What to prepare for your Lifestyle Family Photo Shoot?
Our Lifestyle Family Photography style is based on feeling and looking natural, but a few extras can make you feel better in the pictures, and not regret anything when you look at them afterward. And like most family outings, a bit of pre-planning can make your session run more smoothly.
What to do before your session…
Hair & nails If your roots, greys, or split ends are going to annoy you in your photos for the next 10 years, book in with your hairdresser before your session. Same with your nails. With older kids, we generally don’t see your hands (but will probably see theirs), but parents’ hands are almost always in newborn and maternity shoots. Not a deal-breaker, but if you’re a nail kinda girl, even a quick file and shape is all you need (we know a mani and newborn don’t generally mix).
Kids nails Bright turquoise or neon pink nails will really stand out in your photos, so to avoid glaring nails, grab the nail polish remover.
Plan outfits Leave enough time to plan and get everyone’s clothes together. We know the last-minute scramble when you can’t find the favourite pair of shorts – you want to feel relaxed and ready for your photoshoot, not frazzled.
We’ve got loads of tips on what to wear for your family photoshoot, what looks great, and what doesn’t work here.
Prep kids with what’s going on Our photo sessions are fun and we work quickly. We don’t drag things out in multiple locations or have wardrobe changes, but it’s still helpful to mention you’re going to the beach/park/rockpools and Elena will be taking photos of you playing and us being together.
Think about any extras you need You know what you need when you usually go out, but a few extras make things easier. Add in an extra outfit for little kids in case they get wet or dirty, and depending on where you’ll be or your child’s age, a beach blanket, baby blanket, extra baby clothes, and for newborns, have an extra outfit at the ready for you too, just in case of any mishaps. However, we recommend keeping things light as we do move and take pictures while walking.
Re-read our xx/confirmation? Review the info we’ve sent you, so you’re all set for the time and location – any issues, get in touch and we can sort out any questions.
What to bring…
Touch up stuff – lipstick, hairbrush if necessary. Our vibe is natural so if the wind is blowing, no problem, your hair will look great anyway, like using a studio wind machine.
A blanket to lay or sit down.
Snacks – in case of sudden hunger.
Towels if we’re doing underwater, in the ocean or at the beach.
PS Posing - No need to pose, or get your kids to say cheese or put on funny ‘photo’ faces. We direct the shot – for example, ask you to sit together and cuddle, then we move around you to get the best angles, expressions and moments of loveliness. Laughing, playing, snuggling, that’s as posed as you’ll have to get. Often you don’t even need to look at the camera. And with newborns, cuddling and holding make the best photos.
Have a look at our Family, Maternity, or Baby portfolios again beforehand and if there are any particular ideas you like, let us know.