Here are a few hints to help make your family session successful.
What to Wear:
The best choices are simple and plain. Coordinate your colors and please stay away from all white. Avoid all one-color outfits-all red, black, etc. Choose clothes that harmonize and unite the subjects. Comfortable goes a very long way toward great family images. Sweaters, jeans, khaki, chambray all are great.
Large bold prints or busy patterns will distract from faces and can add bulk or confusion to the viewer so we do not recommend them.
Fit is important as well, if the clothes are too big, they won’t get any smaller in the photos.
Props:
Small simple propping can add some fun to your shoot. Remember every element you add will age with time so it is best to move toward classic toys or props. Small teddy bears, a favorite toy. Flowers are nice but keep them to scale (no giant stargazers spreading pollen on party dresses).
Red wagons can corral speedy toddlers. We have even tied families together with ribbons for fun!
Hats can be a fun fashion accessory. Make sure they fit properly and we can see your eyes.
An Important Hint:
We have found the best family photos are done fast. Keep your parental expectations low and the bribes minimal and things tend to go great. Family portraits are one of the few places that children can exert ultimate control and if they realize it too early the process can get really bogged down.
Infants: Be sure to coordinate your napping and feeding schedule with your sitting. You do not want to have to try and unite your family with a tired, cranky baby.
Toddlers: Delightful as they are they can be toddlers also be highly unpredictable. Scheduling your session in the morning or late in the afternoon after naptime goes a long way toward success. Non-sticky, messy treats can help. Try to relax and just flow with the chaos and our photographers will capture the joy and craziness of parenting for years to come!
Preschoolers and school age kids are our specialty. Just remind them that this is going to be fast and fun if they listen and cooperate. Please bring them to the camera scrubbed and combed to save time. Avoid pre-bribing or threats as they will come back to haunt us all.
Teens, good news, they are not toddlers! Bring a couple of extra sweaters if plunging necklines or safety pins dominate their wardrobe and perhaps we can convince them a few different looks is fun.
