Photo Session Tips

So you've set a time with your photographer, now what? Have you ever gone to a photo session unprepared, or have some questions? Don't be afraid to ask your photographer any questions you may have and be sure to tell them what you're looking for. If you're not sure what you're looking for, that's okay, the photographer can help you with that. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your photography session.

1 - Choose your clothing wisely.

You'll want to choose your clothing attire in advance. Your choices should be comfortable and fit your personality and style. Photographers want personalities to come out in the photos. It's recommended to choose neutral and soft colors. Soft and flowing fabrics can be fun and dreamlike. If multiple people will be in the photos, it's recommended to choose coordinating colors (but don't match too much!)Please keep in mind, clothing that is bright (neon for example) can often reflect that color up on your skin tones. I've done photos shoots where someone was wearing green neon shirts and with the reflection of the light (natural and unnatural) their faces looked green.

Adding fun accessories like scarves, headbands, hats, etc. can add some fun and give a modern twist to your images.

2. What do want your photos to look like?

Let your photographer know if there are any particular photo styles you like or a certain photo you want. Feel free to bring photo samples to the shoot, or send to the photographer ahead of time. If you like black and white images or sepia, make sure to tell the photographer.

3. Get rested up before the shoot and make everyone has food in their tummy.

Being tired and hungry is never a good thing at a photoshoot, especially when children are involved. It's important to schedule your photo session around your child’s nap time and food time. The best times of day for lighting is two hours before sunset or 2 hours after sunrise (morning and evening). This gives the best diffused light and also helps avoid squinting. If these options are a bad time for your children, talk with your photographer. They can find shady area's to shoot at during the daylight hours if afternoons work best for you. Make sure no one has an empty stomach. If you are planning to go out and eat after the photo shoot, be sure to give everyone a healthy snack beforehand.

4. Give yourself time to prepare and get ready for the photo session.

Often times, parent(s) find themselves rushing around trying to get everyone dressed and ready for the photos. If a family shows up after being rushed around it can often set the tone for a disorganized and rushed session which will especially stress out any children involved. So make sure you have some extra time to head out so you have a more fun and relaxing experience.

5. During a photo session with kids - don't overwhelm them.

If the parent(s) stands behind the photographer and howlers out "Say Cheese", or keeps telling their children what to do, it will stress out the child and make them less cooperative. It can also stress out the photographer and cause them to rush. It will result in tense, unnatural and often unflattering photographs. Step back, and allow the photographer to naturally interact and talk with the children. This will more likely result in a more natural and happier look. There may be times when the photographer will ask or need the parents help. Help them to photograph the true essence of their personality by talking gently and helping to bring out those smiles naturally and unforced.

6. Be a participant during the photo session.

This is especially for the men or those who don't like taking photos. Please remember these photos are important and will be treasured for a lifetime and passed on to your kids, grandkids, and for generations. Happier attitudes create happier moods for everyone involved and once you see how amazing the photos turn out and how happy everyone is, you'll feel blessed to have spent that time with your family.

7. Have fun!

Photographers want your sessions to be fun and your photos to show love and emotion! Play with the family, toss your kids in the air, kiss your loved ones, tickle someone, laugh, tell jokes, etc. This is what helps the photographer to capture the true emotions and love of a family. Show engagement and interaction with family members. It's okay if everyone isn't looking at the camera. When you're doing something you love together, the photographer will be able to take some authentic and unique photographs.

8. Feel free to bring something you and your family love or do an activity you love.

Photos that are more natural are the ones that turn out to be the favorites, especially when incorporating an activity you love. Examples could be; bring books - if you love to read together; board games or cards; giving kids piggyback rides or shoulder rides; bike riding; hiking; picnics; sports ; instruments and more. The ideas are endless. Make sure to let the photographer know if you have any special requests.

Now go and have a successful, fun and memory making photo session. Have more tips or suggestions? Feel free to comment below.