How to Prepare for your Family Photo Session
It’s mid-October which means it’s time for family photo session season to kick into full gear to get those holiday cards out before the end of the year!
If you haven’t booked a session yet but want to get on my calendar, you can check my availability here and schedule when you’re ready or fill out an inquiry form to get in touch with me!
Let’s Talk STYLING
I’m sure the first thing you’re thinking about after scheduling your family session is “what the heck are we gonna wear?” Let me give you a simple step-by-step formula and a few tips when it comes to dressing your family for your session…
Step 1: Pick Mom’s outfit
Whether you’re dying to wear your new holiday dress or want to keep it simple in your favorite pair of jeans and chunky sweater, this is your moment!
Step 2: determine your color scheme
If you choose a pattern for yourself, use those colors to make a color scheme for the rest of the family to follow. You can incorporate various shades, and remember to balance dark and light colors (darker clothes = darker looking photos).
Step 3: dress the kids in shades/tones from your color scheme
Step 4: dress Dad in something neutral and simple
BONUS: assign accessories to half of your family (vests, jackets, bows, earrings, hats, scarves, ruffle socks, etc.)
Styling Tips
Here are some tips when it comes to styling, but if you want to keep it extra simple, just remember this one principle – BALANCE…
Tip #1: use colors from your location without blending into the background too much
Tip #2: use a lot of neutrals, but make sure to add in a pop of color, my favorite are earth tones!
Tip #3: incorporate patterns and layers, but only on a few people to keep it from looking too busy
Here are some examples…
Worried about Bad Behavior? Let me ease your mind!
Okay Mom, I know it can be stressful thinking about how your kids are going to find new ways to act up during the one hour of the year you try to get that perfect photo for the holiday card. And I want you to have that photo too, so I’m going to help you prepare for the moment.
First, take a deep breath and know that I have never left a session without getting that shot, you’re going to have that photo that you love and want to share with all of your friends and family!
If you’re really worried about a lack of cooperation or smiling, this might be one of those days that you have to bribe the kids with a trip to Amy’s or something they love. For younger kids, I suggest mini marshmallows (or anything color-free that won’t melt all over hands and end up on clothes) as a small treat during the session that keeps them smiling, knowing they might get more!
Most importantly, while you’re hoping to get that picture perfect moment, my goal is always to capture your family as you are in this season. Kids grow and change so quickly but each season of their lives plays an integral part in who they’re becoming.
Want to book a session with me?
If you want to get on my calendar, you can check my availability here and schedule when you’re ready or fill out an inquiry form to get in touch with me!
