My top 3 tips for your family photoshoot
So you have your family photoshoot booked in and you're looking for some tips on how to get the most from your session? The good news is, after photographing hundreds of families across Sydney every year, I have some tips that you may find helpful! More than styling and location, connection is my biggest secret to a gorgeous gallery. Read on to learn more about how I keep your images full of that beautiful connection!
Relax and have fun
First and foremost, getting your photos should be fun! I know it can be stressful to figure out what to wear, or figure out the best location for your family, but hopefully I can take the stress out of that for you with the information in this guide. Once we are at the session, truly embracing the experience and having fun with your family is the most important thing you can do to get the best photos.
I capture my clients' families the same way I capture my own - I put little expectation or pressure on your little ones, as in my opinion, there is nothing they must do in a session, capturing them exactly as they are is the goal. Although I have plenty of silly games and tricks to get smiles, the grumpy faces or quiet cuddles are also just a special to capture. If your little ones don't want to smile or participate, please don't force or get mad at them. They always tend to come around, what you need to do, is focus on keeping the vibe of the session positive.
Follow your child’s lead
My favorite images are always the ones where we allow your children to naturally explore - Capturing children's spirit of adventure! I offer lots of prompts but I don't force anything. If your little one is not connecting with a certain prompt, we do something else, easy!
I personally love when children bring a comfort toy with them, I love capturing this special connection. But be mindful, if you do bring a toy, it will likely be in a lot of the images. Once we introduce a toy, I don't like to convince kids to be without it if they would prefer to hold onto it. So if you would prefer toys to not be in the images, best to leave them in the car.
Engage your child in an activity
I give a lot of direction and guidance during my sessions, lots of tried and tested prompts to help get you beautiful images. During these moments, I encourage clients not overthink what they're doing or where the camera is, and to fully engage with their children.
Some of the best ways I find to hold connection with your little ones in any prompt is to make eye contact with them - let them know that you are focused on having fun with them, touch them - hold their little hands and feet, sing and talk with them - help shift their focus to you. Asking them questions also really helps for them to settle into a moment - "how many boats can you count in the ocean?", "can you draw a shape on mummy's hand?", "Can you tell me how the sand feels on your toes?".
I am always here if you have any questions before your session but rest assured all you guys need to do is turn up ready for fun, and I will gently guide you all to create a gorgeous gallery of your own!
If you have been thinking about capturing your own family, I would love to chat! Click here to find out more information about my family sessions.
