Preparing for Your Family Photo Session
Welcome to Erika Sneeringer Photography! This guide will help you prepare for your upcoming family photo session, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. From outfit choices to post-session expectations, we've got you covered.
Before we dive into the details of preparing for your session, it's worth noting that the location of your shoot plays a crucial role in setting the tone for your photos. If you're still deciding on the perfect spot, be sure to check out my post on Top Portrait Session Locations Around Baltimore Area. The right setting can make all the difference in capturing your family's spirit.
Before the Session
Choosing the Right Time and Ensuring Everyone is Ready
The key to a successful photo session lies in timing and preparation. When scheduling your session, consider your family's natural rhythm. Choose a time that doesn't interfere with naps or regular mealtimes, as this can significantly impact everyone's mood. A well-rested family is a happy family, so prioritize good sleep the night before.
Equally important is ensuring that everyone is well-fed before the session. Provide a healthy meal or snack to avoid any "hangry" moments during the shoot. Remember, this advice isn't just for the kids – parents, your mood sets the tone for the entire family, so take care of yourselves too!
Planning Your Outfits
Choosing the right outfits can make a significant difference in your photos. The goal is to coordinate, not necessarily match exactly. For a soft, elegant look, opt for neutral colors, soft pastels, and flowing fabrics. If you're aiming for a more fun and vibrant feel, don't be afraid to incorporate bold accent colors and playful accessories. A helpful tip is to lay out everyone's outfits together before the session to see how they complement each other. Let's explore some approaches to consider:
Coordinated Color Palettes
This photo shows three little girls dressed in a coordinated color palette. They're not wearing identical outfits, but the colors complement each other beautifully, creating a cohesive look while allowing each child's personality to shine through. When coordinating outfits like this, choose a base color and build around it with complementary shades.
Don't be afraid to mix and match textures and patterns within the same color family for added visual interest. Always consider the season and location of your shoot when selecting your palette.
Incorporating Accent Colors and Patterns
You don't always have to be "matchy-matchy" to look great in photos. This image demonstrates how to incorporate colors from one family member's outfit into the others' ensembles. Notice how the pattern or color from one person's shirt is echoed in another's shirt. A colorful scarf or patterned dress can serve as inspiration for the entire family's color scheme, while solid colors in varying shades can complement a bold pattern worn by one family member.
Neutrals and Earth Tones
This photo showcases a family dressed in neutral and earth tone colors, resulting in a timeless, elegant look that works well in any setting. Observe the blend of soft creams, warm browns, and muted blues. Textures like knits, denim, and soft cottons add depth to the neutral palette. Small pops of subdued color, such as a rust-colored scarf or olive green jacket, can add interest without disrupting the overall earthy feel. This style works particularly well for outdoor sessions in natural settings.
Bold and Colorful
For families who love color, this photo demonstrates how to rock a bold, vibrant look. Observe how bright colors are balanced across different family members, and notice the mix of solid colors with playful patterns that incorporate multiple bright hues. Accessories like bright shoes or a colorful headband can tie the look together. This approach is great for showcasing energetic, fun-loving family dynamics and works well in urban or playful settings.
When using any of these approaches, start with one piece (like a patterned dress or a bold colored shirt) and build the other outfits around it. Use accessories like scarves, ties, or jewelry to tie different looks together, and aim for a mix of solid colors and patterns to create visual balance.
Remember, the most important thing is that everyone feels comfortable and like themselves in their chosen outfits. Comfortable families make for natural, joyful photos! A helpful tip is to lay out everyone's outfits together before the session to see how they complement each other. This can help you spot any clashes or identify if you need to add an accessory to tie everything together.
Preparing Props and Accessories
To add a personal touch to your photos, consider bringing items that represent your family's personality or shared interests. This could include favorite books, sports equipment, musical instruments, or any objects that hold special meaning for your family. For young children, don't forget to bring along comfort items like a favorite toy or blanket – these can be invaluable in helping them feel at ease during the session.
