Surviving a Family Photoshoot {Photographer in Deerfield Beach}

Surviving a Family Photoshoot advice from a photographer in Deerfield Beach:

How to make your next family photo session a stress free one.

Family photos are truly timeless and such a great keepsake for future generations. Getting the family together to take those perfect portraits can turn into chaos if not approached correctly. There is usually a lot more to consider when it comes to a family photoshoot since there are members of all ages, which means that there is some extra coordination involved.

Below are some family photoshoot ideas and tips to keep you and your loved ones calm and smiling the whole way through.

Timing is everything:

If you have younger children involved in the shoot, try and arrange the photoshoot at a time when they would be well rested. A rested child makes for happy photos. On that note, make sure that all family members have gotten enough sleep the night before as this helps with the fun and relaxation aspects of the session. If your photographer is like me and suggests a sunset session listen to her advice. If you have little ones this may mean waiting until fall when the sunset hour is earlier. Sunset is the most gorgeous time of day to capture photos!

Dos and don’ts of bribery:

Get your family excited about the photoshoot instead of offering a reward in return for their cooperation. This tends to lead to forced smiles and an irritated bunch of people. If you do have small children coming along it’s not a bad idea to give the photographer some bribery options in the form of toys or small food items to make those difficult moments a little easier. In my years as a Deerfield Beach photographer I have found that offering a small candy reward every so often wins over little ones. I of course always ask parents permission before offering it to kiddos. The instant gratification of the treat versus the promise of something large at the end of the shoot works best.

Relinquish control:

As much as you’ll want to direct your children on where to stand and how to pose, it’s best to leave that to the photographer as they know what works best. Not having this pressure will also make you feel more relaxed.

It’s not just about the posing:

The best photos happen when you’re having fun so joke and play with your children, hold your partner’s hand and just let the moments happen.

Keep those sugar levels up:

If everyone is well fed, the photoshoot will also run a lot smoother. It’s also not a bad idea to take a few snacks and some water along for those who might need it.

Enjoy capturing your memories!

If you are in the Boca Raton area I would love to be your photographer! I have been a Deerfield Beach photographer since 2011. Click this link and let’s set up a time for a short phone chat to discuss capturing some beautiful memories. Want to see lots more photos? Check out my Instagram feed.