A family photoshoot is a great way to capture beautiful memories with your loved ones. Whether it’s for a holiday card, an anniversary, or simply a family keepsake, these photos are something you’ll cherish for years to come. But preparing for a family photoshoot can sometimes feel overwhelming with the logistics of outfits, kids, timing, and more. Don't worry! With a little planning, you can ensure that your family’s photoshoot is a fun, smooth, and stress-free experience.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare for your family photoshoot and ensure it’s a success.
1. Choose the Right Photographer
The first step in preparing for your family photoshoot is to select the right photographer. Look for someone whose style you like and who has experience with family shoots. A good family photographer will know how to work with children, keep everyone relaxed, and ensure that the final images reflect your family’s personality.
When choosing a photographer, consider the following:
Do they have a portfolio of family portraits?
Are they patient and friendly with children?
Do they offer advice on location, outfits, and preparation?
Once you’ve found the right photographer, communicate your expectations. Let them know if you have any special requests, like specific shots or a particular style.
2. Pick a Location
Next, you’ll want to decide on the location of your photoshoot. This could be outdoors in a park, at the beach, in your home, or in a studio. The location will set the tone for the shoot, so think about what would best represent your family’s personality.
Outdoor Shoots: Nature settings like parks, forests, beaches, or gardens can provide beautiful backdrops. If you’re doing an outdoor shoot, be sure to check the weather forecast and have a backup plan in case of rain.
Home Shoots: Indoor photos can be cozy and intimate. If you choose an indoor shoot, tidy up the space and consider the lighting. Natural light is always the best for family photos, so try to schedule your shoot during the day when the light is soft and plentiful.
Studio Shoots: If you prefer a controlled environment, a professional studio can provide a clean, timeless backdrop for family portraits.
3. Outfit Coordination (But Not Matching)
One of the most common questions people have when preparing for a family photoshoot is, "What should we wear?" While you want to coordinate your outfits, you don’t need to match exactly. The key is to choose a color scheme and avoid overly busy patterns or logos that could distract from the family connection.
Here are some tips for choosing outfits:
Choose a Color Palette: Pick 2-3 main colors to use across everyone’s outfits. These could be neutral tones like white, gray, and beige, or a mix of soft pastels, jewel tones, or earthy colors. The goal is for the colors to complement each other.
Layering is Key: Layers add depth and interest to your photos. Consider adding scarves, cardigans, or jackets for a stylish look.
Comfort is Essential: Make sure everyone is comfortable in their outfits, especially the kids. Avoid clothing that’s too tight, itchy, or uncomfortable. Comfortable family members make for happier, more natural photos!
Avoid Logo Clothing: Unless it’s meaningful, try to avoid wearing clothes with large logos or text that can distract from the family dynamic.
Plan Ahead: Lay out everyone’s outfits the night before the shoot, so you’re not scrambling at the last minute.
4. Grooming and Hair
Looking your best is important, but it's also crucial that everyone feels comfortable with their grooming and hair. Here are a few tips for preparing:
Haircuts: If anyone in your family needs a haircut, try to schedule it a few days before the shoot, so it has time to settle. Avoid drastic hair changes the day before.
Minimal Makeup: For those who wear makeup, keep it natural but polished. A little foundation, mascara, and a light lip color will help you look fresh. Avoid heavy makeup that could appear too harsh in photos.
Hair Styling: If possible, keep hair simple and natural. Loose waves or soft curls work well for most people. For kids, a tidy look will help avoid flyaways in the pictures.
5. Prep the Kids (And Pets!)
If you have young children or pets involved, preparing them is key. Kids can get fidgety or shy during photoshoots, so it’s important to keep them relaxed and entertained.
Bribe with Fun: Promise a fun activity after the shoot, like ice cream or a playdate. This gives kids something to look forward to.
Bring Snacks and Toys: If the shoot is long, pack snacks and their favorite toys to keep them happy and distracted.
Keep Expectations Realistic: Children might not sit still for long, and that’s perfectly okay. The goal is to capture natural moments, so embrace their energy and personality.
Include Pets: If you’re bringing a pet along, make sure they’re well-behaved and comfortable. Pack pet essentials like treats, water, and a leash.
6. Timing Is Everything
Time your family photoshoot carefully to ensure everyone is at their best.
Golden Hour: The best time for outdoor shoots is during the “golden hour”—shortly after sunrise or before sunset—when the light is soft and flattering.
Avoid Naptime or Hungry Times: Try to schedule the shoot when the kids are well-rested and fed. A cranky child will make the photoshoot more difficult.
Bring a Backup Plan: If you’re doing an outdoor shoot, always have a backup location in case the weather doesn’t cooperate.
7. Relax and Have Fun
The most important part of your family photoshoot is to relax and have fun. The best photos are often the candid, natural moments where everyone is comfortable and enjoying the experience.
Be Yourself: Don’t stress about having “perfect” poses. Let the photographer guide you, but also feel free to interact with your family naturally.
Laugh and Smile: Genuine laughter and smiling will result in photos that capture your family’s true essence. Don’t be afraid to joke around or engage with your loved ones during the shoot.
Trust the Photographer: If you’re feeling nervous, remember that your photographer is there to help guide you and make you feel at ease.