During the Session
Relax and Be Yourself
My approach to photography is all about creating a relaxed, comfortable environment where your family's true personalities can shine. Unlike traditional studio sessions, I don't expect or aim for exact poses. Instead, I focus on getting to know you and your family, allowing everyone to feel at ease in front of the camera.
During our session, we'll chat, laugh, and have fun together. I'll offer gentle guidance and suggestions to help you look your best, but the goal is to capture genuine moments and interactions. Feel free to move naturally, play with your children, or simply enjoy each other's company. These authentic moments often result in the most treasured photographs.
If you have ideas or preferences, don't hesitate to share them. This is a collaborative process, and your input is valuable. Remember, there's no need to worry about achieving "perfect" poses or getting everyone to look at the camera at the same time. Some of the most beautiful and meaningful photos come from those in-between moments when you're simply being yourselves.
For families with young children, know that I'm used to working with little ones and their sometimes unpredictable moods. We'll go at their pace, incorporating play and breaks as needed. The key is to stay relaxed and patient – your calm energy will help your children feel more comfortable too.
Embracing the Unpredictable: A Note on Photographing Children
One of the joys (and challenges) of family photography is the unpredictability of children. As a parent, you might feel stressed about your children's behavior during the session, but I want to assure you: it's okay. Children are wonderfully unpredictable, and that's part of what makes family photos so special and authentic.
If your child needs a break, gets a bit fussy, or isn't interested in smiling at the camera, don't worry. These moments are all part of your family's story. Instead of stressing about "perfect" behavior, try to stay present and enjoy the experience. Often, it's these unscripted moments that result in the most cherished photographs.
Feel free to bring along your child's favorite snack, toy, or book. If we need to pause for a snack break or to read a beloved story, that's perfectly fine. In fact, these items can add a personal touch to your photos. Imagine looking back years from now at pictures of your child with their favorite teddy bear or reading that book they made you read a hundred times. These details, which might seem ordinary now, will become precious memories.
Remember, my goal is to capture your family as you are, not an idealized version. The giggles, the silly faces, the quiet moments, and yes, even the occasional tantrum – all of these are part of your unique family dynamic. Trust the process, and you might be surprised at how beautiful and meaningful the results can be.
Dogs Welcome!
If you have a dog, I strongly encourage you to include them in your family photo session. Dogs are important family members, and capturing the bond between your family and your furry friend can create truly special memories. These photos will become even more cherished as years go by, preserving the love and joy your dog brings to your family.
To make the most of including your dog in the session:
Let me know in advance that you'll be bringing your dog. This allows me to choose a dog-friendly location and prepare accordingly.
Bring treats and a favorite toy to keep your dog engaged and cooperative during the shoot.
Consider having a friend or family member come along to help manage your dog. They can assist with getting your dog's attention or take them for a walk if they need a break.
If your dog has any specific behaviors or commands that help them stay calm or pose, let me know. I'm experienced in working with dogs and can incorporate these into our session.
Remember, just like with children, it's okay if your dog doesn't behave perfectly. Sometimes the candid moments of your family interacting with your pet create the most heartwarming and authentic photos. The goal is to capture your complete family dynamic, playful pups and all!
After the Session
Once we've wrapped up our photo session, you're probably eager to see the results. Here's what you can expect:
You'll receive a sneak peek via text or email shortly after the shoot to tide you over. For the full set of digital images, please allow up to 21 days for delivery. Once all photos are ready, you'll receive an online gallery sent directly to your email.
At this point, we'll discuss which images you'd like to have printed. I work with a professional print lab to ensure the highest quality, and your chosen prints will be delivered directly to your home.
Feedback and Reviews
Your feedback is invaluable to my business. If you're happy with your experience, please consider leaving a review on Google for Erika Sneeringer Photography. Your words help other families discover and trust my services.
Payment Information
To keep things simple, payment is due at the time of the shoot. I accept cash, check, PayPal or Venmo.
A family session with me will capture more than forced smiles. I like to capture the candid moments of you being a family together. Think about what some of your favorite activates to do together as a family are. Tossing a ball in the backyard? Having a picnic? Playing games? Blowing Bubbles? Reading?