How to make sure your family photoshoot is a success…
Taking the time to attend a photoshoot with all the family is something that is hugely important for capturing important milestones and special memories in a professional way.
However, it is generally not a cheap activity. Therefore, when taking your family along for some professional photography, you will naturally want it to go as smoothly as possible.
Although to some extent the success of your professional photography session is out of your hands, there are certain tips and tricks that can help to avoid there being any confusion and/or tantrums on the day!
Be well rested
Going for some professional photography is generally a positive thing to do and is something that the whole family will no doubt enjoy doing. Despite this, photoshoot sessions can last for a while and be demanding emotionally, especially for little ones.
It’s, therefore, a good idea to make sure all the family has an early night and is well rested before the session. The more that can be done to minimise the risk of there being any squabbles and tears, the better!
Generally though, the professional photography experience is such a new and exciting one, that your children probably won’t even think about how tired they are.
As well as having plenty of sleep the night before your professional photography, make sure that everyone is fed before heading to the studio. Family photoshoots tend to be fast-paced and dynamic, so you don’t want any hungry kiddies complaining halfway through!
Clothing
Hopefully, your photographer will get in touch beforehand with some general advice about what to expect and what to wear. If not though, your best bet is to dress yourself and your family in neutral colours. There is no need for everyone to match as that can make the images appear unnatural and staged, but it’s a good idea to ensure that no one is wearing particularly bright or clashing colours.
The type of clothing you wear will depend on the photographers’ style and vibe. Nousha are a London-based family and child photography company who capture all their photos in black and white. Their unique approach to professional family photoshoots and the way that they simply encourage families to be themselves and show their character means that every image is truly special and treasurable.
Parents keep your noses out
Whilst it might be tempting as a parent to stand behind the camera and egg your children on to smile and look happy… it most likely won’t help.
Professional photographers will have plenty of experience in making children smile and/or laugh to capture natural happy moments, rather than forced cheesy grins.
Children are much more likely to listen to what a stranger (the photographer) has to say than their parents, who tell them what to do on a daily basis.
Don’t hold back
This one may go without saying, but be prepared to let any inhibitions go and be yourself during a professional photography session. If you don’t, it will show in the images and you won’t be getting what you’ve paid for!
Photographers will expect you to be ready to let loose, have fun and take their suggestions on board to enable some wonderful and unique images to be captured.
On the other hand, don’t be afraid to tell your photographer what your family is comfortable with and/or what activities your children enjoy doing. This way, the professionals can tailor your photoshoot accordingly to make sure that it is a positive and enjoyable experience for all.