Tips for Preparing Your Little Ones for Family Photoshoot Day

The day has come, I'm finally getting a family photoshoot for me an my family. Memories that can be frame and hung on our living room wall. Exciting! But then, it all goes wrong because the oldest one doesn't play ball and the youngest spends the who session crying.

Oh dear!

We all know how challenging can be having a family photoshoot with small children. I'm a mum myself and trust me, I feel the pain sometimes too!

That's why I thought that small tips and checklist can help you to make it easier and smoother.

Things to consider when for the day of the photoshoot:

Understanding Your Child’s Mood/timing

• Nap/feeding times: a child who isn't tired or hungry will cooperate more and will have more energy.

• Acknowledge that children can be unpredictable and how to adjust expectations accordingly.

Preparing in Advance

• Talk to them about that photoshoot ahead of time.

• Try to build excitement by explaining what to expect and how fun the shoot will be.

• Create a fun schedule for the shoot day, so they know what to expect in advance and avoids unpleasant responses.

• The most important thing is a good communication and reminders about what't about to happen.

  
  

Consider the weather

• In the areas we we live in Hampshire, th weather it's usually can change until the last minute. Not making rush decision is very important.

• Embrace the weather: Pack layers and an umbrella! just joking, but sometimes if the rain is very light the session can go ahead

  
  

  

  Maternity photo session in Sahwford, Hampshire on a rainy day

Choosing the Right Outfits

• Plan what outfits you all be wearing in advance and make sure everyone is happy with the choice.

• If they need any teddy or small prop that can help them to be more calm, plan ahead the colour matches the overall style without taking to much attention.

Practice Makes Perfect

• Share experiences by practicing poses or smiles with your kids.

• Suggest fun ways to practice, such as play-acting photo shoots at home.

• Communicate with your photographer if any of the family members can be a bit anxious on the shoot day and suggest to allow a bit more time on the session.

  
  

Packing the Essentials

• Pack plenty of snacks and drinks.

• Choose food that potentially won't stain or makes your child's face/hands too messy.

• Consider bring an reward/treat if this is something will make your child more cooperative.

• Always have ready a second change. we know accident happens and they can get dirty just before the shoot (typical, right?)

• If they are too little make sure you bring everything you need to change them in case of emergency.

  
  

Keeping It Fun

• Enjoy the day rather than stress about perfect shots, let the photographer carry that burden.

• Have in mind a ways to get your family calm and just to have fun, in case of tantrums or tension moments.

• Get ready the best jokes laughter can result in the best candid shots.

  
  

During the Photoshoot and afterwards

• Time to enjoy the moment! You will remember the experience behind every photo.

• Don't worry about the outcome. Candid and natural photos always look extremely pretty.

• When you get the gallery from the photographer you look, discuss and choose as family reviving those wonderful moments.

  
  
  
  

Conclusion

Photoshoot is also family activity where you share the experience. As long as you all prepare all the bits in advance, the photoshoot will just flow, you little children will have so much fun and the photographer will be able to focus on technicalities while you are just having great time.

Notes:

If you would like to see more of my portfolio, follow This Link. You will find all sort of family candid and natural portraits as per Grace Croune Photography style.