Family portraits can be a lot of fun and very rewarding. It can be difficult to start. How do you get a group of people to pose for you? How can you interact with them? How can you take great photos?
- Plan Your Location Wisely
No one wants to be in the heat or in the cold for more than an hour. Your portrait should be taken according to the season. To avoid heat and capture the best light, plan your portrait for sunrise or sunset in summer. If it is getting dark before your parents get off work, you might need to shoot on a weekend in winter.
We can’t predict the weather so make sure you include a Plan B when you book. It could be an alternative, covered location or a backup day.
Remember that even an overcast day can produce the most stunning images. There is still light across faces, and no one is squinting at the sun.
- Wear the Right Clothing
Perhaps your client had envisioned a summer scene on a beach, but it has been ruined by a cold snap or windy weather. You can gently assure them that smiling children with bundled up sleeves will make them happier than photos of crying, red-eyed children with short sleeves.
Ask your family if they prefer a certain theme for their holiday portraits or a neutral look. Although festive holiday attire, including ugly Christmas sweaters, can be very fun, they might regret choosing an outfit that isn’t appropriate year round.
- Prep the Kids
This is a crucial tip for families who are participating in photo shoots. The photographer should let parents know that they must prepare their children for the shoot. This can be done as early as possible. Make it a fun experience that children look forward to. Then, treat them with ice cream or a trip to the bowling alley.
The anticipation factor is important but the day-to-day buildup is even more important. Children should have full bellies when they arrive at school. Hungry children are unhappy children. Make sure they have a full night’s sleep on the day of their shoot if they are still napping.
This post was written by a photographer at Christina Louise Photos. Christina specializes in Maternity Photography In Lakeland capturing the intimate moments of maternity, motherhood, and childhood. As visual storytellers, we turn your most intimate moments into lasting memories. Contact us today to learn more about scheduling a photo shoot!
