11 Tips to make your Family photo session a breeze

Moms, if you're like me, you want to make sure your child's photoshoot goes as smoothly as possible. Having a family photo session with your kids can be a lot of fun, but it can also be a little daunting for parents

Here are 10 tips to help make the process as smooth and enjoyable as possible for both you and your child. This will ensure that your child looks their best in front of the camera!

1) Make a list of what you'll need to bring.

As you prepare for your upcoming trip with your child, it is important to make a checklist of necessary items. This will ensure you have what you need during your photo session.

First and foremost, make sure to pack enough outfits for your child for the duration of the trip. In addition, consider packing snacks and drinks to keep them hydrated and fed. Sun protection such as sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses should also be included, as well as umbrellas just in case of rain.

Don't forget any small yet essential items like pacifiers or favorite blankets that may improve your child's comfort during the trip. Taking the time to plan will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your child.

2) Talk to your children about the photoshoot

Before your child's photoshoot, it's important to have a conversation about what to expect during the session. Let them know that your family photographer may give certain posing instructions and encourage them to follow those directions for the best results.

It's also important to talk about smiling for the camera - natural smiles and genuine smiles often photograph better than forced grins. Remind your child that it's okay to take breaks if they feel uncomfortable or need a moment to regroup. Overall, encourage your child to have fun and be themselves.

By preparing them beforehand, they will have a more positive experience and likely get better photos. Remember, communication with the photographer is key too - don't hesitate to let them know if your little ones need something or is feeling unsure at any point during the shoot. Together, we can achieve amazing results!

3) You and your family members should meet with your photographer so that they can get to know them either in person, via a Zoom call, or FaceTime.

As a parent, it can be difficult to schedule a photoshoot with young children. To ensure a successful session, it is important to factor in your child's physical and emotional needs. Meeting with your professional photographer beforehand can help your child feel comfortable and familiar with them.

Your photographer will be able to see your children's personalities and make sure he captures those moments during photo session. Additionally, try to schedule the photoshoot during a time when your child is well-rested and fed. This will help them have more energy and be more cooperative during the photo session.

By considering these factors, you can create an enjoyable photoshoot experience for both you and your children.

4) Dress your child in comfortable clothes for the photoshoot

Choosing the right outfit for your photoshoot can make or break their photos. While it may be tempting to go for a more formal or trendy look, it's important to consider comfort as well. Your child will have an easier time posing and feeling confident if they aren't restricted by tight or scratchy fabrics.

Keep in mind the setting of the photo session as well - a soft, flowy dress may work well in a natural outdoor setting, while a collared shirt and khakis might be more appropriate for a formal indoor shoot. Ultimately, your child should feel comfortable and like themselves in their chosen outfit, leading to more genuine and beautiful photographs during the photo session.

5) Choose a location that is familiar

When choosing a location for your child's photo shoot, it is important to consider their comfort and familiarity. Selecting a place that your child has recently visited or holds special meaning for them can help them feel more at ease during the photo session. This can result in natural, authentic expressions and genuine moments captured on camera.

Familiar locations also often have personal significance, making the resulting photos even more meaningful for you and your family. Whether it is your home, a neighborhood park, or their favorite scenic spot, finding a location that your family has a connection to can make all the difference in capturing beautiful memories.

6) Bring along some toys or other props that your little ones enjoy to keep them occupied and happy during the shoot.

One of the keys to a successful photoshoot with young little ones is to bring along some of their favorite toys or props. This can help keep them occupied and happy during the shoot, allowing you to capture those genuine smiles, expressions, and those perfect photos. By being prepared with toys and taking breaks as needed, you can ensure that they have an enjoyable experience during the photoshoot.

7) Bring along snacks and drinks for your family.

As any parent knows, kids can get restless and hungry during photoshoots. To ensure that your child stays happy and focused, it's important to bring along small snacks and drinks for them. This will not only prevent any potential mood dips or meltdowns, but it can also serve as a useful tool for transitioning between poses and shots.

Keep in mind that it's best to choose non-messy options that won't leave behind a mess or stain clothing. Additionally, packing some water is crucial for staying hydrated during long outdoor photoshoots. Remember to pack enough for yourself as well! Providing snacks and drinks for your child will help make the photoshoot a positive experience for both of you.

8) If possible, try to schedule the photoshoot when your children are well-rested and fed.

As a parent, it can be tempting to squeeze in a photoshoot during your little ones' nap time or after their dinner. However, this can often lead to less-than-ideal results. A well-rested and well-fed child will have more energy for the photoshoot and be more cooperative during the session. This will result in photos that truly capture your kiddo's personality and spirit.

If possible, try to schedule the photoshoot for a time when your kids will be at their best. It may require some advance planning, but it will certainly be worth it in the end and will be a big success. Your family will thank you.

9) Be patient and positive throughout the shoot to get the best family pictures.

Children can be unpredictable, so it's important to stay calm and positive throughout the shoot. This will help keep them calm and happy as well. Just relax and have fun! Some of my best photos come when the kids get to play Being patient and staying flexible are important elements for creating successful photos.

10) Don't forget to take some time for yourself once your family photo session is over.

After all the planning, preparation, and hard work leading up to the photoshoot, it's important to take care of yourself. Once everything is wrapped up and the final photos have been taken, take some time for yourself to recover and rejuvenate.

Schedule a massage, go for a walk in nature, or simply curl up on the couch with a good book. Taking care of yourself will help improve your overall well-being and enhance your creativity for future projects. So don't forget to set aside some much-deserved self-care time after a job well done. Your mind and body will thank you.

11) What to do after your family portraits are delivered.

Once you receive your family pictures upload images to your social media or an online album for easy sharing with family members, grandparents, loved ones, and friends. Have a large print of your best portraits made to hang on your wall and don't forget to have a real album to remember these precious moments and share when your friends and family when they come over to visit. They will be surprised how wonderful family photos turned out!

Conclusion

Now that you know what to do before, during, and after your family photoshoot, it's time to get prepared! Make a list of everything you'll need to bring with you and start talking to your children about the big day. It's important that everyone is on the same page so that the shoot can go as smoothly as possible. Once you've got everything sorted, give us a call so we can discuss what kind of family photos you're looking for. We can't wait to work with you and capture some beautiful memories that will last a lifetime!

Give me a call at 830-222-6244 to discuss your Family portrait.

Retired Pilot opens a fine art portrait studio in San Antonio, Texas.

Fine Art Portrait Photographer - Boerne, Texas

I am a Fine Art Portrait Artist in the Boerne and San Antonio area specializing in Family and Children portraits. My style of photography is a culmination of a lifetime of photography from my first film camera given to me by my grandfather through my present day as a professional photographer. In my childhood years I was the designated family photographer and grew to love taking pictures of my brothers, sisters and parents. When I graduated from college, I joined the Air Force and became a Fighter Pilot for 10 years. I then transitioned to the civilian side of flying as a commercial pilot and recently retired from Delta Airlines. Throughout my aviation career I continued with my love of photography and took pictures all over the world.  If I wasn’t flying I was practicing my craft of photography. During the last few years I have been honing my skills in various lighting techniques using strobe flash for both indoor and outdoor portraits, and working tirelessly on my Fine Art computer editing.  These skills have resulted in my unique style of Fine Art Portraiture that represents me today.