Top 5 Tips for Making a Photo Session with Kids Easier

Top 5 Tips for Making a Photo Session with Kids Easier

by | Tuesday October, 12, 2021 | Mini Sessions, Portraits

If you’re preparing for a photo session with your children, you may be feeling a bit apprehensive. Children aren’t always easy to deal with, which is why the below tips will definitely come in handy before your upcoming photo session.

1. Don’t make a huge deal out of it

If you’re stressed out and cranky, your kids will usually pick up on it and act accordingly. Their behavior will usually be better if you are relaxed and having fun. You may have to make some compromises to keep the peace such as letting your energetic daughter’s hair stay straight instead of curling it because she won’t sit still. Focus on the big picture and don’t sweat the small stuff.

2. Make it fun

Let the kids have a couple of “fun pictures” where they get to pick their own pose or props. You get to keep the more serious photos while they get to keep their silly photos. This way everyone wins. If you are struggling to get your kids to sit still, turn the photo session into a game. Simon Says usually works like a charm.

3. Be prepared

If you’re going to be out for several hours, ensure that your children are well-rested and have had their naps. Bringing some snacks and activities along is also a great idea. If you are having your own photos taken too then you might want to bring a babysitter or family member along to watch the kids. If you happen to be shooting in a remote location, you never know when you might need something like bug spray, tissues, or a first aid kit so bring that along too.

4. Be patient

Save your sanity by trying not to control the photo session too much. Sometimes the best photos come from kids just doing their own thing. Work with your photographer and your photos will look fantastic.

5. Have a chat

Get your children talking to both you and the photographer about topics such as school or their favorite songs. This allows them to feel more comfortable around your photographer and will also give your photographer a chance to capture a few candid and cute expressions.

How to Find the Perfect Photo Shoot Location

How to Find the Perfect Photo Shoot Location

by | Tuesday October, 12, 2021 | Family, Kids, Mini Sessions, Portraits

Choosing a photoshoot location might seem like a big deal but it really doesn’t have to be difficult. A location usually drives some of the other decisions you will need to make about your shoot so it’s important to choose the right place. Here are a few questions to ask yourself before you decide on a location:

1. What kind of theme do I want?

If a particular building or natural backdrop would work well with your theme, look around your area for spots that meet your requirements. If you don’t know what kind of backdrop you want, take an afternoon drive around your city for inspiration. It’s easy to overlook beautiful spots that are practically in your backyard. Ask family, friends, or your photographer for ideas too.

2. Are you allowed to take pictures there?

Make sure that you can legally take pictures at the location that you have in mind. If it’s not public property or available to the public you will need to get permission first.

3. Is it accessible?

Consider that not all outdoor locations may be available all year round or you might not be able to get to them at all. Your safety is also an important aspect to think about before you decide on a location. Taking pictures on a mountain ledge may look neat but it’s best not to put yourself in harm’s way.

4. How do you get to your location?

Will it be easy to walk to the session location and if not, are you able to change your clothing and touch up your hair and makeup before the shoot? You should also find out whether there is a restroom that’s close enough in case you need it.

5. Will the photo session be in a public place?

If the location you have chosen has a lot of foot traffic, you need to ask yourself whether you are comfortable being photographed in front of others. If not, you might want to rethink your choice of location.

Make sure that your location doesn’t become a distraction and that there is shelter nearby if you need it. Your location tells a story so it’s worthwhile to choose a meaningful spot.

A Guide to Posing for Your Family Photos

A Guide to Posing for Your Family Photos

by | Tuesday October, 12, 2021 | Mini Sessions, Portraits

The key to taking genuine and authentic family photos is knowing how to pose in front of the camera.

If you’ve never taken professional family photos before or if you simply want to improve on your last session, here is some advice on how to pose that will leave you with exceptional images.

Get Close

The last thing you want is a family portrait that looks stiff and awkward. The secret to creating a beautiful, intimate family photo is to get close. Snuggle up with the people you love if you want the best photos. If there are people of varying heights in the photo, take a few photos on the same level so that you can get your heads close together too.

