You did it! You reached out to your family photographer, selected a date and a location and now you are ready to be photographed. Well, maybe not. You have to start thinking of haircuts, outfits, snacks and bribes, get the kids and Dad on board. It can be a little overwhelming to pull everyone together to capture this moment in your family’s life. It can be downright exhausting.
Here’s a little help. The more organized and prepared your family is, the less work it will be for Mom on the day-of. And the good news is once you arrive, your work is done and your photographer will take the lead.
Follow this timeline for an easy breezy family portrait session this year:
Two weeks before: Go get those haircuts. if someone’s hair is not quite right, you have a little time for it to grow out. And if your middle one decides to cut their own bangs, that’s okay, a well placed bow can do wonders.
10 days before: Daydream about the results. This is going to be an exciting day and will itself become a family memory. How would you like to share these moments with your loved ones? A new wall portrait in the living room? A session album you will cherish forever and pass down to future generations? Living with your photos is the great reward.
One week before: Plan your wardrobe. Moms, work on your outfit first, make sure you feel beautiful. Get every outfit ready a week before- washed, ironed if needed and hung up. On the day-of all you will need to do is grab everything. Don’t forget the shoes and socks and barefeet can be fun too!
Three days before: Pack a bag with day-of essentials. A hairbrush, wet wipes, water, and maybe a candy or goldfish to bribe!
Night before: Get the kids excited. Sit the family down and discuss why family pictures are important to you. Photos will let you remember their stages, ages and personalities and a way for them to remember their childhood. Let them know this is not a formal experience or perfect. They will have fun!
So now all you have to do is show up and let your photographer do all the work! I will guide you into flattering poses, with beautiful backgrounds and make sure to capture authentic moments of the people you love the most.
Families are enjoying earlier photo sessions this year, so get on the calendar now!
