Family Photo Session Tips & Ideas
While most of my time is spent as a wedding photographer nowadays, family photo sessions are some of my favorite things in the world! I love capturing your family’s journey and seeing my clients year after year, meeting new additions to the family and capturing precious milestones – because it’s true:
They do grow up way too quick!
During a family photo session I will capture both that “classic” photo that you can frame and hang from your walls as well as some fun and candid moments. Below you can find all my tips for a fun family photo session while getting the best images possible!
Location & Time
These are the two biggest factors in how your pictures will turn out! Definitely consult with your photographer to get recommendations for the best spots in your area and the best time for photos, depending on the time of year. I offer family photos in the wider Austin area including Cedar Park, Round Rock, Pflugerville and Georgetown. My family photo sessions usually take place an hour before sunset or in the early morning.
Outfits
This is the second biggest factor in how your images will turn out. My recommendation is: Don’t match, but coordinate! Pick one or two “main” colors and pair them with neutrals or wear different shades of a color and mix with neutrals. Earthy colors, pastels, blues and neutrals never disappoint! Avoid crazy or loud patterns and keep it simple. You can dress up as fancy as you like – after all, this is a special occasion! At the same time, be practical; wear shoes that allow you to walk around on the grass and clothes that are appropriate for the weather and time of year.
Kids
Make sure the kids are well rested (and fed lol) before the session. If they are a little camera shy, let them bring a stuffy, toy or accessory they love and want to show off. If they’re little, feel free to bring a rattle or something similar that I can use to make them look at me/the camera, and bring a blanket for them to lie or sit down. If they’re a little older, feel free to bribe them with a treat (or two) after the session!
But most of all – let them have fun! Apart from the classic family photo, most of our “poses” will include movement and parents and kids interacting. Be silly with them, lift them up in the air or start a tickle attack if you feel like they’re not having fun. Real smiles are the best smiles 🙂
Dogs
Contrary to kids, you want to make sure that your dog has been tired out before the session! Bring treats and ideally a squeaky toy. If you want a few photos without the dog as well, make sure to bring an extra person who can handle the dog for you. I love photographing and interacting with your dog, and you’re also welcome to bring them if they don’t love other/new people. I have some experience with stranger danger dogs and can still get a good photo from a respectful distance.
Other tips
Please arrive a few minutes early as my mini sessions are usually back to back and I want to make sure you get to use your entire time. This also gives you time to arrive and get ready without feeling stressed, which often affects your kids and pets as well. Feel free to make this photo session part of a special family night with photos, good food and maybe some rewards or play time for the kids afterwards.
Get creative
I always love doing something a little different so don’t be shy to pitch your ideas to me! Whether you want to have a special theme for your photos, dress up or include some props, I’m always excited to bring your ideas to life. You can bring balloons, bubbles or other interactive items.
And don’t forget to have fun!