Let’s talk about professional family photos. Cue eye rolls. Insert huffing, puffing from your kids and disapproving groans from Dad. I understand, I really do. As a portrait photographer for almost seven years, I have seen the entire gamut of emotions from joyful exuberance to utter disdain when it comes to posing for family photos. Even as I gear up for my own family’s photos this weekend, I feel a sense of anxiety about outfits, eating too many tacos last night, and what mood my child (and my husband) will be in that day. Taking a step back from all the worry, I am reminded of why I am a family photographer.
My love of family photography stems almost entirely from years of perusing my own family photographs. I never had the chance to meet my grandparents. Not one of them. How do I know that my sister has my grandmother’s cheekbones, that my brother is the spitting image of my grandfather, or that my 10 month old son looks so much like my dad when he was a baby? Photographs. Photos that have now been passed on to me, and that I count as some of my most cherished possessions. This is why family photographs are important – they are our link to the past, the present and the future, to who we are. A fleeting moment in our familial history that passes in the blink of an eye (or the snap of a shutter), immortalized.
Further to providing invaluable family treasures that last generations, family photos have also been shown to improve your child’s self esteem. You can read about a study and what this psychologist has to say about it here: http://designaglow.com/blogs/design-aglow/17493452-how-family-portraits-boost-your-child-s-self-esteem
So let’s get on with it! If you’re thinking about hiring a professional photographer for family portraits, it is my hope that somehow I can help make this process less daunting for you and your family. I have assembled a quick guide that I hope you find helpful when planning your next session.
1. Know Your Vision. What do family photos look like to you: are they an indoor studio session? Are they in a grassy field at sunset, or in your home, capturing your family’s life as it happens? There are many different styles of family photography and having a clear idea about what you envision for your portraits will help refine your search for the right photographer. Other things that you will want to consider:
- Decide what you want as a final product - a photo for your family’s annual Christmas card? A large canvas for your living room wall? Tabletop framed photos or an album for Grandma and Grandpa? Knowing what you intend to do with the photos can be helpful when deciding on the style of photography. Additionally, be aware that every photographer’s product delivery system is individual. Be sure to get a clear idea of what they offer, what it costs, and how it is delivered.
2. Find Your Photographer. It’s easy enough to Google “Vancouver Family Photography” and come up with a gorgeous spread of images showcasing the range of talent available in this city. While you’re sure to find photos you like, it’s also important that you find a photographer you and your family will feel comfortable with. Chances are you know a photographer or two. If their work appeals to you, ask them if they do family sessions and if not, ask who they recommend. Ask your friends whom they recommend. Check out portfolios. Send potential photographers an email to inquire about what they offer and to get a sense of who the photographer is.
3. Prepare For Your Session. I often find this is the hardest part for not only myself, but also for many of my clients. It is hard to know what to wear, what looks good, what the weather will be, etc. etc. Add to that, likely you (mom) are in charge of coordinating the entire family’s wardrobe, ensuring everyone is washed, dressed, not on the brink of starvation, on time and somewhat behaved – its a big undertaking! To help streamline the process:
- For outfits, pick a colour scheme and stick with it. Shades of green, or complimentary colours of blue and yellow, for example. Whichever you choose, keep it simple and streamlined. Dark solid colours (navy, grey, black) can be slimming and flattering.
- Make sure the clothes fit properly. Too tight or too loose can both be problematic. If you’re unsure, throw on what you’re thinking of wearing and have a friend or spouse snap a few shots with a camera phone from different angles just to see what it looks like in a photo.
- Wear what makes you feel good – it will show. Family photos do not need to equal tailored dresses and buttoned up shirts with ties that can often make one feel stiff and uncomfortable. A nice pair of dark denim jeans for the whole family with coordinated tops, a summer dress for girls and Mom, or khaki shorts and simple fitted t-shirts. All are ideas that can be easily accessorized to jazz up your look without being too complicated.
- A day or two before your session lay everything out on your bed or on the floor. Look at it – does it coordinate? Do a quick once over of the clothes – are they clean and in good repair? Wash and iron items that need it and do your best to remove excess lint and pilling. When accessorizing, less is more. Don’t forget about shoes! Neutral coloured shoes are almost always the best choice (black, brown, nude) – this applies to children as well.
- Have any haircuts/dying done a week or more before your session.
- If you have the time and budget, opt for professional makeup application (for those who wear makeup). It takes the pressure off you and will help you look your best, confident self.
4. Have Fun. You’ve found a great photographer and you’ve done your preparation homework. Let the session unfold and go with the flow. Since you’re all looking so fine, perhaps plan an après-shoot lunch, dinner or ice cream to celebrate and relax after the shoot. After all, you’ve just created memories that will last a lifetime.
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