As a Pittsburgh Family Photographer, one of my main goals is to keep my photo sessions as stress-free as possible! With over twelve years of experience with photographing families, I’ve learned a few things over the years on how to make a family photo session go smoothly.
Here are my tip five tips to take the stress out of a family photo session. You can also download my free PDF will all of this info, scroll down below to find the link for your free download!
#1. Prepare the Kids
Instead of begging and bribing them to behave, this is what to say to the kids…
“On [insert day here] we’re going to meet this awesome lady named Mary Beth. She’s going to hang out with us and we’re going to go play at a park and she’s is going to bring her camera and take some pictures of us having fun!”
Yep. That’s it.
I promise this will help you to not worry about how they will behave!
This strategy also works nicely on dads who are not 100% on board with this whole family photo session thing…
#2. Pick the Right Photographer
Finding a photographer you ‘click’ with will make your whole experience more enjoyable!
Consider the type of experience you desire. Do you want to dress up in fancy coordinating outfits and pose in a field at sunset? Maybe you prefer a photo session where you get to dress casually and comfortably and just relax, havefun and be your awesome-selves. If you think the second one is more your style, then I might be the photographer for you!
Think about what you want to do with the final images. Do you just want the digitals or the ability to order beautiful prints and products? (I offer both to my clients!)
#3. Pick the Right Location
Picking the right location can help cut back on the stress involved with having your photos taken!
What’s the perfect place for your family photo session? Should it be at your favorite park? Maybe inside your home or in your very own backyard? I always help you pick the best place for your family!
#4. What to Wear
I know some people like to dress up in fancy new outfits for family photos but the thought of trying to pick out 5 coordinating outfits stresses me out! I prefer to keep it real and keep it simple and wear your favorite comfortable clothes that you already own! Seriously!
If your husband loves jeans and a t-shirt than let him wear that. If your daughter lives in the same yellow dress 6 days a week, then let her wear that. If your three years old insists on wearing his old rain boots and superman cape, then yes, let him!
EMBRACE YOUR REAL SELVES.
Just be sure to pick the outfits at least a day or two before the session!
#5. What to Bring
Being prepared and bringing what you need will definitely eliminate the stress from your session. Bring a change of clothes for all of the kids, yes even the older ones, you never know when mud will happen.
Although you should feed everyone before the session, bring a snack and drink for everyone. Snacks make everyone happy.
Let your kids bring their favorite stuffy or blankie if they’re attached to it.
Grab things like a brush and chapstick/lipstick and bring along the stroller to stick everything in!
Wouldn’t you prefer a family photo session without the stress, awkward posing and fake cheesy smiles? The kind where you don’t have to beg or bribe your children (or partner) to cooperate? A photo session where you get to relax and just be your imperfect and amazing selves?
If so, SEND ME A MESSAGE, I’d love to chat! Take the first step to planning your unique photo session! I can’t wait to hear from you!
Want to download your own PDF copy with these tips?
Just click on the image below!
~All images by Mary Beth Miller Photography ~
Mary Beth Miller Photography specializes in candid and natural newborn and family photography in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and the surrounding areas.
Great tips!! Thank you for sharing!!
This is a super helpful post! Family Portraits are always so stressful for mamas and these are great tips for reducing that :)
All fantastic tips!
Such helpful advice!