Hi there! My name is Brooke, owner of Brooke Taelor Photography. I’ve been photographing everything from families to newborns and high school seniors for the past five years. While I’m still learning every day, I’ve taken some key mental notes when it comes to preparing families (especially families with little ones) for photoshoots.
Here are three things think about before you set out on a family photoshoot:
1. Go with the flow
I’ve been on plenty of photoshoots when the parents get worried and stressed if their little ones aren’t sitting perfectly for the photos. Chances are, most kids won’t. But that makes for natural photos that really capture who they truly are. Your photographer will make sure you get a few posed shots where everyone is looking at the camera, but it’s also great to have some candid shots. This one I got when Max just did not want to go sit with the family—he would have rather played with his soccer ball. And what a great photo it is! P.S. After I showed him how cool he looked in that photo, he promised to go sit with his family for the rest.
2. Plan, plan, plan
It’s very easy to get swept away by ideas, inspiration and “what the heck are we going to wear,” when preparing for your upcoming photoshoot. While those are all things you must do, make sure to also prepare in other ways. Does the time of your photoshoot coincide with nap time? Maybe you need to move it up an hour. And kids do the darnedest things. Am I right? A few days leading up to your photo session, practice taking pictures with the kids. This will make them feel more comfortable when it comes time for the professional photos.
3. Snacks
Moms always have clever tricks up their sleeves for incentivizing their little ones to cooperate during the photoshoot. But, when you’re a mom, things can also go slightly sideways when you’re planning on something big—like taking your once-a-year family portraits. I usually make sure to pack some Goldfish or organic gummies with me, but it’s always nice when parents bring their kids’ favorite snacks. And you may even get a funny photo of your little one enjoying their favorite one-year-old snack, like this one!
I hope these tips leave you with a little less anxiety when it comes to your next family portrait session. If you have any questions, or would like more tips, feel free to reach out!
