Sometimes a family photo sessions can be challenging for not only the family, but the photographer as well. 

 So… Here is a few tips for best family photo shoot results.

1. Choose your clothing carefully 

Choose clothes that make you feel comfortable and attractive. Aim to achieve a preferable reflection in the mirror, but don’t push yourself. Often photos with a feeling of softness and elegance can be appealing. For that result choose neutral colors with soft flowing fabrics. In this case, cream, very soft pastel colors, oatmeal, light brown, tan, gray, beige and slate blue are suitable. You may also want more bright and cheerful photos. Try to choose brighter colors, but remember that all colors need to harmonize with each other. For example, you can choose opposite colors: blue and yellow. But one of them must be a primary color (each participant should have it or it’s shades in their outfit) and the other one is additional (a bright spot in the gamut)
Adding some accessories such as hats, scarves, vests, belts, jewelry, etc. can change the mood of the shoot and even help you relax.

2. Rest and food 

The best time for a photo session is 2 hours before sunset and after sunrise. If this time is not suitable for your family (kids nap, etc), just warn the photographer. A good photographer can always find a solution in this situations. Before the photo session, be sure to feed all children. Don’t come with an empty stomach.

3. Mom is first 

I recommend that all moms do professional makeup and hair before the photo session. Often the mother’s mood influences how the whole shoot will go. If the mother feels beautiful and self-confident, it will definitely reflect on all the other family members. Moms, give yourself time to shower/bath, dress, and take care of yourself. Give yourself some extra time before it’s time to walk out the door.

4. Cheerful dads 

I know many dads are either reluctant, shy, and/or dread the family photo session. But, please, please, Dads…you are so important on these family shoots. This is your family’s legacy. Someday your kids will grow up, but family photos are left with them forever. It’s a really important thing. Do me a favor, Dads, please cheerfully participate. When you will see your happy wife, kids, and amazing photographs, I assure you, that you will be so glad that you gifted this time to your lovely family.

5. Leave the cheese at home 

Dear parents, please leave “cheese” at home. Cheese is for crackers. Screaming “Say cheese!” and pushing young children to look at the camera and smile only strains your children (and the photographer…) and results in unnatural and often unflattering photos. Please, step back and let the photographer talk and interact with your kids. This will let your children be natural and smile (if they want to). Let the photographer capture the true essence of your child’s personality. Keep this in mind, kids don’t like to pose. They would like have fun and run, run, and run around… Just let them.

6. Relax with your family 

Have fun. Laugh. Giggle. Joke. Embrace. Kiss. Snuggle. Play. Give your wife a sweet kiss on the cheek. Tell your husband how much you love him and appreciate him for being there for your family now. All these things will help the photographer to catch the emotion and real beauty of your family. No “Cheese”. Just relax and be you. Show who you are. Let the photographer capture your real love through the lens.

7. Bring an activity 

What do you usually like to do with your family? Do you love to read together? Bring a few books. Love to play board games or cards? You can play a round of “Uno” or “Monopoly” during your family photo session. More ideas: football, piggy back rides, races, singing, picnics… the ideas are endless. When you are engaged in doing something interesting with your family, the photographer can take some beautiful and natural shots. This is about YOUR family.

8. Look at the camera… 

I want you know, that the best photographs are often the ones where everyone is engaged or interacting with each other. You need to know that not all pictures need to have everyone looking and smiling at the camera at the same time. If you are engaged, if you are loving your family (each other), your eyes will be on your family members and you will express your emotions naturally. These are the photos that you will cherish most because they depict your family connection and your love for one another.