Family portraits are both timeless and priceless. They can be gifts for some, part of family traditions, or just a way to spend quality time with your loved ones for others. Regardless of why you want one, getting a family portrait session can never be a bad idea. Of course, how it turns out depends on the nitty-gritty, so let's talk about what makes a session perfect.
Why should I get a family portrait session done?
There are plenty of reasons why you should get a family portrait session. Having an exciting family portrait session is one of the best things you can enjoy with your loved ones, regardless of their age. Those memorable photos will always be a family heirloom that you can pass down for generations to come. It's always fun to see your parents' or grandparents' old pictures, right? You can save your photos for your kids and grandkids too!
Family photos, especially professional ones, can also make your house feel like home as they decorate its walls. You can cherish them forever and use them for comfort when family members live far from you (for instance, when your kids grow up and move out). . A session is also a great activity for both kids and adults. So, if you have been considering getting some great new family photos taken, let me give you the lowdown on what to include to make the session worthwhile. Here we go!
What makes a family portrait session perfect?
A family portrait session may be something that you have been saving for and looking forward to, so it is important to ensure that it is relaxed, comfortable, and of course, fun! Follow these tips to help plan so that you are not only satisfied but also blown away with the final results!
There are several styles or themes of family photography sessions to choose from. Begin with considering your family's personality. Are you casual, traditional, sporty, beachy, or any other type? Do you want to follow a specific theme or create your own? Once you have this figured out, it's time to move to the next step.
Choose a good photographer
The first thing you should do is find the right photographer who is ideal for your specific session. There are several amazing photographers out there, so look for the one you like.
I love making each session personalized and unique to the family. I believe every family has a special story, so it deserves to be documented in its own unique way – which means that no two sessions are ever alike.
If you poke around a bit on my website, you'll find many examples of how I have done something different with each of my clients. It is very important for you to be comfortable with your photographer so that you can communicate what you need and be assured that you will get it. For instance, I make sure I go the extra mile to find a location that meets your needs. If you have your own location, I like to think outside the box to create new, exciting things.
If you like my approach, you can get your session done by me or look for something you like more. After all, a family portrait session is a long-term investment, so whomever you choose should be capable of understanding exactly what you need.
Select the right place
Most families prefer having their photos taken in a nice location of their choice – such as a park or beach, but if you live in a well-decorated property, you may want to have your session done there only. It all depends on what you like. Just pick a place you like and ensure that your photographer is flexible enough to accommodate your preferences.
Choosing the time
There are benefits of both day and night time, but you may want to get your photographer's expert opinion about the best time for you. While natural light photography is a good idea, an expert photographer would know how to use lighting outside the sun, as well. I never shoot a session without my strobes outside in the light because it gives a pop of light in my clients' eyes and fills in the shadows from the sun, which creates a lovely effect!
Also, if your shoot involves children, you might want to consider the time of the day when they are at their best because having cranky kids photographed will be tiring for both you and the photographer.
Make sure you look your best! Let me say it clearly: your fashion choices make all the difference! Plan out your outfits according to your theme, season, and personal preferences, and make sure that your clothes, shoes, and accessories go well together. One of the best things to do when having a family photo session is to wear coordinating outfits. There's nothing cuter than the whole family wearing coordinating colors. But be careful, matching everything might look a bit dated. You can coordinate by choosing a color family such as neutrals (tans, greys, or creams) or jewel tones (navys, reds, or purples). Make sure you invest some time and effort into planning your overall look!
Make sure you look your best!
Let me say it clearly: your fashion choices make all the difference! Plan out your outfits according to your theme, season, and personal preferences, and make sure that your clothes, shoes, and accessories go well together. One of the best things to do when having a family photo session is to wear coordinating outfits. There's nothing cuter than the whole family wearing coordinating colors. But be careful, matching everything might look a bit dated. You can coordinate by choosing a color family such as neutrals (tans, greys, or creams) or jewel tones (navys, reds, or purples). Make sure you invest some time and effort into planning your overall look!
Bring out the props
Does your kid have a favorite toy? Or do you have a particular family heirloom that you like to feature in the photo session – such as a book, brooch, ring, or necklace? It is a great idea to use some props or beloved belongings in your photos because this makes them immortal. I have photographed some families who incorporated family heirlooms as a prop, and it added an exciting, unique touch to the family photos. Of course, this may not be possible for everybody, so you can brainstorm with your photographer to come up with some interesting ideas for props if you would like to use a prop.
Stay calm, and have fun!
The most important thing to do during a family photo session is to ENJOY! Ensure that the experience is a memorable one by preparing your family well, staying relaxed, and taking it easy. Of course, having a photographer who is on the same page is a plus! I love having a great time with my clients during the session because it helps us enjoy the experience. Many people are not familiar with good poses, so I always start by sharing some posing rules. This helps you know how to stand and pose so that you are comfortable and relaxed. I make sure that you feel and look your best because it shows in the photos! I apply a top-to-bottom approach in my sessions, beginning with the large group and then breaking it down to the full family, then couples, and then individual shots.
Your family photo session is an investment that you will never regret. The photos will add to your home decor and make you smile for years, so make sure that you invest in your families next heirloom. If you don't know how to plan and prepare for your family photography session, reach out to me, and I will help you!
Looking for an experienced photographer in Shelbyville, Louisville and Frankfort, and surrounding areas? Contact us today for your free consultation!