Have Fun

Your photos always look more authentic when your family is genuinely having fun and laughing. Spend time talking about your favorite vacation or a memory that makes you all laugh out loud. These candid moments always make for the best photos.

Keep it Natural

When you overthink posing, it takes away from the genuineness of your photos, which is why it helps to shoot your family photos in a setting where you’re all comfortable and where you can go about your lives as naturally as possible. For example, if you’re in an outdoor setting, take your little one for a walk. If you’re shooting at home, bake something together or snuggle up for a story.

Use Your Surroundings

Very often, standing upright in the middle of a room or garden will make your photos look and feel stiff. Use your surroundings to make yourselves more comfortable. For example, if there’s a wall in the vicinity, lean up against it. If there’s a couch available, pose on that for a few shots.

Make Use of Props

If you would like to change things up a bit or give a younger child something to do, you can also always incorporate a few basic props into your photos to get a few non-standard shots.

If you still have questions about your shoot and how to make the most of it, let us know and we will be happy to assist you with additional tips.

10 Fall Family Photo Ideas You Need to Try This Year

10 Fall Family Photo Ideas You Need to Try This Year

by | Wednesday October, 6, 2021 | Fall, Mini Sessions

With autumn fast approaching, many families are busy planning their fall photo sessions. There are so many beautiful backdrops and colors to take advantage of as you make memories with the people you love. If you’re planning your own shoot and are hunting for some inspiration, here are a few ideas to get you started.

1. Play in the leaves

If this is your first fall family session, you simply have to get a few photos of you and your kids playing and lying in the leaves. Not only are the colors incredible, but these shots instantly portray cheer and joy. 

2. Sit amongst the pumpkins

When you see pumpkins, it’s only natural to think about fall. Whether you have a pumpkin field near to your home or you buy a few for your shoot, this is definitely a prop you should consider for your family session.

3. Pick some apples

If you happen to be close to an apple orchard, this is a perfect setting for your family photo session. The colors are striking and picking a few apples will help your photographer grab some candid shots. You can achieve something similar with a cornfield too. 

4. Create shadows

If you want to give your photos a dramatic effect, schedule your session for later in the day. This allows your photographer to use the colors of the setting sun and a fall backdrop to play with shadows. Picture the silhouettes of your family against a beautiful, natural backdrop. 

5. Play in the park

If fall is starting to take its toll on the trees in your local park, why not use it for your family photo session? There are so many elements in a park that work well in family photos. From the falling leaves to swings and lakes, it’s no wonder this is a firm location favorite. 

6. Bring in Halloween

If you and your children are big fans of Halloween, you could always use it as a theme for your upcoming fall session. Whether you want to dress up or add in a few props to bring the theme across, the choice is yours. 

7. Get cozy

Sometimes, something as simple as a blanket can create the perfect family photos. Find a cozy blanket for your session and let your photographer get a few shots of you and your loved ones laughing and keeping warm.

8. Head to the train tracks 

If you happen to live near train tracks that are no longer active, this is an ideal setting for your next fall family photo session. Chances are, the tracks will be surrounded by colorful leaves and trees, with the actual tracks adding a rustic finishing touch. 

9. Pose on some steps

Stairs are always great for family shots because they make it easier to get close and accommodate people of all sizes. To give it a fall look and feel, find a set of stairs that are covered in autumn leaves.

10. Drink up

Nothing says fall like warm cider or cocoa, so why not incorporate it into your session? This is a particularly nice idea if you choose to have your shoot at home. Make and drink some cocoa with your loved ones for great candid shots. 

If you’re new to the area and need some help finding a location for your fall family session, I’d be happy to speak to you about a few ideas. 

9 Reasons Why a Fall Family Photoshoot is a Good Idea

9 Reasons Why a Fall Family Photoshoot is a Good Idea

by | Wednesday September, 22, 2021 | Fall, Mini Sessions

It’s that wonderful time of the year, a time of cider, pumpkin patches, and Halloween. It’s also one of the best times to update your family photos.

