Here are some tips to help your photo session go well.
So you've set a time with your photographer, now what? Have you ever gone to a photo session unprepared, or have some questions? Don't be afraid to ask your photographer any questions you may have and be sure to tell them what you're looking for. If you're not sure what you're looking for, that's okay, the photographer can help you with that. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your photography session.
1 - Choose your clothing wisely.
You'll want to choose your clothing attire in advance. Your choices should be comfortable and fit
your personality and style. Photographers want personalities to come out
in the photos. It's recommended to
choose neutral and soft colors. Soft and flowing fabrics can be fun and dreamlike. If multiple people will be in the photos,
it's recommended to choose coordinating colors (but don't match too much!)Please keep in mind, clothing
that is bright (neon for example) can often reflect that color up on your skin
tones. I've done photos shoots where
someone was wearing green neon shirts and with the reflection of the light
(natural and unnatural) their faces looked green.
Adding fun accessories like scarves,
headbands, hats, etc. can add some fun and give a modern twist to your
images.
2. What do want your photos to look like?
Let your photographer know if there are any particular photo styles you like or a certain photo you want. Feel free to bring photo samples to the shoot, or send to the
photographer ahead of time. If you like black and white images or sepia, make sure to tell the photographer.
3. Get rested up before the shoot and make everyone has food in their tummy.
Being tired and hungry is never a good thing at a photoshoot, especially when children are involved.
It's important to schedule your photo session around your child’s nap
time and food time. The best times of day for lighting is two hours
before sunset or 2 hours after sunrise (morning and evening). This gives the best diffused light and also
helps avoid squinting. If these options
are a bad time for your children, talk with your photographer. They can find
shady area's to shoot at during the daylight hours if afternoons work best for
you. Make sure no one has an empty
stomach. If you are planning to go out
and eat after the photo shoot, be sure to give everyone a healthy snack
beforehand.
4. Give yourself time to prepare and get ready for the photo
session.
Often times, parent(s) find themselves rushing around trying
to get everyone dressed and ready for the photos. If a family shows up after
being rushed around it can often set the tone for a disorganized and rushed
session which will especially stress out any children involved. So make sure you have some extra time to
head out so you have a more fun and relaxing experience.
5. During a photo
session with kids - don't overwhelm them.
If the parent(s) stands behind the photographer and howlers
out "Say Cheese", or keeps telling their children what to do, it will stress out the child and make them less cooperative. It can also stress out the photographer and
cause them to rush. It will result in
tense, unnatural and often unflattering photographs. Step back, and allow the photographer to naturally interact and
talk with the children. This will more likely result in a more natural and
happier look. There may be times when the photographer will ask or need the
parents help. Help them to photograph the
true essence of their personality by talking gently and helping to bring
out those smiles naturally and unforced.
6. Be a participant during the photo session.
This is especially for the men or those who don't like
taking photos. Please remember these
photos are important and will be treasured for a lifetime and passed on to your
kids, grandkids, and for generations.
Happier attitudes create happier moods for everyone involved and once
you see how amazing the photos turn out and how happy everyone is, you'll feel
blessed to have spent that time with your family.
7. Have fun!
Photographers want your sessions to be fun and your photos
to show love and emotion! Play with the family, toss your kids in the air, kiss
your loved ones, tickle someone, laugh, tell jokes, etc. This is what helps the photographer to
capture the true emotions and love of a family. Show engagement and interaction
with family members. It's okay if everyone isn't looking at the camera. When you're doing something you love
together, the photographer will be able to take some authentic and unique
photographs.
8. Feel free to bring something you and your family love or
do an activity you love.
Photos that are more natural are the ones that turn out to be the favorites, especially
when incorporating an activity you
love. Examples could be; bring books - if you love to read together; board
games or cards; giving kids piggyback rides or shoulder rides; bike riding;
hiking; picnics; sports ; instruments and more. The ideas are endless. Make sure to let the photographer know if you have any
special requests.
Now go and have a successful, fun and memory making photo session. Have more tips or suggestions? Feel free to comment below.
