How To Prepare For Your Family Session
So, you’ve booked in for a family session (or are considering doing so!) and you’re wondering… what do you need to do to prepare for it?
Don’t stress, I’m here to assist you in making the experience a wonderful one.
Have A Consultation With Your Family Photographer!
This one sounds simple, but it’s so important in ensuring your session flows as easily as possible. Personally, I love to see inspiration images from my families too, so if there’s anything you’ve seen online/from a photographer’s portfolio, do ask if it’s okay to send it over. During the consultation you should discuss the ideal time to arrive (base this around ensuring kids are fed + well slept!), and how long the session should take (around 1.5 - 2 hours).
I have experience with over 40 families, so I can answer any other questions on our call with trust.
Prepare Outfits
If you are working with a photographer that offers wardrobe as part of the package, ask them for a catalogue of what they have on offer and choose 2-3 of your favourite outfits. I currently don’t, but it’s on my list to build as my business grows.
If your photographer doesn’t have a wardrobe available, then opt for white/cream/grey simple outfits with no logos or patterns. For you and your partner (and the littles!), try to compliment each other’s outfits, rather than match them.
I have an outfit inspiration highlight on my Instagram here and a guide on my journal here.
Have Supplies Ready
Whether you’re travelling to a studio, or have opted for an at-home family session, ensure you have snacks ready to go, nappies + wipes to hand (if applicable!) and some toys or books to keep littles entertained if we need to break! In my studio I have nappies and wipes, plus working on a range of toys to have to hand!
Consider AN ACTIVITY/MANAGE EXPECTATIONS
This helps especially if you have shy or nervous littles! Pick your favourite board game, or book to read together, or perhaps you just like make-believe! I have a few prompts I can use to help get those belly-laugh photos, but it always helps to have something in the bag! It’s really important to manage your expectations too around your children, it’s always a weird thing having a camera pointed at you. I think I’m pretty good (after 12+ years) at relaxing people but I’m still (often) a stranger to your children. Ultimately if they aren’t into it at all, just let them be.
I can always tell that a session will go downhill if the parents are just constantly asking the children to smile or telling them off for being a certain way; they just get fed up so much quicker. Allow their personalities to shine through… even if that means lots of snuggles into your shoulder + we don’t see their face! Children always want your approval and just allowing them space to be silly or shy is part of it :)
Send Across Example Images
As mentioned above, I LOVE seeing my client’s vision so I can ensure to have everything prepared for the session (or communicate what may not be possible!). You can use Instagram or Pinterest and just screenshot images you love :)
Think About How You’ll Showcase Images
I adore seeing client’s memories in print and I work with 2-3 incredibly high quality and UK based suppliers to offer a range of products, from canvases, to frames, to fine art albums. Many of my clients order a 30x30” collage frame which includes 9 images. I’m here to help with any recommendations or offer advice!
Hope that eases those worries! Is there a question I haven’t yet answered? Please do post in the comment section below.
If you’re looking for a newborn photographer I offer a free no-obligation consultation call to better explain how I work and what the benefits are of booking with me. Contact me here.
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