If you’re not totally convinced that this is an ideal time to schedule a family photo session, here are just a few reasons why you should consider changing your mind.

1. The Colors!

There’s nothing quite like taking a stroll during autumn, purely because of the vibrant colors. The warm tones and changing scenery make for an ideal backdrop for family photos.

2. The Weather is More Comfortable

If you don’t like the idea of being uncomfortable because the temperature is too hot or cold, fall is the best time for your next family photo session. When the weather is cooler, your family members will look more comfortable and relaxed in their photos.

3. It’s Easier to Coordinate Outfits

Fall colors are mostly neutral, making it easy to pick outfits that coordinate. Brown, black, red, orange, and deep purples are all options when choosing your clothing for your session. Remember, your outfits don’t need to match. 

4. Who Doesn’t Want to Play in Leaves?

This is particularly true if you have young children in your family. Fall settings are playful by default, which leaves a lot of room for candid shots with the people you love. Choose a location where you can take advantage of the colorful fallen leaves.

5. Do It for the Upcoming Holidays

If you love sending out personalized greeting cards, this is the ideal time to get a few shots that you can use. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the last-minute photo session rush later in the year.

6. The Colors Blend Well with Most Décor

If you’re planning to print family photos for your home, the fall colors tend to blend in exceptionally well with most home décor. Whether it’s the cool blue sky or the red and brown leaves, these colors are some of the easiest to incorporate into your home. 

7. Take Advantage of Your Sun-Kissed Skin

Since we’re just coming out of summer, you and your family probably still have a bit of a tan. Why not take full advantage of your natural glow and schedule your photo session now? 

8. More Prop Choices

If you love incorporating accessories and props into your photo sessions, fall offers a multitude of choices. From Halloween-themed props to pumpkins and blankets, there is so much you can do to get creative and have some fun. 

9. Beautiful Location Choices

The effects of autumn on trees, grass, plants, buildings, and water makes for some of the most eye-catching backdrops. Whether you head to your local park, a cornfield, or the inactive train tracks in your area, all these locations have a touch of extra character during this time. 

If you’ve never scheduled a fall photo session before, you will soon realize why you should’ve done it sooner. 

What to Expect From Your Fall Mini Session

What to Expect From Your Fall Mini Session

by | Wednesday September, 22, 2021 | Fall, Mini Sessions

You don’t always need to schedule a full photo session to update your family photo album. Mini sessions are ideal for families with limited availability, as well as those who don’t want too many photos.

If you’ve recently scheduled a fall mini session, here is what you can expect before, on the day of and after your fall mini session.

Choosing an Outfit

The number one rule when choosing an outfit for your family session is to be comfortable. If your clothing makes you uncomfortable in any way, it will show up in your photos. When it comes to choosing a fall-themed outfit, consider the colors associated with this season. You also want to choose clothing you can layer. Your session might start out being slightly chilly, only for things to warm up later on. It’s also important for your outfits to coordinate – not match. If you haven’t already, use Pinterest as a source of inspiration for your clothing.

Getting There on Time

Keep in mind that because mini sessions only last about 30 minutes, photographers usually book several sessions per day. This means, if you’re late, chances are you will need to schedule your session for another time. If your kids are younger, rather plan for delays to ensure you can get to your session on time. If you can no longer make your shoot, most photographers are willing to provide you with a credit for a future session if you cancel your shoot in advance.

There’s Only Room for Your Family

Some people tend to show up to mini sessions with additional family members. Because of the time constraints and to limit distractions, it’s best to only bring along the people who will be part of the shoot. If you want to include extended family, it’s better to schedule a full family shoot.

Planning for Bad Weather

If your fall mini session is taking place outside, rain could affect your plans. We’ll keep an eye on the weather in the days leading up to your session to plan accordingly. 

Proofs

In most cases, you will have your proofs within 2-5 business days. Once you select your favorite images, the final images would be delivered within another 2-5 business days. 

Fall mini sessions are a fun way to spend some quality time with your family and receive some memorable shots for your albums and home. With a little planning and the help of the right photographer, these sessions are nothing to stress about.

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