Here is the big question. How do you get everyone excited for family photos?! Every year when it comes time to get your family pictures done, I am sure that your family is less than thrilled. They don’t want to wear the outfit you picked for them, stand where they are told, or even smile nicely. This can be so stressful and frustrating especially after investing in time and money by finding and paying a photographer. Here are my best tips to make sure your family will be happy and maybe have a little fun!
Come with Full Bellies
No one wants to be hungry! Especially when they are doing something they don’t want to do. I talk about the importance of a full belly all the time because it has so much to do with helping everyone have a better mood during the session. I know whenever I am hungry I can be really grumpy and especially not as willing to do something I already have a bad attitude towards. When your session is booked right over the dinner hour you should do one of two things, bump up dinner and have everyone eat before the session or make sure everyone has a nice sized snack. Then during the session you can bring snacks for everyone to enjoy in between shots and poses. Don’t forget the waters! Water and snacks are always on the “bring to session” list! Cheerios, gummies, and carrot sticks are good examples of non messy snacks.
Set a Reward
Who doesn’t want a reward? Even as an adult I still love a good reward. Depending on what your family interests are and how old your kids are your family reward will look different. There are so many different directions you can go with your reward. Maybe you want to keep it simple so you decide to go to an ice cream shop nearby and get ice cream. Maybe you want to all go get appetizers at your favorite restaurant or have a family bowling night. Get your family involved so they are all on board and actually enjoy the special reward.
Once you pick the reward you and your family will have something to look forward to either after your session or the next day after your session. If you do have younger kids I suggest you make the reward happen right after the session because they might forget why they are getting the reward the next day. You can then remind them of the reward waiting for them at the end of the session. This will also encourage better cooperation.
Pick the Right Photographer
Your photographer matters! I talk all about picking the right photographer in another blog post called How to Pick a Photographer, but here are some quick tips on how you know your photographer is right for you!
First find photographers in your area at your price point. Then you should look at the photographers’ portfolios to make sure you like their style. My style of photography is light, bright and joyful. All photographers have a unique style so make sure you choose a style you love. Then you should reach out and ask questions. Photographers love when you ask for help and questions, especially when it comes to what you wear! Make sure that your photographer will be able to help your family have a great experience. At the end of the session you want to walk away knowing your investment was well spent. Your photographer should be the most important key to getting everyone excited and happy during family photos.
Do not forget to give yourself and your family lots of grace! Read more on how to prepare your kids here!
