The Do’s + Don’ts of Family Portraits

Hi, hello!

Guys, can you believe we are half-way through July?! As the year flies by, I have been working on some very exciting things! Things that I can not WAIT to share either. Be sure to follow my instagram so you are the first to be in-the-know!

Today, I am coming to you all with tips on something I don’t think I have ever highlighted before on my blog which are, family sessions! I love the opportunity to shoot families. I think they are so full of life, love, and happiness! But, when it comes to family sessions, you have to expect the unexpected. The unexpected being meltdowns from the kiddos, possible weather troubles, or even something like wardrobe malfunctions!

So, I want to share with you all the Do’s and Don’ts of Family Portraits. Let’s get started!

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THE DO’S OF FAMILY PORTRAITS

[DO, Let Your Kids Run Around]

It is always so much fun to see your children’s personalities shine and the best way to do that is to let them run around and play. Photographers, what I have noticed is that it is best to have the family pose, play, pose, and repeat!

[DO, Capture Personalities]

One of my best tips on capturing personalities is to interact with the family as much as possible! Ask questions about their favorite things, what makes them laugh, have tickle sessions, etc.! This way photographers are able to capture authentic laughs and smiles, and the families will have fun too!

[DO, Bring Snacks]

If you are a parent, then you already know. Snacks will make any child, or adult, happier and in a better mood! Even if you think they won’t be hungry during the shoot, bring them anyway. You never know when hunger can strike!

THE DON’TS OF FAMILY PORTRAITS

[DON’T, Pose Too Much]

I touched on this a little earlier, but don’t feel the need to pose too much! There can be so much play in running around, spinning your children around, playing peek-a-boo, and more. This creates the most joyful photos, too.

[DON’T, Hold Preconceived Notions]

This goes for the families and photographer. If you go in with a mindset of perfection, that can put pressure on everyone. Photographers, you are there to document their life, even if it is a little messy. Families, don’t be afraid to be vulnerable! The key is genuine family moments!

[DON’T, Force A Schedule]

Kids are unpredictable! I have seen hour sessions be cut to forty-five minutes due to nap-time, meltdowns, and more. If you are Type A (like me, heyyy!) go in with a game-plan that caters to the session possibly ending sooner than you expected. This will ensure you have all your photos!

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There you have it everyone! It all boils down to keeping an open mind, going with the flow, and making sure to pack snacks! I hope this helps with anyone’s future family sessions. As always, if you are looking for a photographer for your family you can check out my work on Instagram and also send me an inquiry though my website!

I look forward to speaking with you soon! Have a great week!

xoxo-

Sarah

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