5-Step guide to prepare for your FAMILY Photo Session
1.) CHOOSING the LOCATION
Location, location, location.
I have several “can’t fail, go-to'“ family photo locations in Knoxville that I love to recommend to families who are on the fence about location, but because I believe comfort is paramount, I will usually suggest your home first. If that is not an option, begin thinking about the general aesthetic that you envision for these portraits: Urban, crisp lines or soft, organic backdrops. Wherever we end up, the 2nd most important thing (next to comfort) will be a spot that has amazing light! Light, as you know, will add so much more dimension and life than any pretty background can.
2.) GETTING AROUND
Wear comfy shoes, y’all!
Don’t get me wrong… I love a mamma who can rock her Christian Loubuotins in grass… but keep in mind that depending on the type of location(s) we choose, there is likely to be some walking from spot to spot.
3.) WHAT TO WEAR
Bottom line: don’t overthink this, Y’ALL!
Do not be afraid to go BOLD. Accessories are always great for portraits!
Consider going with a coordinating color group, rather than a single color group for everyone.
My opinion for groups: Avoid tiny patterns and ultra-thin pinstripes! It leaves a very unpleasing in-camera effect called Moiré... just google it. :)
4.) FEED THOSE KIDS!
(& SPOUSES, too!)
Our sessions will likely take place around the evening meal time, simply because that is when there is the most beautiful light. As tempting as it may seem to entice your children to behave with a delicious dinner or dessert after the shoot… but let me tell you something: Nothing is more frustrating (for you OR for me) than when immaculately-dressed, perfectly-groomed and HANGRY peeps arrive for a shoot. It happens all the time, and it ruins the shoot. Fake smiles, grumpy attitudes and generally a very stressed mom.
FEED THEM. FEED THEM. FEED THEM!
5.) KIDS WILL BE KIDS
Kids are just going to be kids. Period. I have 2 of my own, and I understand that sometimes… they behave like the angels on earth that I know they are, and others? Dang fools. I urge you to manage your expectations here and just let that stuff go. Be present. Let them cry. It’s ok. I don’t mind. And lastly, refer to the previous tip… make sure they are fed! :)
ON A PERSONAL NOTE…
So, so many of my clients initially feel shy in front of the camera. I can promise you that I will be awkward enough for ALL of us, so feel free to let that go! I will try my hardest to not say weird things… but honestly, no promises. It is my number one goal for your session to make you feel comfortable in your skin, and to make sure you look and feel your best . Please don’t be afraid to be your authentic self. Seriously. Bring them all… your serious self, glamorous self, silly self, and least but certainly not least, your ‘momma-means-busines’s’ self.
See you soon!
XOXO - LAURIE
WHEN CAN YOU EXPECT YOUR PHOTOS?
Your photos will be finished and delivered to you in a password-protected gallery within a week from the date of your session. There is not a set number of photos that a client receives, but typically anywhere between 65-100 final images. Each image will be edited for color, clarity, contrast and light blemishes.