1. What to wear… The most commonly asked question and so much plays into it. But here are some top tips: When choosing colors think about how you would choose colors to decorate a room in your house. You generally want a neutral base, one or two colors that work together and you can’t go wrong with a pop of color. Patterns and stripes are wonderful to mix in with solids, just don’t overdo it. Different textures look great, lace and flowing fabric look great for beach photos. Form fitting is best, loose fitting clothing tends to make people look bigger. Be objective if looking at going sleeveless, covered arms can be a bit more flattering. For women I personally think you can’t go wrong with a wrap-around dress with capped sleeves. Be aware of how your clothing choices will handle wind, ruffles will fly all over the place and high cut flowy skirts can cause awkward moments 🙂 Check that all undergarments are covered and stay covered when you jump around. Be aware that long skirts will get wet and you can either deal with it or bring backup! Make sure kids don’t have scratchy tags. Have little girls with dresses wear matching shorts or diaper covers (otherwise underpants will almost definitely show some of the time). Avoid logos. Above all, wear something you are comfortable and happy in. What you wear is important, do a little bit of research on your own and take care when choosing, make sure that you choose something that suits you and your style. Get your options out and lay them all together across your bed and see how it looks together, then make adjustments until it looks just right. Can you picture that color mix on your walls? Check out my Pinterest page with ideas for great color schemes.
2. Be Prepared… Bring kids fortified with good sleep and full tummies and empty bladders! Wait, grownups too!
3. Look at the Camera… If I say so. Moms and Dads, I am talking to you! When trying to get that shot with everyone looking at the camera make sure that YOU are looking at the camera. We parents we have a tendency to keep checking that the kid is doing the right thing. Leave that part to the photographer. You can’t imagine how many great family photos I come across that are ruined by parents checking, primping, and the very worst, scolding their children!
4. Get your Comedy On… Come ready to make your children laugh. Think of some silly stories to remind your family of “remember that one time when dad laughed so hard he tooted?” Plan on being goofy and having fun with your family. If your young child has a favorite toy that makes them smile then bring it along for the photographer.
5. Speaking of Scolding… Keep your kids on a very loose leash during the shoot. As a parent myself, I know this goes against every instinct you have, but as long as they aren’t hurting themselves or anyone else, try to refrain from scolding them. There are two reasons that it’s actually okay for them to misbehave a bit on a photo shoot: 1) Sometimes what you may see as misbehaving, a photographer sees as an awesome one of a kind shot and it will definitely make you laugh when you look back on it. 2) What generally happens immediately upon scolding your child? They get mad/sullen/cry/uncooperative/parents with a migraine/photographers nightmare/you get my drift.
6. Forget the Laundry… Don’t be afraid to get dirty and/or wet. Save it for the end of course, then don’t worry about getting messy! Bring some towels and a change of clothes. Get sandy, get soaked, get muddy, and have fun doing it.
7. Get Your Goof On… Allow yourself to be silly. I said that already right? IT’S REALLY IMPORTANT! It can be awkward to have a camera pointed at you so you might as well be a little silly about it. Let your inner goofball shine. Being silly will loosen your family up, allow you to relax and actually, dare I say it, enjoy yourself. The best family photo sessions are those where the family forgets about being behind a camera and just plays together. That is going to show through and your end result will look happy, relaxed and natural.
8. Props… Bring along your child’s favorite dress-up costume, hat, boots, the family pet, etc. Even if it seems like it would be completely out of place. A truly wonderful family photo is one that is honest and showcases the personality of your unique family.
9. The Little Dictator… That’s what we call my daughter at times. What kid doesn’t love telling mom and dad what to do? Try letting the kids take charge of the posing. Once you have gotten the more formal type photos out of the way let the kids direct. They can have fun bossing you around and you would be amazed at the fun and creative ideas they will come up with. And if it doesn’t actually work you will still all be giggling at their antics.
10. Start with Talent…and Trust Them! Well of course you need to make sure you choose your photographer wisely! Do you like the work in their portfolio? Are they prompt about getting back to you? Do they put you at ease when you speak, email or meet with them? Once you have put the time and effort into choosing someone, show up ready to trust that they know how to make you look great! Are you in Hawaii? Then come check out this fabulous Hawaii Family Photographer, I hear good things!
