6 tips: How to get the most out of your family photography session {Melbourne Family Photographer}

Spring is almost here and some of you are thinking updating your family portrait or perhaps taking one for the first time! Family portraits are an investment (of your time and money) and like any other investment you don't buy until you have done your reserach and made sure you know how to make it work for your family. As a photographer I want your family to enjoy the session but also be happy with the results so in oder to do so I have put few tips together how to get the most out of your photo session .. 

 

Tip 1: Choose the right photographer for you

Choose a photographer who has a style that appeals to you - it's no use picking a photographer that takes candid photo's when you are really looking for a posed studio portrait

Check out my website & gallery to see more examples of my work so you can get a good idea of my style.
   

Tip 2: Arrive well rested and fed

Plan the shoot for a time that works for you.  Make sure it doesn't clash with sleep times or meal times and give yourself plenty of time so you can relax and enjoy it. The golden hour (the hour after sunrise and before sunset) provides a beautiful golden light and spectacular backgrounds but does require commitment to get to a shoot at these times.  I can shoot anytime of the day utilizing areas of open shade. A cloudy day on your photo shoot is a great thing! Don’t show up to photo shoot on an empty stomach. If your plan is to have breakfast/lunch/dinner after the shoot be sure to give everyone a good snack beforehand.     

 

Tip 3: Choose the right clothing

 

Have your clothing chosen way in advance and make sure that your outfit choices are comfortable and attractive.  Clothing can set the mood for your images. For example if you want soft and elegant look, opt for neutral colours with soft flowing fabrics. Think creams, very soft pastels, light browns, tans, grays, and slate blues. Or want to showcase the fun and energetic side of your family?  Choose coordinating colors (but not matching) with bold accent colors, such as hues of gray with yellow or bright red accents.  Sometimes adding fun accessories like scarves, headbands, hats, etc. can bring nice touch to your images. 

 

  
Most importantly though, wear what you feel comfortable and confident in - it will show in the photo's! As your photographer I’m always happy to help so don’t be afraid to ask.


Tip 4:  During the shoot NOT everyone has to be looking and smiling at the camera at the same time.

 

The best photographs are often the ones where everyone is engaged or interacting with each other.  Understand that not every picture needs to have everyone looking at the camera and smiling at the same time.  If you are engaged as a family and loving on each other, your eyes will be on your family members and your smile with be natural.  These are the photographs that you will cherish most because they depict your family connection and your love.

  

Tip 5: Leave cheese for the crackers

Please, parents… leave the “cheese” at home.  Cheese is for crackers.  Demanding young children to look at the camera to smile will only stress your children out and will result in strained, unnatural and often unflattering photographs.  Step back, and allow me as the photographer naturally interact and talk with your children.  This will result in natural, gorgeous smiles.  Help the photographer capture the true essence of your child’s personality by talking with and coaxing out those smiles naturally and easily.

Tip 6: Have fun!

 

Don’t be afraid to pick up your children and toss them in the air.  Give your wife a sweet kiss on the check.  Tell your husband how much you love him and appreciate him for being there for your family.  Have fun. Laugh. Giggle. Joke. Embrace.  Kiss.  Snuggle.  Play.  Doing these things will allow me as the photographer to capture the emotion and true beauty of your family.  

Relax, have fun and most importantly be yourself - its your life, this is your story and at the end of the day you are the only one who can tell it – I’m just here to help capture a brief moment of it. 

Bookings and enquiries: mobile 0424 080 565 or email me@sannagriffin.com.au 

www.sannagriffin.com.au