Preparing for your first family photoshoot

Seattle Family + Newborn Photographer

May 17th, 2021

If you're feeling a little nervous or uncertain about what to expect, don't worry! I've worked with many families who are taking professional photos for the first time, and I'm here to share some tips and advice that will help you prepare and get the most out of your experience.

First and foremost, remember why you booked your photographer. You want beautiful, authentic, and timeless photos that capture the essence of your family, and that's exactly what we'll work together to achieve. Keep this in mind as you prepare, and trust that your investment will be well worth it.

Secondly, don't hesitate to ask questions and be curious. I'm happy to answer any questions you may have, and I want you to feel confident and informed about the process. If you're not sure about something, please ask!

Remember that these photographs are for YOU, and there are no expectations from me about what they should or shouldn't look like. Wear what you want, be silly, be casual, be formal, be you. This is your time to shine! 

On photo day, it's important to let go of any expectations or pressure to discipline or make your kids "be good". This is a day to act like everything they do is the CUTEST THING EVER! It's a time to laugh, cuddle, and let go of any expectations. This is your family time, and it's perfectly acceptable for there to be tears or moments of uncertainty. I have another post that gives additional ways to Prepare your kids (and yourself) for family photos, OR How to Prepare for  your newborn session at home.

While mindset is a huge part of the success of your session, I also want to give you some practical tips going into your session. Here are a few tips.

How to prepare your home + family:

* Areas we might be in: living room, entry, kitchen, bedrooms, nursery - anywhere life leads us in and around your home. I'm inspired in the moment as we move through your space, sometimes to make coffee, other times for me to get funny about how much I love the natural light in a weird corner of your home. I'll ask you to stop or continue as needed. I have a knack for finding the image I want out of any space.

* Consider scheduling a cleaning service for the day before our session appointment. While this may not be possible for many, it can give you some peace of mind and allow you to take a task off of your own to-do list. Push comes to shove, choose a room and shove all your clutter in there... we don't need to talk about that room. ;-)

* Declutter table tops and kitchen counters, as those are the spaces that might be seen in your images. The floor, not so much.

* I love to use mirrors and windows in my imagery and tend to gravitate towards them... a quick window clean can be helpful, but not necessary. 

* Show your kids and spouse a photograph of ME. This is a simple way to introduce me and for my face to start to be familiar to them (you could use my website or Instagram). Give them information about what we are doing and why. Kids needs information to process the situation just like we do.

* Be rested (as best you can) and try to have something to eat before I arrive.

Now, let's talk about the session itself.

We follow the lead of the kids. We need to keep them entertained, follow a bit of the wiggles, and even calm and cuddly at some point... and all of that will happen naturally. I've written a blog on tips and tricks on How to Prepare Your Kids for Family Photos, and my main tip is to let go of your expectations of your kids will react and how they will behave. Let them feel me out and set their own boundaries with me as we adjust into our session. I also aim to plan our time based on what you enjoy doing as a family.        

What do we DO during our photo appointment?

During your lifestyle family session, the focus is on creating an experience to remember, and capturing images that truly reflect your family as you are. We take the time to discuss what your family likes to do together and what your ideal "slow weekend" together would look like. Then, together, we try to incorporate those activities and interests into your session in small doses. Whether that means playing board games, cooking grandma's cookie recipe, having a dance party, blowing bubbles, going for a walk around your neighborhood, enjoying a big pancake breakfast, or taking a weekly bike ride to your local bakery, the options are endless and unique to you. By incorporating these activities into your session, we can capture genuine and authentic moments that truly showcase your family's personality and style.

And finally, let go and trust your photographer. I know that being in front of the camera can feel awkward or uncomfortable, but I'm here to create a comfortable and unique experience for you. Something that isn't just an appointment, but an experience to be remembered on its own. Trust me, and your images will reflect that trust and comfort.

I want you to feel reassured and excited about your upcoming photo session. Remember to trust the process, ask questions, be yourself, and let go of any expectations. With a little preparation and a lot of fun, we'll create beautiful memories that you'll cherish for years to come.