How to prepare for a family photo shoot

Often, new clients express frustration at not knowing what they should do before and during a family photo shoot by quoting: “What should we wear, we’re not models and our children don’t stay quiet”, etc and because I want to make it smooth for you and joyful experience,  here are some priceless tips to help you feel confident and prepared for your photo session:

BEFORE YOUR PHOTOSHOOT

1. Prepare your family for what’s going on: children can feel under pressure if they know there will be someone with cameras around them. So, I always recommend my families to tell their children they’re going to a park, beach, etc. where they’ll meet an old friend and they’ll play, sing, etc and for dads, tell them they don’t have to pose! Seriously, no need to pose!
2. Prepare your outfit a week in advance: keep it casual and comfortable. Dad could wear something less formal than what he normally wears to work. Choose colours that show the personality of each family member and, if you want, you can mix and match. Avoid logos or branded clothing and green colour if your session is outdoor. Our sessions are relaxed and comfortable, so make sure you feel comfy with what clothing you bring. 
3. Outfit for moms: neutral colours are timeless gold and they are perfect to combine with others. Another big recommendation is to wear dresses to stylise your figure. Silk, linen, and satin cotton are great fabrics. Nude laser-cut underwear is a must to make you feel cosier.
4. Ask me to organise an hair&makeup artist for you!: it’s more frequently how I see my mom’s clients feel more confident after being taken care for a professional, so yes! I highly recommend it.
5. Props: I strongly suggest bringing props as they add an extra personalised touch to your experience. Think outside the box and have a look at toys your children love and what activities you do as a family. For example bikes, toy cars or trucks, dolls, lego, tea sets, bubbles, etc.
6. Snacks: some favourite snacks will help to have a joyful photoshoot and more for young children, so feel free to bring them along.
7. Self-care: the day before, please have the whole family a relaxing evening and treat yourself nicely.
8. Nails: for close-up images or details, your hands and toes will be part of the scene. Therefore, all nails of the family must be cleaned, and cut, with nude polish or natural.

DURING YOUR PHOTOSHOOT

1. No need to pose!: as written before, there isn’t any necessity to pose. We will create natural poses by doing activities, such as singing, playing around, etc and not looking at the camera all the time. You’re hiring me to capture your connection as a family in an organic way. Expect me to move you to different backgrounds and ask you have fun!
2. Please leave children be children: parents can get very frustrated if their children don’t stay by their side or don’t smile all the time and let me tell you a secret. Most of my favourite childhood photos are when I’m not smiling because I feel reflected in them.

So get ready to have fun together! and enjoy creating wonderful memories during your perfect family photo shoot.