You’re thinking of scheduling a family photography session. But then you ask yourself, “What am I thinking?” Between work, kids, and extra-curricular activities, you feel like you don’t have an extra minute in your day. How are you possibly going to find a photographer, convince your spouse to cooperate, find outfits for everyone, and still manage to enjoy the session?
I get it. It sounds daunting, but don’t let that stop you. Here are some tips for making your experience one to remember. And one that you want to repeat year after year.
Choose the right photographer
I think this is the key to having a great photography experience. Does your photographer’s style align with your vision of the session? One of the quickest ways to ruin a session is to choose the wrong photographer. Let’s say you are envisioning a relaxed, stress-free session playing and snuggling with your kids. But your photographer keeps posing everyone in stiff poses and telling you to smile. Whew, that makes me anxious just thinking about it. Don’t get me wrong. There’s nothing wrong with formal, posed photography sessions, if that’s what you are expecting. Knowing what you want and choosing a photographer that offers what you want is the best way to ensure that your session is one to remember.
Plan it out
When families book a session with me, I try to make things as easy as possible. I understand how busy you are, and my goal is make the entire experience pain free. But that doesn’t mean that you don’t need to do some planning for your session. I recommend that your session be the main activity for the day, especially when you have little ones. If you’ve already had a day full of activity before your session, it shouldn’t be a surprise when one or more of your kids (and maybe your spouse) has a meltdown during the session. Make your session the highlight of the day.
Planning your outfits a few days in advance will ensure that you aren’t running out to the mall hours before your session for that something you forgot.
Keep it light and fun
If you’re looking for a fun, relaxed, stress-free session, I’m your gal. I want you to laugh, play, and just let go during your session.
In-home sessions are the perfect place to just be yourself and capture everyday moments like snuggling on the couch, playing a board game, or baking cupcakes. And outdoor sessions don’t have to be boring either. How about hiking your favorite trail, teaching your little one to ride a bike, or having a picnic in the park?
Leave your expectations at the door
Perfection does not exist. Not in life and not in photography sessions. That’s why I like to say that families are perfectly, imperfect. Embrace the chaos that exists in life. If your little one gets dirty during the session, that’s okay. If your hair isn’t perfect, that’s okay. My lifestyle sessions are all about capturing your life, dirty hands, messy hair and all.
When you’re ready for your unforgettable session, I’m here to help.
Leigh Ann – Your San Francisco, CA, Family and Newborn Photographer, serving perfectly imperfect families. And remember, I serve families throughout the Bay Area.
P.S. Be sure to signup below for my monthly newsletter, where you can get tips and tricks for capturing your own adventures with your family and early access to my shoot dates.
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