Family photos can strike fear in the heart of the most experienced parents. I cannot count the number of families who express stress, fear, and confusion over booking family photos, and in preparing for their shoot, and I cannot say it enough times: It doesn’t have to be that way! I’ve been doing family portraits for many years, and I love it. I am passionate about family photos, because of the heirloom memories that they become from generation to generation, being passed down. I am a mother myself, and I know how tangible and precious our own family photos are, and how much I value those images. I encourage every family to have their photos done at least once a year, twice if possible! That’s because little ones change and grow so quickly, and they can truly look so much more grown up, just six months after your last session. But many moms and dads don’t know how to make family photos a positive experience for themselves and their little ones, which is why I want to share these tips:
1) Talk about family photos in a positive light: You’d be surprised how much your own attitude about photos can influence your children’s viewpoint of them. If they stress you out, if you are confused about the process, if you threaten or bribe or talk through gritted teeth about getting that perfect photo, your children will notice. I encourage all parents to make the day of their shoot a really happy experience. Talk about how excited you are, and finish the time after your shoot with a treat like ice cream or a special dinner out! Your children will begin to associate photos with joy and happiness, and not stress.
2) Dress yourself first, moms. I know that as a mother, we can focus on our own weight or appearance and use that as an excuse to put photos off for years and years. it can be hard to acknowledge that we may not be at our goal weight when we do family pictures, but I really want you to hear me: get in the picture anyways! Your children will love making memories with you, and they don’t care about the number on a scale. Choose an outfit that makes you feel awesome, even if it means you start shopping several weeks before your shoot. Choose your own outfit before you choose your children’s or spouse’s, because their clothes are likely much easier to find. If you feel confident and don’t put it off until the last minute, it will reflect better in the images.
3) Trust me. You do not have to bribe or prepare your kids to be perfectly behaved. I have children of my own, and I know toddlers can be wiggly, or that older ones may have a grimace or two. It’s okay! I am a veteran photographer, and I have a few tricks up my sleeve to coax even the most reluctant subject to crack a smile or two. We WILL get the photos you want, and you will be pleasantly surprised in how beautiful they will come out. If your two year old is running around like a crazy person, it’s okay. Take a deep breath. I promise I can handle it, and all I need is for you to relax and to smile!
Family photos are something you will never regret doing. Take the time and make the investment to preserve your family memories…it is truly something you’ll be so grateful you did!