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.

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.

What to Consider When Choosing Outfits for a Fall Photo Session

What to Consider When Choosing Outfits for a Fall Photo Session

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

Finally scheduling a fall family session is exciting, until you realize you need to plan your outfits. 

Your family photo session is a chance to make genuine memories, which means your outfits should represent who you are as individuals and as a family. Your outfits absolutely don’t need to match. Should they be coordinated? Absolutely! But there’s no reason why everyone should be wearing the same thing, unless that’s something you really want to do. 

In the weeks leading up to your photo session, here’s what you should keep in mind when planning your outfits. 

Choosing Your Fall Family Photo Outfits 

Consider the Season

It’s about to get much cooler, which means your outfits need to fit in with that. Plus, people who are cold are a lot less inclined to enjoy the photo session. For your fall photo session, choose outfits that are warm and layered – just in case it gets warm during your shoot. Pay attention to the temperature throughout the day in the week leading up to your session to make a final call on just how warm your outfits should be. The best advice is to choose pieces that work together but also on their own – layers, layers, layers. 

Choose a Color Palette

Fall colors are beautiful and some of the easiest to turn into an outfit. Along with considering the colors associated with fall, it’s also important to keep your location in mind. If you’re opting for an urban shoot where the backgrounds will be busier, you want to choose a color palette that’s a bit more neutral. Think brown, red, black, yellow, orange, and deep purple when selecting your palette. Every family member doesn’t have to wear the same color, but the colors should coordinate.

Don’t Forget About Texture

Many people tend to forget about shape and texture when choosing their fall photoshoot outfits. Knits, plaids, and velvets are all textures that speak to the fact that it’s about to get colder. Just make sure that the texture and shape of the clothing you choose coordinates and suits each family member’s body. 

Know Each Person’s Preferences

You may love seeing your little girl with a bow in her hair, but she might hate it. Knowing what your family members prefer to wear will ensure you choose outfits everyone feels comfortable in – this includes you. Discomfort shows up in photos, plus it stops everyone from enjoying the session and making new memories. 

Create a Pinterest Board

Pinterest is one of the best sources of inspiration for fall family photo ideas, so if you haven’t already, use it as a source of inspiration. 

Once you have your outfits and location sorted, you can fully enjoy every moment of this special family session.

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