Family Photo Sessions: How to prepare- The basics

Time for family pics and and nobody is on board? Maybe you’re struggling to find something to wear? What to bring? Don’t know which photographer to use? How much money should you spend on family pictures? Is it even worth it?   As a mom, I’ve been there. I’ve had all these questions to figure out by myself. As a photographer and a mom, I have the knowledge and experience from both sides of the camera. Here are some tips on how to prepare for your upcoming family photo shoot, to ensure the best possible photos.

• Prepare them in advance. Make sure that they are available during the date and time you have scheduled, especially the teens. Mark it on the calendar.
• Eat!!  Make sure that everyone has eaten a good meal before the photo session. 
• Bribery.  Using the “if”, “then”, tactic works wonders. Example: “if you are nice and and cooperative for the family photos, then afterward, we can go get dessert”. 
• “If momma ain’t happy, ain’t nobody happy”. Have a positive attitude. Be excited, and your excitement will rub off. If you are stressed about it, that stress can spread, making it an unpleasant experience, which can lead to unnatural and fake looking photos.

• Light, natural colors are the best choice for photos. Have 3-4 main colors that flow well together. Match outfits accordingly.
•  Avoid bright neon colors and the black and white color scheme. Also avoid stripes. 
• Avoid having everyone wear the same white top with jeans. Unless you want to look like you took those pics last decade.
• Opt for dressier clothes. A skirt and button up top or a dress for the women is optimal for the most flattering look. And slacks/dress pants and a fitted button up top or a suit for men works well.
• Go for looser fitting fabrics that flow. Linen, silk, cotton, and wool are examples of natural fibers that are usually a good choice. flowing dresses and skirts with chiffon or tulle are especially good as they add movement and flow to the photos.
•  Avoid stretchy fabrics such as knits, especially if they are skin tight and cling to every curve.
• For best results, have your hair and makeup professionally done. Don’t go overboard so that you don’t look like yourself in the photos.
• If you still need help, ask your photographer for styling help. I’m sure they would love to help you pick out outfits or color schemes, or guide you in the right direction.

• Search for your local photographers online. 
• Use Google and Pinterest to find the type of style you like, and pick a photographer who has that same style. You can generally tell from their portfolio. 
• Make sure they have a solid portfolio. 
• Check their reviews, and see if they are still active. 
• Schedule a consultation with them. Meet them and talk about what you each expect from the shoot. This will tell you if you like them and if you mesh well together.
• Follow your gut. If something is telling you not to pick that person, trust it.

• Do your research. Find out what other photographers charge in your area. I’m sure it varies by state. In Utah, you can expect to pay around $200+ for a good family session.
• What is your budget? Many photographers can do a “mini” session for a lower cost. It is a smaller amount of time, generally 20-30 minutes, and you don’t get as many photos, but may be just what you need. 
• Give a tip!  It’s nice to get tipped for your services as a photographer. We are doing you a service, just like your server, or your hair stylist. 
• If you want to go all out, you may want to consider purchasing new clothes, and you’ll want to add that to the cost.

• Yes. nobody can put a price on memories.
• Yes. You will want good photos to look back on. 
• Yes. You won’t regret getting them (unless you spent a lot of money and used an inexperienced photographer). 
• If you want nice family photo’s to frame or display in your home, you definitely need to go pro. Get someone professional to take your family pics. You’ll be glad you did. It will save you in the end to just pay someone good in the first place.

• Snacks and water are always good to have on hand. Especially for the younger kids. Sometimes I like to bribe the little ones with fruit snacks during the shoot. So if they do what you ask for one pic, they get a fruit snack, and every time they are compliant, you can give another one.
• A change of clothes. Better safe than sorry. 
• A comb and/or brush and Hairspray to fix those fly-aways. 
• Any props you would like to have in the photos. But always communicate with your photographer about that ahead of time so you both know what to expect. 
• A positive attitude. Remember, you can set the tone for the whole family. This can really make a difference on how you prepare for your family photo shoot.