Family photoshoot: tips to make it a successful one

Finding the right photographer to capture your family is one thing, but getting the kids to smile and comply during a one-hour photoshoot is another. You’ve been dreaming of those gorgeous family photos you will proudly display on the wall but are worried how the session will going. Will the kids listen, will your photographer undersdand kids. What if they are hungry, tired, grumpy …Fortunately, family photographers will be used to getting the best out of the kids and parents, but there are a few things you can also do to help make it an enjoyable one. Of course we want the best photos we can get. but what about having a jolly time while creating core memories along the way.

1 - What time will your session be?

Even if you are limited by the available sessions your photographer has, it's still worth taking time to think what will work best with the children. Will it be after snack time so they are full and content? Will it be during snack time? If so, do take plenty with you and why not some treats. A smile for a chocolate cookie? Will the youngest have to skip a nap ? In the summer months, will it be too hot at time of the photoshoot?

2 - Location, location, location

I personally prefer a good ol' outdoor photoshoot as it gives you so much more space to play with. The kids can run around, play peekaboo and the light will give the final photos that natural and candid look. But it does come with risks, of course and it is most likely that your photographer will go ahead come rain or shine.

Pick a location that is meaningful to you.. a location that you may want to revisit or remember as the years go by. Inside your home can also be wonderful, intimate without the extra challenge that the weather brings. Just bear in mind that smaller rooms might mean more restrictions.

There isn't a right or wrong location. It just needs to feel right to you. Talk to your photographer who will be able to advice you.

3 - Let’s take our time

It’s important to stay realistic. The kids are going to be distracted and that’s okay. They might want to run around and explore. They might want to test the photographer and be cheeky. Don't feel the need to rush them. Don't feel you are wasting your photographer's time, because you ARE NOT. Many photographers will be used to it and could even be parents themselves.

Make sure your children enjoy having their pictures taken and they will be more likely to co-operate. Don't expect too much from them, especially when they are tired, and do get them involved in the whole process.

To bring them back closer to the camera, have snacks and treats at the ready. You could also ask them to bring back one item they found when exploring. Can they share it with the photographer? If at home, why not letting them run the house tour and show their favourite toys. Do the toys need their photos taken?

4 - What to wear

This is a tricky one. We've probably all seen those fashionable families that seem to have the knack for dressing themselves and their little ones. It may look easy but when you gave it a go, it looked nothing like what you are in mind. Welcome to my world. I can work with colours on a computer but when it comes to outfits, it's a minefield. If you are one of those families that has no issues with outfits, I'm envious and this section will not apply to you. You've got it covered! But if you need a little bit of help, stay with me.

So yeah, maybe, it doesn't matter, but it doesn't mean we can't try anyway.

a- Earthy colours usually work well for the outdoors.

b - Patterns can be complicated. Try to avoid them.

b- Matching doesn't mean everyone wears the exact same colour. Mixing will work best and will add texture. Light green, dark green, brown, beige do work well together. Mum could be in dark green for example, whilst children wear beige and/or light green.

c- Where to begin: Chose the MUST have item first (may it be the one you absolutely want to wear or the gorgeous outfit you recently found for your little one) and plan the other outfits around that!

Last, but certainly not least, don’t try to make your little ones wear summery outfits in the middle of winter. They may be fab outfits, but if the kiddos are cold they will be uncomfortable and understandably grouchy during the session.

5 - What if it rains?

Not ideal, I would agree but make the most of it anyway. Bring umbrellas, wellies, change of clothes for afterwards and HAVE FUN.

6 - Let's play games

Before the photoshoot, have a chat with your children. Explain what the session will involved. What sort of pictures would they like to have on display at home? What would make them feel comfortable, laugh and have fun? Would they like to sing songs, would they like to be surrounded by cuddly toys, would they like to climb trees and collect flowers? Would they like to have their picture taken whilst baking at home?

What's your story? What do you want your pictures to tell? Brainstorm and make that photoshoot happen. It will be worth it!