Your questions answered!
How to prepare for your Family Photoshoot and what to expect.
In this blog post, I have put together answers to questions I am sometimes asked about my Family Photoshoots. This guide will help you prepare for your Photoshoot, from deciding on a location, outfits and what to expect during your Photoshoot! Check it out…
1. When is the best time of day to have our Family Photoshoot?
There are two factors to consider when deciding the time to have your Photoshoot. For families with babies and young children, it’s important to choose a time in the day that best suits your children. When are they happiest? Most likely after some food and a nap. The other factor I have to consider is the light. The best time of day for an outdoor shoot is during the ‘Golden Hour’. This is the time around sunrise and sunset. The sun is low at this time so it creates lovely warm light, there will be less harsh shadows and usually a beautiful sky.
2. Where should we have our Family Photoshoot?
The possibilities are endless! Is there a special place where you and your family spend a lot of time? A park you like to go to for walks? If so then this could be a great option. If not don’t worry I can suggest some lovely locations for you. Or I can photograph your family at your house, this is perfect for very young babies, but if possible having some photos outdoors is a must!
3. What should my family wear for their Photoshoot?
It is important you feel comfortable and confident in whatever you wear. You are welcome to buy a new outfit for your Photoshoot, just make sure you wear it for a whole day/ evening before your shoot so you know it fits you comfortably. The chances are you’ll be sitting and most likely even laying down for some photos, so it’s important you’re comfortable in your outfits.
When planning your families outfits think about them altogether, as you will be seen altogether it is important your outfits go together well. You can match or you can co-ordinate. By co-ordinate I mean choose colours that compliment each other. For example, the girls in the family could wear light pinks and the boys blue/denim. I would avoid too many people wearing patterns if you can. Patterns can clash and be quite distracting. This shoot should be about YOU and your happy family, not your clothes. Remember fashion changes and in years to come you don’t want to look back at your photos and think “what was I wearing!”. So keep it simple.
Finally, once you have decided on your families outfits, it’s best to lay them all down on your bed and make sure they all go well together.
4. What will happen at the shoot? Will you tell us what to do? What if my child needs a break?
During the shoot, I’ll direct you through some poses to flatter you. I’ll keep it fun and look to capture natural moments as well so you’ll get a nice mixture. I understand that some young children will get tired quickly and need a little break. This is no problem at all, I always advise to bring a few snacks and drinks so they can get a little energy boost if needed. I’ll usually take a mixture of photos, the whole family, just your children, individuals and a photo of you and your partner. I am happy to do any other combinations which we can discuss before your Photoshoot. Other family members and pets are also very welcome. You may wish to bring props with you, for babies, for example, a personalised blanket or teddy can be a lovely touch.
5. What happens after the shoot? Do you edit the photos?
After your shoot, I will narrow your photos down to the very best ones. I will then do a basic edit. This can involve cropping, brightening, and changing the contrast and I’ll also change some photos to black and white. If you have more specific requirements, for example, spot removal I can edit this out on the photos you select to purchase. You will be able to view and select your images through an online gallery which will be sent to you approximately a week after your photoshoot.
If you have any other questions please don’t hesitate to ask. I hope this helps you feel more prepared for your Family Photoshoot with me. I look forward to meeting you all soon!
Many thanks,
Kayla x
Michaela Howe Photography 