I have to admit going to your first family session can be a little intimidating. I have been there with my own family. There are so many factors that need to be chosen and it can all be a little overwhelming whether it is your 1st or 50th photoshoot. Sometimes a certain wardrobe is really important, or sometimes the location is absolutely key for the session. Either way, there is no need for any added parenting guilt!

To help all my fellow parents out I have designed a handy visual guide to assist you with your session details. By ‘choosing your own adventure’ you can debate the pros and cons of what interests you specifically. Just like your family each adventure has unique opportunities and obstacles. Just remember one thing…

There is no right or wrong choice.

[Side note: I feel compelled to share that I have a PASSION and NEED to be creatively challenged. I LOVE creating magic from the unknown, chaos, and otherwise obstinate toddler personalities- the artistic reward is personally tremendous!]

But, in case your child(ren)’s personalities tend to wear you down instead of inspire you, I’ve got you covered.

So, without further ado, I hereby present to you…

-A PHOTO SESSION PLANNING GUIDE –

The Details

In a nutshell, here are the top things to keep in mind when creating the best photo experience for you and your family:

1. pick your priority

   • Location vs. Look/Wardrobe- Narrow down your favorite element in a photo.

2. do’s vs don’ts

   • Depending on your priority read my recommendations

     • Location

       • DO: Plan your session on a weekday when tourists and traffic is at a minimum.

       • DON’T: Pick a location with little flexibility & room to work in. The more confined the space, the more difficult it is to maintain everyone’s cooperation.

     • Wardrobe

       • Dressy- can be conveyed with make-up or jewelry, not just clothing

         • Go for a RED lip! Throw on heels, add in jewelry/accessories; You’re more likely to get more mileage out of your new accessories.

       • Casual- keep it simple yet TAILORED.

         • Neutrals remain as classic, timeless & eyes will be naturally drawn to emotion-connection-skin tones vs clothing .i.e. T-shirt/Tank & Jeans, etc.

       • Remember to empty your pockets and remove any hair ties around your wrists!

3. highlight best assets

   • This should always be your DEFAULT. It’ll always result in more confidence in front of the lens!

4. be flexible

   • Sometimes you just have to make a decision based on less overall stress! There is no judgement.

5. relax & fully enjoy each other’s company

   • Photo sessions should’n’t be a forced to-do list item. You’ll look back and remember the experience of being photographed too- not just the actual images themselves. Done right, your photos should be a fond memory of a wonderful time together!

Hopefully you feel a little more relaxed now! Take the time before the photo session and plan what you want from it. This will result in a better time for your family and tangible memories your family can enjoy forever.

Sound Perfect?

You know what to do! ↓