We need to make sure we archive our history. It’s our responsibility that future generations are able to have these memories. It’s not difficult to capture these moments if you take the time to hire the right photographer who understands the value of the family legacy.
Professional family photographers understand that some moments never repeat themselves for various reasons. Whether your son is blowing a kiss at you or your daughter is hugging her father, the family photographer is quick to capture these moments that are so cherished in the family history. Give the gift of history to future generations by having a family portrait session.
“Family portraits are so important; they are the most tangible piece of your legacy”
Preparing for your family portrait.
1. Seek and hire and professional photographer: Hiring a professional photographer is the first step. Speak with them over the phone for a consultation. Diligently look over their website portfolio. What are their family portrait packages? Are prints and digital negatives included? Do they use lighting? Where are the portraits going to be taken? How flexible is the photographer with traveling to areas? How creative can the shots be? Many family photographers will travel to the right location that suits your family’s needs.
2. Schedule your Shoot: Make sure to consider your schedule and try not to plan your session around busy times of the day or week so you don’t feel rushed. Be cognizant of rush hour traffic especially here in the metro area. If you’re only 30 minutes from your shoot and it’s scheduled at 6:30pm, make sure to leave at least 45 minutes ahead of time.
3. Clothing and the Weather: Make sure to check the weather the day of your shoot. Plan an outfit that will make the weather tolerable to you and the little ones. I always suggest to families that they don’t have to all match color-wise, but it is a good idea to look somewhat uniform so that the eye is drawn to the faces and not the clothing when the image is created. Good clothing suggestions include: wearing black, blues, and any primary colors when choosing your outfits. If your session is outdoors, we suggest staying away from green so that you do not blend in with nature. Try to pick your clothes out the night before so that everyone has an idea of what they are wearing. Ladies make certain you have enough time to get ready before your session so that you feel confident! If possible try to bring a hairbrush, blotting tissue for makeup, lipstick, Chapstick for the boys, and hand lotion.
4. Pick a location: If you already don’t have an idea of where you’d like to have your family portrait session, your photographer should know of good places to visit in your area. Many times indoor locations require a permit for photography so it is recommended that you and the photographer speak about possible locations ahead of time in case a permit is necessary. It is recommended having your family sessions in the evening before sunset or in the early morning during the hours after sunrise. The lighting is so wonderful during this time for portraits as the sun is low on the horizon and no one is squinting at the camera. It allows for the golden hour to really shine through. Noontime is one of the worst times to have these types of sessions as the sun is high up in the sky and can create unflattering lighting conditions, so it is something to keep in mind when scheduling with your photographer.
5. Make your session day a fun day for the family: Get the little ones excited for their photo shoot! Tell them they are going to have a fun time playing with their new photographer friend. Take the family out to lunch or dinner before the shoot. Make the whole day a fun day so everyone is in great spirits. Try bringing your child’s favorite toys or items during your family session. This helps children feel more comfortable when they are surrounded by familiar items.
