Tips for successful family photo session
Tips for a successful family photo session that will get even the teenagers to smile for a change
It has been quite a few years since I had to wrangle the family together for a family picture. It is not something they enjoy….like at all. Since I have been staring at the same photo on the mantel since the twins were 3….they are now teens, it was past time.
Here’s the picture that has been on the mantel…. when the kids were still small enough to be held. Oh boy, do I miss those days.
And here’s the picture I will be replacing it with……. we have all changed a bit, don’t you think?
Tips for a successful family photo session
I wanted to share a few tips for a successful family photo session. I realize that these tips may not be earth-shattering ….but they may work for your next family photo.
- Find a photographer that specializes in families or large groups
After asking around I interviewed a few photographers before I made a decision to book. I explained exactly what I was looking for in addition to reviewing their portfolio and specific sessions they have done with families. I needed someone who would be in and out and be able to make teenagers smile. The photographer I chose checked all the boxes.
- Set expectations upfront with the family
My hubby and kids knew how important getting an updated family photo was to me. Besides the kids no longer wanted to see their 5 and 3- year old selves front and center over the fireplace. No complaining, no whining, just smiles for an hour.
- Let kids pick out what they want to wear
After I picked out the color scheme, I let the kids pick out what they wanted to wear. Having the kids be in clothes they are comfortable in, is half the battle. Long gone are the days of matchy-matchy. Now it’s whatever works as long as it’s in the color family.
- Take the photos in a familiar location
I love that we were able to take photos on the property. Having a familiar spot makes everyone feel more at ease…and at home. 🙂 A few weeks before the photographer showed up I went outside around the time she would be taking photos to come up with a few spots that I wanted her to shoot. This allowed me to test the lighting (I wanted the golden hour) and to get through our session pretty easily.
I really wanted to recreate a picture that we took when the kids were smaller at the same spot on the property. If you have been around a while, you may remember this picture from 2016. How fun is that! Right down to the hands in the pockets!
More tips for your photo session:
Have fun! Not all teenagers like to smile, or poise for a family photo. Find a photographer who is able to give direction and have patience during the shoot. Chances are the kids will listen and not say no to the photographer (only to moms) …and smile. We had some fun mixing the dogs and the horses into our photos. If you can, include the family pet or anything else that is special to your family. It will make younger kids in particular feel more comfortable during the session. Remember perfection is not the key, capturing genuine emotion and smiles are.
When is the last family photo you took? What are you waiting for? card photo.
Additional photo related posts:
holiday card tips.
Grateful
for family
Right now the colors are perfect in North GA, beautiful pictures and beautiful family!
Beautiful family!
Beautiful family! I love the recreated photo and the one with your horse and pups 🙂
Thank you!
Beautiful family pictures
Thank you!