WHAT TO DO BEFORE A FAMILY PHOTO SESSION

It's that time of year again, family photos and I know it can be stressful especially if you have little children but here are some tips on preparing the family for a photo session.

#1 - Stop Stressing

Don't stress over the what-ifs or the worse case scenarios. Make sure you organize the day and don't over schedule you or anyone else in the family picture day. You don't want to give yourself more stress for the day so take time to get ready, get the kids ready and just enjoy the day. Decompress as much as possible. 

#2. Pump the Kids Up

Tell your children how much fun everyone is going to have. Don't tell them, "you better be good," or set any expectations on them. Don't let the kids turn it into a challenge. I have a rule of "kids rule." We play, explore, learn and adventure whatever way we may need too. It is so important for your child to also feel comfortable for the session to work. This is going to be fun, tell them it's an adventure, because it will be. It is going to be fun, they are going to take great photos and be able to burn some energy if needed. 

#3. Don't come hungry or thirsty

Make sure everyone is hydrated with full bellies and you don't arrive already hungry. Very often my clients come to a photo shoot with dinner plans after the shoot as a reward, which is OK, although bring snacks and water ideally NO MESSY snacks. Prepare the day with snacks prior to the session so they don't have any needs or wants during the session. This include bathroom breaks. If we are at a location with limited facilities, make sure they go before arriving. 

#4. Don't be late or too early

I know now I am just being picky but really don't be late, you will automatically feel rushed. If you think you may be late, give me a heads up and we may be able to push it back just a little to help alleviate that stress. Don't arrive too early and get stuck sitting in the car and the kids get anxious and bored and just want to GO. 

Once you are at your session

Let it Go.

Once your session starts I want you to let it go. Stop worrying about how you look in the photos or if your partner is smiling or if the kids are behaving. It's a non-judgmental zone. This means the way your children is act is just that, the way they are and like I said before, kids rule. During sessions I like to keep kids moving and playing games, so participation is key by parents and the kids will love it. 

Enjoy the Time.

Forget that is about photos and things of it as 60 minutes of sacred, technology-free outdoor play with lots of snuggles and special moments. You will have chance to breath in with your little ones, to tickle, giggle and maybe even have a little moment with your partner. Enjoy the time.