Family Session Tips
I want your session to be a joyful time to make some of your first memories together as a family. Here’s how we make that happen.
My Guiding Principles
Making Memories Through Play
Rather than relying on formal poses, I encourage you and your family to engage in shared activities. Whether you’re playing games or telling stories or setting off on a small adventure, you’ll create a space that allows adults and kids alike to relax into our time together.
Bring Your Favorites
Feel free to bring along any favorite toys, games, or activities that your kids enjoy. We can incorporate these elements into the session to make it a truly personalized experience. You’ll laugh when you look back at the silly things that brought them so much joy at that age. It will also make your child feel comfortable and relaxed at the session.
Focus on the Joy
When it comes to photographing children, my approach is centered around creating a playful and enjoyable experience. The more laughter and joy we share, the more magical and heartwarming the photos will be. I'm here to facilitate a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, ensuring that the session becomes a cherished memory for your family.
Home sessions
01. Prepare your Space
We’ll most likely photograph in two or three spaces to get some variety in the photos. When I arrive I can help make my recommendations on locations that have great lighting. I usually look for spaces that are well lit and aren’t too cluttered. I will also take into consideration the direction of natural light when choosing the shooting locations within your home.
02. Personalize the Setting
It’s great to incorporate some personal touches to make the photos uniquely yours. This works great in newborn nurseries and children’s rooms. I’m happy to photograph any meaningful decor, family heirlooms or items that represent shared interests. Personalization adds depth to the photos and makes them more memorable as you look back at these images in years to come.
03. Make Space for Yourselves
Before our session take some time to declutter common areas that might be visible in the background. Store away unnecessary items, toys, or personal belongings. A clean and clutter-free environment not only improves the visual appeal of the photos but also allows the focus to be on the family itself. Maximize the use of natural light by opening curtains and blinds. Well-lit spaces not only result in better photographs but also create a fresh and airy ambiance. Tuck away visible cords and electronic devices to maintain a clean and polished look.
Outfits And Styling
Choose a color palette
Choose a few complementary colors and mix them throughout your family's attire. This creates visual interest, allowing each family member's personality to shine through. Avoid overly busy patterns, and consider including layers or textures for added dimension. Before the session, make sure that everyone's clothes are steamed and wrinkle-free. Wrinkled clothing can be distracting in photographs. Avoid clashing colors to ensure a sophisticated and timeless appearance in the photos.
Consider the setting
Think about the location of the photoshoot when planning outfits. If it's an outdoor session, earthy tones, pastels, or muted colors often work well. For an indoor shoot, you might want to consider the color scheme of your home. Around the holidays, it’s nice to have festive and bold colors. Additionally, be mindful of the season – lighter fabrics for spring and summer, and warmer layers for fall and winter. The goal is to complement both your family's style and the environment.
Prepare for the unexpected
For young kids, it’s a good idea to have a backup outfit handy. You never know when there will be an unexpected spill (or worse!). Having an extra outfit means we can move forward with the session smoothly.