I often hear how “daunting” family photos can be and as a professional I have seen it all!!! The fear that your child will melt down, or cry, or worse, fall asleep and not want to participate, has kept many moms from scheduling a session. The fear of not looking your best, being your “goal weight” or not knowing what to wear to flatter that “dad bod” has been an excuse I’ve heard more than once. As a mom – I have also witnessed it and had my own fair share of “meltdowns” and questionable moments when family photo time comes around.
The most challenging age by far is 6 months to 3 years old, when it comes to planning and preparing for family photos. Here are a few tips that should help you plan ahead!
My number one word of advice is to keep one word in mind before and during your session.
This word: PLAY
When prepping your child, tell them “We’re going to play at the beach (or park, at home, farm, etc) with Allie.” This is the truth and that is exactly what is about to happen. Once you’re dressed and ready – it is playtime. Don’t worry about a little crazy hair, an untucked shirt, or bare feet. We’ll be sure to get classic shots in between the fun photos. The moments that I find most of my clients choose to display in their home and online with friends are the glimpses of fun in-between the perfect posed shots.
Playing with your children is the one activity you cannot photograph yourself (no…selfies don’t count!). When you are engaged with them, smiling along, laughing and giggling – you never see the beauty you’re sharing with them. Playful photography is going to showcase the joy you have together. This joy doesn’t always look “perfect” but it shows the truth and beauty of parenting.
These tips are accompanied by some photos of a family whom I’ve had the pleasure to photograph over 10 times!! YES – they have done it time and again and are practically pros. From maternity sessions to newborns, sessions at the beach, parks, and farms – these boys have had a lot of practice. No matter what we still approach the session the same way: PLAY!!
