Family

Tips for Preparing for your Family Photoshoot

Creating lasting memories with your family is a priceless treasure, and one way to capture these moments is through family grouping portrait photography. Whether you're planning a session for a special occasion like a reunion or simply want to freeze time with your loved ones, there are some key steps to prepare for a successful family photoshoot. In this blog post, we will provide you with essential information and instructions to make the most out of your family portrait session.

 

Introduction

Family portrait photography is a beautiful way to document the love and connection within your family. It captures the essence of your relationships and creates timeless keepsakes that you can cherish for years to come. To ensure that your family photoshoot is a success, proper preparation is key. From choosing the right photographer to coordinating outfits, every detail counts in creating a stunning family grouping portrait.

 

Step 1:  Your Vision

Try to have an idea of the results you are looking for as early as possible.  Are you looking for a photographer to provide a single fully framed print on canvass to mount halfway up a sweeping oak staircase?  Are you looking for a small family digital image file to put onto this year's seasonal card?  Do you want multiple images of different family groupings as prints, fully framed prints, in a bound book, or just digital files?  The cost differential can be huge depending on your choices and many photographers charge significant premiums for printing and framing when you can often source these yourself with huge discounts. 

 

It is likely that a more consistent quality can be generated in a photographic studio with fully controlled lighting.  Bringing the shoot to you in a home, other venue or indeed outdoors may provide more interesting backdrops but will also be less straightforward to shoot with limits on lighting possibilities.  There will be small additional costs and some limitations involved with setting up outside the studio but the images may appear more informal.

 

Step 2: Budget

It's not a dirty word. Set one, then adjust it a little when you start talking to photographers!  Many large commercial studios make all of their profit on upselling additional services. It may well cost much more than you think, depending on your choices in step 1 above!  The big portrait photography studios have sales folks, administrators and assistants to pay.  You may not want to be sitting in a cosy viewing room in a few weeks' time with a cup of coffee and someone giving you a high-pressure sales pitch on why your life would be completely empty without five fully-framed versions of a similar shot in your home for only a 'few hundred' pounds each.  Remember, you can get a good passport photograph from a machine for a fiver, and you can get a single framed portrait from a famous-named photographer for over £5,000.  Research is key, but by all means start with PeterMForbes Portrait Photography for a chat and (free :-)) advice.

 

Step 3: Choose the Right Photographer

The first step in preparing for a family portrait session is to select the right photographer for you.  There are many excellent photographers who have made great careers out of shooting a fixed style.  If you can find one with a style that suits you and is within your budget, this may be your best bet as they can reproduce those fixed results to order.   If you're less certain, chose a photographer with the skills ot discuss a variety of styles and settings, giving a wider choice of options.   A skilled photographer will not only capture beautiful images but also make the session a fun and enjoyable experience for the whole family.  At PeterMForbes Portrait Photography, we would be delighted to work with you on the production of images providing lifelong memories whether they be a superb digital image file of mum or a full suite of images in frames or books.

 

Step 3: Plan the Details

Once you have chosen a photographer, it's time to plan the details of the photoshoot. Discuss with your photographer about the location, timing, and any specific shots you have in mind. Consider the overall theme or vibe you want for your family photos and communicate this to the photographer. Whether you prefer a formal studio setting or a candid outdoor shoot, make sure all logistics are sorted out beforehand.

 

Step 4: Coordinate Outfits

Coordinate outfits for your family members to create a cohesive and visually appealing look in your portraits. Consider choosing a colour scheme or a matching outfit theme that ties everyone together. Avoid loud patterns or logos that can be distracting in the photos. Opt for timeless and classic pieces that reflect your family's style while ensuring comfort for everyone during the shoot.

 

Step 5: Prepare the Kids

If you have young children participating in the family photoshoot, it's crucial to prepare them ahead of time. Explain to them what to expect during the session and encourage them to have fun and be themselves. Bring along their favorite toys or snacks to keep them engaged and cooperative during the shoot. Having a patient and understanding photographer who is experienced in working with children can also make a significant difference in capturing authentic moments.

 

Step 6: Relax and Have Fun

On the day of the photoshoot, try to relax and enjoy the experience with your family. Trust in your photographer's expertise and allow them to guide you through posing and capturing candid moments. Encourage genuine interactions and connections between family members to create natural and heartwarming portraits. Remember, the best family photos are often those that showcase the love and joy shared among family members.

 

Conclusion

Family grouping portrait photography is a wonderful way to celebrate and preserve the bond within your family. By following these steps and preparing carefully for your photoshoot, you can create stunning and meaningful portraits that will be cherished for generations to come. Remember to choose the right photographer, plan the details, coordinate outfits, prepare the kids, and most importantly, relax and have fun during the session. With proper preparation and a positive attitude, your family photoshoot is sure to be a memorable and joyous experience for everyone involved.

 

Capture the love, laughter, and connection within your family with a beautiful family grouping portrait that will stand the test of time. Start planning your family portrait session today and create memories that will be treasured for a lifetime.