Family & Kids

Let's face it, many of us often dread family photos. They bring back our own childhood memories of stiff collars and clothes that HAD to be kept perfect because it was "picture day." Thankfully those days are gone, and we don't just get "one shot!" (I usually take 300-800 photos in a one-hour session.) Family photos should be fun! I find the more relaxed parents are, the more relaxed the kiddos will be! 

So how can you make things more relaxed? 

• Plan outfits days in advance. - Set them aside so they are all ready to go the day-of. I recommend starting with mom's outfit first. Select what flatters you and makes you feel most comfortable and then coordinate the family around that selection. (Pintrest and other sites have a plethora of ideas!) *I do recommend staying away from loud patterns as you want the focus to be on you and not your clothes. 

• Bribes not punishments are best for photo days. Ok, I know that as a parent this one can be difficult! Really try to build the excitement for young kids, that IF they are good, they will get a treat, toy, or special outing. Stick to your guns and don't give in should they act up, or perhaps give them leveled rewards, such as "if you are pretty good you will get this treat but if you are AMAZINGLY good you will get a treat AND a toy!" (Try not to give them any treats, snacks or toys during the photo session so their focus stays where we need it.)  

• Even if things do not go as planned embrace the spontaneity! As a planner I totally understand how frustrating this can be. My job is to make the best of any situation though, and I love a challenge! Sometimes the BEST photos happen when we don't expect it. 

• ALWAYS end the photo session on a happy note! I highly recommend this with little kids, especially. You want every photo session experience to be a happy memory. I strive to get the photos that are the main priority for you first and then expand to include more creative and fun poses. I strongly recommend not pushing small kids too much to get particular shots. End the session while they are happy and having a great time; this is so they remember the fun and joy they had at the next photo session.