In case you're new around here, let me introduce myself as Heidi from {captured by} heidi photography. Hi!! And thanks for stopping by!
My top tips for family/children picture ideas are:
1. Choose a photographer that works for your kids and your family! This is super important. Not every photographer is going to be a perfect fit for every family. Different families have different needs in a photographer and you need to find out what works best for YOU! If you anticipate your children needing extra time to warm up, choose a photographer that has a reputation for allowing that then DON'T schedule a session during a special when they don't have a lot of time to work with you. Make sure they know any special needs your family may have and that they are willing to work with you.
2. It's okay to bring ideas that you have for your session! In fact, discuss them ahead of time with your photographer. And (I can't believe I'm saying this...) it's even okay to be inspired by a photograph and want to do something similar. However, if you want to do that, take a good look at the photo and think about what it is you like about it. Do the subjects have beautiful hair, great outfits, pops of color throughout? Is it their clothing that is pleasing to the eye? Take a good look at the photo and see what exactly you love about it. If they are dressed like they stepped out of a J. Crew add but you show up in your favorite team's t-shirts and attempt the same pose, you will not achieve the same results.
3. Splurge on new outfits (and accessories) for the family. The clothes, shoes, and accessories will definitely enhance (or dull) your image. Be sure to pay attention to the details. I promise those scuffed up tennis shoes will be noticeable.
I use the word splurge kind of loosely here- R scored an awesome button down for family pictures last year at Goodwill for something like $3! I found him a tie in the same shopping trip for $1. Both looked brand new and were perfect for pictures (and the shirt is my favorite dress shirt that he has) but they cost very little. Plan ahead and shop the clearance racks and thrift stores. Borrow clothes from a friend. Ask your photographer for suggestions (they may even have things you can borrow- I've loaned out plenty of my husbands ties and dress shirts and several of my own scarves and cardigans to clients).
4. Bring personalized items to customize your session. Bring a favorite old quilt, the bench from your entryway, or even your living room couch! My husband (lovingly) built this pallet bed for our family pictures last fall. It was definitely worth the effort of
The balloons were a much easier prop to add in and they added the perfect pop of color. Does your child have a favorite toy or blankie? Capture an image with those!
5. Finally- relax, have fun, and seek session prep help from your photographer. Most photographers are more than willing (and want!) to help you plan your session. Just ask them! I have a welcome guide that I share with my clients to help ensure they know what to expect and how to plan for their session. When you choose the right photographer, you can trust that they will make sure you have a successful session with images you'll love to hang on your walls!
*pallet pictures above courtesy of Like A Fox Photography
