Get ready for your Family Photos

Woo-hoo! You found a photographer that you love and got scheduled for those much needed family photos. Now what?

Every photographer does things differently, but these are the steps I recommend to my clients!

Step 1: I like to pick a location first! Have you checked out my blog with the local location options?

Step 2: Fill out the questionnaire. This helps me get to know your family, understand your vision and plan your session.

Step 3: Pick outfits! Okay, I get it. You either hate this step or love it LOL. Luckily I have a client closet for those that struggle with this step. The client closet is a collection of women's dresses, children's clothes and men's shirts that you can borrow for the photoshoot. I also offer style consultations if you prefer to buy your own clothing! Check out my "What do I wear" blog for more information!

Step 4: You can send inspo if you want- totally not necesary but I also don't mind!

Step 5: Session Day! Don't worry- you do not need to know what to do. I will guide you through your session! We will do some traditional "smile at the camera" photos, but I am a lifestyle photographer so most of the session will be more candid. We will laugh, run and even play games.

Tips & Tricks

-All of that sounds great in theory-right? I get it, kids will be kids. So my philosophy? LET THEM. Let them run around, laugh, be silly. That's how we get authentic photos.

-Think about it.... would you want to cuddle your parents and look happy if you're being yelled at.... probably not. Try to stay calm, set expectations but make sure we keep it FUN!

-Did you book a summer session... with an 8 PM sunset time.... right at bedtime? Been there. Maybeee just this one day push nap time back a little bit. Although that is why I recommend spring and fall photo shoots!

-Are you above bribing? bring small, mess-free candy or snacks to keep little ones happy. Bribe the older ones with ice cream after dinner?

-Mostly, if you want it to be fun, you have to BE FUN. Do the silly poses, smile at your babies, and just let me do the rest! We're here to freeze this moment in time, no matter what that moment looks like. I promise, in years to come, your favorite photos won't be the ones that are perfectly posed with fake smiles. Your favorite photos will be the ones that remind you of how they scrunched their nose when they laughed too hard, or had to bring that stuffie everywhere.