How To Prepare For Your Family Session

Lifestyle photographs are unique because they are true and honest images of not just you and your family, but your relationships with one another. So, my goal is to capture the essence of your family and children.

I do help guide you in general setups, but for the most part, there is very little, if any, posed images, forced smiles, or unhappy children.

My approach to Lifestyle Photography has some documentary aspects to it. As in, though I set you up in loose poses, I only capture the interactions and emotions within your family dynamic.

My own knowledge and understanding of, not just my gear, but light and composition, are what creates images of art.

Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your session with me.

Time:

I schedule my shoot times based on sunrise and sunset times, and by location. Indoor vs out.

Light is generally too harsh mid-day, so a two hour window after sunrise and a two hour window before sunset are ideal times for outdoor shoots. These times allow for beautiful light and a dreamy atmosphere. Late morning shoots are great for indoor locations and provide the best light for most homes.

I recommend, for families with littles, to try for late naps, for evening sessions. The time of day and use of light has a huge impact for my style of photography.

Location:​

To choose the best location to fit your personality and style, I work with you and what you are looking for.

I have many locations I love shooting at, but am definitely open to any suggestions or preferences you may have.

Some clients who are looking for a more personal or intimate feel, choose an in-home shoot.

Which is a wonderful choice as long as there is enough natural light.

Whichever your preference, I am always available to help guide your decision.

Length Of Session: ​

The best part about my family sessions are that they are very fast. I completely understand how having kids along is like a ticking time bomb, LOL.

I keep things moving at a fast pace, and am always keeping the kids occupied while still incorporated in the family dynamic of the shoot.

My workflow and guidance always allows me to get more than enough content and a variety of images to please everyone.

What To Wear:​

Wardrobe should be comfortable and reflect who you are. I do not recommend matching but rather coordinating.

If you are in need of some help in putting together outfits, I would be happy to help or I can recommend a style consultant.

Props:​

I rarely use props during sessions, but, if there is something you would like to incorporate, I am happy to oblige.

Your Children:​

I have found, both in my work and personal life, that kids usually behave better or listen better for other people.

As part of my workflow for shoots, I always allow for the children to relax and never force smiles. They don't usually do well being told to sit and smile anyway, so once they have gotten more comfortable, and have started to open up, I am able to capture their natural selves.

I know as a parent, we want to try and control the crazy, but let me worry about keeping them wrangled and occupied. It's my job to direct, so don't feel bad or overwhelmed if I'm having to direct your kids to participate.

The best images of the children are of them running around, interacting, busy playing and exploring.

The family images, I direct the parents to engage with one another and the child, in different settings and scenarios, so children being able to be themselves really shines through and creates emotive images.

To get the most out of your session, bring dry, non messy foods so they stay clean. Also make sure that your little one has rested and has had adequate snacks and water before the shoot.

And lastly, help prepare your child for the session by letting them know what we will be doing and show them a picture of me from my website so they become familiar with who I am.