6 Ways to Prepare for a Family Photoshoot with Kids
You’ve been thinking about booking a family photoshoot for a while. You’re looking for beautiful images of you and your kids to hang on the wall and treasure forever. But there is one thing holding you back. The fear that when the day comes, the smallest members of your family might have a melt down and your dreams of beautiful images will come tumbling down.
Well I’m here to tell you that even if they do, it’s not the end of the world. As a family photographer I have seen it all and have many tried and tested techniques that will pull your photoshoot back from the brink. Here are some top tips to help get you and your kids ready for a relaxed,, fun filled family photoshoot…
Pick a time that works for you
If your little ones do best straight after breakfast then that is the perfect time to book a shoot. Most photographers will suggest that golden hour is best but if that’s smack bang on your little persons bedtime chances are they aren’t going to be giving their best. However if you pick a time of year where sunset is earlier in the day then you can get your shoot in well before bedtime and avoid unnecessary stress.
No reprimanding
This may sound counter intuitive as a parent but picking your battles and avoiding a Mexican stand off the morning of your session can have a long term benefit. This also applies to during the session, trust your photographer to guide the session and try to enjoy your time exploring the location and playing with your family. If they get mucky or attention starts to wander don’t panic, photoshop can work wonders and nothing gets children back onside like having fun without them… trust me.
Plan outfits in advance
This means that you avoid any arguments in the morning of the session and everyone can be excited to put on their outfit. Use your photographers prep guide to help you pick practical, tonal items that you and your little ones will be comfortable in. If in doubt bring options and layers that can be added or removed depending on the weather and how little people are feeling on the day.
Packing Snacks
We all know how children (and some grown ups) can start to flag without a snack break so think ahead and bring plenty of nibbles for pit stops. It also never hurts to keep a little special something aside to use as a bit of gentle bribery just in case.
Bring the pushchair
If you have little ones and whether they are great walkers or not I personally advise bringing the pushchair. Even if it’s just a place to hold the snacks and dump any jumpers and cardigans, it can always stay out of shot and means little legs can take a break.
Talk to your photographer!
Ultimately, they want to do all they can to support and guide you through a wonderful family photography session and get the best images possible for you and your family. I guarantee that you will not be the first parent to have concerns and to approach them for advice. They will have a million tips and tricks up their sleeve to get giggles and smiles from everyone in the group, including your tiny Napoleon.
Still concerned? Book a free consultation call and we can discuss how we can plan and prepare for an amazing photography session with your little one.
So whats next?
Well you may be thinking, well this all sounds great but where is the proof that all these tips and ideas work? To see examples of my children and family photography head to my portfolio and see yourself the success that can be had.
To find out more about planning your dream family photoshoot check out some of my other blog posts.
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