hats, headbands, scarves, etc. can add a sassy flair and modern twist to your images
Recommend your clients to be well-rested and well-fed
Make sure not to schedule your photo session around your child’s nap time. The best lighting time is two hours before sunset and just after sunrise. Do not show up to a photoshoot on an empty stomach – this is very important.
Make sure to leave ample room to get ready
Mothers are often seen rushing around before a photo shoot, making sure that their family is all ready and dressed. Also, I encourage mothers to have their makeup and hair professionally done. Leave plenty of time for completing their daily chores. When a family shows up to a family photoshoot session rushed and disorganized, it does not set the right tone for your photo session. Give yourself ample time so that you are ready before it’s time to head out that door.
Cheese is for crackers
Please, parents….leave the ‘cheese’ at home. Cheese is for crackers. Screaming cheese and demanding children to look at the camera to smile might stress your children out. This will result in unnatural, unflattering, and strained photographs. Step back, and go for a natural conversation with your children. This will result in gorgeous, natural smiles for your little ones. Also, this will help the photographer in capturing the true essence of your child’s personality.
Have fun with your family
Laugh, hug, kiss, joke, play, snuggle……do all these little things but also allow the photographer to capture the true beauty and real emotion of your family. Show the photographer who you really are, so that they get the opportunity to capture your love through their lens.
CONCLUSION
Upon educating your clients, they will know what to expect during a family photo session. If you prepare them ahead of time, it will result in successful family portraits and ultimately gorgeous, timeless pictures that they will treasure for a lifetime.
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