As a Philadelphia Family Photographer, I like to share tips that help prepare you for your Family Photos! I have rounded up my best tips so that you get the most out of your family photography experience.
First: Location
If you have toddlers or young children, you should think through what location helps them to feel the most comfortable. This is why I absolutely LOVE shooting in your home! This is a location they are already familiar and comfortable with. Kids can tend to take a while to warm up to the camera, but ensuring they are already somewhere they feel safe, this can happen quicker! Also, this saves you the extra step of having to get everyone out the door 🙂 As a Philadelphia family photographer, I can come right to you – no traveling required for you or your family!
Second: Food
Make sure your kids are feed before (or during depending on what we are doing!) the session. Having a full belly will help them to be happier and enjoy being photographer so much more! I also think having some of their favorite snacks handy helps too. We can take a snack break if needed and these also create some fun photos!
Third: Clothing
Of course you want your kids to look amazing for their photos – but let me tell you – comfort for a kid is way more important than how the outfit looks. If they are uncomfortable in their clothes, that will show during the session. I give you lots of guidance on outfit selection, and we can make sure to choose something that you children will want to wear! If your kid prefers to run around in their diaper instead – I can also work with that 🙂
Fourth: Your Vibe
This is my far the MOST important tip on this guide. Our kids feed off of our energy, so it’s really important to think about what kind of vibe you are bringing into the session. I highly recommend to not critique or criticize your kids during your session – instead – just view this as an opportunity to enjoy spending time with your kids without any other distractions or tasks that need to be done! It’s really tempting to offer tips like “sit up straight” or to lean over and fuss at a collar – but it’s way more important to be present for these photos than it is to be perfect. Just relax and enjoy your children, that will turn out so beautifully. I promise.
Five: Trust Your Photographer
You hired your Philadelphia family photographer for a specific reason. Trust them and let them work their magic. You will have a less stressful session and your photographer will have the space to create the work you hired them for! It can feel chaotic, but don’t worry – I got you. These photos will be something you and your family cherish for generations.
