How to Prepare for a Family Session
Family sessions are some of my favorite things in the world. Seeing each family arrive on location, and watching each person’s unique personality unfold is such a wonderful thing. But for those in front of the camera, a professional photo shoot can be daunting, and it can make you pretty nervous. No one wants to be uncomfortable, especially when they’re taking pictures they’ll hang in their homes. That’s where I come in! A big part of my profession is making you at ease, so what you’ll see hung above your mantle is your beautiful family, captured as you are.Where we start is exactly that: where. The first step is picking out a location, and if nothing comes to mind, or if there’s too many options, I can help you find the perfect place to showcase your family. Thankfully, here in Central Florida there’s many options, and I know the ins and outs of each one. Think of what you’d like to see behind your family, whether that be the wonderful local flora or something less rural. It’s an important step, but not one that’ll make or break the session. The photos are all about your family, after all!
The next thing to check off the list is your wardrobe. I know that this might not seem like a big deal, but don’t underestimate the impact your clothes will have! First, open up your closet. Visualize what would look great on the walls in your own home, and start from there. Most often, a neutral palette works best, and I’m right there to help you make those final decisions! An oft forgotten aspect, at least for the men, are the shoes and socks. We figure those won’t show as much, but in reality they’re in the shot more than you think! The more detail you put into the ensemble, the more you’ll get out of it.
After you’re decided on the preparations, the shoot itself is next on the roster. This is where all of your hard work starts to come together! Arrive at the session a a few minutes earlier than our agreed upon time. This gives your family plenty of time to handle the unexpected, and that way we don’t lose out on the good light we planned for. Also, come prepared not to look at the camera too much. While there will be pictures where you’re gazing right into the lens, I want to capture your family engaged and natural with each other. When we focus on setting everything up just right, all too often we get rigid poses and faux smiles. Instead, you could bring a family activity along (especially for small ones), something you all love doing. It makes for some beautiful, natural photos that really capture your family’s spirit.
But most of all, be prepared to have fun, and let go. It’ll help with the nerves, and I’m there to handle everything else! I understand the mommy brain: thinking of every little detail, if your girl is smiling, trying to stop a child from fidgeting, suddenly remembering some little thing at home that you forgot about… Don’t worry, I’ve been there. I want this to be a time where you’re worry-free, relaxed, and comfortable. That’s important for each member of the family, and my goal is to give everyone confidence in front of the lens. It makes for the best photos!
Everything aside, the most important thing for a family session is for everyone to just be themselves. The people are what make up your family, and it’s my job to capture your unique family spirit. I can promise an experience that’s free from stress, and will result in photos you’ll be proud to have hung on your walls. Contact me now to book your session!
